PowerBook 1400
A rugged workhorse with a bay for a CD-ROM drive.
Overview
The 1400 series ran PowerPC 603e processors at speeds from 117 to 166 MHz in different revisions, offering a choice of dual-scan or active-matrix 11.3-inch and 12.1-inch panels. A removable bay held a CD-ROM or floppy drive, letting users choose the setup they wanted.
It had a distinctive rounded case and a removable lid panel, which could be swapped for colored covers. The memory slot and processor card were easy to access, and many users upgraded the machine later with a faster G3 module.
Though not the fastest PowerBook of its era, the 1400 earned a reputation for durability and became one of the most remembered classic Apple laptops.
Why it mattered
A tough, upgradable PowerBook that made built-in optical drives practical in a notebook.
At a glance
- Announced
- October 1, 1996
- Released
- November 1, 1996
- Discontinued
- January 1, 1998
- Launch price
- Not available
- Chip / processor
- PowerPC 603e, 117 to 166 MHz
- Display
- 11.3" or 12.1"
- Storage
- 750 MB to 2 GB
- Status
- Vintage
Highlights
- PowerPC 603e at 117-166 MHz
- Optional built-in CD-ROM
- Removable lid panels
- Easy processor upgrade
- Screens up to 12.1-inch
Tech specs
Specifications as published at launch. Some values (like battery life) are manufacturer estimates.
Display
- Size
- 11.3-inch or 12.1-inch
- Type
- Dual-scan or active-matrix color LCD
- Resolution
- 800 x 600
Chip
- Chip
- PowerPC 603e, 117 to 166 MHz
Memory
- RAM
- 8 MB, expandable to 64 MB
Software
- Launch OS
- Mac OS 7.5.5
How it compares
More in the PowerBook family
PowerBook 100
A slim, light Mac that defined how laptops are laid out.
PowerBook 140
The mainstream PowerBook with a faster 68030 and a built-in floppy.
PowerBook 170
Top of the first PowerBook line with an active-matrix screen.
PowerBook Duo 230
An ultralight notebook that docked into a full desktop.
PowerBook 180
The fast 68030 PowerBook with the sharpest grayscale screen yet.
PowerBook 540c
A redesigned flagship with a trackpad and a color screen.
PowerBook 5300
The first PowerPC PowerBook, famous for lithium-ion woes.
PowerBook 3400
Billed as the fastest notebook in the world when it launched.