PowerBook · The Beige Era · 1997
PowerBook 3400c
The 3400c was a big, fast, expensive PowerBook that marked Apple’s return to credible high-end portable performance.
Fastest laptop in the world at launch, according to Apple.
PowerBook G3 Series (Wallstreet) (1998)
PowerBook 3400c: key facts
When was the PowerBook 3400c released?
The PowerBook 3400c arrived on February 17, 1997. Apple discontinued it in November 1997.
How much did the PowerBook 3400c cost?
The PowerBook 3400c launched at $4,500 in 1997, about $8,955 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: PowerPC 603e at 240 MHz, 16 MB RAM, 2.0 GB storage, 12.1" active-matrix color display.
Why does the PowerBook 3400c matter?
Fastest laptop in the world at launch, according to Apple.
Full specifications
| CPU | PowerPC 603e · 240 MHz |
|---|---|
| Cores | 1 |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 MB (up to 144 MB) |
| Storage | 2.0 GB |
| Display | 12.1" active-matrix color |
| GPU | Integrated / NuBus video |
| Ports | SCSI, ADB, serial |
| Weight | Varies by configuration |
| Dimensions | Clamshell laptop |
| Operating system | System 7 |
| Released | February 17, 1997 |
| Discontinued | November 1997 |
| Launch price | $4,500 |
How the PowerBook 3400c compares to today
A 16 GB Apple Silicon MacBook Pro has about 1,020× more memory than this device shipped with.
At 240 MHz, the clock is roughly 13× slower than a single performance core of a 16 GB Apple Silicon MacBook Pro, and that is before counting cores, width and IPC.
All of this storage holds about 500 modern phone photos.
Launched at $4,500 in 1997, about $8,955 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Related PowerBook models
Open the PowerBook 3400c in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11