Mac or PC ?
- Thread starter Trooper_IHB
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effenheimer_IHB
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<img alt="" src="http://www.ctrlaltdel-online.com/comics/20060513.jpg" />
profette_IHB
New member
<p>ROTFL! That's a good one, Eff. </p>
<p>Still, I think PC users are secretly jealous of Mac users...</p>
<p>Still, I think PC users are secretly jealous of Mac users...</p>
PeterUK_IHB
New member
Trooper, no, Mac doesn't run the web slower...
Here's an example, I'm on my Wife's MacBook right now and she's running Mac's Safari Browser, I can't make any little Faces on it or use any of the options that you would see using Explorer...
Sure, you can download Explorer for Mac but it's not very stable IMO....
Also, it seems that most Web sites are more Windows friendly, for instance, WMV (Video) files don't work unless you download something to play them on...
To me, Explorer running on a PC is much more web friendly....
Anyone else like to comment?
Here's an example, I'm on my Wife's MacBook right now and she's running Mac's Safari Browser, I can't make any little Faces on it or use any of the options that you would see using Explorer...
Sure, you can download Explorer for Mac but it's not very stable IMO....
Also, it seems that most Web sites are more Windows friendly, for instance, WMV (Video) files don't work unless you download something to play them on...
To me, Explorer running on a PC is much more web friendly....
Anyone else like to comment?
momopi_IHB
New member
PeterUK_IHB
New member
<p> I'm obviously now back on my PC Laptop...<strong>I can even yell !!</strong></p>
<p><strong>And make the Text a different color...</strong></p>
<p>This might not matter to you, just thought I'd mention it....</p>
<p>I reckon the perfect situation is to have both a Mac and PC, so if I was in your Gucci's I'd go for a Mac and keep the old Laptop for times when you want to make an angry Face on IHB </p>
<p><strong>And make the Text a different color...</strong></p>
<p>This might not matter to you, just thought I'd mention it....</p>
<p>I reckon the perfect situation is to have both a Mac and PC, so if I was in your Gucci's I'd go for a Mac and keep the old Laptop for times when you want to make an angry Face on IHB </p>
PeterUK_IHB
New member
<p>Momo....Firefox crashed all the time...it was a compromise.</p>
<p>I'm no IT specialist but Safari is for Mac, Explorer is for Windows...IMHO.</p>
<p>I'm no IT specialist but Safari is for Mac, Explorer is for Windows...IMHO.</p>
iceeman_IHB
New member
Mac vs. PC...the age old argument. As many have mentioned, it really comes down to your preferences:
1) style
2) simplicity
3) compatibility
4) reliability
5) durability
6) software
7) affordability
I work for a software company and mostly deal with Window based software. However, I also work on graphic and web projects on the side. With that said, i've been contemplating on investing in a Mac for the last 5 year. Obviously, Apple seemed to have marketed heavily to the design world with its software and video cards. But as a window trained professional, i found the switch to be very difficult..it's like learning to use your mouse with your left hand as a right handed person. (try it..it's fun)
This is what I found or discovered some of the benefits: MAC : Buy it if you like hip style, clean interface, and proprietary software. If you work heavily with photos and videos...MAC will be an easier solution to edit them. PC: More software compatibility, Many open source software, more selection (hardware), custom build capability, cost efficient, easier to upgrade (hardware).
I have both. I have iMac laptop (recently purchased 3 months ago) for light video work and mostly for web browsing while on the run. Also makes me look cool.
I have custom built PC running XP Pro...same motherboard, power supply, CPU, and RAM for the last 5 years. recently upgraded Video card ($75) for faster performance and also updated the DVD-burner ($35 from Fry's). $110 investment to keep me going for another 2 years...and I use my PC about 8 hours a day ( everyday).
Conclusion: I like Apple products because it is different and almost cliche to have one. I am happy they included the parellel to allow Windows softwares, but the softwares has to be purchased for Apple compatibility. I think of Apple as more of a novelty product than functional product. That's my impression so far. I think it's abit overpriced for the performance and hardware. If budget is important and you're a value shopper..go with PC (stick with big name brands..sony, dell, Hp and stay away from AMD processers). Get plenty of RAM!!! 2GB will be standard in about 6-12 months.
