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General discussion

Are you considering switching from a Windows PC to a Mac?

Mar 30, 2007 2:25AM PDT

-- Yes. (Why?)
-- Maybe. (Why?)
-- No. (Why not?)
-- Not switching, but using a Mac and using both OSes.
-- I'm already a Mac user! (Are you happy?)
-- I'm thinking about it. (What's the hold up?)
-- I'm not using either. (What are you using?)

Discussion is locked

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Never thought I would go Mac....
Mar 31, 2007 8:51PM PDT

Bought a iMac 24in two months ago and I'm running Windows XP in 'Parallels' (runs better here than on any PC I've ever owned). Pros: Easy to physically install, setup just works, tons of included full license software, fast, always works on my mouse click (never see an hour glass or an un responsive mouse), comes with everything (little aftermarket hardware to buy...because you don't need to), 24in screen is awesome(can run my XP session and Mac apps and see everything), did I say fast, very quick boot-up time (even XP boots-up fast), network setup is unbelievably easy, no antivirus required!, Safari is and excellent Internet browser and you can get Firefox for Mac free (I prefer Firefox) and stuff to control your apps that Vista still doesn't do.
Cons: takes getting use to screen controls being on the right and drop menus always at the top of the screen separate from the window, had to buy Microsoft Office 2004 to get Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Entourage(Outlook for Mac), Quicken version for Mac is very bad (returned it) and I run Quicken on the XP window....works great, many speciality apps work only on Windows, price of unit, you have to buy a full version of XP or Vista.

Designed from the user...period.

I never though I would say this (way to many years of being a MS fan). Once on iMac....you'll never go back.

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Happy Mac user since 1986.
Mar 31, 2007 9:46PM PDT

We've had dozens of Mac and I've liked every one. We haven't gotten a new Intel Mac yet, because Adobe products did not run natively on them. When Adobe releases CS3 and Apple releases the next version of Intel chips (Octo anyone?), we will get new machines.

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I Use Macs and I'm Happy
Apr 1, 2007 1:13AM PDT

Yep, everytime this type question gets asked, the die-hards on both sides come out of the woodwork and blast the 'other' computer. But, have you noticed that by far the most blasting and derogatory remarks are from PC users? I will not say Macs are 'superior', etc etc etc. However, the derogatory remarks that Macs aren't upgradeable, that Macs are optimized for one system, that Macs don't have software choices, that Macs cost more, ad nauseum, just fuel the fires of ignorance. The posts that try to offer pros and cons are much better for reference. All I can tell you is that I've run used Macs, bought off Fleabay, for years with very few problems. We have Windoz machines at work and it's like night and day compared to my Mac at home. I think one has to admit that much more maintenance is involved in keeping a PC humming. One poster mentioned the Macworld article about pricing. Here's the Inguirer (NOT generally a Mac-friendly outfit) article that shows that Macs are actually cheaper than comparably equipped Dell pro laptops, for instance:

http://theinquirer.net/default.aspx?article=33576

In the end, each of us will have our preferences. Just my opinion: my Macs have all been very easily upgraded; I can run Linux so I'm not stuck with "...one optimized system.."; I can buy a new Mac to run Windoz (but why?), Mac OS install software is generally cheaper than Windoz install software, my Macs have all been very stable, my Macs are quite user friendly .... etc. Serious gamers are going to build their own machines. But new Macs can now run those games too.

Yes, we have our preferences. Most will stay with what brung em to the dance. I'm not 'married' to my Mac and Windoz machines aren't 'inferior'. But, if someone asked about switching to a Mac, I would highly recommend it.

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No. I prefer OS-X to Vista, but I make my money on Windows
Apr 1, 2007 11:09AM PDT

I'm an IT support manager with over 10 years experience. I've used every version of Windows and Mac, plus Linux. I've personally enjoyed using all these operating systems over the years, but I give OS-X the nod for being the best all-around design. However, so far I think Vista is off to a smoother start. When OS-X first hit the market, the help desk I managed got a lot of calls with problems and it just didn't seem finished. Today it is a polished and mature operating system, and Vista needs a little more time to get the kinks smoothed out.

