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I am a PC user for more than 15 years now and I have never used a macintosh before. But one thing that puzzles me is that all mac users tell me I don't know how different and better it is to use a mac - 'Use it and you'll fall in love with it...', they say. :)
So I have some questions which I would like to ask some of you, Mac users, as I would like to know what do macs have more that PCs don't.
- I heard you can run Windows XP along with mac OS. Is this true?
- what kind of processors/memory/video cards/HD (specifications) are available?
- is mac that better than PC? Why so?
- I am a software developer, and also recently I started developing websites, would you still recommend it to me?
Thanks in anticipation,
(and please excuse my ignorance ;) )
d#Nimrod
I heard you can run Windows XP along with mac OS. Is this true?
Microsoft has a program called "Virtual PC" which allows you to run PC software on your Mac (if you really want to).
- what kind of processors/memory/video cards/HD (specifications) are available?
Go to the Apple Store (www.apple.com - click on Store) and you'll see lots of options available. You can also look for systems and peripherals at places such as MacConnection, MacMall, etc.
- is mac that better than PC? Why so?
In my opinion, it's easier, more fun, and more elegant. It's enjoyable. And with those four things combined, I'd also say it's more powerful -- for me. I get more done with a Mac than I would with a PC in the same timeframe. I've used PCs at various previous jobs, and I ended up fighting the machine to get it to do what I wanted. I never fight my Mac.
- I am a software developer, and also recently I started developing websites, would you still recommend it to me?
Sure, why not? I know nothing about software development, but the Mac is widely used in web development and other creative industries.
Microsoft has a program called "Virtual PC" which allows you to run PC software on your Mac (if you really want to).
Other Mac users will understand!
Running Windows through a PC emulator will work, sort of, but expect it to be a lot slower than you're likely used to.
When I installed Virtual PC on my iMac and opened Windows for the first time, I felt ... unclean.
LOL! I know the feeling. I felt like I should apologize in advance to my Mac for what I was about to do to it.
(What I left out of my previous post: Running Windows software on a Mac. Kinda like putting a lawn mower engine in a Mercedes.)
Welcome to WebmasterWorld, dnimrodx.
Thanks for the welcoming, pleeker.
In my opinion, it's easier, more fun, and more elegant. It's enjoyable. And with those four things combined, I'd also say it's more powerful -- for me. I get more done with a Mac than I would with a PC in the same timeframe. I've used PCs at various previous jobs, and I ended up fighting the machine to get it to do what I wanted. I never fight my Mac.
That is something hard to believe as I have been using PCs since I can remember being alive and I have always considered them to be the most complete personal computational machine on the face of the earth. My point is: is there any kind of program you know (something like a demo), which could show me what Macintosh machines are?... or must I absolutely buy one?
Sure, why not? I know nothing about software development, but the Mac is widely used in web development and other creative industries.
Yes that is true. That is one of the reasons that made me start considering moving to a different platform. I was considering not abandoning the PC but instead forget about Windows (I mean, forget about Micro$oft and their products) and move on to Linux.
When I installed Virtual PC on my iMac and opened Windows for the first time, I felt ... unclean.
Other Mac users will understand!Running Windows through a PC emulator will work, sort of, but expect it to be a lot slower than you're likely used to.
LOL! I know the feeling. I felt like I should apologize in advance to my Mac for what I was about to do to it.(What I left out of my previous post: Running Windows software on a Mac. Kinda like putting a lawn mower engine in a Mercedes.)
That is just something... is the Mac that damn good? Sorry for saying this but all my life I have been living under the influence of Micro$oft and their Windows... I am just ignorant about Macs. :)
Thanks alot for the feedback,
David Nimrod
My point is: is there any kind of program you know (something like a demo), which could show me what Macintosh machines are?... or must I absolutely buy one?
If you live in an area where Apple has a retail store, you could walk-in and play with any machine on the shelves. I'm not sure what retail superstores have Macs on the shelves these days. I know the Best Buy and Circuit City near me don't, but maybe CompUSA does.? Anyone know?
