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General discussion

Considering a MacBook or iPad to replace PC desktop, help!

Jun 28, 2019 5:16PM PDT

Hello, I have been using a desktop forever! Love the BIG SCREEN and WASHABLE keyboard! It is custom-made and uses Microsoft Windows 10 and Office. I have converted to Apple iPhone 8 Plus – and love it. Now I am considering changing to an Apple MacBook or iPad at the end of this year - as I would love the mobility option since I travel interstate a lot. Plus, my old desktop is showing its age and I'm tired of Windows 10 updates that change things on my computer all the time!! And I believe MacBooks/iPads are easier to use, compatible with iPhone and safer in regard to less viruses, etc.?

Firstly, what would you recommend? Secondly – on my desktop I have Quicken Personal 2012 software, MS Word, and Excel documents. Can I transfer my program and files over to an Apple MacBook/iPad? Or will I lose them completely? Also, will I be able to continue to use my monitor and keyboard with the Apple MacBook or iPad? I am an old lady of 74 and not really computer-literate. Hoping you can assist me. Thank you for all your help.

--Submitted by Mary B.

Discussion is locked

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I disagree
Jul 5, 2019 4:04PM PDT

Apple is not in any way third party adverse? They support open standards, wifi, bluetooth, USB c, thunderbolt, etc. They have fewer systems that have expansion slots in them but most people are not doing a lot of that except for gaming, with video cards and they are supporting external GPU's for that use case. There is no mouse or keyboard that will not work on a Mac, no external hard drive or monitor and most other USB devices work as well. I'm just not sure what "third parties" apple has gone after like "mad dogs".

enlighten us.

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Consider Chromebook
Jul 5, 2019 2:08PM PDT

Back in 2010 I did a similar switch to Macbook Air but it still required big lumbering updates. Then I switched to Chromebook and lived happily ever after. For about $250 it is light, easy to use, and you can always plug it into a second monitor if you like. It's so good that the opposition has falsely maligned it. Yet I have not come across any task I couldn't do with it. Everything is automatcally backed up for free in the cloud. It just works.

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Agree 100%
Jul 5, 2019 3:28PM PDT

the newer chromebooks are amazing, nice the boot speed!

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surprised no suggestion of Pixelbook or other Android laptop
Jul 5, 2019 2:08PM PDT

I recommend at least checking out some Android laptops; they are MUCH less expensive (Pixelbook was $600 on sale) and much more similar to Windows than Apple.
My wife switched from Macbook Air that died of old age to a Google Pixelbook. She was comfortable with all things Google: Maps, Drive (Docs, Sheets), Photos, Gmail, etc. The Mac actually caused a lot of problems because of some incompatibilities with her Google apps. Note: Docs and Sheets convert Word formats to Drive and back again if desired. Most PC apps have the same or similar versions that are available for Android. If you're using Windows, IMHO Android is more familiar and easier to convert to than Apple. The Pixelbook is lighter than the Mac, faster, and due to cloud storage, much greater capacity for photos, videos, documents. Note: you do need an Internet connection for most efficient use, but many operations can be done offline and synched when Internet is available. Personally, as a long-time PC/Windows user, I had great difficulty trying to use her Mac; but just a little re-learning with the Pixelbook. Of course, I am Google-centric (my Pixel XL phone was a delight after suffering with the iPhone), just as she was, so the apps are all familiar.

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Either would be great...
Jul 5, 2019 2:29PM PDT

I have the iPad Pro 10.5 and just got a regular MacBook with the m3 processor and 256GB of storage within the last month to replace my older Surface Pro. I should probably mention that I also have a pretty powerful custom built desktop computer; but, it's not used much unless I need the processing and RAM power.

