New Laptop Computer Survey....

[JoeP]

Apple Powered
Windows Powered

Wife has to have a new laptop. The windows based one we have has had problems, and now the screen is giving us the "i'm swallowing my tongue'' look with a couple of red lines from top to bottom.

So, what are the pros and cons. We're both dumb when it comes to Apple power. Can you run windows type programs,, ie,, Word, Office, that type of stuff, or is it just Apple programs?

Gimme the scoop, I'm tired of dealing with Windows, due to all it's problems, but, don't want to jump into an Apple without some kind of understanding about them.

[ratter]

You can purchase MS Office for the Mac, you can purchase Apple's product called iWork, or you can download the free OpenOffice. Any of those three covers a lot of 'office' ground.

Me personally, I vastly prefer the Mac OS. And I think the average, non-'power' user who struggles with viruses and spyware and such would be MUCH better served by the Mac OS.

My neighbor just dropped off her parents' computer with me because it was having problems and they didn't know what to do. All they do is email and surf, basically. Decent computer - a fairly recent Dell. But along the way they got some spyware and virus or two. Didn't really know how to deal with it, but they installed a handful of AV and antispyware....some legit some not. It snowballs and got to the point where booting the computer takes you through a half-hour of various programs starting up and scanning files, other programs not launching, confusing warning messages, so on and so forth. Despite what some people might say, that type of problem simply does not exist with a Mac. Not to say that they can't have issues of their own, but I believe they are much less frustrating (and thus much more productive) for most users.

[Darth Tater]

Something to consider for sure would be the cost. I recently bought an Acer laptop w/Vista from Newegg for $1100, and a similar Mac was $2700. Cost is simply the only thing that keeps me from buying a Mac.

[FlyingDutchman]

Something to consider for sure would be the cost. I recently bought an Acer laptop w/Vista from Newegg for $1100, and a similar Mac was $2700. Cost is simply the only thing that keeps me from buying a Mac.

+1

Cost is the biggest issue when it comes to Mac

[arthur rotfeld]

I'm on a MacBook, which cost about 1400 a few months back, unless you're planning to do lots of video editing or audio recording, you can do great with the "lower" models.

I've always been a Mac user, so I'm biased. My feeling is that anyone, even without computer experience will be up and running on a mac without difficulty. Just about everything you do will be intuitive.

When considering cost, figure that there is excellent software installed on a mac, such as itunes, iphoto, ical, imovie, etc. Plus no garbage software, so that's to be considered part of the value.

[brlfq]

I've always used Windows computers. It's what we use at work and they work fine. Mac folks disagree.

I recently bought a Dell computer at best buy. Dell will not discuss the computer with me. If you buy a Dell computer at Best Buy you must have it serviced at Best Buy. If you don't purchase Best Buy's "service plan", you will have to pay them every time you call and ask a question. You can haul the computer to Best Buy and they will look at it in person, though.

[pbradt]

I would rather set my computer on fire and kill myself than EVER use Windows without getting paid to do so. By the way, I bought a MacBook Pro with a 2.2ghz processor, 4 gigs of RAM (admittedly, aftermarket RAM) and a 120GB HDD for about $1500, last April. Built in webcam, iLife '08, etc.

Try getting Dell set up like that for less.

[Darth Tater]

I would rather set my computer on fire and kill myself than EVER use Windows without getting paid to do so. By the way, I bought a MacBook Pro with a 2.2ghz processor, 4 gigs of RAM (admittedly, aftermarket RAM) and a 120GB HDD for about $1500, last April. Built in webcam, iLife '08, etc.

Try getting Dell set up like that for less.

My Acer has all that (other than the proprietary Mac software of course), plus a dual core processor, a 250gig hard drive, and a 17" screen and was still $400 less :)

[pbradt]

My Acer has all that (other than the proprietary Mac software of course), plus a dual core processor, a 250gig hard drive, and a 17" screen and was still $400 less :)

Right. Now, add the software for Windows that will actually make your Acer the equivalent of the Mac. you're comparing apples and oranges, no pun intended. Without the software, it's NOT an equivalent.

And you're still stuck with Windoze.

[akihiro]

I'd say the only bad thing about macs are that they are so expensive.

[Dickie Fredericks]

I've always used Windows computers. It's what we use at work and they work fine. Mac folks disagree.

I recently bought a Dell computer at best buy. Dell will not discuss the computer with me. If you buy a Dell computer at Best Buy you must have it serviced at Best Buy. If you don't purchase Best Buy's "service plan", you will have to pay them every time you call and ask a question. You can haul the computer to Best Buy and they will look at it in person, though.

Personally, after the Gateway fiasco I had with BB and their 3 year "no questions asked" warranty, Ill never buy anything at Best Buy again. Except for the new GNR album LOL

I have a Sony Vaio now. Killer. No problems.

[Dickie Fredericks]

I would rather set my computer on fire and kill myself than EVER use Windows without getting paid to do so. By the way, I bought a MacBook Pro with a 2.2ghz processor, 4 gigs of RAM (admittedly, aftermarket RAM) and a 120GB HDD for about $1500, last April. Built in webcam, iLife '08, etc.

