In this thread, you persuade me to buy a Mac
 

So I think my PC's finally had it. Won't boot properly and unless I can fix it myself over the next few days, I'm going to be computer shopping (my PC is too old to warrant the cost of expensive repairs). I haven't decided on a laptop or a desktop.

I've only owned PCs and have had limited experience with Macs. What are the advantages/disadvantages of a Mac? I'm going to be doing some research online, but I'm interested in hearing personal stories as well.

had a Mac for 2 years...not ONE problem....literally

My other PCs I have had...I am repairing almost monthly.

not too much a difference between navigating a Mac or a PC if you are PC literate...

My small complaint is that some websites you cant navigate fully because u have to have IE to do it with but it's rare.

Also if u need windows productivity tools there are some manufactured for Mac

Like Microsoft Office...

Only minus I can think of is that they tend to be more pricey...but I think in the long run it's worth it.

convince me too! i have a really crappy laptop and its slow as molasses. plus the buttons are falling off and... well its a bad example of what a PC should be.

see my link above....LOL...heck the next laptop I am thinking about getting is a Mac.....

My home right now we have 2 desktop PCs, 1 Mac (my gf is a graphic designer for the govt) and one Tablet PC.....

I have a MacBook and it's fast as hell as opposed to my PC which takes a good five minutes for Windows to start up. Also, the new Mac OS is coming out this fall, which should knock Vista out of the water. Don't worry about not knowing Mac very well, because its a lot easier to get around on than a PC.

dude BUY A MAC!!!!!

We have two PC's at home, but had several Macs before.

I like both.

Macs are in high favor by graphics folks (like daughter number one).

Macs are highly resistant to virus -- if not immune.

It doesn't seem to me that Macs are constantly issuing patches for their OS -- although as I said above, it's been a while since I've had one.

At least it used to be easier to load programs on a Mac.

Finally, remember that Windows began as a reaction to Macs. You couldn't drag and drop in DOS -- you had to type all of those silly codes. And there wasn't a little trash can.

I work with both...

As for a MAC...
Pros:
* The majority of viruses are written for Windows so if you don't have Windows, you don't have anything for viruses to feed on.
* Everyone tells me they are a thousand times better for creating graphics or music. I create graphics on both my PC and the MAC at work and other than the fact that I am too poor to afford the Adobe Creative Suite I don't see a lot of difference. And I don't create music so.......
* They don't freeze up nearly as much.

Cons:
* When they do freeze up Force Quit (i.e. CTRL+Alt+delete on a PC) is a lot harder to access and doesn't always work. Of course that is the case on a PC too...basically that's a computer thing.
* While a lot of things are being made to be compatible with OSX, there are still a lot of software and hardware out there that aren't.
* As software becomes dual compatible, so will viruses, nulifying the first Pro I offered.

Basically, I used to hate MACs but they have improved on them a lot from when I used them in high school and really there isn't a lot of difference in the two anymore. That I can see. How is that for convincing?:cool:

Apples run in a more secure environment than Windows. It's not simply because there are less users of Apple software and thus less viruses. And they run all Windows programs if you install Windows on your Apple computer, because they also function as PCs. I don't understand what you mean by Force Close, since that's the same as CTRL-ALT-DEL and works just as, if not more, often than on Windows.

-Rudey

My first ibook was the computer from hell, but under applecare, Apple replaced it for me when the third major thing went wrong with it. Since then, I haven't had a complaint about the new one they sent. The MacBook is SEXY. So sexy.

Built-in webcam
Photobooth is addictively fun
Dashboard is great
Lots of cool freeware for Macs (I've got, amongst other things, a GCal widget, a Checkoff list, a program that lets me fill in PDFs, and a program that lets me highlight PDFs)
Better security
Easy to figure out and get around once you get the hang of things (though if you're used to the complexity of finding files on a PC, a Mac may take some getting used to just because it's so simple)
The MacBook is dual platform thanks to the Intel processor
Fewer problems

Go Mac!