I'll start by saying that I love my iPad Pro - it's extremely portable and it can do 90% of the things I want to do. If I'm trying to get work done, Word, Excel, OneNote and PowerPoint work really well on the iPad. If I want to read a book, Apple's eBook app and the Kindle app are awesome. Need to search the web - no problem, Safari and Chrome work just as well as the desktop browsers would. Want something fun to do - the games are pretty awesome, and the Netflix app just work (chances are that your favorite streaming service has an app). Based on the apps that you mentioned, the iPad might work for you - the Office apps don't look much different than the computer versions do, and as long as your aren't creating super complex functions or macros, it'll be fine. The Quicken app might take some getting used to though - chances are that it's a simpler version than the desktop app (I don't know, not something that I use).

So if I love my iPad so much, why did I get a MacBook as well? ...so the problem with my Surface was the super annoying flap on the back; which is almost the same problem with an iPad and the keyboard that Apple makes for it. It's just not meant to be used on the lap, or tight places like the tiny table on planes. Being back in grad school I wanted something with a keyboard that I could use on my lap and that was also backlit. I could have purchased a Surface Book, or some other portable laptop; but, also having an iPhone and iPad made me want to get the MacBook so that I could take advantage of iMessages and FaceTime on the Mac. Now I can leave my phone in the car or upstairs, and simply answer a call or message on the MacBook or iPad, whichever device I have with me.

I find that I usually use the MacBook more at home though, it's not my go to system - that's still the iPad. The Apple pencil makes it awesome to take notes on OneNote, and the iPad also has a 4G/LTE plan, so I don't have to worry about always finding a hotspot, or killing my phones battery by using it as a hotspot.

If you really want to keep using your keyboard/monitor, then I'd get a MacBook, or maybe an iMac. You can use a Bluetooth keyboard with an iPad; but, chances are that you might have to purchase a model that's designed for an iPad. You can also plug the iPad to a monitor; but, some apps don't support external monitors and trying to display an iPad unto a monitor, or even using AirPlay to an Apple TV can be a bit of a hassle. Even with a MacBook, you will probably have to buy certain dongles to get your keyboard/monitor to work.

As for the file situation - highly suggest that you use OneDrive, it works great with the iPad and MacBook. This means you will have to spend about $70-$100 on a yearly subscription; but, it includes tons of storage (enough for most of us) and Office - save all the files on you computer in OneDrive. The other upside to this is that if your computer finally crashes, it's not a problem, all your files are in the cloud. I suppose you also get iCloud instead; but, it does not include Office, you will have to open your documents use Apple's office alternatives - Pages, Keynote, and Numbers (or Google solution; but, same challenge as getting iCloud).

Maybe go hangout at a Best Buy or Apple store for a bit, and see which setup you prefer - worse comes to worse, you can always exchange them within a certain period. I'd advice getting AppleCare on whatever you decide to get. Have fun shopping and best of luck on whatever you choose to get!!

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we have tried
Jul 5, 2019 3:20PM PDT

We are family of 4: 14,26,49.63 old. all have iPhones v 8 - X + few iPads ( used seldom)
3 of us( not me) tried apple laptops, 2 went back to win 10 laptops in year or 2, and 14 years old has his mighty Alienware win 10 + inherited mac pro laptop - but using again seldom, though stating apple is cool and easier to use.

Myself: I am not apple fun

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Don't do it
Jul 5, 2019 3:25PM PDT

You can get 2 very nice windows laptops or one super laptop with the same $$$, and with the spare change buy an extra chromebook (there are several of 15 inch display and 4gb ram) for travel or spare
And any laptop connected to the newer 4k tvs give you a super nice monitor

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Butterfly keyboards, T2 chip crashes, and keyboard battery
Jul 5, 2019 3:39PM PDT

Hi,
I have an old (2011) MacBook Pro that is no longer being updated by Apple. Looking for a new MBP, I find reported problems with the butterfly keyboards and the T2 chips. I'll wait until a new scissor-style keyboard is available -- and other users have given it a whirl. I'll also watch for firmware updates that correct kernel crashes caused by the T2 chips.

As far as an iPad: Well, I'm used to a physical keyboard and I find a laptop to be almost ideal. Why pick out a specific iPad model, hope that you can copy-and-paste among the apps you happen to use (the new iPadOS is rumored to correct this), and ALSO have to pick out a bluetooth keyboard that, ahem, has a battery that needs to be charged at some point in the day, and that at some point will no longer take a charge AND need to be disposed of 'cuz you can't replace it? Can you?

