Mangozoom

Hi everyone

My business is going really well and I have enjoyed a bit of a spike in profits over the last 2 months ... as a result I am about to replace my trusty old Dell Lap Top (if it was a horse it would be shot).

Anyway I have never owned a Mac before and wondered whether I should go for one instead of a PC. Everyone I know who has one raves about MACs

My two concerns

1) How easy will it be to move my applications across (xsite pro and some other classic packages)?

2) Is there are large curve to learn the navigations and basic funtionality i.e. how different from a PC?

Anyone with any experience your comments would be appreciated.

John

James Foster

Some software you won't be able to move. They just don't make it for Mac.

As far as learning to use it, that's pretty easy. I actually prefer the Mac interface to PC's anymore.

As an example, to install a program on a Mac - you just drag the icon to the Applications folder. That's it.

They both have their pluses and minuses, I keep one of each because of the software program mentioned above.

I'd go mac if you're doing a lot of video/ photo editing and other creative related thing. But if you're just looking to put up some websites, check email, and surf the web - a little netbook could be all you need.

Eddieheli

It depends what you do and how familiar you are with windows.
I have both and I prefer the mac for some things like using the internet etc, but I use my Windows machine for doing real work, mainly because I am familiar with the windows operating system and found myself much less productive with the mac.
I even use VMWare on the mac so I can run some windows software which is not available on the mac.
For instance I use Dreamweaver and Photoshop which are available on both platforms but I find them easier to use on the Windows Laptop than my Macbook Air. Simple things like the right mouse click, and it annoys me that I can't get a # on the macbook without having to press 3 keys and if you do any web design with CSS you'll know that its used a lot.
But I put up with that when travelling as the Macbook Air is a lot easier to carry, but then when travelling I am not concerned so much with productivity as convenience.

CDarklock

I have found something rather interesting for a long time.

People who have Macs love them.

People who have PCs frequently don't.

There is clearly a lot of good, solid, rational justification to use a PC. If there wasn't, all these people who hate them would just switch to Macs.

And if Macs had a lot of good, solid, rational justification to use them, you would find all these people who hate Macs but are using them anyway - just like you find with PCs.

But instead, most people using PCs don't like their PCs, and most people using Macs are raving fans of Macs and Apple and Steve Jobs.

It just seems like you either drink the Kool-Ade or you use a PC.

James Foster

CDarklock, you're kind of right.

I really like my Mac, but I don't "rave" about it. There are benefits to both, although given the option.... I'd rather work from my Mac than my PC.

ThomKenton

Mac all the way. I came over to Mac when my PC failed me once again...never looking back.

shabit87

LOL my father is a PC repairman/builder and he doesn't care for Macs all that much. I'm pretty sure its because he can't do anything with them (if a customer ever brought one in), but he does admit they do seem to catch viruses less. I guess there are less Mac users, thus less spyware, viruses etc created for them.

Whothar

I would go with mac as well. The interface is SO much nicer (in my opinion), and you can always run boot camp to run windows 7 any time you want, which is incredibly easy to use.

Plus OSX is just ready to use out of the box. Rarely you will have to update, rarely things crash, everything basically works. I've used PC's all my life until about 6 months ago, and I don't think I can ever convert back to windows.

woodymcgrath

I've tried using a Mac before but I had a real tough time transferring all my apps and software from my old PC.

If you're an internet marketer, I would go for the PC. A lot of IM stuff are made for PCs.

Zabrina

I really like my Mac, and there are no worries about application compatibility, since with VirtualBox and a copy of Windows 7, I can run any Windows applications I need to within seconds alongside my other applications, without logging out of OS X. Plus, VirtualBox is free. It's like having the power of both without the pain of PCs.

You'll find a ton of free, useful apps for Mac that aren't made for PCs. I don't know what I'd do without many of them.

I've grown up using PCs and Macs side-by-side, and do a lot of troubleshooting and tech support for my Windows-using friends (I was in PC tech support for a year and a half, too), and for my Mac-using friends. I have to do a lot more of the former than the latter.

Oh, and the learning curve isn't too bad. If you make an effort to learn the shortcuts, etc, you can be saving time within a month or two. Even without considering the programs that are Mac-only, I work much faster from a Mac than a PC, even though I know both well.

Thomas De

Mac is nice, but most of the usefull IM Software is written only for Windows. In that case you would need an extra Windows Installation on your Mac. This is possible, but will slow down your Mac. For IM I would´nt buy a Mac anymore...

Marhelper

I love my MAC for many things but prefer PC for IM stuff.

