When most people think of the “Mac vs PC” debate they imagine casually dressed Justin Long saying “Hello, I’m a Mac” and stiff, formally dressed John Hodgeman sorely responding, “and I’m a PC.”
The Mac Windows debate has been going on for years by people who swear by (or at) each brand. Mac users boast security, usability and design, while Windows users brag about price, software compatibility and choice.
Since the first Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, Macs have been the dominating design-oriented PCs. According to CNN, the Mac vs PC (Windows-based computers) gap is currently the narrowest since the 90s.
A study by NPD found that 79% of all computers purchased in U.S. retail stores in 2010 were Windows PCs, however of those that sold for $1,000 or more, 88% were Macs.
In general, Macs will outperform low-end PCs because Apple product lines usually have better quality parts. Macs have faster processors than their Windows equivalents but usually have less RAM, hard drive space, and USB ports.
Apple only offers 5 computer lines: the Mac Book Air, the MacBook Pro, the Mac mini, the iMac, and the Mac Pro. However, their limited selection is not a sign of weakness but a “less is more” approach. On the other hand, there are at least 11 distinct brands of Windows-based computers including Acer, Asus, Compaq, Dell, eMachines, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony and Toshiba.
Gamers generally prefer Windows over Mac because of the software. Steam, an online gaming platform, claimed that there are about 180 games for Mac and over 1,300 for Windows.
Because the majority of computers run Windows, the majority of viruses are made for Windows. The #1 myth about Macs is that they “don’t get viruses.” This was probably true back when Mac didn’t get many customers either, but as more people bought Macs more viruses were made to breach them.
The most prominent difference between Macs and Windows-based computers is in customer satisfaction. In surveys conducted by PCWorld and PCMag, readers chose Apple computers over every single brand of PC available. Macs scored high marks in categories such as reliability, service experience and phone hold time. Mac scored low in only one category, which was percentage of laptops needing repairs. Although, that didn’t seem to affect their “likelihood of recommending” score, because Mac topped that category. Mac provides face-to-face assistance from technicians in-store at their Genius Bar. In contrast, most PC manufacturers have outsourced their service centers.
With all of this in mind, it is really the user’s preference that will make or break their decision. Everyone is not going to all like the same brand. If you are a long time Windows user, don’t think it is impossible to switch and learn how to use a Mac, because it’s not, but it will take some getting used to. Try out different products and see which one is best for you.
Once you buy a new computer or decide to stick with your old one remember that you will probably need some computer maintenance, no matter what brand you buy. If you get a virus or just need to fix a problem on your computer go to motionborg.com or call (954) 441-1049.
Rebecca Hunter
MOTIONBORG, Inc.
Technology Consultant at MOTIONBORG
With a natural passion for technology, he is always on the search for next great invention to test out and play with. Enjoys sharing his thoughts and knowledge with others through blogging. Helping business owners on how to better utilize technology to their advantage has become the true meaning of success and life.