New computer. Should I switch from PC to Mac?

[Oistrakh]

Macs seem kind of expensive, and I really don't like the way the desktop is set up... You also can't have too many windows/applications up in macs compared to PCs.

 

[roastpuff]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Oistrakh Macs seem kind of expensive, and I really don't like the way the desktop is set up... You also can't have too many windows/applications up in macs compared to PCs.

Oh really?

And I can get to different windows/apps much faster than Windows.

EDIT: And that was just in 30 secs.

 

[devwild]

Quote:

Originally Posted by roastpuff The details are worth the premium. It's just neat to have it, instead of wishing that you had it. Plus, Apple seems to have the reliability problem fixed on the new MacBook Pro's.

I really get tired of these arguements, there's no point to it, as it's really up to personal preference. The "extras" aren't extras if you don't like them or can't use them... MagSafe? tends to fall out when you move the laptop around - Magnetic latch? um, yeah, and OSX won't allow you to shut the lid and go to a meeting without suspending (without some hacking which has been known to then cause overheating) - Two finger scrolling? I find it hard to hit when not sitting at a desk and honestly find the traditional side/bottom scrolling more natural and seamless, probably by habit - Dimming screen and keyboard? uh, I had to turn that off when I used a powerbook because it kept dimming the screen every time I moved my hands or turned a bit to the side, how irritating!

It is all in the details, and how they work for you. The best thing you can do is ignore everyone's opinions, and give it a shot for yourself, just like headphones.

I personally prefer my 600m for a laptop to the mac line-up, again for personal reasons - better battery life - high screen resolution - better keyboard layout - the ability to easilly middle click (important to me, not most people) - and the fact that it runs cool enough for me to actually use it in my recliner, where I use it 90% of the time. Yeah, and it was cheaper for what I got at the time, even including accidental damage coverage, which saved my butt when I cracked my screen and makes Dell support a lot easier ("uh, it's broke, but I have complete-care", "repair order submitted"). That's a big, practical extra in itself.

Despite all, that, I recommended - and stand by that recommendation - checking out the Mac to the original poster. My desktop is a Mac and my laptop is a PC, and I'm happy with both (though I'd really like the intel replacment for the powermac to come out

).

 

[sxr71]

I was going to say "don't do it" but I guess for the purposes you laid out a Mac should be fine.

However DO NOT buy those new Macbook Pros or the MacBook. They all have hardware issues and Apple doesn't seem to want to repair them. Just do a search for overheating, peeling paint and motherboard replacement.

I know a few people with iBooks who simply can't get a thing done to them after the 1 year warranty. Even if it clearly was a manufacturing defect like a motherboard gone bad. So stay away from their laptops and get a Mac Mini or something cheap and simple like that.

 

[sxr71]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tjkurita So $1300 for a 23" widescreen is too much? Dell has a 24" wide screen for something like $750. You guys are really helping me out! I will look into logitech for keyboard and mouse options. I am grateful. J.

Yeah, don't buy a monitor from Apple unless you really need a matching monitor. I'd say a $700 Mac Mini + Dell monitor and Logitech wireless keyboard/mouse is the way to go. If you need a laptop then IMHO a Thinkpad is pretty much mandatory.

 

[Zanth]

One can use Parallels Workstation to run Windows or Linux with near natant reaction times and rock solid stability on the new Mactels. This way, you can enjoy the experience and stability of Mac OS but run those windows apps you may desperately need. This is the route I'm going. Ideally I will have a new Macbook Pro by the weekend.