Zabrina

Please explain how installing Windows in a virtual desktop environment would slow down your Mac that much more than installing any another application. Perhaps while creating a fixed-size virtual hard drive for Windows, but not once the installation is complete.

Of course, I could be totally wrong, so please feel free to share if you know more about the topic.

Pierre!

If you can afford the MAC, it's a nice platform.

I can do everything I need to in Windows 7, and many of the applications I require are free, or low/no cost. I am from the world of DOS, and have 'grown up' with Windows. The hardware I can choose from is vast... which can be good and bad! (LOL)

On the MAC side, my MacBook was $500 more than my current Windows 7 system. If I want to run Windows on my MAC, I simply need to pony up around $200 to do so legally - You need the VM software like Parallels or another type of solution ($79 roughly? price has dropped a bunch!)... and the Windows operating system too (Windows 7 Home = $99). So you can either Bootcamp for only $100 extra, or run the Virtual Machine on your MAC OSX system for double the cost roughly. You have added complexity and cost. Don't know that there is much gain in this equation to offset the new learning curve.

And, if it's for my business, I won't frustrate myself just to change OS... it's got to bring value, and the cool features of the MacBook are *AWESOME*... but I would NOT have it if I had to pay for it.

It is simply a business decision for me, and because of my experience with Windows systems I will stay there.

Don't get me wrong - I am not a MAC or Linux *hater*... but the systems have to be more effective for me or it's not worth the learning curve to make a change.

Because I consult with computers and software, having a few extra operating systems doesn't hurt me. I run MAC almost every day, Linux about half as much time... but the real work is done on my Windows systems.

Hope that helps you define the way you will make your decision!

woonkiat

I use Mac and have parallel software install so that I can use window software and certain software do not code for mac.
No problem with slowness even when using both at the same time. so I go for mac due to I find it easier to navigate. but that's just me.

MoneyBagsMcgee

I love having a mac, but I also have a PC to run software, since many IM software isn't made for Macs.

Zabrina

Great post! I hope the OP gets a lot of value out of it! I just wanted to point one thing out, though.

Like I said a few posts ago, you don't need to pay for the virtualization software. I was nearly duped into doing so before I found VirtualBox, the free version of all those pieces of software. I also find it faster and easier than Parallels and CrossOver, the other two solutions I tried. Now I tell all the Mac users I know about it.

Also, you can sometimes pick up used versions of Windows (as long as you're careful to be legal) or use an old Windows you have lying around somewhere -- definitely cheaper than buying a brand-new OS.

wcbanks914

Mac I switched to Mac when my PC started to mess up on me. I made a great choice

Pierre!

DING DING DING - Zabrina you are *exactly* right! I was racking my brain - knew there was something I was missing about the VM software. You nailed it!

Funny thing is that I use VirtualBox anytime I run Linux, or my Win XP system... you are right that it is FREE and it is an excellent addition to ANY operating system!

With my clients still stuck on Windows XP, i have a VirtualBox XP system on my office workstation AND my notebook for diagnostic purposes.

Thanks for pointing this out...

After I made my post I started thinking that I should try Windows 7 on my MacBook for fun. It would truly be the *Escalade* Class system - Best notebook hardware with Best windows system would probably be pretty *hot*... but again perhaps NOT the best *value*.

It really depends on what the end user really needs to get done, and what prompted the *need* for the totally new system (hardware & new OS).

Lately, since being laid off (which was how I ended up with the MacBook!) I have walked away from things I *thought* I needed, did NOT make the impulse buy, and then discovered I had the ability to do the work the *impluse* was targeted to do... but I already OWN the tools to do the work! Saved me money, saved me 'learning it' time too!

Thanks again Zebrina for pointing out VirtualBox! Great catch...

HTH

hometutor

Ah yes, the old less filling tastes great beer war now transferred to Mac vs PC

If you're used to the pc format I'd stick with pc. It has a bit of a learning curive. I'm a computer tutor who teaches mostly pc. My wife's pretty good with her Mac and PCs in general (having accidentally met her online) but I've still figured out how to do stuff on her Mac that she couldn't figure out.

I also do some programming so prefer the pc os along with the ability to write batch files to backup from my usb flash drive.

So I'd stick with what you're used to unless you don't mind a bit of a learning curve unless you're doing a lot of video then you may consider trying a mac

Rick

Mangozoom

You see guys all this technical talk is so scaring me ... I am so not that technical.

Going to actually sit down with a hot drink (maybe a muffin) and read your posts in detail

John

RanD

The main thing is determining what apps you run now (or may run in the future), that are windows specific. Many IM apps are Windows only. Not to mention, other cool apps that you rely on and take for granted, like Roboform (no, 1password is not as good). Yes, you can run them all in a virtual machine, but that uses system resources, so if you are going to be spending most of your time in the virtual environment, just stick with Windows.

