Mac vs. Windows.

[Taltarzac725]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

[JMintzer]

Desktop or laptop?

[Taltarzac725]

Desktop or laptop?

Desktop. I have a tablet that works well as a laptop of sorts.

[frayedends]

I've got a Mac Mini and it's been great. I've only had it about a year. I replaced my iMac that was from 2011 and still runs fine. It just wasn't upgradeable.

[metoo21]

I purchased a Mac Mini and the 27" Mac Studio monitor a couple months ago but you can use any other monitor that has a HDMi connection. Since you are wanting a desktop, I'd go this way. You will also want to get a keyboard and mouse. I'd recommend the extended keyboard that has numeric keys on the right side if you do a lot of number entries. iMacs are good too but I hate to keep buying a computer and a monitor. The Mac Studio is pricey but it is a great monitor. My next upgrade in 10 years will not include a monitor. Macs can no longer be user upgraded. RAM and SSD's are soldered to the mother board so I made sure to get the RAM and SSD space that would last me for the next 10 years (32GB and 1TB). Yes, they do last that long and longer. It's just that the OS gets to a point that it can't be upgraded to the latest version but Apple continues to support the last OS for at least 3 years. My Mac mini replaced a 10 year old 27" iMac. Didn't have an issue with it - just getting close to no longer having security updates to the OS. My wife has a 2017 21" iMac. She will not be able to upgrade to Sonoma OS but she will get security updates for 3 more years. Then she will make the switch to a mac mini and a studio monitor.

BTW, I used to program PC's at work but have had Macs at home since 1986. Macs just always seem to work.

[BrianL99]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

Depends on what you're going to do with. I'm at least my 20th Mac and it's a PowerBook Pro. This is the last one I'll buy. When this is done, I'll buy an iPad & Magic Keyboard. That will do most anything you might want to do and runs a simpler system (iOS).

if you're just doing occasional web surfing, shopping & email, I'd give consideration to an iPad. I also wouldn't worry about SSD space. Hardly anyone depends on Hard Drives any longer, everything is remote (Cloud) storage

[Robbb]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

Macs are good for viewing not good for creating. Windows all the way. Let the hate mail fly.

[tophcfa]

I use a Mac Mini PC and an IPad. Prefer both the operating system and security over Windows. It’s a matter of personal preference.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Macs are good for viewing not good for creating. Windows all the way. Let the hate mail fly.

Wife is a mac from the get go

Husband (me) was Mac from 1982, but converted to Windows in 1991 and haven't looked back.

YMMV

[Keefelane66]

Mac’s overall fantastic only setback has no touch screen yet.
I use Apache OpenOffice for MacOS X “ OpenOffice for Mac is a multi-platform and multilingual office suite that is compatible with all other major office suites (meaning it will open and edit Word, Powerpoint documents etc) and best of all it’s absolutely FREE to use.
I also have a ASUS Windows 11 but prefer using my Mac and IPad.

[Taltarzac725]

Thanks. Lots of good information!

[JMintzer]

Desktop. I have a tablet that works well as a laptop of sorts.

You can't go wrong with either the iMac or a Mac Mini. I have both.

I love the look of the iMac, but (I have one at home) but when I replaced a Windows machine at my office, I went with a Mac Mini and I re-used the monitor, keyboard and mouse I already had. Both work fine.

Don't go crazy with memory and whatnot. The basic iMac will most likely serve all of your needs...

(Mac guy since 1989...)

[Topspinmo]

Windows if like being hacked.

[MrChip72]

Macs are good for viewing not good for creating. Windows all the way. Let the hate mail fly.

As a software developer of 25+ years and video editor, I completely disagree. A large majority of professional software/app development, website development, music production and graphic design is now done on Macs these days.

[skippy05]

If your phone is iphone get Mac. Otherwise Windows.

