Define "graphics stuff." 2D? 3D? Like Photoshop/Maya type stuff? OpenGL?

Either way, go with the PowerBook. The 128-bit vector unit on the G4 is freaking awesome.

Other reasons:
1) MacOS X comes with free developer tools. GOOD developer tools, at that. (developer.apple.com/tools/macosxtools.html)
2) The PowerBooks weigh less (about a pound)
3) The 128-bit vector unit (AltiVec) is freaking sweet. I have tested my 1Ghz P4 with a few apps and it can be up to 3x as faster than my 1Ghz T-bird (using hand-tuned optimized asm code for both machines)
4) More standard features like S-video out, firewire, 802.11g (AirPort Extreme)
5) MacOS X works really well in Windows/Unix networked environments. I use stuff like X11, SMB, and NFS regularly

Oh and don't get cheap laptops since you have limited options for upgrades. Get expensive laptops refurbished for cheap.

x86-based laptops in general tend to devalue really fast, if you want to go that route.

[edited by - igni ferroque on May 9, 2004 1:10:24 AM]

My 2cents

You need to ask yourself how portable you want it to be and how much batter life you would like. If it is going to be strapped to a desk, most desknotes will work fine.

One of the best, little known, deals right now is the eMachines m680X series. Yeah I know, eMachines yuck you say, but they don''t make there own laptops. The ODM Arima does.

You can get a m6809, with 512MB of ram (PC2700), Athlon64 3200+ mobile processor (yes Athlon64!), Wireless G, 15.4" widescreen, 64mb Radeon9600 (Oc''s to Pro Turbo levels), 80gb HD and DVD burner for about 1399$ US if you watch the rebates ($1549 normally). The 6805, which I have (A64 3000+/60GB/CD-RW) is as low as 1250$ after rebates if you can find it.

These are basically VoodooPC m860''s without the fancy paint, a slightly different screen (1680x1250 vs 1280x800) and about 2000$ more in your wallet .

quote:
Go Sager! Good bang for your buck! And order from PC Torque because they are helpful, have good tech support, have fast shipping, and are all round great!

Sager are also a very very good choice.