Quad Bootup.

Windows

Most likely you’re reading this article on a Windows computer, why do I say this? Simple, because Windows XP/Vista are the most used OS’s on the market currently, ahead of OSX and Linux. Since Windows comprises more than 80% of computers in the world, this means that it has the most widely available support and software available. It also means that because of its wide spread use and more unsecure build, that it’s most prone to spyware and viruses. Windows is by far the greatest choice for gaming, as most games are developed natively for windows and windows systems being generally less expensive.

Mac OSX

If you’ve been paying attention to your TV lately it’s very likely that you’ve at least seen one Mac Vs PC commercial. Apple’s OS has been gaining strength over the years and for good reason too. Mac OSX is much more secure to Windows because it’s a UNIX based operating system. These means that there virtually no spyware and virus applications currently affected Mac OSX systems. OSX is also much friendly for the casual user, as it’s designed for less technically users and is generally seen as much more fun experience. A downside to OSX is that you must ‘legally’ buy a Mac machine to run it. You can’t buy an OSX computer from a third-party vender such as Dell. This means that Apple’s computers tend to much more expensive than Windows set-ups.

Linux

Linux? What’s a Linux? You might think that Linux is some new operating system just because you’ve never heard of it, but the first iteration of Linux was actually released in the 1970’s. Why hasn’t Linux caught on? Many of the pros of Linux can also be considered a con is the easiest way to explain its popularity. Linux is the most technical of the three main OS’s. Literally anything and everything in Linux can be changed to match your desired wants; you just have to figure out how to do it. It’s not for casual users; however, as many casual users have a hard time figuring out how to even install Linux on their system. Something great about Linux is that it’s highly compatible and runs on just about any hardware. It’s also even more secure than OSX, which is very impressive considering that safety is one of Apple’s strongest selling points.

Which OS is right for you? Well that question is impossible to answer without knowing what kind of user you are and what you’re looking for. Chances are, Windows is fine for most people that are reading this article. It’s never a bad idea to consider using Mac OSX or Linux, however.

Photo Credits: foskarulla

Originally posted 2009-11-30 03:13:29.

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.