[dcammel]

Desktop or laptop?
The 16” MacBook Air is probably the best laptop on market. My wife loves her laptop, added wireless mouse because she doesn’t like internal mouse pad. I went with iMac Mini desk top with the Apple M2 processor chip. Very small box and hook up to any traditional monitor. I have a large LG 32” and great performance and speed. Integration with iPhone and iPad are great. Take pictures on phone and appear on desktop at home immediately. I used my first iMac for 11years 24/7 with ZERO trouble other than processor and speed became outdated toward end. Never had a Windows based device last more than about 3 yrs.

[M2inOR]

Take inventory of what you do everyday, and make sure what you do can still be done with whatever you choose for a replacement computer.

Simple to say, but difficult to know for sure.

I have both Microsoft Windows as well as Apple MacOS for desktops and laptops. I also have Samsung Android and Apple iOS tablets.

For me, all get the job done, but Samsung Android and Microsoft Windows are used mostly each day.

My experience is from decades of using both, and doing projects with Apple and Microsoft.

For computers, you'll find that Apple is more expensive though. And if you've never used Apple desktop or laptop computers, there will be a big learning curve. As Apple has said over the years, Think Different...

Good luck with your decision. If you have the $$$, buy one of each, and see personally how each is different. Both get the job done, and don't forget, if you have applications that run on your current Windows computer, you may have to purchase the version for Apple if you make the switch.

I use Google Chrome for web browsing, and it's available for every desktop, laptop, or tablet I've mentioned, and it's free.

[Carlsondm]

I have both a windows laptop and a MacBook Pro laptop with a 24 inch monitor for my failing eyesight. I use the MacBook more because of security. I use it for email, utube, searches, photo scanning and archiving, videos, music playlists for download ( we dance), and photo corrections. The windows machine is used for email and operating the Epson scanners. I can also rip music and write to disk in mp3 easier. Video of our dancing is also easier to save to disk. Apple has great security, but they hinder your ability to save family videos and audio tracks to disk or external devices. Windows is easier to work with there. Windows also has more software written for it. We chose security over volume.

It depends on what you want to do. I would recommend a computer that uses finger print or facial recognition in lieu of typed in passwords. That may make life easier for you.
We also have the Mac Mini, but our version does not use fingerprint recognition.

[M2inOR]

One thing about security...

Back years ago, Apple toured about its security, and it was very good.

Unfortunately, the ne'er-do-wells took that as a challenge, and focused their efforts to find Apple's weak spots.

Today, both Microsoft and Apple computers have pretty good security, but are vulnerable to attacks in rare instances. Each get security updates .

Alas, neither are totally secure.

Be careful out there, as the crooks are feverishly working on new attacks.

[Justputt]

Unless there is a specific feature or capability you need from Apple, I would stick with Windows, get a good VPN, firewall and AV, keep them updated. You will get more bang for your buck with a Windows system, upgrades will be easy and cheaper. Also, take a look at the software you already have that you'd have to rebuy in Apple favor.

[MandoMan]

I purchased a Mac Mini and the 27" Mac Studio monitor a couple months ago but you can use any other monitor that has a HDMi connection. Since you are wanting a desktop, I'd go this way. You will also want to get a keyboard and mouse. I'd recommend the extended keyboard that has numeric keys on the right side if you do a lot of number entries. iMacs are good too but I hate to keep buying a computer and a monitor. The Mac Studio is pricey but it is a great monitor. My next upgrade in 10 years will not include a monitor. Macs can no longer be user upgraded. RAM and SSD's are soldered to the mother board so I made sure to get the RAM and SSD space that would last me for the next 10 years (32GB and 1TB). Yes, they do last that long and longer. It's just that the OS gets to a point that it can't be upgraded to the latest version but Apple continues to support the last OS for at least 3 years. My Mac mini replaced a 10 year old 27" iMac. Didn't have an issue with it - just getting close to no longer having security updates to the OS. My wife has a 2017 21" iMac. She will not be able to upgrade to Sonoma OS but she will get security updates for 3 more years. Then she will make the switch to a mac mini and a studio monitor.

BTW, I used to program PC's at work but have had Macs at home since 1986. Macs just always seem to work.