Try getting Dell set up like that for less.

That aint no great feat brother. Ive got a 1.8 dual core with 2 gigs of Ram and a 160 gig drive for $550.00

A great webcam is inexpensive as well. I dont use one though.

My drummer has a Mac. Does alot but nothing more than a PC does.

I think its a use whatcha want kinda thing.

[Darkburst]

I'd say the only bad thing about macs are that they are so expensive.

Mac Minis, Macbooks and iMacs aren't expensive.

[EricPeterson]

one of the big things for me was Mac where more expensive, they didn't have a two button mouse with a scroll and the lack of available software. Most of this has been remedied, however at several costs:

first the lower end macs that cost less are just that, lower end macs, one of the things that mac had going for it was quality, so yeah you paid more but you got a solid unit, that is not the case with the units that are designed to compete with the cheaper PCs they are not any better quality than a PC.

Second you can get a two button mouse now but it is still not standard.

And third, there is tons of free, shareware software for PC I still don't think that is the case for Mac, but I have not looked recently.

For me it came down to price and familiarity IMO the cheaper Mac stuff is not as good, and I dont really get what is so much better about the Mac OS, and FWIW I never have any virus problems on my PC and if you knew how careless I am in my browsing it would probably surprise you.

It is all preference I have had many friends switch to Macs, I have used them a lot in the academic setting, but I still just don't get why they would be preferred. But hey that is what is so great about the marketplace, you can buy what works for you!

[stratzrus]

Get the Mac, install BootCamp, and use the operating system of your choice at the moment.

It's the best of both worlds.

[TonyVt]

Having used both Macs and PC's for years IMHO the Mac OS is far superior to Windows and Apple's hardware surpasses most if not all of the PC's on the market. Apple is the true innovator and everyone else is trying to play catch up. Often their only recourse is to try to build it cheaper and with less features. The old saying "You Get What You Pay For" is just as true about computers as it is about guitars.

[Bones]

All these arguments all the time about this and I still have never seen anyone articulate what it is a MAC can do that a PC can not do for a lot less money. You know, like edit the same photograph in PS, once on a MAC and once on a PC and show me where the MAC did a better job. Something like that.

Show me how cruising the TGP or checking my e-mail is better on a MAC. Show me how much better your MACs rip CDs to your I-Pod than my PC does to my walkman. Something practical that the average user is doing. I just don't see it.

I have been on the web since 1999 with PCs and never once got a virus, then again, i don't download porn or torrents.

[myanocsk]

i have both a PC and a Mac. the one real problem with Mac is that if something goes wrong you have to take it back to the store. you are at their mercy then.

my macbook pro was over $2k several years back. i can get the same power with a PC for around $750.........pick your poison..........

[YoungMansBlues]

one of the big things for me was Mac where more expensive, they didn't have a two button mouse with a scroll and the lack of available software...

I wasn't going to weigh in on this thread because this is normally a "he says she says" kind of argument, but I feel I must correct this post (not in a malicious way, just an informative one). Macs don't have a two button mouse because they don't need one. To right click, simply use both fingers to tap on the touchpad instead of one. This feature is not unique to the MacbookPro, you just have to turn it on with a normal Macbook, where as the Pros come with the option already selected. You scroll using the same action: just put two fingers on the touchpad and move them forwards or backwards. I find that this feature actually seems to be more sensitive than both my old Inspiron and my roommate's XPS. Freeware is available, most of it actually on Apple.com, that covers almost every concern of the "well what if my Mac won't do what I'm used to on my PC" consumer. So far, I have found a counterpart for every single PC program that I amassed on my Dell over the 6 years I used it. Every program, save for MS Paint, which I do truly miss :( On the case of freeware, there are also widgets on the Mac that make it alot more fun to use than a PC, which sounds dumb to anyone that hasn't played with them extensively. My roommate recently downloaded some widgets for his XPS, but they just aren't the same. Basically, my point is that while Macs are a little more expensive (I haven't played with one of the cheaper models so I can't vouch for them) but after watching various Dell's crap out at around 2 years and seeing my friends with Apples cruise easily into the 5 year mark with no issues, I feel that you get what you pay for. I payed a little over $2,000 and got a $300 on my black 13" Macbook with a 2.4 GHz processor and 4GB of ram, a remote, and a new iPod Touch. It's the most pleased I've been with a purchase since I bought my RD Artist!