I've considered switching my primary systems over to Mac, but I just bought a new Vista laptop that I'm really enjoying so far. Why? Only 15% of my customers use Macs, and since I'm switching jobs soon that is going to drop even lower...to almost nil. For the foreseeable future my knowledge and experience relating to Vista will put food on my table. I've also got a lot invested in Windows software, so switching platforms will actually cost me about $600 more than simply buying a new computer.

That said if you don't need Windows for work, and aren't heavily invested in Windows software, I'd actually recommend switching to a Mac. Even if you do use Windows at work, you can run both on a Macbook.

The only thing that bugs me about OS-X is the dependence on Apple hardware. As nice as Apple hardware is, the selection is limited. If you want an ultraportable that is smaller than a Macbook, it's going to be a Windows or Linux machine. Same if you want to build your own gaming rig or cheap PC. For most people though, it's hard to do better than an Apple Macbook, iMac or PowerMac. And hopefully, if enough people make the switch, I'll be able to make a living as an IT manager in an institution that is 95% Mac and 5% Windows instead of the other way around.

I'd actually rather see open source software and real open standards gain ground. I've been running a laptop with Ubuntu (a flavor of Linux just about anyone can install and use), Firefox browser, Thunderbird e-mail, and OpenOffice.org applications. It's great, but I still prefer Photoshop to the GiMP and I still need to know Windows to do my job.

Sean

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Have both, PC and Mac, still favor PC
Apr 1, 2007 11:25AM PDT

Switching to Mac? No. I have both and Mac have not convince me to swithc. Got 6 PC desktop, most of them I build them myself. From a old 486, 266 350, 500 and 2000 mhz with Windows 3.1, 95, 98 2000 and XP and they all work. Got two laptop, one for my wife a HP and a Mac for daughter. The Mac have crash and die twice, but my wife never had any problem. I am the tec support for them. Both are taken good care, they even never move from the the desk so they are more a desktop than a notebook. The HP cost me $600 and came with Windows Media and I use all the same software I have already had. The Mac cost me $1,000 with student discont plus all the software that I need to purchase. The day that the Mac die it took me all day to bring it back to life, the second time it took the same amount of time to the Apple store to bring it back to life and still did not know why it happen. So I guest is luck or I just got a Mac lemon.

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NOT THINKING OF BUYING A MAC
Apr 2, 2007 1:15AM PDT

I'm perfectly happy with the system and all the software choices. Been with PC's since the beginning (except for my TI 99).

Perhaps if Macs had been more reasonably priced in the beginning.

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Thinking about the switch
Apr 2, 2007 1:41AM PDT

For the past few months I've been debating whether or I should switch to a Mac. The biggest reason for this is for video editing, being that Final Cut is only offer on Macs, and since this is one of the leaders in the industry (behind Avid) I feel I should switch over. Right now though I am using a PC with Adobe Premiere. Everyone tells me to make the switch because of the unreliability of PCs, but to be honest I've only have one problem with crashing while editing. I think in the end that the debate isn't really PC vs Mac, but really Premiere (specifically CS3) versus Final Cut. Just as a little background I've been editing for a little over seven years now, but I've only worked with Avid and Premiere (and recently a little in Vegas), so I'm not really familiar with the differences with Final Cut and Premiere.

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Not considering switch from PC to Mac
Apr 2, 2007 4:29AM PDT

The PC does everything I want it to do-so why switch. I've had my experiences with Macs. They are more expensive and proprietary.

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No need to switch, I'll stick with Windows but NOT Vista...
Apr 2, 2007 3:03PM PDT

I'm working towards buying a new computer & While it'll be a Vista PC, I'll reformat upon purchase & put XP on it.

Buying a Mac limits my software options, especially game wise.

If I had the financial ability to do so, It'd be nice to have a Mac in addition to a Windows machine to investigate the differences between the two for myself.

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thats a good idea
Apr 2, 2007 3:18PM PDT

but i would suggest doing some reasearch first.. i tried the same thing with my new laptop.. only problem is the manufacture doesnt supply xp drivers for mine and cant use vista drivers in XP. Probably better off building your own computer if you'r going to put xp on it any way. had to load vista back on mine but was able to get linux to load ok and most of my games are working fine using emulatrors. just food for thought good luck on your next computer.