That is just something... is the Mac that damn good?
To me, yes. But it's all a matter of personal preference, and I'm sure if you wanted to search through the archives here on WebmasterWorld, you'll find more than a couple Mac vs. PC debates where your question is debated from both sides. The Mac is one of those products that inspires a more-loyal-than-average following. It's one of those things that a lot of people want to be identified with -- we wear the Mac badge proudly.
That doesn't mean it's the right computer for you, that you'll love it, etc.
but maybe CompUSA does.?
Yes, head to CompUSA. They had Macs last time I was there. They'll probably even have a new G5 and if that doesn't convert you to a Mac user. Nothing will.
Here's another thing, for every program on your PC, I have one for my Mac. You really don't need Virtual anything.
Macs do run faster than PCs so when you compare processer speed you have to multiply by roughly 1.4 to get the equivalent PC. I can try to explain this... There are several different ways to send your commands to a processor to have them executed. The way that Microsoft uses takes about 7 steps per command, the Mac uses 5 steps. So a 1 GHz Mac, is approximately equal to a 1.4 GHz PC. (I forgot where I learned that, sorry)
Also, OS X is really Unix, and it ships with a built in Apache server that can handle PHP, and Perl (when the options are enabled, see OSX Hacks by O'Reily)
That's a few things to think about, I'm outta time for now...
is the Mac that damn good?
Yes.
(...)another thing, for every program on your PC, I have one for my Mac. You really don't need Virtual anything.
That is very important. Being able to have the same software available for Mac as you have for PC is primordial. I am glad you do not feel there is some sort of PC preference among Software Houses.
OS X is really Unix
Sorry, Linux...
I take it you were trying to mean that although OS X is not Linux, it runs Unix? I had no idea of this.
They'll probably even have a new G5 and if that doesn't convert you to a Mac user. Nothing will.
All of you have provided me with the curiosity and motivation I needed.
Thanks to all of you, you have been very helpfull. :)
BTW: why is the world crowded with PCs everywhere? I mean why are PCs so damn popular? Would you say big Software Houses (like Micro$oft) are the ones causing this kind of trend? For instance, I did not know Macs were this good - in my ignorance, I even classed them as 2nd grade computers which would disappear in a question of time.
Apple is more strict with their hardware so you won't find as many third party parts as you will for the PC.
They also have plug and play like it should be. My digital camera came with a CD to install software on a PC or a Mac, but it was just fluff, the Mac treated the camera like a removable drive and all I had to do was plug it in and drag my images to where I wanted them.
The only time I have ever installed software with any gadgets is if it is useful, like my scheduler program that came with my Palm.
If you seriously give the machine a try I don't think you would be disappointed. You may find a slight learning curve for setting your options on the system, but pretty soon you will understand where things are.
From the Apple website (under OSX tab):
"The most widely-distributed UNIX-based operating system, Mac OS X offers a unique combination of technical elements to the discerning geek..."
From the web, top result in a search for 'What is FreeBSD?':
"It is derived from BSD, the version of UNIX® developed at the University of California, Berkeley"
not Linux (my mistake) but definately Unix. ;)
macnn.com/news/19728
I take it the G5 model is the top one?
Yes, the G5 is currently the top-level desktop system Apple is making. The G4 is also still in production. Other desktop systems include the iMac line and the eMac (which is the lowest-level desktop, designed originally for school use, but it's a pretty impressive machine for home use, too).
There are two laptop lines: The PowerBook and the iBook. The PowerBook is for "power" users, the iBook is geared toward more casual users.
Of course, depending on your configuration, you can do a lot of powerful stuff with the non-power level machines, too. It's not like iMacs and iBooks are toys....
Check out the Apple Store for all the details (and pretty pictures). :)
Yes, the G5 is currently the top-level desktop system Apple is making. The G4 is also still in production. Other desktop systems include the iMac line and the eMac (which is the lowest-level desktop, designed originally for school use, but it's a pretty impressive machine for home use, too).There are two laptop lines: The PowerBook and the iBook. The PowerBook is for "power" users, the iBook is geared toward more casual users.
