For the longest time, people would walk into a computer store and buy a PC because everyone else seemed to be using it. With the iPod’s success, people are beginning to notice Apple and its eye-catching products. Now, there appears to be a choice: Which computer is best for you? Mac or PC? I will say right off the top that my Personal Computer of choice is a Mac. This doesn’t mean I wouldn’t use a PC or that a Mac is right for everyone.
Firstly, so we all understand, PC stands for Personal Computer. Is a Mac a Personal Computer? You bet, since most people refer to Windows-based Computers as PCs. We will use the term PC to describe a Windows-based Personal Computer, and we will use Mac to describe Apple’s OSX-Unix-based Computer.
Whenever I help someone find the best computer, I ask many questions.
Here are a few questions to consider.
1. What are you going to use the computer for?
2. Do you have a computer geek in the family that will help you with setup, questions, and problems you may have, or do you want to be independent?
3. Are there any specific programs that you must be able to use? How important is software compatibility?
4. Are you the creative or business type?
5. How concerned are you about Security, Viruses, and Spyware?
6. Will Design and Styling be part of your buying decision?
7. How important is Gaming to you?
How do these questions help me determine which Computer System to recommend?
Let’s start with Question 1.
What are you going to use the computer for?
It’s essential first to find out what this computer will be used for. Will it be for fundamental uses such as the Internet, email, and Word Processing, or will you use it for a home business or creative tasks like Graphics and Design? There is no cut-and-dry, which is better here; in this case, a basic user could go with a Mac or PC. The business type may lean towards a PC, and the Graphics and Design person should consider a Mac.
Question 2.
Do you have a computer geek in the family who will help you with setup, questions, and problems, or do you want to be independent?
This is an important question because if you have a Geek in the family, they likely prefer one system over the other. If you want their approval and support, you may need to purchase the system that they use.
On the other hand, do you want to be self-sufficient? If so, then you have the freedom to choose the system that you like best. If you are not overly computer savvy, the Mac offers the quickest learning curve with the least technical understanding to be self-sufficient.
Question 3.
Are there any specific programs that you must be able to use? How important is software compatibility?
Does your business require specific software programs for real estate, database, design, or education? Not all programs are cross-platform, meaning they may only run on PC or Mac but not both. This could greatly affect your purchasing decision. One note is that a Mac can run a Virtual PC program that allows you to install Windows and Windows-based programs. This allows you to run PC programs on a Mac, but they will run at a reduced speed because of software emulation.
Question 4.
Are you the creative or business type?
A common perception is that PCs are best for business and Macs are best for creativity. There is some truth to this; however, both PCs and Macs are capable of either. It may come back to compatibility if you are working closely with others.
Question 5.
How concerned are you about Security, Viruses, and Spyware?
Viruses and spyware are here to stay, but did you know that the viruses and spyware that can bring your PC to its knees will not slightly affect a Mac? This is due in part to the Mac’s Unix-based operating system. This is because Viruses and Spyware are programs for PCs; PC programs will not run on a Mac. This doesn’t mean a Mac can’t get a virus, but it is much more unlikely since it would have to be written specifically for the Mac and its very robust Unix security.
Question 6.
Will Design and Styling be part of your buying decision?
Without question, Apple makes some very stylish computers! This is prevalent whenever you watch a movie or TV show. Macs are in almost every scene where a computer is scripted. Style isn’t just about looks; it’s also about making a usable and simple product yet full of your desired features.
Question 7.
How important is Gaming to you?
Maybe you are purchasing your computer as a gaming machine. Hands down, the PC would be the best choice for this. Ensure you balance your computers; you may not have as much time as you think to play the game with all the other great programs available. You can always purchase a console game like the Xbox 360 and destroy your friends from the comfort of your couch.
More to Consider… I wanted to mention some of the strong points of each system.
PC:
-Extensive selection of software and hardware to choose from.
There is very competitive pricing on hardware and software due to many companies selling PCs and their related programs.
-Full compatibility with virtually all accessories.
Mac :
-Very tight integration between hardware and software due to Apple designing both aspects.
-Extremely user-friendly and stable. -Lots of Pre-installed software programs for today’s digital lifestyle called life. Life is a fully integrated program suite that makes using digital cameras, digital video editing, audio, and music easy.
– Mac users are the most loyal customers in the industry; that’s got to say something!
Today, computers are becoming increasingly close in speed and what they can do; compatibility between PC and Mac is almost seamless. I recommend you go to a retail store, talk to a qualified sales rep, and give both systems a test drive with an open mind. The right computer will reveal itself to you.