The other thing to consider how long you have been using windows and how much time you want to spend on learning how to use the new OS. If you have been using Windows for a long time, you might find the MAC OS frustrating. You can't do the same things, in the same way....and some things you can't do at all. If you are just blogging, and pretty much doing everything in a browser, then you should be fine. If you do more techie stuff, the learning curve will be steeper, and often time consuming, taking away from the time you have to work on your actual business. If you do a lot of Photoshop and video stuff, it may be worth the initial frustration.

I bought a MAC laptop a couple of years ago, based on lot of people recommending it, but I ended up spending all my time in the virtual Windows environment, which is slower because you are dividing memory and processor time between the MAC and Windows environment. It just wasn't working for me, so about 6 months ago I bought a new Windows laptop that I now do most of my work on.

neil_patmore

The question is, who is your target audience.

Way back when, Macs we're used mostly by design agencies because Quark Xpress was the industry standard page layout software that was used by commercial litho printers. Photoshop was the defacto bitmap editing software to suit, both only available on the Mac.

Around 1996 Adobe and Quark released software for the PC, design houses and commercial printers continued (and continue) to use Macs because the investment to convert to PC in terms of hardware, software and training is way too much. So the strong hold remains in the industry because the majority use a mac.

On the otherhand, Over 80% of internet users browse using a PC.

source47

Okay! I need to add my two cents.

I've been a Mac fan for several years and I just get a full body shiver when I even think about having to work on a PC. So I am offering a fair warning that I am bias when it comes to the quintessential PC vs. Mac Debate.

As a result of this, I have converted most of my family and a few friends to Mac fans as well.

While there are some specific software programs that are for PC only, most every other program (Application) does have a Mac alternative. For example, Cyberduck (FTP) Application as opposed to FileZilla for Windows.

For those few software programs that you NEED but can't run on a Mac. I recommend using a Virtual Machine Application such as VMWare Fusion, Parallels, or the Open Source alternative VirtualBox [dot] org. Then you can install Windows XP, Vista, or 7 on your virtual machine.

Apple is making it easier than ever to switch from a PC. Visit Apple - Mac and take a look at the video "PC to Mac: The Basics". Once you become used to the differences, then using a Mac becomes easier to handle.

PM me if you have any other questions about Macs or Applications for the Mac!

source47

So after my last post, I decided to go back and read some other posts from fellow Warriors.

Some of you are talking about "IM Software" that is only made for Windows. So my question is "What IM Software?"

I've been part of the internet marketing community for a few years now and I haven't found anything that I need that I can't run on a Mac.

Please let's have a conversation about the IM software that YOU use. Perhaps I'll start a new thread for this discussion.

Doug Taylor

I switched to a Mac over the summer and I am glad I did. However I still keep a Windows machine around to run IM software. But overall I do not see myself switching back.

frodo77

This is a decision I will have to make some time soon. My partner has a Macbook and I must say I am impressed. I am presently running my IM business on a good Dell Laptop and use an IBM Thinkpad for personal use.
My choice would be to stay with PC for IM and get the Macbook for personal use. Then gradually try to get the IM over to the Mac.

lvsniper

Same thing, with trading too you are forced to use windows.

neil_patmore

How many people do you know that have just bought a PC but still have a mac to run their business on?

Macs look cool, if you have the money buy one and impress your friends.

FTR, I've used a mac for 20 yrs in professional working environments. But I run PCs in my office and at home because the long and short of it is, they are used by the majority, they have more software available and they are more useful.

But I'd love a new mac to play music on and stream apple tv.

mwashington

My son uses Mac because he is a graphic artist. Macs are superior. However he says now that Macs has the capacity to use windows. But there is a big plus in a Mac and that is no virus etc. PCs you have to always worry about viruses. Macs operating system is the best. Now I am only going by my sons use of the Mac. I have been using PCs so long I can't break the habit. Sad thing to be so addicted to such as problem.

eflo

I bought seven macs to avoid windows vista (I was a long time tech, and tired of fighting) was the best decision I ever made. I still use PC's and have respect for windows 7 though.

I use pC for automation software, Twitter, facebook engines and the like.
Mac I mainly use for content creation on keynote + screen flow.
Blogging can be done on either.

...and I'm typing this on my iPad.

Mike Adams

The mac offers best of both worlds because you can install Windows on your mac: How do I install Windows XP on my Mac using Boot Camp? :: Free Tech Support :: Ask Dave Taylor!