So you would say that G5 is probably the best for any Web/Software Developer who needs a very good machine which must be equipped with lots of RAM and HD space, an extremely good (above_the_average) graphics card and good processing speed? Or do you think there are other options that could suit these kind of needs?
PCs are popular because of the availability of cheap componants. Because of the way the hardware goes together nearly anyone can manufacture parts which brings down prices and makes them more afordable.
Apple is more strict with their hardware so you won't find as many third party parts as you will for the PC.
So what about components for Macs? How hard is it to find new components to fit the Mac with (upgrades, etc)? ...and how costly? :)
search for 'What is FreeBSD?':"It is derived from BSD, the version of UNIX® developed at the University of California, Berkeley"
This is probably what impressed me the most. I had no idea Macs' OS is this powerful. I mean, I have heard about BSD before and how much better it is compared to Windows, but I absolutely had no idea this is the OS that comes with Macs. I am glad it is so.
THANK YOU for all this input. You have been really helpful.
d#Nimrod
BTW: Sorry for not replying sooner but I found myself caught with loads of work. Again, thank you all.
[levenez.com...]
but I can't really tell. ;)
It is always good to know it has such a remarkable history. :)
So you would say that G5 is probably the best for any Web/Software Developer who needs a very good machine which must be equipped with lots of RAM and HD space, an extremely good (above_the_average) graphics card and good processing speed? Or do you think there are other options that could suit these kind of needs?
I use a G4 450mhz dual processor that I purchased in the summer of 2000 when it was first introduced. I've added RAM once (and may add more soon, not sure). I purchased a video card upgrade about 12 months ago so I could play Warcraft III. :) This almost 4-year-old machine has more than enough power for everything I need to do. I still have half the space available on the HD. I have 6-8 applications running at the same time (Photoshop, maybe DW, word processing, iTunes, etc.) and it's plenty fast for me.
You don't have to buy the newest, top-of-the-line machine unless the type of work you do requires it. G4s and G5s are very upgradable if you find you need more RAM, additional HD space, whatever. Look over the specs, pick which you think is adequate, and go from there.
So what about components for Macs? How hard is it to find new components to fit the Mac with (upgrades, etc)? ...and how costly?
there are a few spots you can check, MacMall is one I frequent. What I was getting at was that you won't find those huge 'computer show' type events at your local fair grounds loaded down with 99% Mac stuff. You also won't find cards and upgrades at your local Super-Mart either, but they are available.
I'm still using a Titanium PowerBook G4 400MHz from 2000, never upgraded anything. I did just buy a new G5 but it's because my wife needed a new HD, more RAM and more speed. (She does TONS of photo editing). The DVD burner (Super Drive) was a nice bonus as well. (Not to mention that I get the old G4 tower to play with!)
I still have a PC that I use every now and then, mainly to edit Access databases because I'm too lazy to set up my own generic ASP based management. If only I had started my sites in PHP and MySQL.... :(
From pleeker :
I use a G4 450mhz dual processor that I purchased in the summer of 2000 when it was first introduced. I've added RAM once (and may add more soon, not sure). I purchased a video card upgrade about 12 months ago so I could play Warcraft III. This almost 4-year-old machine has more than enough power for everything I need to do. I still have half the space available on the HD. I have 6-8 applications running at the same time (Photoshop, maybe DW, word processing, iTunes, etc.) and it's plenty fast for me.
From too much information :
I'm still using a Titanium PowerBook G4 400MHz from 2000, never upgraded anything.
This is simply impressive. Being the owner of a PC, when would I think the same way as you? I couldn't cope having a PC 450mhz nowadays. :)
dnimrodx about 18 months ago I was considering switching from Windows to either Linux or the Mac, much like you are. In the end I chose an eMac because I wanted the OS to be seamless, stable and not have to do any command line type stuff. I have never regretted switching to a Mac with OS X. Somebody used to Windows will get comfortable with a Mac very quickly.