Another vote here for getting a Mac. I have a G4 Powerbook and didn't like it at first for the sole reason that it was slightly unfamiliar to me...but three years later, I've never had a single problem with it - and, I bought it second hand off some random dude on Craigslist. Once you figure out the little tricks (ie, there's no "right click," you have to use "Ctrl & click") then you'll definitely end up preferring it!

Ok...finally...
 

Ok..I am thinking about purchasing a used Powerbook G 4 (sorry my pockets aren't deep enough to get a new MacBook Pro) for just kicking around the house and some light travel...suggestion on what I should get or look for?

I used the 12-inch Powerbook G4 for 5 years before getting a new MacBook a couple of months ago. I think my husband was most excited - he inherited the Powerbook. Honestly, if he hadn't wanted it so badly, I probably would have kept it and just put in a bigger hard drive. It was only 40 GB, so you can imagine the limitations on songs, photos, etc. Plus I'm in publishing, so I have some awfully large files on my computer from time to time with scanned images, etc. I just needed more space.

I loved the small size of the 12-inch - which is no longer made. And the husband uses it for exactly what you mention - kicking around the house and light travel. My new one has 250GB so we could empty the old one considerably - making it even faster. Really - my only complaint was the small hard drive. Everything else worked as perfectly as the day I got it.

There are some reputable resellers out there with good warranties and guarantees.

If one is looking for a new computer (Desk top or Lap top) may I suggest the following sites for reviews:
http://www.consumersearch.com/laptops
http://www.consumersearch.com/desktop-computers
http://www.consumersearch.com/apple-laptops

As for virsus' on Mac's, I just had this conversation with one of my cousins as well as a close friend both who changed to Mac's from PC's and did not have any kind of security program on their new systems:
"Internet security for Mac and Linux:
Computers running Macintosh or Linux operating systems are less susceptible to viruses than those running Windows, because most viruses specifically target Windows computers. However, the alternative operating systems are vulnerable to other types of malware, especially spyware and adware embedded in cookies. Non-Windows computers are also capable of sending viruses to Windows computers via e-mail. For those reasons, experts say that even Mac and Linux users should consider security software.
We found far fewer reviews for Mac and Linux software than for Windows software. Macworld is a good source for Mac software reviews, and has reviewed some Mac antivirus software. Intego's VirusBarrier is noted as "best for its scanning speed and its well-integrated Mac features." Macworld's Rob Griffiths says, "Norton AntiVirus is a close second, thanks to its extensive virus information and its strong handling of Windows viruses." Intego also offers several Internet security suites in its Internet Security Barrier X4 product family, and Symantec makes a version of Norton Internet Security for Macintosh. PC World's Scott Spanbauer asserts that Linux is the safest operating system. He recommends supplementing with free software."

http://www.consumersearch.com/intern...urity-software

and this link:
Macintosh Viruses and Mac Virus Resources:
http://antivirus.about.com/od/macint..._Resources.htm

Will do....also I am seeing that if I reach a lil deeper (about 1 to 2 hundredd dollars more, I may be able to afford a Macbook...

Pros and cons?

Tinia...I am well aware of the security issues...which is why I am leaning towards getting a Mac...we have a desktop in the house and have had ZERO problems with it in 4 years....so..a Mac laptop should do.

Good thing that you DaemonSeid are aware of the security issue. Most owners of Macs I have spoken to are not.
I have had PC's "forever" and have had just about zero problems with them.

Wish I could say the same....mine has had all kinds of problems...this year tho...was it's most stable year...thats because I was more diligent in updating and running spyware adn stuff....joy.....

This is why I want a Mac tho...to eliminate some of the hassle of having a PC and also part of the reason why I don't want a Windows machine..I have enough issues with my desktop...I don't need a 2nd headache.

You are right - for just a little more you can go ahead and get the MacBook. Especially if you qualify in any way for the education discount. I got mine about 2 weeks before they brought out the new generation, though I don't think the differences are massive. I also got mine when they were running a promotion to get a free printer and free iPod touch (something else the hubby claimed).