[EricPeterson]

I wasn't going to weigh in on this thread because this is normally a "he says she says" kind of argument, but I feel I must correct this post (not in a malicious way, just an informative one). Macs don't have a two button mouse because they don't need one. To right click, simply use both fingers to tap on the touchpad instead of one. This feature is not unique to the MacbookPro, you just have to turn it on with a normal Macbook, where as the Pros come with the option already selected. You scroll using the same action: just put two fingers on the touchpad and move them forwards or backwards. I find that this feature actually seems to be more sensitive than both my old Inspiron and my roommate's XPS. Freeware is available, most of it actually on Apple.com, that covers almost every concern of the "well what if my Mac won't do what I'm used to on my PC" consumer. So far, I have found a counterpart for every single PC program that I amassed on my Dell over the 6 years I used it. Every program, save for MS Paint, which I do truly miss :( On the case of freeware, there are also widgets on the Mac that make it alot more fun to use than a PC, which sounds dumb to anyone that hasn't played with them extensively. My roommate recently downloaded some widgets for his XPS, but they just aren't the same. Basically, my point is that while Macs are a little more expensive (I haven't played with one of the cheaper models so I can't vouch for them) but after watching various Dell's crap out at around 2 years and seeing my friends with Apples cruise easily into the 5 year mark with no issues, I feel that you get what you pay for. I payed a little over $2,000 and got a $300 on my black 13" Macbook with a 2.4 GHz processor and 4GB of ram, a remote, and a new iPod Touch. It's the most pleased I've been with a purchase since I bought my RD Artist!

Right on.

Thanks for the info, I guess when I was buying my laptop several years ago I was unaware of a lot of this. Like I said nothing against them they just dont feel natural or intuitive to me, when I use a PC (which I have for 15 years) I get it, when I use a MAC i don't. It just seems laid out wrong, I know this is all preference but it is my reality and I defiantly agree you get what you pay for but as quickly as computers become obsolete I would rather have a new PC every 2 years that I can hammer the hell out of and cheaply replace, than a new MAC evey 5 years. It is all prefernce as far as i can tell there is nothing that a mac can do that my PC cant and thier is nothing for my purposes of browsing and word processing that is does better.

But I am always open to being proven wrong, I want the best and if it is a Mac I will accept that, in my experience I have seen nothing to suggest that it would work better for me.

[pat]

"Macs don't have a two button mouse"

Desktop Macs currently ship with a 3 "button" mouse with a scroll ball (The Mighty Mouse).
"Button" is in quotes because they are 2 touch sensitive areas of the mouse on top (left and right click area) and the sides are pressure sensitive. You can configure what these do. The track ball is located on top.

Other than that you can plug in pretty much any USB mouse and it will work.

[Option]

Make sure when you compare PC vs. Apple prices that you're comparing apples to apples (pun sorta intended). When you compare an Apple to a PC with similar features, there's not as much of a price difference as a lot of people think. Even the cheaper Macs (MacBook for example) are pretty loaded machines and it's not really fair to compare it to a bare-bones PC at a rock-bottom price.

[Rob DiStefano]

I dropped MS in favor of Ubuntu Linux - a bullet proof platform that works amazing well. Linux has come a LONG way in the last few years ... and, it's free (along with OpenOffice and a buncha other superb apps). Only one of my 4 PC's allows a dual boot to XP, to run some proprietary apps and a few must-have games, my other 3 machines are totally U-Linux. You can even run U-L off a CD, to get some hand's on in the Unix, er, Linux world. :)

[Darth Tater]

Right. Now, add the software for Windows that will actually make your Acer the equivalent of the Mac. you're comparing apples and oranges, no pun intended. Without the software, it's NOT an equivalent.

And you're still stuck with Windoze.

Well umm...I don't really need any of that Mac proprietary software. Being an IT Technician by trade, I don't really need any hand holding so all that is a moot point for me. I'd rather have sheer horsepower, RAM, dual hard drives, and a dedicated video card. Plus by the time I replaced all my programs (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, etc..) with the Mac versions, I'd really be in a hole.

PLUS, a Mac can't handle any of the games I play on my 'Windoze' laptop.

Believe it or not, spending upwards of $3000 on a new laptop is not always the answer for everybody. Just accept that fact and move on.

[neil99]

I drank from the mac Koolaid 4 years ago with an Imac, feels different for sure than the PC it replaced. 4 years into it, I have not had one issue. When my brother converted me, he said everything just works. No need to diddely fart around with settings to get this or that to run, it just works. We got one for my mother in law who, while being one of the most intelegent people I know, is absolutely technically disfunctional. The Mac is perfect for her.

I am also on the hunt for a new laptop, as the G4 I bought for $50 (Bro's company selling them off cheap) just fraged itself as a result of dropping it pretty hard. They just updated the Powerbook and Macbook line with a new shell and are selling off the old ones with a pretty good discount. If you go to the special deals link at the bottom of the apple store page, you can get a pretty good deal on a new or refurbished Powerbook or Macbook. The also sell them discounted at Best Buy. I had my eye on the 15" 2.4 Powerbook for 1599.

[Rik]

Apple Powered
Windows Powered

Wife has to have a new laptop. The windows based one we have has had problems, and now the screen is giving us the "i'm swallowing my tongue'' look with a couple of red lines from top to bottom.

So, what are the pros and cons. We're both dumb when it comes to Apple power. Can you run windows type programs,, ie,, Word, Office, that type of stuff, or is it just Apple programs?

Gimme the scoop, I'm tired of dealing with Windows, due to all it's problems, but, don't want to jump into an Apple without some kind of understanding about them.