There seems to be NO good answer to your question at this point.

1 -- Don't give up your old devices before you've thoroughly tested the new ones.

2 -- Make sure, sure, sure that you test every essential task you currently do.

3 -- Please, oh please, make a manual backup of your files and then copy them to new devices and then make sure you can edit them as you need. Does the new version of Word support the special functions you use? I use track changes and old-style Alt-key keyboard shortcuts.

Best of luck!

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I'm 76 years young and loving my MacBook Air
Jul 5, 2019 4:29PM PDT

Hi Mary,
I used to be a loyal PC user and then Windows mandatory updates crashed my machine. Moreover, the arrogant comments on the Windows help forums convinced me finally that maybe I should consider the Apple ecosystem. So I bought a MacBook Air and never looked back.

I love its light weight that allows me to move it around the house one-handed. The keyboard and trackpad work flawlessly. And mine came with a couple of of USB ports, allowing the use of a big external monitor and external keyboard. However, the 15 inch screen is so nice that I only use the external monitor when dealing with my humongous tax spreadsheets or graphics projects.

I'm not an iPad user so can't really comment on its advantages/disadvantages. However, the MacBook Air allowed a rapid migration because its keyboard and traditional ports felt so familiar. Suggest you give it a look.

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Replace PC with Mac Products?
Jul 5, 2019 4:58PM PDT

I have been using a Windows computer since 1984 so all the files I have created are usable by my present version of W10. Except for pdf and a few other types of files, the files from Windows will not be usable without conversion and if you have happen to have 100s to 1000s of files created they will not be able to use with a Mac Computer without conversion. Your version of Microsoft Office will not be usable in the Mac Computer. Your best plan is to talk to someone who is familiar with both systems to give you more information. I have had dozens of programs on Windows that are likely not usable on a Mac. File formats are different. Once you make the switch, going back will be just as difficult. Personally I would not do it and I am 85 and switching to a new O/S is lot more complicated than you may be able to see on the surface.

Don't make this drastic of a changer until you talk to someone who has done this. Also Mac Computers tend to be more expensive if you decide up upgrade. It won't be all Sunshine and Roses, you can be sure of that.  If you do it, then go for it, and be prepared to learn a new way of doing business!

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Keep your PC
Jul 5, 2019 6:02PM PDT

Keep your PC, it will come in handy when you're at home. Whatever portable option you choose, such as an Android tablet, Linux laptop, Macbook, iPad, or whatever device, (recommended in that order) will be your secondary, travelling device. You'll find you can do most things on any of them. On any of those there should be little to have to learn compared to learning to use Windows 10 all over again after every 6 month update!

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Don't Do It!
Jul 5, 2019 6:53PM PDT

MAC is overpriced from the start and no longer that wunderkid in graphics. I have seen them crash and they can get a virus. Yes, you will a limited amount of proprietary programs. You will have to buy a version of Office for your MAC. After 35 years of IT experience I would not do a MAC and I hate my iPhone as I lost all my ringtones and cannot do simple things I could do like on my flip phone. By the way, I managed to even get by without a smartphone when I was in IT. My DIL talked my wife into one so I got it so I could help her. When this one dies I will most likely get a Windows phone and I will get a Windows tablet when I need one.

When I was still working they were going to send me to school for MACs. The school required three students to have a class and they could not get three students. You can usually get a 10 year old down the street to work on your PC. A MAC tech will be twice as much as a PC tech. My DIL's Dad paid $150 just to get his password changed on the iPad.

I would stick with Windows. Indeed, if Bill had not gotten into a problem with the Fed Apple would have went under. Bill propped them up so he would have some competition. If you need to use Office products keep them on the OS platform they were designed for and it will better. Windows will be the business OS for probably another fifty years. Just sayin'.

