Are Mac computers/laptops worth the higher cost?
 

I'm thinking about buying a laptop computer - I've been using a donated older desktop Mac -

One of my kids is definitely a Mac enthusiast - the rest of my family is 'frugal'

Opinions?

I want to be able to use a Microsoft Office Suite - play some games - e-mail - maybe a design program (has equilter come up with a Mac compatible program?) - store photos

I'm not very computer savvy - so classes would be helpful.

I used Mac when I was working, but have bought a regular PC at home since then. It used to be the Macs were easier to use......however, since PCs started using the WINDOWS programs, they're just as easy. Mac actually "invented" that platform. If you want to do those programs.............they are NOT Mac compatible.........you would have to either buy new Mac version of the program or see if they would switch you over. some of our programs can not EVER be used -- they don't have a Mac version (IE Microsoft Street and Trips does not have a Mac version -- at least not when I bought my last machine -- and we use it in our travels a lot).
Both the Mac platform and PC platform are configured differently. Pictures may work in both computers........

on edit: some will say that Macs don't get virus's like PCs.....this is not true anymore. And if you get a GOOD virus protection program you won't have a problem. I go all over the computer, download a lot of junk and have NEVER had a virus on my PC or my husband's. :)

Computer comparisons are always difficult, with that being said I'll try and explain what my son (who is microsoft certified) tells his clients. It depends on the usage, will the programs you want in your system be compatible with MAC or Windows operating systems? You can have Windows installed on a second section of the hard drive of a MAC allowing you to run both types of programs, essentially both in one computer. Both operating systems can get viruses. Son's personal preference is for a Windows not Mac mainly due to the repair requirements are mainly brand driven with MAC but more easily done with a PC.

like Dee, i use a PC because many of the specialty programs that i have are not compatible with a Mac

My next computer will be a MAC. I'll have to buy new software - lots of it as I run a business on this PC, but I am totally fed up with PC. The constant updates drive me insane. Windows, Flash, and my security software - all need updating constantly (although I must admit the updates have slowed down a tad, but I'm sure there will a next wave of them coming through). When I talk to my MAC support guy he doesn't have to deal with as many. Not only that but the operating system is just more stable ... it doesn't crash or just *hang* as often.

Yes MAC's cost more up front, but they do last a lot longer.

All I can say is that I honestly and truly LOVE my computer (a Mac) and I never hear anyone say that about their PC.

ROL!!! You're probably right! I DID love my Mac (at work) ----- can't say I LOVE my PC --- but it's reasonable price and can do all the programs I currently have. That's a shame, too.........can't figure out why a MAC costs so much!

My daighter bought a MAC after she came back from Iraq. She has had it three years and has had no problems. She did have to buy programs to convert MAC to Word. When I was teaching graduate students one district bought all of their schools MACs. The teachers loved it. The next computer I get will be a MAC. They are easier to use once you get the hang of how it operates. I have an iPad and the system is similar.

I have had a Mac for 3 years and I love it. BUT, I didn't know a thing about it. My Grandson works with us and he has been my teacher. I couldn't turn on another kind at all and work it. I don't even know many of the computer words people use. But I can do a few things. I think any kind would suit me, no more than I do on it.

When my daughter called me 5 years ago when she wanted to buy her own computer and she was at the book store at UCSD and asked me what I knew about Mac's. Told her I never heard anyone complain about their Mac. Once someone buys a Mac they stay with the Mac. So she bought one and is still using the same lap top. It went to the shop once but got it right back because it turned out she only needed a new battery. So then my other daughter had her PC crash she bought the Mac Computer and 2 years ago I needed a lap top so bought a Mac. We do have a PC in the house for my husband, which we have to pay for a virus protection, which you do not need with a Mac.