Mac Versus PC

In the war between Mac and PC, consumers are often caught in the middle. Both camps have their avid promoters, but oftentimes preference is based on subjective user experience. The two systems are both becoming more and more similar, but the point remains that there are still areas where they diverge. Using a few typical deciding factors, you can decide which system is best for your needs.

• Cost – It’s no secret that when you match systems with similar hardware, PC comes out on top for cost effectiveness. Computer users on a budget will find that the prices of PCs are often much easier to swallow compared with similar Macs. Mac competes more in the high-end consumer market, almost willfully giving up the market share to maintain the luxury image of its brand.
• Speed- Performance and speed are often key factors when debating the merits of these two systems. Since the processors on both Mac and PC have become more or less equal, the operating systems tend to decide which is the faster system. Mac’s OS X typically provides a faster boot-up and shut-down than Windows 32-bit Vista, but the gap in speed shrinks when compared with 64-bit Vista or XP. With Windows 7, the difference in speed will likely become a non-issue.
• Software – The software that comes standard on a Mac is far superior to the software on most PCs. With iLife, which is standard on all Macs, users have a virtual recording studio, great graphics and photo software, as well as web design software. Macs have become the art and entertainment industry standard.
• Security – Both systems require security, but Mac has fewer threats in the first place. The number of PC users is much higher than the number of Mac users, so viruses, worms, and other malware tend to target PCs instead of Macs. PCs typically require you to purchase separate security software to keep your computer safe, whereas Mac has security installed right out of the box.
• Size – If you are looking for the most portable laptop, you won’t find it in the Apple store. The smallest laptops are still PCs. If your work takes you on frequent business trips, the smaller PCs tend to be a better bet as Apple’s smallest laptop is the MacBook, or the Air which is similarly sized but ultra-thin.
• Interchangeability – With programs like Boot Camp and Parallels, users can install dual operating systems on their Mac and enjoy the best of both worlds.This means that software meant for PC users is still accessible to Mac users if they install the Windows operating system onto their Mac.
• Upgrading – With Macs, hardware upgrades are hard to come by. For those that need to be on the cutting-edge of technology, this may lead to some issues. Consumers can easily find PC parts, and even build a PC from the ground up, to ensure that they have the exact specifications they desire. With a Mac, upgrading your hardware is not as user-friendly.
• Gaming – Most computer games are made for PCs. Some games never even make it to Macs. Unfortunately, to play these new games with the best possible graphics, PC users are sometimes forced to shell out for a newer video card. For many gamers, the ability to continually upgrade hardware is especially important as it can enhance the playability and aesthetics of a game.

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