In the May 2011 issue of Master Builder magazine FMB’s Web Editor, Ewan Mannington, discussed a possible alternative to the Windows Operating System called Linux. This month he investigates the less niche Operating System on Apple Mac to see how the Windows main competitor fairs...
It’s just 10 years ago, that many industry experts were describing the Apple brand as “dead in the water.” Of course the advent of the iPod, iPhone and iPad transformed their fortunes. Apple became well known for its innovative design and easy to use software, something that also helped Apple Mac become one of the leaders in the world of computers. As well as sleek design, the Mac’s Operating System has gained a reputation for being fast and stable rarely suffering from virus threats.
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Apple Mac in comparison to a Windows PC:
PROS
- If speed to you means the computer is ready to go when you hit the power button, you should definitely try a Mac. With all of the downloadable programmes that Windows often runs into when starting up, just turning on your PC could take many more minutes than the few seconds it takes a Mac to start up
- Sleek design with impressive features
- Mac fits well with all other Apple products like iPhone, iPad or iPod touch etc
- It does not have any (notable) virus written for it, nor does it face malware attacks. It therefore has a far more stable system that rarely crashes
- Mac allows running windows in a legal way via Boot Camp
- Although not free, the quality and professional customer support system of Apple is an added advantage
- Unlike Windows, when you buy a Mac, it does not come pre-loaded with trialware which can end up significantly slowing your system down
- Macs come with better software, out of the box.
CONS
- Windows have made significant improvements to their latest Operating System. The speed and performance of Windows 7 is considered to be virtually the same as Macs OS X
- Microsoft Windows has been the long time standard for business software like Outlook, Word and Excel. Many new gadgets only work on Windows-based PCs – such as some storage drives MP3 players and USB gadgets. Trying out the latest hardware may not always work on a Mac. PCs generally have quality software compatibility
- Macs are considerably more expensive than PCs. You pay a considerable premium for the hardware
- Provides scope for total customisation. Anyone can start working with a PC from scratch to build it their own way
- People are more accustomed with it because of long co-existence
- Has comfortable backward adjustment capacity. For example, a Windows 7 can run on an old PC
- Around 90 percent of people worldwide prefer to use Windows
- The majority of businesses use PCs
- You have a wide variety of manufacturers to choose from when you buy a PC. Mac only offers their own hardware (i.e. Macbook, Macbook Pro, iMac).
Macs’ style, impressive features and ease of use will always make them a popular choice for computer users. Macs have long been used in graphic design for these reasons, however in the last few years ordinary users are increasingly buying Macs in preference to PCs. There is no doubt that this has a lot to do with the success of iPods, iPhones etc which has encouraged users to try Macs. The drawback of Apple is undoubtedly the price. In the end, especially when starting out, you will get more value for money from a PC. With some smart shopping you can get a powerful one for significantly less money than a Mac. *The Operating System for a Mac is Mac OS X Leopard while Microsoft Windows 7 is the latest Operating System for PCs.
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