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Can't
Apr 2, 2007 5:13PM PDT

I'm a gamer, I simply have no other option then the MS platform...and that truely sucks, but thats life.

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Not "Can't," but "Won't"
Apr 3, 2007 1:10AM PDT

I understand your position. However, "can't" connotes that the choice is out of your hands, whereas you _choose_ to stay on the platform that has the most variety of games and new game releases. That makes it "won't."

It may seem like a small thing, but it is best illustrated thusly:

- Quadriplegics can't walk.
- Quadriplegics won't walk.

Obviously they aren't _choosing_.


If I were a gamer I wouldn't switch from MS Windows to a Mac, either. For me, I choose neither.

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Can't? Can Too!.
May 10, 2007 8:23AM PDT

I switched from a string of HPs to an IMac G5...

I am a realtor... I have to use a piece of clunk called "Citrix client" to get around the Rappatoni MLS system architecture requirement for Windoze... (Citrix simulates, for me, the structure of IE...)

All the other app. providers work with Mac architecture.....

...and now, the newer iMacs have this dual core thing, that also runs Windows and IE..

Kiss Microsoft goodbye.... They are a demented approach to computing, vs. the elegance of Apple.

jack barry, in SF.

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I just switched to a mac and I am very impressed!
Apr 3, 2007 3:01AM PDT

I just purchased a new mac with the intel based dua core 2.0ghz and I could have bought a PC with more stuff but I love that compact pkg and 1 cord. It works right out of the box and there is very little 3rd party software that you need, There is a bit of a learning curve but after a while you do not miss the no no right click on the mouse. I only have 1 complaint and that I purchased the mac to design a new website and unless u subscribe the mac world. Designing a website with most web hosters require you u to use their software which unfortunatley is PC based. You can manage it with a mac but design it with a PC. Pity!

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Soo right :-)
May 11, 2007 2:33PM PDT

Couldn't have been said better. Macs are no-fuss setup, no anooying registation and countless product keys, Just a mouse, a keyboard, and you power cord, NO POWER BRICK HOORAY!! Most come with built-in Wi-Fi! Built in iSight.... WOOOHOOO!!! Quote Steve Jobs. "Video confrencing right out of the box..."
He he... Yeah, I'm addicted to my new MacBook '13...

~~AppleGeekinator~~ ~~"Warrior against the blue screen of death...."~~

Get a Mac, "You'll thank me later..."

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no mac for me
Apr 3, 2007 3:10AM PDT

uhhh, hey guys. There is a lot of clammoring on both sides here, but it looks like most of the mac side of this debate has missed something.

There is no difference between the new "intel" macs and pc's other than Apple's still mostly inflated pricing and thier Linux based OS. (oops did I say that out loud?)

You want a PC with a kiddie os on it? buy a mac with OS X on it.
You want a PC with a wannabe kiddie os on it? Buy a Vista based PC.

You want a PC that will last a long time, Run correctly and be a great workhorse for years to come? Do your resarch, buy the components, assemble them on your kitchen table, fire the PC up and install Windows XP Pro or Windows 2000 WS.

But if you really want the look and feal of a computer designed for 10 year olds, buy a mac or one of the vista pc's that are out there.

Grin just the way i see it.

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uhhhhh
Apr 3, 2007 3:18AM PDT

dude i know about mac being built on Unix. thats why so many folks like it. ITS SECURE

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Verdict: PCs easier to use, Macs don't get viruses or crash
Apr 3, 2007 3:19AM PDT

"Verdict: PCs easier to use, Macs don't get viruses or crash". That's the truth.

I'll preface with this: I'm on a computer 4-10hrs/day, and have been for nearly 12 years. I've used both PCs and Macs. I am a graphic artist, using CorelDRAW and PhotoPain); PCs sometimes get viruses (I've had only ONE in past 12 years, and I've owned 6 computers, all connected to the web, and have probably received 100,000 emails in my life.The following things that people are saying here are true: how right-clicking on a PC gives 90% of the options you're looking for while Mac gives few or none; a PC's 8 mouse buttons and 2 wheels (a common mouse sold w/ new PCs) is better than Mac's usual one and none; a PC's interface is more intuitive (and colourful & pleasing and easier on the eyes), while a Mac's dull grey is not so pretty; a Mac hardly ever crashes, PCs do monthly or weekly (I haven't had DAILY shutdowns since my Windows 95 system and Still, just 1 virus), while Macs can go years w/out getting one virus. So, the verdict seems to be that PCs are more intuitive and easier to use on a daily basis, while Macs run flawlessly near 100% of the time. Take your pick.