Well... if your frustrated with windows .. you can go with a Mac. If you have office products you can either buy new Microsoft office versions for the Mac or buy parallels to run virtual windows (you must have a copy of windows) or go with bootcamp and your still running windows and you're spending even more money.. If you don't mind the initial costs, go for it. Do find someone who can help you though. Things are in a different place, and the operating system as you know it will be quite different when you get into it. since you have been using windows for so long. You need to ask yourself do you have the time and patience to learn something different. Yes, the basic stuff is easy and straight forward.

There are Mac versions of Office type of programs you can buy. There are a few

I have a 24" 2.8 iMac and PC. I do like the iMac. After I got done buying software, Installing it all, and I ended up running windows on the iMac I was wondering why did I even bother. I spent a lot more money in the long run than I would have if I bought another PC.
Best of luck.

My expressed opinion on my experience.

Edit: Mac hardward breaks, too.. Mine did. It's still intel processor and standard hard drives that PC uses. I feel the hardward is better is fairly invalid.

[Darth Tater]

I have a 24" 2.8 iMac and PC. I do like the iMac. After I got done buying software, Installing it all, and I ended up running windows on the iMac I was wondering why did I even bother. I spent a lot more money in the long run than I would have if I bought another PC.
Best of luck.




Just curious, what's the dollar amount you have in that 24" Imac?

[Rik]

Just curious, what's the dollar amount you have in that 24" Imac?

lets see.. 2600.00 for the iMac, (I think it was). $175.00 for the apple care 3 year addon, $400 for Office 2008 full versions for exchange support, $100.00 to upgrade the memory since the Apple RAM was UNREAL priced. Just off the top of my head 3,275.00-ish.. a little over a year ago. OH add parallels, $80.00. Added up to 3355.00. I did buy Apples Word type programs and never usd them.. that was more money.. but ended up a waste since I had to have exchange support with Outlook. :(

If I bought a PC.. I wouldn't have went through all that would I?

Edit: I really wanted to get away from windows on the iMac. I tried quite agressively. LOL.. I keep remembering more software I have bought. OH well. Hey.. I have a nice iMac though.. I do have ubuntu running as well. ;)

[MattB]

Windows for me. I'm a .NET developer though...I like macs for cruising the web and goofing around. I have owned 3-4 but I just know more about windows machines and know how to get them to perform as fast as possible. I own MSDN licenses so licensing is no issue for me.

[HEY!YOU!]

lets see.. 2600.00 for the iMac, (I think it was). $175.00 for the apple care 3 year addon, $400 for Office 2008 full versions for exchange support, $100.00 to upgrade the memory since the Apple RAM was UNREAL priced. Just off the top of my head 3,275.00-ish.. a little over a year ago. OH add parallels, $80.00. Added up to 3355.00. I did buy Apples Word type programs and never usd them.. that was more money.. but ended up a waste since I had to have exchange support with Outlook. :(

If I bought a PC.. I wouldn't have went through all that would I?

Edit: I really wanted to get away from windows on the iMac. I tried quite agressively. LOL.. I keep remembering more software I have bought. OH well. Hey.. I have a nice iMac though.. I do have ubuntu running as well. ;)

I just got a new iMac, 20" fully loaded. $975 free shipping :)

[Boobala]

My vote: Lenovo (http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/web/LenovoPortal/en_US/catalog.workflow:CompareByNeed?current-category-id=653343E0DE54435882FABC3CE1BC569A) & Windows XP Pro.

Edit: Had to add the following. ;)

Mac users should not Click this link (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2007/feb/05/comment.media).

Sample:
Macs are glorified Fisher-Price activity centres for adults; computers for scaredy cats too nervous to learn how proper computers work; computers for people who earnestly believe in feng shui.

[jazzandmetal?]

All these arguments all the time about this and I still have never seen anyone articulate what it is a MAC can do that a PC can not do for a lot less money. You know, like edit the same photograph in PS, once on a MAC and once on a PC and show me where the MAC did a better job. Something like that.

Show me how cruising the TGP or checking my e-mail is better on a MAC. Show me how much better your MACs rip CDs to your I-Pod than my PC does to my walkman. Something practical that the average user is doing. I just don't see it.

I have been on the web since 1999 with PCs and never once got a virus, then again, i don't download porn or torrents.

I bet my MAC puts songs onto my Ipod a lot quicker than your PC gets them to your WALKMAN.:)

[Rik]

I just got a new iMac, 20" fully loaded. $975 free shipping :)


:eek: :jo That aint fair!! :D

[moody07747]

I work on both PCs and Macs.
At work we have Macs for video editing

At home I have always used PCs and prefer the layout of the interface much more. I also prefer the lower price of the PC. I don't think I will ever buy a Mac...

Once again, I don't hate Macs..I simply don't like the interface.

[HEY!YOU!]

:eek: :jo That aint fair!! :D

Maybe it was the 24" screen.......?

[Boomer]

I have no use for a laptop but if I were to choose something it'd be Mac Air Book 'cause it's so cute.

[Rik]

Maybe it was the 24" screen.......?

:worried my poor ol iMac used, it's probably worth.. uh.. :bong:confused: :puh


The only thing wrong with computers.. pricing and age.



