Mac versus PC? Pros and cons of each?

Question

Over this weekend, my computer dropped on the ground, and the screen got all screwed up. We found out that it would be $400 to repair the screen (because the screen broke) so my parents decided that I would just get a new laptop. Before I broke this one, I was planning on getting a Mac as my next computer, but I'm not sure about the price. Still, it is debatable because I am going to have this computer for the next 3+ years. Which is better, Mac or PC and why? I was getting sick of viruses and stuff, but I'm not sure if a mac is worth the price? I mostly just use word documents, listen to music, nd go online. How are Macs compatible with Microsoft office 2007 (I know there is 08 for macs) and are there still some websites that need internet explorer to work, so they won't work on safari? What are the pros and cons for each?

What brand PC is best for laptops? (HP, Toshiba, Dell, Asus, Sony, etc.)

Answer 1

Macs don't get viruses... ever.



Everyone I've ever known who has switched to a Mac from a PC has said, "OMG, I wish I had done this YEARS ago."



Good luck!...

Answer 2

Macs can and do get viruses, so switching to a Mac because you don't want viruses isn't a very good reason. I mean, if you really want a virus-free computing experience, just install Linux on a PC. Viruses are practically non-existant for Linux.



Anyway, the ONLY reason you should switch to Mac is if you like Mac OS and Mac-only software. Otherwise, you should get a PC. Macs are overpriced and have tons of compatibility issues. However, it's worth noting that Microsoft Office 2008 (for Mac) is fully compatible with Microsoft Office 2007 (for Windows)

Answer 3

Mac- Performance, graphics, reliability.



PC-Wider range of programs (They don't all perform as well as on Macs), cheaper, customizable, more selection, prone to viruses and crashes.



You will pay more for a Mac, but overall will probably have a better experience when it comes to graphics or normal computer usage. But it seems that you may just need the features that you can get for a much lower price with a cheaper PC. I have always bought HP laptops, only had to replace one, when it was stolen. But that one still ran like a champ after 3-4 years.



I don't mean to lead you either way, I know many people on both sides of the battle. And it's a tough decision. But price usually ends up being the deciding factor in this decision.

Answer 4

Depends on your usage if you get a Mac, they do have bootcamp which allows you to partition the hard drive and have both Mac OS X and Windows XP or Vista, and soon Windows 7. Another pro of the Mac computers would be the amount of viruses, but linux has the fewest amounts of viruses and really viruses and malware go hand and hand with operating system popularity. That's why with Windows you will have to deal with more antivirus software and are at additional risk of viruses. However with a Windows based computer you are not restricted to one model of laptop, you are able to upgrade the laptop for according to your needs in the future. Windows also does not push out alot of proprietary products like mac that only work with mac computers, such as Mac OS X, but windows can run MAC OS X through VMWare meaning you can run it, but it might be slow as it is a virtual OS. Thus, Windows not as restrictive to the user, has more games designed for it, and allows future upgrades. Mac restricts users on the OS more to the what Mac thinks is best for you, fewer viruses, and not upgradable (though the specs are high for most new macs). So, if you have the money to spend on it and want to break free of viruses, but loss the upgradability go for the Mac, as it will last you alot longer since the OS won't get overcrowded with junk. If you want to be able to upgrade your computer, deal with antivirus, and get it for alot cheaper then Mac, go for a pc (Windows based computer).

Answer 5

Macs are more stable, get LESS viruses (they aren't virus-proof) and Snow leapoard is fully 64 bit. Macs also start up faster (my macbook pro with the ssd starts up in 13 seconds) and have a really fast search feature (when you type in the search bar it shows you your results almost instantly.) the only real cons are that all macs are 999 or more (the white macbook is 999) and alot of games and apps are pc only. PC is cheaper, but in the long run if you upgrade windows it will cost alot. the cheapest version of windows 7 is currently $129 but snow leapord is only $29. overall, i'd get a macbook pro 13.3 inch, because it's a good mac to start with.

Answer 6

Summary: Get a PC. Don't waste your money.



I recommend Lenovo, Asus, Sony, Toshiba, Dell, HP