1) style
2) simplicity
3) compatibility
4) reliability
5) durability
6) software
7) affordability
I work for a software company and mostly deal with Window based software. However, I also work on graphic and web projects on the side. With that said, i've been contemplating on investing in a Mac for the last 5 year. Obviously, Apple seemed to have marketed heavily to the design world with its software and video cards. But as a window trained professional, i found the switch to be very difficult..it's like learning to use your mouse with your left hand as a right handed person. (try it..it's fun)
This is what I found or discovered some of the benefits: MAC : Buy it if you like hip style, clean interface, and proprietary software. If you work heavily with photos and videos...MAC will be an easier solution to edit them. PC: More software compatibility, Many open source software, more selection (hardware), custom build capability, cost efficient, easier to upgrade (hardware).
I have both. I have iMac laptop (recently purchased 3 months ago) for light video work and mostly for web browsing while on the run. Also makes me look cool.
I have custom built PC running XP Pro...same motherboard, power supply, CPU, and RAM for the last 5 years. recently upgraded Video card ($75) for faster performance and also updated the DVD-burner ($35 from Fry's). $110 investment to keep me going for another 2 years...and I use my PC about 8 hours a day ( everyday).
Conclusion: I like Apple products because it is different and almost cliche to have one. I am happy they included the parellel to allow Windows softwares, but the softwares has to be purchased for Apple compatibility. I think of Apple as more of a novelty product than functional product. That's my impression so far. I think it's abit overpriced for the performance and hardware. If budget is important and you're a value shopper..go with PC (stick with big name brands..sony, dell, Hp and stay away from AMD processers). Get plenty of RAM!!! 2GB will be standard in about 6-12 months.
PeterUK_IHB
New member
<p>iceman, very well said...when I first saw the thread title, Mac vs PC I thought "here we go again"</p>
<p>I also use PC at work but I know diddly about Computers, all I know is, mine is over 1000 horse power because I run Catia, CAD CAM and other "Takes a lot of Pooter" Apps...</p>
<p>I found once I was used to Mac it was a seamless transition between one and the other, but I agree, it's not easy to begin with...</p>
<p>I'm running Vista, apparently one needs 2GB of Ram for this, is this true?</p>
<p>Why are all the PC Guru's I know telling me they hate Vista?</p>
<p>I also use PC at work but I know diddly about Computers, all I know is, mine is over 1000 horse power because I run Catia, CAD CAM and other "Takes a lot of Pooter" Apps...</p>
<p>I found once I was used to Mac it was a seamless transition between one and the other, but I agree, it's not easy to begin with...</p>
<p>I'm running Vista, apparently one needs 2GB of Ram for this, is this true?</p>
<p>Why are all the PC Guru's I know telling me they hate Vista?</p>
IrvineCommuter_IHB
New member
<p>I have used both on and off for the past 10-15 years (more PC than MAC) and I would say that Macs are generally more "reliable" and less likely to "crash" but PCs are much cheaper and easier (much easier) to find software for. </p>
<p>PCs get a reputation (somewhat) deservedly for being a little tempermental but I find that must of the problems come from the vast array of software that exist for PCs. Most of the crashes come from a conflict between a software and Windows. Macs are less impacted by this issue because most of the software for Macs are issued or approved by Apple directly. I would agree that you should definitely avoid Vista and stick with XP (very reliable in my opinion.)</p>
<p>The virus issue is somewhat a concern for PCs but get yourself a decent firewall and anti-virus software program (usually $50 or less) and you are fine. </p>
<p>I personally like PCs (gasp) for its variety and adaptability. You do not need to be a rocket scientist to change parts in a PC and they are much more upgradeable. I also hate the fact that Mac mouses only have one button. </p>
<p>PCs get a reputation (somewhat) deservedly for being a little tempermental but I find that must of the problems come from the vast array of software that exist for PCs. Most of the crashes come from a conflict between a software and Windows. Macs are less impacted by this issue because most of the software for Macs are issued or approved by Apple directly. I would agree that you should definitely avoid Vista and stick with XP (very reliable in my opinion.)</p>
<p>The virus issue is somewhat a concern for PCs but get yourself a decent firewall and anti-virus software program (usually $50 or less) and you are fine. </p>
<p>I personally like PCs (gasp) for its variety and adaptability. You do not need to be a rocket scientist to change parts in a PC and they are much more upgradeable. I also hate the fact that Mac mouses only have one button. </p>
iceeman_IHB
New member
Peter UK,
There's many reason why Vista is horrible, but I won't get into the technical level of it. Rather, it's just a normal phase each new software goes through.
I work for a major software company and we go through the same issue with our releases...usually it takes about 5-8 update patches to get the software correct or atleast properly working. We assume that big companies like Microsoft should test the software extensively before releasing (which they do, but on moderate level). But it's extremely difficult to test something when it's all hush hush due to competition and other variables involved. Software industry is almost like the CIA... everything is secretive and when they do announce something it's already bad news.haha.