:D

[dksouthpaw]

I have no use for a laptop but if I were to choose something it'd be Mac Air Book 'cause it's so cute.

i'm an avid mac user. Mac Airs are just ridiculous though! there's not even a cd drive!!

anyways here's my two cents for both, i use both regularly:

Mac:
-better for heavy graphics, video and recording. you can isolate work to different harddrives as well as to different processors etc etc. you can do this on a PC but with mac, its a few clicks and you're done.
- mac mini price point 599. yeah you don't get the stock screen you'd get with a dell, those suck anyways and you really should upgrade if youre doing anything more than watching youtube.
- external combatability. I think i've had to install like 3 drivers in the 5 years of using macs. that includes cameras, printers, scanners, harddrives, other computers and wireless devices like phones and ipods etc etc.
- tech support. you can knock the mac geniuses because you're at their mercy or whatever but its free. you have a problem, if the guy can just type in a few things and fix it- you're done with no money out of pocket. Now with a dell and a few other PC companies...you call a number and you talk to some fellow in India that has to spell everything out for you because the accent is so thick. and companies where there's no support to have to take it somewhere or entrust it to a friend who's "good with computers" eesh.
-better parental controls and system controls
- Spaces and Expose is a lifesaver when you're doing multiple things at once, its a lot nicer than ctrl+tab or alt+tab



PC:
- price point, lots of companies that run windows so the price is low and different hardware is very affordable.
- its what you've pretty much known forever unless you're some crazy apple person from the early 90's so the interface is very nice
- surfing the web can be slightly dangerous unless you buy a very good AV, but that more money to shell out on a monthly/yearly basis
-incompatibility issues with older windows programs
- download lots of drivers etc


basically my thoughts are if you're gonna buy a comp to browse the web. Get a PC. if you're doing some office stuff and the computer basics, get a PC. If you need to have a family computer that multiple people are just gonna have access too get a mac. Doing editing of any kind, get a mac.


wow this got long fast. :D

[Somniferous]

For a laptop I'd defiantly go apple. Sure they are expensive, but look at the design. You might be able to find a PC with the same hardware for less, but I bet you dollars to doughnuts it's gonna be 1)chinsey plastic or built cheaply 2) heavier than the mac 3) Bigger than the mac, especially on thickness. The only company I've really seen that keeps up with the mac style is sony, and their laptops are the same prices as the MAC.

I really don't get the mac vs pc thing because honestly they both do things well and they both have their cons.

[Option]

Keep in mind also that Mac designs the hardware and sofware whereas Microsoft designs software to run on hardware from a multitude of manufacturers. I think this is a big part of why Macs work better (in my VERY STRONG opinion).

[5E3]

:agree

Get the Mac, boot Win-XP when you absolutely have to have it.

[DC1]

Believe it or not, spending upwards of $3000 on a new laptop is not always the answer for everybody. Just accept that fact and move on.

Stop misrepresenting the price, please.

I am typing this on a brand new MacBook Pro.

Here it is:

http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/

2k.

You don't need to option it out, and you get little when you do.

http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MB470LL/A?mco=MTkzOTI0Mg

Listen, this is simple. You need to try out one of the new Macs for yourself. Find an Apple store, go in when they are not too busy and spend a half hour with one. If it doesn't impress you, don't buy it.

dc

[Boobala]

AV, but that more money to shell out on a monthly/yearly basis

Some of the best anti virus programs are free. (AVG & Avast).

[MattB]

Was just about to say AVG is the best. ^

[Darth Tater]

Stop misrepresenting the price, please.


Check again:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834100045

But I guess when using 'Apple Logic', $2800 is nowhere near $3000. Silly Apple people! Is your turtleneck constricting blood to the brain?

[DC1]

Check again:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834100045

But I guess when using 'Apple Logic', $2800 is nowhere near $3000. Silly Apple people! Is your turtleneck constricting blood to the brain?

There is no reason to be dishonest simply because you hate Apple. Do you think it clever to select "sort by price" on Newegg site, and click off the highest one, and call that the price?

:bong


:NUTS




Well, let's see here...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834117826

OMG PC's are 4100.00!!!

They're more than 1K more that even an optioned-out Mac!!

What a ripoff!!




Puhleeze, try to be honest, will you?

Macbooks are 1400,

http://www.apple.com/macbook/
and they need no options to work for most people.

and MacBook Pros are 2000, and need no upgrades either.

http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/

I think you can make your case without dishonesty.


Or can you?

dc

[dksouthpaw]

There is no reason to be dishonest simply because you hate Apple. Do you think it clever to select "sort by price" on Newegg site, and click off the highest one, and call that the price?

:bong


:NUTS




Well, let's see here...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834117826

OMG PC's are 4100.00!!!

They're more than 1K more that even an optioned-out Mac!!

What a ripoff!!




Puhleeze, try to be honest, will you?

Macbooks are 1400,

http://www.apple.com/macbook/
and they need no options to work for most people.

and MacBook Pros are 2000, and need no upgrades either.

http://www.apple.com/macbookpro/

I think you can make your case without dishonesty.