Pros for the new MacBook (keep in mind I am comparing it to my 2003 12-inch G4):
- It will have more standard warranty
- Will probably have faster processing
- Will probably have bigger hard drive
- MacBook has built in camera and other standard features
- Might get some freebies (printer, etc.)
- Magnetic power cord pretty cool
- No worries that someone else dropped it in a toilet first

Pros for a used PowerBook
- Cheaper
- I like the aluminum better than the white. I'm already seeing discoloration where my wrists sit.
- Will hold its resale value for a while if you decide to upgrade fairly soon.
- You can pick a size (12, 15, 17-inch)

Honestly though, you can't go wrong. It sounds like you are already a fan. :) Apple takes good care of their customers. They go above and beyond to make sure that you are satisfied with your product and their service. At least they have always done so with me and my family and business!

I got a Macbook Pro in August. I'd been using a PC laptop that I bought at Best Buy since December and was very happy with it (HP brand.) My husband decided that he wanted my laptop and sent me out to buy a Mac. I could really have not cared less about getting a Mac, but despite the significant difference in price, I am a complete convert! I love, love, LOVE my Mac. It is so easy to make webpages, newsletters, spreadsheets with the Mac software, and you can save anything as a PDF (I'd have had to buy the $400 software for my PC) so that there is no problem with non-Mac users to open my files. The system is set up on a more intuitive basis, the mousepad works like you think it should (I especially love being able to scroll using two fingers since the scroll bar on most PC mousepads doesn't work too well) and you never have to worry that you'll trip over the cord and send your computer careening towards the floor since the cord is magnetically attached!

I hate Macs. We use them at work, so I've had pretty decent exposure. I find them to be slower and more difficult to use - I HATE that there isn't the bottom of the screen toolbar to easily switch between different windows. Also, Macs are not more secure...there are simply just less viruses written for them, which will be changing, I'm sure.

I like PCs a lot better.

unabashed fan!
 

Here is a rundown of all the macs I have owned over the course of about 10 years...
Power Mac G-4 6 years old and never had a problem. My son still uses it.
Mac Mini - Awesome machine for the price if all you do is surf and email.
Mac Book (2) - 3 years and still works like a charm. Daughter took hers to college and has never had a virus or had it freeze up.
IMac G-5 22 inch - 4 years old and I am still in love with it!

In the last 5 years we have purchased 3 PC's and they have all been thrown in the trash. It was an endless battle with slow performance and mal ware. It seemed like I was constantly having to do maintenance of some sort on them. 2 ran on windows XP and 1 on Vista. Ugh.

The biggest problem with switching to a Mac is learning the new system. Little things can drive you crazy at first but once you get the nuances down you will be amazed at how simple everything is. If you do happen to get a lemon Apple is very good with their tech support and warranty work. And as mentioned before, some web sites are built to support IE and don't work well with Firefox or Safari but that doesn't happen very often anymore. The software that comes with your Mac (ILife) is designed to work seamlessly between applications so you can get really creative with your movies and photos.

Ok all this is the ad I am looking at....let me hear your take

I may pick this up tomorrow

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/n...915546947.html

That looks really good! I don't see the power cord listed, so it might be worth asking about. You can get them for 50-70 bucks though. And it needs Leopard. But you might have that already and can easily install. The CS2 is nice! Ask the seller if he/she has AppleCare for it already. If not, you might want to check into prices and coverages - just in case.

I picked it up and everything is in great shape even came with the box and original instructions I am really really enjoying this laptop!!!

That's awesome! I think you got a really good deal. :)

Welcome to the club! :D There are a lot of shortcuts and tricks in Mac OSX so it might be worth your while to buy a book about OSX and learn all of the ins and outs of owning a Mac. You can really customize your desktop in all sorts of ways, including making your Mac burp when there is an alert instead of the normal chimes. Do you have the I Life suite? Feel free to ask me if you have any questions. I am not a pro but I have owned Macs for almost 10 years now and I also subscribe to Mac/Life magazine which has tons of useful information for Mac owners.

rundown of what was included and I installed

MS Office
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and Imageready
iMovie HD
iWeb
iDvd
iPhoto


what I added

Touchcopy (to back up my iPod)
Mac the Ripper
Mplayer and VLC (for watching my .avi files)
Skype
Yahoo messenger


I also got a bluetooth mouse

Don't forget about ITUNES!!!!!!
You got a great deal! It's great that it already has photoshop installed. We'll be expecting some clever motivational posters from you now ;)!