I bought my first Mac in 87. That’s all I’ve ever used. Mac vs. PC is like driving a BMW vs. a Yugo. The feel of the thing under your fingertips is a pleasure. It feels solid.

[Kathyo]

Macs are good for viewing not good for creating. Windows all the way. Let the hate mail fly.

And over priced. Do yourself a favor and buy a MiniAir 11, windows 11, 11th Gen Intel Celeron - 8GB. I bought one in January for $189. Use your old screen, keyboard and mouse. It's a 'desktop' but it only measures 2.3 by 4.7 by 5.1 inches. Great Machine.

[airstreamingypsy]

I have had my current ASUS gamer laptop for 9 years, and I bought it used off craigslist. Windows 10. I hate to jinx it, but it's been flawless. I'm a Windows girl forever..... it's easy, I'm happy with it, I see no reason to spend way more for a mac and then have to learn how to use it.

[Wondering]

Mac Pro

[JohnnyT]

I've owned a Mac all in one since 2011 which still works. When we decided to become snowbirds we decided to go with a Mac Mini, this computer meets our needs on a daily basis with zero issues. We keep a HP monitor, keyboard and mouse in each location so the only thing we travel with is the Mini. I also use a 5gig laptop hard drive for the Time Machine backup. Hope this helps,

[BrianL99]

I've had Apple computers since the first 128K Mac. For most of that time, I've also had a Windows computer, a throwback to the days the 2 systems weren't really compatible and emulation software was in its infancy.

There are 100's of reasons why Mac is more efficient and justifies the higher price, but none more important than this in my opinion:

In 40 years of using a Mac every single day, I have never seen a virus, lost data or had any corruption of my computer, nor have I ever spent a single dollar on anti-virus or any other sort of protection, nor on Tech Support. ZERO losses, ZERO for protection. ZERO support.

[hank2981]

Hooray! Glad you haven't crossed over to the dark side.

[JRcorvette]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

When I retired I switched to Mac for everything. They just do not have all the issues that you often find on Windows computers. All Apple products talk and share with each other.
MacBook Air is a good choice and if you also use an iPad with a keyboard you will be very happy.

[midiwiz]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

Ok so you are comparing a tablet to a laptop?? not even close. The change from Windows to Mac isn't as easy as one would think. At one time I had both, I got rid of the Mac due to total lack of ability to be as easy as Windows. While they try, Apple just doesn't have it like Windows, also to include the office suite doesn't really work on Mac like it does on Windows. (for those promoting google, not listening I have enough software snoops in my life)

I'd actually recommend a surface over a mac any day of the week.

[midiwiz]

I've had Apple computers since the first 128K Mac. For most of that time, I've also had a Windows computer, a throwback to the days the 2 systems weren't really compatible and emulation software was in its infancy.

There are 100's of reasons why Mac is more efficient and justifies the higher price, but none more important than this in my opinion:

In 40 years of using a Mac every single day, I have never seen a virus, lost data or had any corruption of my computer, nor have I ever spent a single dollar on anti-virus or any other sort of protection, nor on Tech Support. ZERO losses, ZERO for protection. ZERO support.

That is because Mac has such a smaller market share that no hacker even cares about the platform, however I can tell you it is extremely easy to hack. Also I'll add almost 50 years of windows and I have never seen a virus, lost data, had any corruption, no tech support, etc. I pretty much think it's not the machine it's the user that is the problem

[mambeg]

MacBook Air with the M2 chip

[spinner1001]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

You might consider this (pretty good) list of factors when thinking about a switch from Windows OS to Mac OS:

https://chat.openai.com/share/a4741186-ae2f-4889-b3a4-a40538250d20

If you decide to switch to Mac OS and a MacBook (the laptop), I believe that MacBook Air has enough features for _most_ people compared to more costly MacBook Pro models. YMMV.

Once the OS decision is made, one factor in selecting a computer model is whether you mainly consume information or create information. Casual users of computers tend to spend most of their time consuming information on their device. Here is a summary of the difference between consuming and creating information:

https://chat.openai.com/share/d6b36295-961e-4cce-9de4-b62b0f429950

Those who mainly create information may need a computer with more power and other features (e.g., MacBook Pro, Microsoft Surface Pro) compared to mainly consuming information (e.g., MacBook Air, iPad, Microsoft Surface Laptop Go).