But on serious note, Vista will be like the Windows ME in my opinion. It will be short lived and will be replaced in about 2-3 years from now with (hopefully) better O/S.
People don't like Vista because it require extensive hardware (which means it will not run smoothly unless you have top end hardware) and also have compatibility issue with many current softwares.
There's many reason why Vista is horrible, but I won't get into the technical level of it. Rather, it's just a normal phase each new software goes through.
I work for a major software company and we go through the same issue with our releases...usually it takes about 5-8 update patches to get the software correct or atleast properly working. We assume that big companies like Microsoft should test the software extensively before releasing (which they do, but on moderate level). But it's extremely difficult to test something when it's all hush hush due to competition and other variables involved. Software industry is almost like the CIA... everything is secretive and when they do announce something it's already bad news.haha.
But on serious note, Vista will be like the Windows ME in my opinion. It will be short lived and will be replaced in about 2-3 years from now with (hopefully) better O/S.
People don't like Vista because it require extensive hardware (which means it will not run smoothly unless you have top end hardware) and also have compatibility issue with many current softwares.
Stuff It_IHB
New member
I did a masters in user interface design (this is going back a long time but I still consider the points to be valid).
Whenever the lecturer gave examples of good UI design he always referenced the MAC whereas for examples on how it shouldn't be done it was always the PC
I use a PC for anything work related (because I have to) and MAC for all personal/media work
Whenever the lecturer gave examples of good UI design he always referenced the MAC whereas for examples on how it shouldn't be done it was always the PC
I use a PC for anything work related (because I have to) and MAC for all personal/media work
Rocker_IHB
New member
<p>There's nothing wrong with AMD processors for laptops, if you want a Laptop PC, I'd highly recommend a HP Laptop with a Turion-64 x2 processor, for your needs you'll get good value and almost the same performance than an Intel based laptop, which are $300-500 more expensive but they have the same features.
Thanks to AMD competition, Intel made Pentium-4 based products obsolete, otherwise they will still be selling to us that crap only with a new wrapping.
</p>
Thanks to AMD competition, Intel made Pentium-4 based products obsolete, otherwise they will still be selling to us that crap only with a new wrapping.
</p>
Trooper_IHB
New member
<p>Well, Dad owns buKu Intel shares, so I'd be going Pentium if I chose that road. </p>
<p>Thank you all for the feedback. I will get myself down to the Apple store and check out the laptops. Not sure I want to spend 1K more for a Mac, it had better be worth it ! I'll keep you posted. </p>
<p>And Peter, am I understanding you that I will have to download something to view things like YouTube videos ?</p>
<p>Thank you all for the feedback. I will get myself down to the Apple store and check out the laptops. Not sure I want to spend 1K more for a Mac, it had better be worth it ! I'll keep you posted. </p>
<p>And Peter, am I understanding you that I will have to download something to view things like YouTube videos ?</p>
Nude_IHB
New member
<p>Troop-</p>
<p>I've used both. My first computer was an Apple IIe that matched the one I used at University Park Elementary back in the dark ages. I was given a Commodore 64 a year or so later...text based games FTW!</p>
<p>Anyway, to make more clear the points made above: if you want a endless variey of programs to chooe from, get a PC. Yes there are virus concerns, but that is because ~90% of the world's personal and business computers run some form of windows. Yes Macs, especially Pro, have the edge when it comes to content editing and hardware reliability. But those reccomendations are largely based on professional reviews, not average Jane reviews. With enough RAM and a good sized HD, you can edit video, music, and images just as well on a PC. The reason the hardware is more reliable is because Apple rigidly controls the components that it's OS will recognize, where as you can upgrade a PC into the next ice age. with that flexibility comes the risk of subpar third-party hardware, drivers, and software. But if you compare two 17" laptops side by side, a Macbook Pro and a PC costing the same, the performance differences will vary slightly, but not signifigantly enough to justify a switch unless you are using it only for the strengths of that OS. In other words, they should surf the web the same, play music the same, and show movies the same, but Windows will have the edge for productivity with speadsheets and information and flexibilty, while Mac will have the edge in Video, Sound, and Image production. With you stated intentions of use, you may find the learning curve frustrating enough that it outweighs any percieved ease of video editing.</p>
<p>Also, if you ever want to play video games on your computer, forget abot Mac </p>
