Why buy a Mac?

Virus Resistant

Mac computers run on Apple’s OSX OS which is a UNIX system. This makes Apple machines practically immune to all viruses and trojans that the internet can throw at you. This means that Mac’s aren’t only nearly immune to the threat of viruses, but it also means that they don’t have to deal with the hassle of anti-virus software. Not having to deal with anti-virus software means you’re saving your money and your time by not having to worry about the potential threat of viruses.

Dual-Boot Windows

Mac computers are able to run Windows because of the fact that Microsoft has allowed Apple to install it on their systems. This means that if you still need Windows for your work or for any sort of program that will not run on OSX, you still have Windows right there available for you to use. If your computer is strong enough to run OSX, chances are it’s strong enough to at least run Vista also; meaning that you need no hardware upgrades to have both OS’s.

Visually Pleasing

Not only are Mac computers technically sound, they’re also a pleasure to look at. Macs often are very customizable in appearance in respect to color and screen size. You can also count on your MacBook laptop weighing significantly less than its Windows counterpart while also supporting a much better battery life. If you’ve ever seen a MacBook Air commercial you’ve probably seen that the laptops are so thin that they can even fit into a small envelope!

Easy to Use

One problem that Windows users often have that is never an issue with OSX is how many odd issues that they experience with software installations and driver compatibility. OSX doesn’t suffer from nearly as many issues and is much easier to use because of how intuitively the OS is laid out for you. Everything makes sense and just feels like it’s where it should be.

Macs are becoming increasingly more common among workplaces and schools. They’re easy to use, visually appealing, and virus resistant. It’s hard to find a fault other than price, but is that really a problem when they’re so effective and reliable?

Photo Credits: Djenan

Originally posted 2009-10-26 03:25:47.

MacBooks

Technical Specs

While this may not be the first thing that jumps out at you when looking for a new computer it’s the most important. Making sure that your computer is technically up to date and can run all the software you want takes precedence over aesthetics and extras. Make sure that your laptop has at least 2 gigabytes of RAM preferably and a duo core processor. Processor speed is measured in GHz and the higher the number the better; ideal range is 2.3-3.0. Another specification that you need to worry about when purchasing a MacBook is the battery life. MacBooks tend to have a great battery life but it’s important to upgrade your battery if you feel the default is not high enough. Other technically specifications that are notable are hard drive space and wireless access. Make sure that the wireless is compatible with your home, work and school addresses.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics should be something you look for after verifying the technical specs of the machine. Make sure that the color and size of the MacBook are what you’re expecting, as well as things such as the quality of screen when it’s turned on. It’s important to note that when you increase screen size on a laptop that the price will start to increase dramatically. Again, don’t buy your computer because it’s visually appealing; make sure that you judge the visuals after you have judged the computer technically.

Warranty

Having a warranty on your MacBook isn’t a necessity, but many people often feel much safer when they get a warranty. The limited warranty most likely will not cover spills or other accident related causes of fault, and MacBooks aren’t the cheapest computers out there. While there price denotes their quality, it’s still important to buy a warranty.

When buying a MacBook, consider all of the following and you will make a purchase that you will not regret in the future. Always remember to judge the computer technically before you judge it visually and you are sure to make the correct buy.

Photo Credits: strollers

Originally posted 2009-11-24 03:01:47.

Mac vs PC

1. Expense-You can argue against this point all you want, but the truth is, Apple’s computers are expensive. When you have the option to easily build your own computer for buy a laptop from a provider such as Dell or HP for half the price of a similarly specified Mac, is it really worth it? A Mac with a 13’ screen on Apple’s website is running at $1200, compared to the $500 it’s running on Dell’s website. This should give you an indicator as to what you’re paying for, overpriced hardware.

2. Video Gaming-If you’re a computer gamer that’s constantly buying new releases the day they’re released then a Mac is definitely not for you. Not only are many PC games not supported by Mac OSX but having to dual boot up Windows every time you play a game can be a chore. The hardware upgrades you have to make to a make to it comparable to PC gaming is ludicrous in price as well.

3. You still need Windows-While it is possible to dual-boot Windows with a Mac machine why would you really go through the extra hassle to purchase another OS. Windows isn’t cheap, it can cost over $200 depending on the version you’re getting and if your business is still using a Windows only application this may be a cost that you’re not willing to afford.

4. Aesthetics Are Not Important-No matter how hard Apple markets their computers are the cool or the pretty thing to have, that isn’t going to make them any better than a Windows machine. Your first goal when looking for a new computer should be that it run all the applications you want it to efficiently, and how it looks externally is not going to be the judge of that.

Apple’s MacBooks may be the cool thing to have, but that doesn’t means that they’re any better than just buying a PC. The only real advantages you get by buying a Mac are those presented with the OSX operating system, and that has nothing to do with the external computer.

Photo Credits: Ed Yourdon

Originally posted 2009-11-09 03:38:40.

Linux? Windows? Mac?

1.  Microsoft Windows

The Windows systems of Microsoft are probably the most widely used out of all the listed groups as they help with the needs of both those in a business and in home setting.  Its affiliation with Microsoft gives it the ability to run hundreds of other software and programs that would already be built into a PC.

Microsoft has gained a reputation of setting the standard for basic programs such as Word Processors and data entry programs like Microsoft Excel.  It also appeals to an audience for entertainment by having a variety of free video games that can be played for as long as you would like.  And the fact that Windows is constantly self-updating allows you to be in tune with the most modern of technology.

2.  Macintosh OS

Macintosh OS systems work just as well as Windows systems in that they are both compatible with other systems and programs.  Many computer users have not learned as much about Macintosh OS because until recently they never had a lot of media coverage.  However, Mac OS does come with stability anyone would appreciate.

The only drawback with Mac OS programs is that they are only accessible through a Mac computer or laptop, forcing the user to spend an addition amount of money purchasing the actual computer that will allow their software work.  While OS users can not access other Windows and Microsoft programs, they have their own processors that can still get tasks done.

3.  Linux

Linux operating systems consist of developments made by people who want to create a free system for anyone who needs an operator.  You access this system with a special code that will open up all the necessary programs, processors, and assistance tools that you would need for any project or task that you have.  Linux is popular among many people because it is compatible with any computer and it is absolutely free.

However, the fact that it is free only makes prone to more crashes because the server is open to many people with no user limit.  Linux is ideal for businesses who only need a few tasks as it would cost much more to pay for brand new computers with Mac or new Windows software for all of your workers.  Linux distributors make programs and systems that can be applied to both Windows and Mac, making it easier to work with on a business level.

Photo Credits: giovanniscanavino

Originally posted 2010-05-27 03:25:39.