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/c...stuff/dude.jpg

best I can do at 6 30 am on this machine....lol

So much awkward this thread.

First, the majority of security exploits in Windows actually go through Internet Explorer - that should be the first place you look, not necessarily at Windows itself (which is indeed deeply flawed as well, but really no worse than MacOS at this point, given a proper Vista rig).

Also, it's time to stop drinking the anti-Vista kool aid. The first releases had major issues, but right now, it's just about 100x better for most everyday users who walk in 'blind' than anything that's come previously. MacOS is pretty rad in its own right, depending on what you like, but the anti-Vista sentiment has really gotten crazy.

You said...'rad'

LOL


you know I gotta mess witcha!!!

Vista could be 100x better but even M$ knows now that it's a faliure thus Windows 7 is already on the horizon and Vista still has barely cracked into the major public and most companies.

It's a PR failure, though - from a technical standpoint, especially for casual users, it's a pretty solid platform, definitely superior to XP and at least peer to Leopard, save for very specific uses (say, graphic design).

Most of the backlash comes from the nerdy sector, whose high-end graphics cards weren't compatible with the first versions of Vista or etc. - there's really no reason for MS to fight it when they can simply release a new one every few years . . . just like Apple did, with x10.5 last year.

My boyfriend has Vista - I'm still running on XP. I like both. My laptop, however, has "Vista Capable" - so it's not going to run regular Vista, only Vista basic. So I'm sticking with XP either until I get a new PC or buy a Macbook.

DON'T get Vista....I have a feeling it won't be supported in another 2 years...just my opinion!

It's more than likely that I'll be waiting that long until I get a new laptop - definitely if I get a PC, although if I get a MacBook it won't really matter. I like what I've got right now.

My dad, unfortunately, just ordered a Dell Laptop. I really wish he would have talked to me before he ordered - while I like my laptop, while I was in school there were some definite problems with it (for one, it's over five pounds, so carrying it around in a bag made for a sore shoulder), I had significant problems connecting to my school's wireless network, etc. Dell's known for having pretty great desktops, but he could have gotten an HP from Walmart significantly cheaper and just as good if not better than what he's got coming from Dell. They're just not all that great at making laptops.

I think part of the reason why I like mine so much is because it's mine.

But, for what he uses it for (e-mail, internet, word processing, picture saving) it should be fine. He's all excited because he hasn't had a laptop in years, and he can't wait to get a wireless network.

Right when I was reading you rpost, one of my co workers showed me Walmart's laptops for Black Friday...one was an e machine and the other was a Dell with a Celeron processor....took me about 10 mins to explain why they are so bad....

Folks remember, when buyng a PC, it's like buying a car.....have a knowledgable person along who speaks geekspeech to get you thru!

.......I charge 50 bucks or food for consults...LOL

ALL of my geek friends (including two who are IT managers & purchasing agents) tell me that the best laptop is Lenovo (They are the 'Old IBM') Think Pad T-61/T500. And just about all the reviews I have read seem to bear that out (If interested, please see first posting somewhere above).
My 92 year old father-in-law just bought one and loves it compared to his old Dell.
And a friend of my Mom is also looking at one.

I'm still kinda out on Lenovos at the time...'sepcially since I haven't seen one in the wild yet.


FYI folks (and please refer to my Black Friday thread) any of you thinking about purchasing LAPTOPS at this time of the year, if you don't mind, hit us up with what you see and we can let you know if it's worth the money....a lot of them unbelievably are lemons...


On a Mac related question - Can someone recommend a great (not good) media player for Mac PC besides quicktime? I am planning on dropping some of my .avis and I want to be able to watch them.

I use VLC. I don't watch tons and tons of things other than the occasional movie on a plane or something. Very easy for me as a casual user....