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How to Choose Between a Mac and a PC

1960texan | Mar 18, 2010 |

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You're buying a new laptop computer and the choices are overwhelming. Before you decide on which internal processors you want or how much memory you need, you must first determine which type of laptop computer is best suited to your personal needs, and choose between a Mac and a PC.

Things You Will Need

Pen
Paper
Opinionated Friends

Step 1

Make a list of the activities you will use your laptop computer for. The conventional wisdom used to be that PCs were best for writing, and Macs were best suited for visually creative endeavors, such as graphic design. The lines have blurred somewhat, as software companies have begun making their products available for both types of laptops. That said, the majority of writers still use PCs, and most graphic designers still use Macs.

Step 2

List the pros and cons of both types of computers. If you've ever lost all of your data due to a computer virus, you should know that while Macs do have the occasional virus to contend with, they aren't as vulnerable to outside attacks as PCs. Macs are typically more expensive than PCs, but are generally regarded as being more reliable. When you choose between a Mac and a PC you will need to take these things into account.

Step 3

Determine the true cost of each laptop computer. If a comparable PC cost a few hundred dollars less than a Mac, but has a useful life of three years to the Macs five, then ultimately you will spend more money on PCs. Thus the true cost of owning a PC will be greater than the cost of owning a Mac.

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Tips & Warnings

Ask your friends. Some of them will have Macs, some will have PCs, and some will have experience owning both types of computers. Their opinions will help you to choose between a Mac and a PC.