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Mary B., let me commend you..............
Jul 5, 2019 11:51PM PDT

for being brave enough to consider making a change from what you have known for most of your computer life and endeavoring to try something new. I think you will find that getting an apple computer (whatever you choose) will work out well for you and will be easier to learn about than you think. My personal preference would be to get a 15" MacBook Pro just because you can do more with and it might lead you to streaming your favorite TV shows when you are on the road. I have found the Ipad to be too limited for me although it is lighter and easier to carry. I would suggest that there might be some PC programs that you will want to continue to use and you can do this by installing Win10 on your new Apple device using a program call Parallels to be able to use both operating systems simultaneously and/or separately. You will be able to continue to use your current monitor and keyboard with a MacBook but not with an Ipad (I may not be current enough with my Ipad knowledge to know this for sure?). Finally, let me assure you that you know more about computers, using them and understanding them, than you think. Good luck.

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(NT) I should have added in my post just now that I am 76 yrs old
Jul 5, 2019 11:55PM PDT
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Get an iMac
Jul 6, 2019 7:51AM PDT

Being not so 'somputer-literate' is recommend getting an iMac. This is more expensive, but used units can be had for less, and they are exceptionally good computers.

The iPad will do a lot, and perhaps fill all your needs, however it is small so text size can be an issue for older people (I'm 63 with bad eyes). And you can only use a separate monitor by obtaining special software, or using an HDMI convertor, doing that is a bit more difficult than just having a desktop.

The iMac is an all-in-one, but is very capable. I am a seasoned IT professional with decades of experience in the digital photography world. I used to use only custom PCs that I built, or at work I used only Macs (dating back to the early '90s). But a few years ago I tired of Microsoft's poor operating systems/security and image quality on the monitors. So i bought a new iMac 5k and could not be happier. I also use a Macbook Pro at work (in a Department of Defense office so it's secured to DoD standard!) and will not go back. Image quality is of great importance to me, and Apple's monitors are simply unbeatable. Sure you can match them in the PC world, if you pay enough.

Applications will transfer to any solution. Quicken is now being replace with the Mint website, you may find this a better solution, or at least equal to Quicken. MS Office is fine on either iPad or Mac, but as others have said Pages and Numbers are very good.

When using the Apple systems your experience is significantly better by embracing the eco-system. I have iPads (multiple in the house, mine is a Pro 13") iPhones (again, multiple) Macbook, iMac and AirPods. The integration means I can take calls to my cell phone right at my iMac, I can send texts (to other iPhone/iPad users) from my desktop, I can facetime from my iMac, my bookmarks are shared across devices, and so on.

If you want to use your current display and keyboard, but want simplicity and low cost, consider a Mac Mini. These are great computers and will easily replace your current desktop while fully integrating with your iPhone since you're running the Mac OS. You don't need anything else, it comes with adapters for a dvi cable so will plug right into any monitor with a dvi cable, it has HDMI output if desired, and your keyboard and mouse will plug right in.

So, if cost is a concern get a Mac Mini, but if you can afford it get an iMac, your eyes will thank you!

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For me it’s iPad Pro all the way
Jul 8, 2019 4:01AM PDT

Hi Mary,

I don’t consider you an “old lady” I’m only two years behind you. I swopped from windows PC’s to the Mac system a few years ago and have been delighted at the ease of use and the ability to work with other people who are using a PC. Although I am nominally retired I do part time work as a meeting coordinator and secretary and exclusively use my iPad Pro with an Apple Pencil and a Magic Keyboard. The Magic Keyboard connects wirelessly so no need for cables. You’ll soon forget your mouse, using a finger or Apple Pencil to point to things and move things around is so much easier.
I can open windows or excel documents in the native iOS apps and save them either in a PC format or PDF format for anyone to read. The 12.9” iPad Pro has a nice big screen and I carry it, a little wooden stand from ikea and the Magic Keyboard around in a soft laptop sleeve/bag. No weight and fully functional.