I always really liked my Macs down the years, but choosing a Mac used to be more about personal preference than real benefit (except for Quark Xpress and Photoshop in the early days). Then OS X came along and now I think that there is a real tangible benefit for web developers.
The fact that OS X comes with Apache out of the box and you can develop and run Perl scripts, PHP and MySQL locally make it a fantastic web development platform.
Other benefits.
It has never crashed on me in 2 years.
BBedit is the best code tool I've ever seen.
etc
etc
etc
Best wishes
Sid
In my experience I have found PCs far more intuitive and reliable. When I used to have a Mac, it used to freeze up on me all the time for no apparent reason, when I didn't even have any apps open! I will admit that this is a few years back though.
Perhaps this is a query for another forum, but my friend brought over their ibook the other day, as they were having problems burning CDs. I have not used a Mac for a long time but I thought I could figure it out, could I heck! It made me want to throw it out the window.
I guess what I am trying to say is, I can usually figure out what I need to do on a PC, but Macs seem unnecessarily confusing.
However, I do like the sound of running PHP and MySql locally. Although it would also be nice to do simple things like burn CDs ;)
Helen.
In my experience I have found PCs far more intuitive and reliable. When I used to have a Mac, it used to freeze up on me all the time for no apparent reason
The freeze has gone now the BSD underbelly keeps things running. Some dodgy progs occasionaly quit.
I can't think that someone who thinks that PCs are intuitive would be much fun at parties ;)
Perhaps this is a query for another forum, but my friend brought over their ibook the other day, as they were having problems burning CDs. >>Although it would also be nice to do simple things like burn CDs ;)
Are you sure that their iBook has a CD writer drive on it? The last time I tried to burn a CD on a computer without a CD writer on it no matter what i tied I couldn't get it to write.
I couldn't get along with the built in software for CD burning because it just burns the complete disc (not sessions) so I bought Toast, works just great.
Best wishes
Sid
If you were using iTunes it is different than just burning a CD from Finder. In finder it's a drag & drop on the CD icon, then drag it to the trash and it asks if you want to burn. iTunes is similar but it gives you a 'Burn' button if you have the CD selected after draging songs to the icon in the program.
I don't have a burner on my PowerBook, but it will still act as if I am able to burn CDs up until I actually try. Then it just tells me "Nice Try" ;)
I can't think that someone who thinks that PCs are intuitive would be much fun at parties ;)
Oooh, what an insult! Still, I guess it's what I should expect when I dare to question the superiority of the sacred Mac ;)
Maybe it's just a personal thing, I just feel more comfortable with a PC. I guess I'm just used to them more now.
Are you sure that their iBook has a CD writer drive on it?
LOL! Maybe you're right, I wasn't in the most clever of moods when she brought it round! I was just looking for something akin to Nero or whatever and could find nothing - it just kept suggesting that I mounted an image on the desktop or something. I successfully managed to recreate a copy of the stuff I wanted to burn on the desktop, but that was as far as I got before I lost patience.
Perhaps I should stop offering to help people with Macs ;)
Helen.
in march 2003 i bought an 800mhz G4 TFT imac as an upgrade from a very old unit.
the new machine is used 7 days a week, about 12 hours a day, mostly for graphic and web design work, along with general office kinda stuff. has 3 user accounts based on local hard drive. synchronises all relevant contacts and calendars direct to my mobile and laptop, and it looks cool. in short, it does everything i ask of it.
but wait, there is one crucial thing left to point out
in over a year it the computer has not crashed, frozen or otherwise misbehaved. the worst thing that happened is the web browser freezing when it hit some bad code.
meanwhile my pc desktop needs special attention about twice a day (bought at same time, but slightly lower spec). indeed, it needs a special kind of attention, that of a large maintenance budget.
i rest my case.
