The Apple G4 is an extremely capable computer. Contrary to many beliefs the Apple operating system or (OS) which it runs is able to provide nearly all the features that competing Windows based systems offer and many more beside.
As a personal owner of one of the first Power Mac G4 models I can speak from experience on the quality a product like this displays. It is a highly reliable computer that has given me very few problems to speak of whatsoever in the 2 1/2 years I have owned it.
It is worth noting that the I.T industry is an industry in which product cycles are generally very short. That is to confirm the old addage that a home computer is generally out of date, however new it was on purchase by the time it arrives through your door. This is due to the high pace of technological advance. However as testament to the endurance of this particular range of computers I can say that even today in a household with two considerably newer computers the Apple G4 is still a very quick and remarkably "undated" computer and still serves as the primary platform for my Webdesign company. This is because of its stability, ease of use, power and reliabilty.
The statistics for the G4 are impressive also. As an owner of one of the 1st models my computers specification is outlined below:
Speed : 350Mhz G4 Ram : 192mb with capacity for 1.5GB Storage Space: 40GB
Today's current range of G4's run two proccesors in parralel to split the workload at speeds up to 1.25ghz. Now dont be fooled by the numbers. Many modern computers from manufacturers such as Dell or Compaq have proccesors that exceed 2Ghz or more. However this does not mean that these computers are faster. Two important facts mean that this is not the case. Firstly modern G4's run TWO proccesors not one, effectively doubling, in dual proccesor aware applications the power of the computer. Secondly the architecture of the G4 means that it uses its Mhz or clock cycles more efficiently. Put another way, this is akin to comparing a 300hp Mercedes Benz to a 190hp Lotus. Which is going to be faster? The Lotus of course because it utilises its horsepower in a more eficient and streamlined manner much like the Apple G4.
The G4 represents particular value for money. That is to say that although more expensive than many other non-apple computers its longevity, reliability (little, or in my case, no need for repair) and relative power, even now 2 1/2 years on, means that is more than a good buy. Many other computers of the G4's age would have only marginable ability to hold their own in the fast updating world of technology, however the G4 still does, admirably and shows little or no sign of age while performing day in day out quick and stable carrying out a range of functions from web access to taxing 3d games to high level graphic creation.
My ratings are given for my experience with not my older G4 model but the current crop of top-of-the-range G4's.
More details
Reliability
Excellent
Memory / capacity
Excellent
Range of Extra Features
Excellent
Instruction manual
Satisfactory
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