Also being a semi-pro musician I use it to store and display my music so it gets an enormous amount of use. We do have an iMac at home but I rarely use it.
I’d recommend, at least get the iPad Pro as above. In my experience, although Apple hardware is a tad more expensive than like for like equipment, the need to change up isn’t there, everything always works and the cost of ownership over a number of years is probably less. A chat in an Apple Store may be helpful too.

Hope you make the right choice for you,
Jimmy

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Quicken is about the only problem...
Jul 9, 2019 10:40AM PDT

I am ambidextrous, or quad-dextrous. I am comfortable with Windows 10, use a Macbook air, ipads and iphones, and even chromebooks that I've bought for use in the classrooms for the senior college I support. When I shifted from PC to a mac years ago, the only thing I missed was Quicken, so for a while I ran Parallels on my mac. So I changed my managing of money to having everything paid through my bank account, and hooking up to Mint so I can catalog things. Though it's fun to do, by the time you hit a certain point in life, the exact amount you spend on electricity or other routine expenses is not really important; the way charities are handled now by the IRS I can't deduct their donations any more, so I've just relaxed and let the bank do the payments and at the end of the year use Mint to summarize everything.

For most people that I give tech support to, an ipad - or a Chromebook - is all they need. A big virtue of the ipad is that it coordinates so easily with an iphone. But if you live in the googleverse, you can just as easily coordinate between the google calendar and gmail and the google apps like Drive. You don't have to use Microsoft's stuff; the simple word processors like Pages on the Mac or Google Docs are like what Word used to be several years ago on the PC before it got extraordinarily complex. It's the same with Excel vs. Google Sheets, or Powerpoint vs. Google Slides. I don't think even the most rabid PC fanboy would argue that enduring constant, unexpected and lengthy updates is better on a PC than a mac or chromebook.

Because my mac is six years old I've been thinking maybe I should get something newer so I've been looking at various possibilities - but because my mac is 15" with a 500G storage and 16G ram, I've decided to stick with it as long as possible. It may outlive me!

I'm an 83 year old woman.

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Microsoft Surface Best of Both World's Better than a Mac
Jul 14, 2019 2:50PM PDT

I would highly recommend you look at the Surface. You can go with a tablet or notebook for portability. If you purchase a Surface Book you get a great laptop with a detachable screen you can use as a tablet if you want. You don't have to choose between a tablet and laptop with the Surface Book, you have both from the start. Also, in terms of accessibility you have more options with the Surface. You can interact with the device with a keyboard, voice, pen and touch. I absolutely love interacting with touch on my Surface. Quick and easy and painless.

I also have an iPhone which is synched to the Surface so I can access iPhone pictures, data, and music from my Surface or from One Drive. Everything on my Surface and iPhone are instantly synched and backed up in One Drive and accessible anywhere. Seamless.

Microsoft uses the same operating system for their desktops, laptops, tablets, and phone OS. No learning curve if you switch between these devices. Also, all compatible with Office so no learning curve there either. Apple currently has a different OS for the Mac and the Tablet/iPhone. Although they are working on the same OS for the Mac and Tablet/iPhone. You can bet there will be a learning curve for all their devices when they finally get them on the same OS. So definitely plan on that coming. Microsoft has been using the same operating system across all devices and platforms for years, they are way ahead of Apple here.

I would highly recommend getting Office 365 which has ample cloud storage and with the same subscription can be used on desktops, notebooks, tablets and phones, including the iPhone.

Some people have commented about software updates. I don't see the difference between Apple and Microsoft. Microsoft updates to Windows 10 and Office have been seamless as far as I am concerned. There is always a little learning when a new feature is introduced on iOS of Win10, to be expected. The basic functionality of the Win OS however has stayed pretty much the same as far as menus and dropdowns are concerned. No learning curve required when updates are made.

Although I love my Surface Book and would buy another when it is time to change as it can be synched with One Drive with no loss of data, you could also consider another manufacturer of Win 10 devices which would give you the same functionality I have noted above. There are many options, at many price points, to choose from - Dell, HP, Asus, Lenovo, etc. With Apple you have one. Love the flexibility and choices a Win 10 device gives you.

Hope this helps!