Or can you?

dc



daaaaang 4000 bucks and you dont even get dedicated video memory. silly sony :)

[Darth Tater]

There is no reason to be dishonest simply because you hate Apple. Do you think it clever to select "sort by price" on Newegg site, and click off the highest one, and call that the price?


dc

Nope, that's just the one that matched the specs of my $1100 Acer (none of the $2000+ Macs you linked to have a 17" screen). Reading the entire thread would have revealed that fact earlier, but I'm sure you were busy admiring your cute little Mac.

[DC1]

Nope, that's just the one that matched the specs of my $1100 Acer. Reading the entire thread would have revealed that fact earlier, but I'm sure you were busy admiring your cute little Mac.

Yes, but it's still a POS PC and must run the worst OS on the planet, so evidently specs ain't everything. You can put a terrabyte on a PC and it is still a POS with a big drive. Kinda like a KIA with bling spinner wheels..

The current MacBooks are so nice, so elegant, so well-thought out that the Apple computer line finally lives up to the iPods level of sophistication.

Here, watch this:

http://www.apple.com/macbook/the-new-macbook/watch.html#large

When you are done weeping, look at this:

http://www.apple.com/getamac/faq/

and then:

http://www.apple.com/getamac/whymac/

and finally, the OS. OMG what a cool OS. MS is so far behind that any hope of catching up is long gone.

Check it out:

http://www.apple.com/macosx/guidedtour/


This is why Apple is now the number 3 computer manufacturer and gaining, even in a bad economy. The stores are mobbed and product is flying off the shelves.

:banana


dc


ps, I really don't believe in platform wars, but you, you Mr. Tater, my combative friend, you really deserved this one, didn't you?

:drink

[Darth Tater]

Yes, but it's still a POS PC and must run the worst OS on the planet, so evidently specs ain't everything.

I can tri-boot XP, Vista, and Ubuntu on my Acer. That covers the OS's used in 97% of home computers. Sounds like the worst OS to me! LOL!

If you like reading and weeping (and can manage to read something NOT on Apple's site), read this:

http://www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net/c.cgi?u=macs_cant

OUCH! Yes, you deserved THAT! Check MATE!

[DC1]

I can tri-boot XP, Vista, and Ubuntu on my Acer. That covers the OS's used in 97% of home computers. Sounds like the worst OS to me! LOL!

If you like reading and weeping (and can manage to read something NOT on Apple's site), read this:

http://www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net/c.cgi?u=macs_cant

OUCH! Yes, you deserved THAT! Check MATE!


Then you must be a Mac guy because you sure can't shut up.



dc

[Darth Tater]

There is no reason to be dishonest simply because you hate Apple. Do you think it clever to select "sort by price" on Newegg site, and click off the highest one, and call that the price?

:bong


:NUTS




Well, let's see here...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834117826

OMG PC's are 4100.00!!!

They're more than 1K more that even an optioned-out Mac!!

What a ripoff!!




Puhleeze, try to be honest, will you?

Macbooks are 1400,
dc


Show me a $1400 MacBook that has 4gb of DDR3 memory, and dual SDD drives in a RAID configuration.

Welll......



we're waiting......

[Darth Tater]

Then you must be a Mac guy because you sure can't shut up.



dc

I can go as long as you, got anything else you need me to prove you wrong on? Lucky for me I don't have to make anything up, I just state the facts which are in endless supply.


And we're still waiting on this magical $1400 Mac with SSD's. Where's it at?

[dksouthpaw]

man i love maddox, that guy is ridiculous! i'm just posting nonsense because everyone else seems to be.


hope the OP got his question answer. they're both great OS's just depends on your needs.

[DC1]

Show me a $1400 MacBook that has 4gb of DDR3 memory, and dual SDD drives in a RAID configuration.

Welll......



we're waiting......

Yes, you and the 2 other PC Kool Aid drinkers..

MacBook 1299.00
4 G Ram 150.00

Total 1449.00

If you need more than the built in 160G drive, you can get 1 Terrabyte on FW800 from Seagate for 239.00

Best of all, you go from a virus-plagued POS 1990's-tech clunker to the best piece currently available. Worth double the difference.

And of course, the whole comparison is set up to favor your setup. In truth, no one claims Macs are as cheap. After all, this

http://img.alibaba.com/photo/11242586/2003_BMW_Z4_2_5L.jpg


is likely to cost more than this:

http://www.news-blogs.com/_images/auto/kia_sportage_2006.jpg


You PC guys deserve better than the crap that is peddled to you. But hey, that's just me... Maybe you don't. Maybe that's why you are so unhappy...


dc

[Rik]

Yes, you and the 2 other PC Kool Aid drinkers..


You PC guys deserve better than the crap that is peddled to you. But hey, that's just me... Maybe you don't. Maybe that's why you are so unhappy...


dc

Which two?

I have both... so I know it surely isnt me.. but PC guys deserve better? you know PC still out number Mac in huge numbers. They are not as bad as you like to make it. Why is apple now using Intel that PC users have been using for a long time? LOL.. seems apple is copied the PC more than you think.. Which is a turn around from the early days.

