iBook G3

SE (366) - Graphite


History

Introduced: February 16, 2000

Discontinued: September 13, 2000

Original Retail Price: $1,799

Model #: M2453

Tech Specs

Display: 12.1'“ TFT LCD

Processor: 366 MHz PowerPC G3

RAM: 192 MB (upgraded)

Hard Drive: 64 GB SSD (upgraded)

Optical Drive: CD-ROM

OS: 9.0.4


Condition & Notes

This unit is in great condition, and is complete with all the original packaging, charger, AC cable, modem cable, software CDs, documentation, and Apple stickers.

In 2024 I replaced the original 10 GB hard drive with a 64 GB SSD. HDD to SSD conversion is a common technique used in vintage computer preservation, as the original hard drives are prone to failure due to age. This upgrade also makes the computer quieter, faster, and more reliable. Scroll to the bottom of the page for more on this.

As is to be expected with a 20+ -year-old machine, the battery no longer holds a charge so it must be operated while plugged in.

It is in fully working order and is currently running Mac OS 9.0.4.


Model Identifier

 

The red ‘X’ denotes the location of this iBook within the overall series.

The iBook Special Edition, in the beautiful Graphite color, was introduced at Macworld Tokyo in February 2000 midway through the first generation of iBook clamshells.

 

 Packaging

 
 

 iBook

 
 

 Accessory Kit

 

All first-generation iBook clamshells (Tangerine/300, Blueberry/300, Graphite SE/366) came with an accessories box depicting a Tangerine model.

Getting Started Guide, User’s Guide, software coupons, AppleCare/license/warranty info, software coupons, modem cable, charger, function stickers, Apple stickers, and software CDs.

The original function stickers from 1999! These function stickers featured fun icons that were meant to be placed above the function row on the iBook’s keyboard, since those keys’ functions could be customized.

 

 System Specs

 
 
 
 

mSATA SSD Installation

 

This upgrade makes the computer quieter, faster, and more reliable. I chose to install a 64 GB mSATA SSD using an mSATA-to-IDE 2.5” adapter housing.

The SSD slots directly in to where the original HDD was installed, using the OEM IDE cable harness and installation bracket.

 

Comparison with iBook SE/466

 

466 (Left) / 366 (Right)

466 (Left) / 366 (Right)

366 (Left) / 466 (Right)

366 (Left) / 466 (Right)

466 (Left) / 366 (Right)

466 (Top) / 366 (Bottom)

366 (Left) / 466 (Right)

366 (Left) / 466 (Right)

 
 

iBook G3 SE (366 Mhz - early 2000) vs. iBook G3 SE (466 Mhz - late 2000).

In addition to the new features (faster processor, more storage, FireWire, etc.), the later 466 MHz version features the more opaque white plastics found on the second-generation iBook clamshells (Indigo, Key Lime, and Graphite/466).