<p>I've used both. My first computer was an Apple IIe that matched the one I used at University Park Elementary back in the dark ages. I was given a Commodore 64 a year or so later...text based games FTW!</p>
<p>Anyway, to make more clear the points made above: if you want a endless variey of programs to chooe from, get a PC. Yes there are virus concerns, but that is because ~90% of the world's personal and business computers run some form of windows. Yes Macs, especially Pro, have the edge when it comes to content editing and hardware reliability. But those reccomendations are largely based on professional reviews, not average Jane reviews. With enough RAM and a good sized HD, you can edit video, music, and images just as well on a PC. The reason the hardware is more reliable is because Apple rigidly controls the components that it's OS will recognize, where as you can upgrade a PC into the next ice age. with that flexibility comes the risk of subpar third-party hardware, drivers, and software. But if you compare two 17" laptops side by side, a Macbook Pro and a PC costing the same, the performance differences will vary slightly, but not signifigantly enough to justify a switch unless you are using it only for the strengths of that OS. In other words, they should surf the web the same, play music the same, and show movies the same, but Windows will have the edge for productivity with speadsheets and information and flexibilty, while Mac will have the edge in Video, Sound, and Image production. With you stated intentions of use, you may find the learning curve frustrating enough that it outweighs any percieved ease of video editing.</p>
<p>Also, if you ever want to play video games on your computer, forget abot Mac </p>
Trooper_IHB
New member
<p>Thx Nude. No, I don't play video games... so no worries there. </p>
<p>Other than mentioning the big names in PC's, does anyone know which company is most reliable (Dell, etc). I mean, my Sony has lasted 5 yrs and I'm happy with it...so I might just be inclined to buy another one of these if I stay with PC. I'm not a name whore, so it really doesn't matter which brand it is, just that I can edit videos with ease (fast processor, etc) and the thing doesn't crash ! </p>
<p>I'm pleased to hear that PC's can hold their own in the editing capacity. </p>
<p>Other than mentioning the big names in PC's, does anyone know which company is most reliable (Dell, etc). I mean, my Sony has lasted 5 yrs and I'm happy with it...so I might just be inclined to buy another one of these if I stay with PC. I'm not a name whore, so it really doesn't matter which brand it is, just that I can edit videos with ease (fast processor, etc) and the thing doesn't crash ! </p>
<p>I'm pleased to hear that PC's can hold their own in the editing capacity. </p>
TimHume_IHB
New member
WINEX - I hadn't heard of it before you mentioned it. I would put this in the category of something that is a potential problem, but I haven't met anyone who actually suffered from it. Whether this is because the Mac's software is more secure or because virus writers don't care about the Mac makes no difference to the user. The end result is the same - no worries and no problems. I think the fact that you mention it and that I hadn't heard of it also kind of makes my point. These are so rare on the Mac that users don't know about them.
Trooper - The difference between the Mac and Windows is not as big as it was years ago. I agree with whoever said to use whichever one a knowledgeable friend uses. If you think you might need help, it is nice to be able to get it!
Trooper - The difference between the Mac and Windows is not as big as it was years ago. I agree with whoever said to use whichever one a knowledgeable friend uses. If you think you might need help, it is nice to be able to get it!
vicstah_IHB
New member
<p>Hi:</p>
<p>Been in the industry for over 10 years...</p>
<p>Quick & easy recommendation:</p>
<p>1. Get a PC running Windows if you want to play games</p>
<p>2. Get a Mac if you want to do video/photo editing</p>
<p>3. Get an Mac w/ Intel processor and boot your computer using BootCamp and you can run both!</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Been in the industry for over 10 years...</p>
<p>Quick & easy recommendation:</p>
<p>1. Get a PC running Windows if you want to play games</p>
<p>2. Get a Mac if you want to do video/photo editing</p>
<p>3. Get an Mac w/ Intel processor and boot your computer using BootCamp and you can run both!</p>
<p>
</p>biuniu_IHB
New member
Disclaimer: Apple shareholder as well and I've always been partial to UNIX so when Mac OS X was released that did it for me
I'd recommend you look at a Mac based on your usage criteria. Also, regardless of whether you get a Mac or a PC realize that you get what you pay for.
I'd recommend you look at a Mac based on your usage criteria. Also, regardless of whether you get a Mac or a PC realize that you get what you pay for.
sweetbriargirl_IHB
New member
Only one button on a Mac mouse? I have an Apple bluetooth Mighty Mouse that I would trade for the world and it has, well, theoretically, two buttons. It doesn't actually have any buttons but depending on which side of it I press, I get a left button/right button response. The one thing I love the most about my MacBook is this mouse!