[DC1]

Which two?

I have both... so I know it surely isnt me.. but PC guys deserve better? you know PC still out number Mac in huge numbers. They are not as bad as you like to make it.

Aw hell, I'm just giving Tater a few noogies. He's such a guy...

I have both. I hate both. I am an equal-opportunity computer-hater.

A good case can be made either way. Sit down with each, figure out what you want, and buy what you like.


:band


dc

[Somniferous]

Man I hate the fan boys on both sides of the fence. I guess the new topic no one should speak of these days should be what os you use.... So no politics, religion, or OS.

[Rik]

Aw hell, I'm just giving Tater a few noogies. He's such a guy...

I have both. I hate both. I am an equal-opportunity computer-hater.

A good case can be made either way. Sit down with each, figure out what you want, and buy what you like.


:band


dc

LOL..

If you would like to expand your dislikes.. even more.. try this (http://lifehacker.com/348653/install-os-x-on-your-hackintosh-pc-no-hacking-required/) :D :banana

[DC1]

LOL..

If you would like to expand your dislikes.. even more.. try this (http://lifehacker.com/348653/install-os-x-on-your-hackintosh-pc-no-hacking-required/) :D :banana

Cool! I can hate Macs AND PC's and only buy one box!

Sign me up.

:bkw


dc

[James Dawson]

FYI RAM fro Apple is way too expensive, instead try other world computing. 4 Gigs for a MacBook around $80.

Also, if you are running bootcamp and Windows check to make sure the Power Management Software on the Windows side is correct for the Mac Hardware. We had some problems in early dual boots at the college but they were left on 24/7.

There are independent developers working on the Power Management for Windows, you just have to do a little digging online to find them.

[Dave Orban]

I've been using both PCs and Apples since about 1985.

And if I have my druthers, it'd be an Apple Powerbook.

[dksouthpaw]

FYI RAM fro Apple is way too expensive, instead try other world computing. 4 Gigs for a MacBook around $80.

Also, if you are running bootcamp and Windows check to make sure the Power Management Software on the Windows side is correct for the Mac Hardware. We had some problems in early dual boots at the college but they were left on 24/7.

There are independent developers working on the Power Management for Windows, you just have to do a little digging online to find them.

actually you can get really cheap RAM for Macs if you go to

www.crucial.com yay Mac genius friend who let that little guy slip.


i think i got a Gig stick of ram for 25 bucks

EDIT: ok now its only $15

[The Guy]

i havent read all the replies, so maybe this has already been posted. . . sorry if it has.

if you want to continue to use your windows software an still run a mac, you can do this in two ways:

1. bootcamp - bootcamp is a free downloadable driver for windows on your intel-based mac. it basically splits your hard drive into two parts (the size of which you determine) reserving one part for window, one part for mac. you have to reboot your computer to go from one to the other.

2. parallels - this is similar to bootcamp, but it is not free. this lets you run mac os and windows simultaneously. very cool to see these two programs running together.

both of these run very smoothly, so i guess its a matter of what you prefer. i would recommend parallels due to its convenience, but bootcamp is free.

hope that helps

[Brian Scherzer]

To the members who are arguing PC/Mac and dragging this thread into the mud, get over it and allow the thread to resume a less hostile path!

[JPF]

I'm not particularly computer-minded, in that I'm a humble user, and do not program or write software for a living or for fun.

Apple's OS X has made my life so much easier at home over the last 8 years that that I have since changed over to Macs at my office as well. The interface is so simple and intuitive that even someone like me was able to set up a LAN at work on my own, without the need for a manual or tech support (although my copy of Pogue's book on Leopard is well-used).

For that reason, I'm sticking with Macs - they simply work, and make learning new tasks fun, as opposed to inhibiting. As for the price, once the software is factored in, I don't really find Apple prohibitively expensive when compared to PC/Windows alternatives. My kids have changed over to Macs as well, one's finishing his degree in non-applied physics, and another is studying audiovisual communications - different approaches and uses, but they're both hooked for life. Just as long as they don't hop onto the black turtleneck-and-jeans-'cause-mac-is-a-way-of-life cruise ship, I'm a happy camper.

Get the Mac!

[DC1]

+1 on Crucial!



dc

[DC1]

i havent read all the replies, so maybe this has already been posted. . . sorry if it has.

if you want to continue to use your windows software an still run a mac, you can do this in two ways:

1. bootcamp - bootcamp is a free downloadable driver for windows on your intel-based mac. it basically splits your hard drive into two parts (the size of which you determine) reserving one part for window, one part for mac. you have to reboot your computer to go from one to the other.

2. parallels - this is similar to bootcamp, but it is not free. this lets you run mac os and windows simultaneously. very cool to see these two programs running together.

both of these run very smoothly, so i guess its a matter of what you prefer. i would recommend parallels due to its convenience, but bootcamp is free.

hope that helps

There's another way.

Someone at Apple told me that this was the best of them all:

http://www.vmware.com/products/fusion/

dc

[bdegrande]

There are plenty of arguments to be made in favor of buying Windows laptops - lower price, more variety in screen sizes, etc.