If you are not cost sensitive, you might buy a more powerful model.

The decision of laptop versus desktop computer depends on your particular circumstances. Here is a pretty good list of factors to consider:

https://chat.openai.com/share/ae1d9cde-1a97-4b1e-b873-675482edb985

Bottom line—-Computer buying decisions depend on one’s particular needs, budget, and preferences. Yours certainly differ from everyone else.

[Kelevision]

I’ve used both but prefer Mac. Mac mini for a desktop!

[rsmurano]

I was in computers for 40+ years and an Apple user since the Apple 2 in the early 80’s.
Windows sucks. Windows has plug n pray, meaning you have a 50% chance of a driver working, so you are praying each time you install 1.
Windows is the most hacked environment, not Apple, not Linux. Every hack you hear about has involved windows. Every apple computer can run windows (if for some reason you have an app that requires windows), and it can run any version of Linux, and it can run multiple releases of osx.
The best cpu you can buy is the apple silicon m1/m2/m3 which is in every new mac/ipad. Hands down beats any intel cpu and AMD cpu (getting close).
Innovators use Apple products, followers use windows.

You didn’t say what your requirements are for a computer. We use multiple Mac computers and multiple iPads/iphones/Apple Watches in our home. The iPads are used for hours every day and I think an iPad could do 99% of what a normal person would ever need a computer. You can hook up a 27” monitor and a keyboard/mouse to the iPad. Get the 12.9” iPad. With at least 256g of storage if not more.
I use Mac’s for personal use and as a server that runs the whole house automation, keeps all the important docs, backs up all Apple devices, and streams music and videos to all TVs/stereo systems and all the cars.
If you need help there are many people here in the villages that can help you convert from windows to apple

[nsantelli]

IF AND ONLY IF you are willing to learn new commends, proceedures, etc, go with Mac. IMACs are way overkill unless you are into very heavy duty video editing, photo effects, art creation, CG. I would seriously consider a Macbook Air and get a separate keyboard, mouse, and monitor (you will need adaptors to go from Apple output to HDMI, keyboards). Then you have the best of both worlds. A home desktop computer which, after you disconnect, you can then take to another room or with you on trips if desired. If you ever need PC compatibility there are Windows emulators you can load on your Mac that let you run most Windows programs. Personally I like the Parallels emulator application.

MAKE SURE you like the keyboard before you buy. They are not for everyone.

FYI - I bought my current Apple MacBook air in 2015. Sill working very well. Did replace the battery a couple of years ago.

History, skip if not interested.

For personal use and early on for business use, I have been an Apple person since 1980 when the Apple II Plus was released. In 1980 thee was the Radio Shack TRS-80 and a couple of others, but there were no IBM PCs and only Apple had a spreadsheet and decent word processing application. A couple years later when IBM PC started arriving (they were built in Boca Raton, FL, at the time), I had to get one to stay compatible with government clients. (This was pre hard disks, pre Windows, pre internet and pre mouse). Once other tech companies figured out that they could buy the Operating System (DOS at the time) directly from Bill Gates / Microsoft, more PCs started appearing and prices went down.and PCs began to sell better than Apple. Macintosh held off the competitors for a very short time because it introduced the mouse to the general public. Bill Gates then came up with Windows and an add on mouse. Software companies quickly started producing applications that used a mouse and as they say -- The rest is history.

[Dusty_Star]

Also I'll add almost 50 years of windows and I have never seen a virus, lost data, had any corruption, no tech support, etc. I pretty much think it's not the machine it's the user that is the problem

Your response is very close to what I was about to reply. Same story. Long time Windows user (professional programmer/systems analyst), nary a virus, lost data, etc. Completely agree it is the user, not the computer.

