Mac vs. PC Verdict

by Tom Samiljan on August 6, 2008 at 12:01 AM

So which type of computer is right for you?

As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, it really depends on what kind of user you are. The truth is, for most of your basic computer needs -- e-mailing, word processing, photo editing and sharing, and music management -- either a Mac or a Windows-based PC will do the trick.

But beyond basic needs, the paths diverge: If you're a gamer, a movie and TV hound, a techie, or an early-adopter, you should probably consider a PC, since it's going to offer you the biggest number and variety of new apps, hardware accessories, and streaming or downloadable video in SD or HD. Business users may also want a PC since Windows is still the operating system of choice in most offices (though Mac is catching up), so a Windows-based PC is likely to integrate more easily with your workplace. And if price is an issue, you will get more bang for your buck with a Windows-based PC (let's just hope all those extra features you get with your PC actually work!).

Of course, having access to a multitude of programs isn't always a good thing, particularly if a sizable chunk of those programs don't always work or are glitch-prone. Simplicity, consistency, security, and good design count for a lot in the computer realm, which, let's face it, isn't a piece of cake for all of us. If you're new to computing, want minimal hassle, and just need to get to work right away without having to wait two minutes or more for your PC to boot-up, then a Mac is for you (so what if you have to wait a few weeks or month to play 'Unreal Tournament' 4!).

Macs also remain the computers of choice for creative types in the music, film, and design fields, which is something to consider if you're planning on using your computer for film editing work, Web site design, or just want to make a demo tape of your band.

Let's not forget how cool Macs look and feel, too -- everything from the elegant look of the desktop and the innovative designs to the satisfying click the keyboard makes when you type on it makes the Mac a pleasant experience for just about anyone. And they're well-built across the board (they all come from the same manufacturer, after all), compared to many PCs, which vary widely in terms of basic build quality. Yes, they may cost a bit more, but in our experience, Macs tend to run smoothly a lot longer than the average PC, which can be filled up with a glut of performance-slowing software in just a few weeks.

In a lot of ways, not much has changed over the past twenty or so years between Mac and Windows. Macs remain the easier-to-use and better-designed option for fun and creative folks who are willing to fork out a bit more, while Windows-based PCs offer a wider world of compatibility and products at a better-bang-for-your-buck price.

[Update: One important thing we forgot to mention, unlike Windows-based PCs, Macs can also run Windows using a program called Parallels Desktop or Bootcamp, which means that -- theoretically, at least -- you get the best of both worlds with a Mac. Of course, running Windows and Mac operating systems on the same computer simultaneously will slow down your computer and eat up resources, but it's not a bad compromise if you just need to run Windows for that essential Windows-only work app.)

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