CanuckWarrior

You've answered your own question John without even knowing it.

If you're "so not that technical", the Mac is a far better choice for you (imo).

Macs were designed from the ground up with an intuitive interface.

Windows was a graphical overlay on DOS afterthought from Day 1.

Like Zabrina pointed out, "such and such can't run on Mac" is no longer a valid argument.

Try it for yourself. Test drive them both and see which is more intuitive and productive for YOU.

Hope this helps.

neil_patmore

This is a fallacy. Malware is organised crime and the criminals focus their attention on the majority. There is nothing special about the mac os which prevents vulnerabilites from malware. However it is true that there are less in the wild viruses targeting the mac OS, but this is because of the criminals ROI.

Nearly every AV vendor has either bought out or is bringing out a MAC version. Maybe this is because the latest Mac OS is 'less secure'. Nope, it's because Apple is gaining market share and the cyber criminals are starting to see the mac as a viable target.

Don't buy a mac and think you'll never need security software!

(Sorry, I realise this is verging on OT but thought it might be useful to the thread).

opoqo

I've got both and I would recommend owning both

They both have their advantages and I wouldn't be without one or the other.

That's an unbiased opinion

youallnome

I started PC and then went to Mac, and now I use both!

My Mac is a 15 inch MACbook, so nothing special. My PC is a beast of a sony.

There are some great answers to the pc versus mac battle so not much to add. There are a few things not covered (I think), so here is my input.

Battery life
Mac wins hands down with battery life. I can keep my Mac away from the power and run on battery life for 4 to 8 hours depending on what I'm doing. Thats a real plus. My PC dies in less than an hour.

Wireless connection
I've travelled a great deal in the last 8 months (20 + countries covering the globe) and Mac (for me) is the best.

In fact one of the reasons I bought the Mac was because of the trouble I was having getting good wireless connection with my PC (I got so pis*** Off with my PC not working that I bought the Mac at Heathrow airport)! The Mac just does what it's been built to do.

Downloads and software.
PC wins hands down here EVERYTIME. If your main business is software or you use a lot of software to do things, then Mac is not the one to use at the moment. It is getting better.

Usability
PC is easy to use (so they say), and they do work well most of the time. I'm using Vista and I've not had a moments trouble with it yet.

Mac is simple to use. It almost thinks for you. The layout is sexy to look at and it works really well.

If media is your thing Mac out does PC very easily. Its beautiful.

I wouldn't be without either of them. If you forced me in to a corner and made me choice, I would have to say PC. That's only because I use a lot of software.

If I didn't then Mac would be my number one choice. It's good looking, easy to use, light, virus free, fun and is built with the user in mind.

If I travel I take the Mac. When I'm at home doing work I use the PC, which I'm using right now!

Get them both. They both have their own advantages if money permits.

I wish you well in your choice.

mousecalls

I have been using a PC since the 80's and every time I go to replace my PC, I choose another PC simply because I have all the software for it and don't want to spend the money necessary to get the same software for a MAC.

BUT......we have two sons that will be leaving for college next year and the year after. What are we getting them for graduation?....a MAC. I have used MACs in the past and the ease of use and the friendly interface is tops compared to a PC.

Basically, when you walk into a room with your MAC, it automatically recognizes anything wireless in that room and will ask if you want to connect. With a PC, it's a drama every time I want to change a printer or anything else. Plus MACs are durable and will last a lifetime if taken care of.

My next PC will be a MAC!!

The Artful Surfer

I love Windows 7. I've been using Windows forever and I don't understand how people manage to get all these viruses. I was running a Win XP computer for years with no virus protection and I never had a problem at all.

I don't have a problem with Macs, but I do have a problem with those people who rag on PC's because they don't know how to properly use a computer.

vinnieg

I have both a PC and a Mac. I bought a Mac when I installed the new Windows upgrade and found that I had to reinstall all my programs and move all my files to make it work. That was the last straw for me. I now use my Mac as my primary computer and only use my PC for running programs that don't run on my Mac.

niceweb

I only had my imac for a few months before going back to PC. Often i found my favorite little programs did not run on Mac. Sure i could use an Windows emulator, but then i might aswell use a PC in the first place.

sparckyz

I vote PC, unless you need real pro graphics which no-one really needs anyways, what's a MAC good for?

IMChris

The transition to the Mac is really smooth. I bought some utilities like Totalfinder, Sizeup, Fresh that enhance my workflow greatly.

Still, it is a pain that you need virtualisation for your favourite apps. It seems that you have had great success with your windows equipment. I would invest in things like more screen real estate instead to trade for a fancy system that hinders you from using your proven routines.