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hmm
Apr 3, 2007 3:24AM PDT

well mac's USED to run like that. take a read in the Apple Discussions forums and see the issues the intels have. i mean yes there are issues with the PowerPC ones but hey nothings perfect

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My wife's next computer will be a Mac
Apr 5, 2007 1:08AM PDT

Having been an engineer on the Windows development team long ago, I always had a strong attachment to Windows/Microsoft and thus the PC world. But I'm so disappointed with Vista and all the DRM garbage polluting the architecture that I am starting to consider Apple after being a PC user since 1983.

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Debian Linux
Apr 6, 2007 12:11PM PDT

I?ve used Windows, Linux, Mac OS, the only one i will not use again for my own machine is Windows, I own a computer store so i?ll be using Windows on my clients computers, but not for myself.

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Switching from Windows to a MAC
Apr 7, 2007 5:11AM PDT

I Switched from a Dell Windows notebook to a MAC notebook several months ago and added Parallels Desktop which gives me the ability to use several Windows only programs I have. I am delighted that I made the switch. The MAC is quite a bit lighter than the old Dell that I had been using and all programs respond very quuickly in both Windows and the MAC OS.

I feel that I now have my cake and can eat it too and am verry happy that I made the transition.

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I have 3 Macs in the house and LOVE using them
Apr 8, 2007 2:00PM PDT

Face it, Windows is still windows. The upgrade to Vista is still gonna get you, Windows. No matter how hard you try to veer away from the old Windows 95 Blue screen of death, you'll still get... Windows.
Mac is DEFINETLY the way to go if you are looking for somthing better than Linux (Linux, whoop-dee-doo) If you are considering switching to Mac OS X, you're on the right track, if not, Get there! Macs are easy to use, attractive, seamless.... you know what, THEY JUST WORK! And if you still can't get over the fact that *Gasp* "It's not Windows!??!" You can get Parallels Mac and run Windows on it.
(Why would you ever wanna ruin a perfectly good Mac by installing Windows on it?!)

Get a Mac, In the words of Adrian Monk, "You'll thank me later..."

Happy Macintosh-ing Wink

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Switch to a MAC ..no way
Apr 8, 2007 10:39PM PDT

1. PC has millions of Titles - MAC hundreds
2. PC easy to fix - MAC only "Specialists" who tell you your processor is confused... I still laugh about that one!!!! gotta love MAC support.
3. All those "New features" that Vista has which it had in the beta way before OS X came out. Gee I was wondering where MAC got those features from.
4. PRICE.. Come on people hello!!!

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Why switch?
Nov 21, 2007 11:34PM PST

I don't really have problems with Windows then why would I switch to Mac. If I'm gonna switch OS it gotta be Linux because it's free and has better game support than Mac.

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Dolt's everywhere
Nov 22, 2007 6:24AM PST

Stay in the dark, you deserve it.

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after retiring from IBM and getting a mac/intel....
Nov 21, 2007 6:18PM PST

i don't understand why anyone or organization would buy a pc unless it's to torture themselves or their users. the time is past for PCs that are not running OS X or something like it. Just look at the Vista polls and the numbers of downgrades, and the press from the tech-talking-heads. MS has one foot in the tar pity and won't be around long as pc mfg's are not about to be dragged down with them. time's are a changing!

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Neither
Nov 21, 2007 6:27PM PST

Switched to Linux and very happy with it. Does all I need and with room to spare.

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NO, I run OSX on my PC just fine
Nov 21, 2007 6:44PM PST

I know I'm not the norm, but I run OSX on my PC just fine and see no reason to switch to a Mac system and all the downsides of such a closed hardware format. And yes, there are legal ways to get a full copy of OSX without the hardware attached.

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Switching From PC to a Mac
Nov 21, 2007 6:49PM PST

Absolutly not. Just go to a software store and see what's available for a PC then look at the piddley difference of the Mac offering!