The way the poll was worded, though, which OS do you prefer? Apple, by miles. Faster, more powerful, more reliable, more features, more secure.

[bdegrande]

i havent read all the replies, so maybe this has already been posted. . . sorry if it has.

if you want to continue to use your windows software an still run a mac, you can do this in two ways:

1. bootcamp - bootcamp is a free downloadable driver for windows on your intel-based mac. it basically splits your hard drive into two parts (the size of which you determine) reserving one part for window, one part for mac. you have to reboot your computer to go from one to the other.

2. parallels - this is similar to bootcamp, but it is not free. this lets you run mac os and windows simultaneously. very cool to see these two programs running together.

both of these run very smoothly, so i guess its a matter of what you prefer. i would recommend parallels due to its convenience, but bootcamp is free.

hope that helps

Two more virtualization options (like Parallels), VNWare Fusion, which is better in some respects - easy to install appliances and better multi-core support, and Virtual Box, which is not quite as full featured but works well and is free.

[Darth Tater]

We've had nothing but trouble from Crucial memory here lately..proceed at your own risk. Crucial used to be rock solid, but they have definitely slipped. Kingston and G. Skill have now taken our memory upgrade business that Crucial used to own.

[JoeP]

Alot of great info. I'm dumb when it comes to Apple, i've always had Windows.

Please keep it cool between everyone, this isn't a debate, this is me looking for information to base my purchase on, not to decide which is better, or which is crap.

Thanks to everyone who's participated so far. I'm learning alot of great info here..

Joe

[Jon C]

You can purchase MS Office for the Mac, you can purchase Apple's product called iWork, or you can download the free OpenOffice. Any of those three covers a lot of 'office' ground.

Me personally, I vastly prefer the Mac OS. And I think the average, non-'power' user who struggles with viruses and spyware and such would be MUCH better served by the Mac OS.

My neighbor just dropped off her parents' computer with me because it was having problems and they didn't know what to do. All they do is email and surf, basically. Decent computer - a fairly recent Dell. But along the way they got some spyware and virus or two. Didn't really know how to deal with it, but they installed a handful of AV and antispyware....some legit some not. It snowballs and got to the point where booting the computer takes you through a half-hour of various programs starting up and scanning files, other programs not launching, confusing warning messages, so on and so forth. Despite what some people might say, that type of problem simply does not exist with a Mac. Not to say that they can't have issues of their own, but I believe they are much less frustrating (and thus much more productive) for most users.

couple of Qs ...

1. So OpenOffice will run on a MAC? That's good news (I'm hoping to go MAC on my next computer). I've seen iWork and it's OK too.

2. what are typical issues that one has to deal with or might on a MAC? Getting away from the whole spyware/virus thing is part of my urge to change along with the Mac integration (for ex., setting up my parents wireless network w/ an Airport Extreme was really easy). I'm fairly adept at dealing with Windows issues now so not afraid of it, but would love to have to do less of it. ... what will I trade off in terms of Mac "things" I may have to troubleshoot etc.?

Thanks.

[Jon C]

I just got a new iMac, 20" fully loaded. $975 free shipping :)

Where? thx.

[ThePK]

- NeoOffice works great for Mac.

[DC1]

couple of Qs ...

1. So OpenOffice will run on a MAC? That's good news (I'm hoping to go MAC on my next computer). I've seen iWork and it's OK too.

Yes. There is a native Mac version. No MS required.


2. what are typical issues that one has to deal with or might on a MAC? Getting away from the whole spyware/virus thing is part of my urge to change along with the Mac integration (for ex., setting up my parents wireless network w/ an Airport Extreme was really easy). I'm fairly adept at dealing with Windows issues now so not afraid of it, but would love to have to do less of it. ... what will I trade off in terms of Mac "things" I may have to troubleshoot etc.?

Thanks.

If you know a couple of basic diagnostic routines (single user mode, disk utility) you will be fine. They have good phone tech support for 90 days (I think) and if you want to pay for Applecare you can extend that.

Macs are pretty trouble free. I got one of the new MacBook pros and it is a really, really, nice laptop. No issues whatsoever. I also have a new Mac Pro tower. The gigabit ethernet does not like anything but really good Cat5 or Cat6 cable. I found this out from 2-3 hours on the phone with Apple with no 'net (it would not find either the router or the cable modem). I ran a cable through the house straight to the router and it lit right up. Sooo, I ran new Cat6 cable to my office and there has not been a hiccup since. Best customer service in the biz.

Oh, and not all aftermarket monitors will work with a Mac Pro. Ask the manufacturer if they have tested theirs with Macs. Sceptre does not, and their people on the phone are idiots. Planar says theirs will work, but they have not tested them, and their dealers would not accept returns because of a lack of compatibility with Macs. Oh, and MacMall was one of the dealers.

Bozos.

So I got just pissed off enough to buy the Mac 23" cinema display and it is stunning. I will probably get a second soon.
Other than that, no issues.

dc

[Texas_Blues]

+1

Cost is the biggest issue when it comes to Mac
+1 If they lowered the price, I'd be all over a macbook.