Q&A. Monitor For iMac & 17″ PowerBook

Along with continuing answering questions via YouTube more frequently this year, I thought I could use this blog as a platform to help answer these too. Aidan asked:

First question: I have a 20″ iMac and I am planning on getting a 2nd display. I am looking for something that matches size and color. I was looking at the LG L194WS.

If you own the newer 20″ iMac (aluminum), I’d alternatively suggest a 24″ Dell monitor. The Dell displays have a great reputation for quality and value, along with looking the part. The 2407 Dell runs in at around $375 USD which is great value for a 1080P LCD display.

Second question: I have been looking at getting a 17″ powerbook for traveling. I was wondering if you knew why the 17″ still cost over $1000.

First of all, a 17″ PowerBook for traveling? I’d say your optimal choice for a traveling machine would be something smaller than a 17″ notebook. I’d suggest a used or refurbished MacBook if you can afford that much. If not, take a look at the late iBook G4s, more specifically, the 12″ version.

The form factor and casing of the 12″ PowerBook might be nice, but just like the 17″ PowerBook, resale value is still far more than it should be. If you really do want a 17″ laptop, purchase the original Core Duo 17″ MacBook Pro. It’d be a much better investment than spending 2/3s of the money on an aging PowerBook.

Comments

  1. #1

    Umair Ata

    Nice idea Glenn. Can you pls and my questions also.

    1. Can you suggest any software which I can use for voice chat? Skype and iChat dont work here in the UAE :( So I need to talk to my family over the net in Pakistan. My brother has a PC. What should I do?

  2. @Umair: Have you tried Gizmo? (gizmoproject.com)

    As far as monitors go I have to agree with Glenn. Dell has made a stunning comeback with his WFP series. Looking for an external monitor for my MacBook Pro I finally took the plunge and got a 30″ WFP3007 Dell. It’s stunning. The quality of the monitors easily matches Apples standards and the actualy image is - perfect. I would suggest Dell to anyone who needs it professionally or can afford it.

    As far as traveling goes, even my 15″ MBP is too heavy. As Glenn said, you actually need an even smaller laptop. Who knows, maybe we’ll actually see a subnotebook at Macworld.

  3. This is really off topic… but what do all you mac freaks think steve jobs will be announcing in his keynote tomorrow morning?

  4. #4

    Umair Ata

    Thanks Ivan, I will check it rite now. :)

  5. #5

    Umair Ata

    any URL for the keynote? Actually I am new to Mac.

  6. #6

    John

    About the screen, does they guy wants a new main screen or a new second screen. or just a broader desktop? If he’s after a new main screen the 24″ would be lovely to the Imac 20″ but surely it will steal the attention from the imac. I would rather go with the 20″ because it wont take over from the Imac display. Its your decision and you will be happy with the dell, i’ve got 2.

    And Glenn.. will we see a review on the MBP anytime soon? Im planing to buy one when my pc laptop dies (or when i murder it).

    Have a great one and lets keep our fingers crossed for tomorrow =)
    // john areschoug

  7. Hi Glenn,
    do you also have a recommendation for a MacBook 13″? I think a monitor around 20″/22″ would be enough. Would you go for a Cinema Display or take a Dell one? I mean, the Cinema display offers a great plus: USB and Firewire is not integrated in every other screen.

  8. #8

    John

    @UP
    lets see were tomorrow ends up. i think it will be new ACD

  9. Umair engadget usually has a live update from the keynote which is actually tomorrow… I forgot we are a day ahead here in NZ

    Here’s a link http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/15/live-from-macworld-2008-steve-jobs-keynote/

  10. MACWORLD TOMORROW!

  11. And thanks a lot Glenn.

  12. #12

    Umair Ata

    Thanks a lot Nathan :) Cheers.

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