[Fuzzyjourneyfan]

A lot of great advice on here, but the machine that you use really should depend on what your needs are currently. For me, now that I am retired, I don't need all of the bells and whistles. I switched to a Chromebox and love it! It's very user friendly and does everything that I need, so if all you are doing these days is surfing the internet, you may want to consider a Chromebox. It's similar to a Mac Mini in that it's a small box that you can attach to the back of your monitor. It has easy access to all of the Google apps--I don't even use Word anymore--Google Docs is great and it's free! The base model is usually around $300, and they sell that at Amazon.

[jmaccallum]

I just made an interesting switch and am loving it. Been Mac for 20 years, during which have had Mac mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro. Last was MacBook Pro on the desk also hooked to a 27” Thunderbolt display. Used that MacBook Pro (2012) for 10 years - yes Apple does support them that long.

So the switch I just made is to use the iPad for desktop and mobility. It’s all I use now. It has the M2 chip which makes it more powerful than most computers on the market, 16 GB ram, 2TB storage, WiFi and Cellular, and Apple Pencil.

On the desktop it snaps magnetically into the Magic Keyboard complete with touchpad and functions like a laptop. I also hook it to my 27” Thunderbolt Display for multiple screens.

On the road I put it in another iPad case and have all the mobility I want PLUS everything as far as data I need. No transferring from this device or that. Pretty slick.

By the way, windows sucks compared to Apple. :1rotfl:

[rsmurano]

I was a developer/system programmer/database guy/storage guy/network guy/engineer for solid state devices/ and numerous other positions since the mid 70’s. I went to work for a major website company and you were not allowed to use windows computers because of bugs/security issues/on and on. I also had 2 windows people working for me and they had to patch windows every month while we had Solaris/aix servers running that haven’t been rebooted for over 365 days.
For decades, if you have to use word/excel/powerpoint/office, you don’t need a pc, you can run all of them on a Mac. Get an iPad 12.9” with the attached keyboard/trackpad and never look back

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

While you can put cheese on your windows, if you're into that sort of thing, it'll never be as good as putting cheese in your mac.

Mac is good for cheese, sauce, olive oil, meatballs, tuna salad, and other assorted edibles.

I'll keep using Windows until a) I break down and learn Linux or b) Windows goes out of business and Mac is the only option left.

[retiredguy123]

I have never ever bought an Apple or Mac product of any kind. In the beginning, they were always too expensive. Then, later I couldn't accept the cult-like attitude of the loyal customers.

[JMintzer]

So many "helpful" replies...

So many "cult like" attacks...

ToTV never fails to disappoint...

[JoelJohnson]

I've been using a Chromebook since they first came out. I converted my old laptop to Linux Mint and use it when there is something the Chromebook doesn't do. No regrets!

[Fuzzyjourneyfan]

I've been using a Chromebook since they first came out. I converted my old laptop to Linux Mint and use it when there is something the Chromebook doesn't do. No regrets!
I used Linux Mint (and other various flavors of Linux) for awhile, but I have found that I really don't need all of that anymore. Really, Google has such great apps, that I have everything that I need. I don't even need a machine with a lot of memory (for saving files) anymore. I send things to the cloud--easier to access. I have a Chromebook, too, but I prefer my Chromebox because I have it hooked up to a big monitor.

[MrChip72]

I have never ever bought an Apple or Mac product of any kind. In the beginning, they were always too expensive. Then, later I couldn't accept the cult-like attitude of the loyal customers.

I would say that maybe 10-20% of Apple customers are "fanboys" or cultlike, but it's really not much different with the brand loyalty that Harley Davidson, John Deere, Stihl, Yeti, or Milwaukee tools has with their user base.

Personally, I use a Mac as my main computer and that's it as far as Apple products. I use it because it just works and no hassles from Windows to deal with anymore since I switched 15 years ago.

[retiredguy123]

I would say that maybe 10-20% of Apple customers are "fanboys" or cultlike, but it's really not much different with the brand loyalty that Harley Davidson, John Deere, Stihl, Yeti, or Milwaukee tools has with their user base.

Personally, I use a Mac as my main computer and that's it as far as Apple products. I use it because it just works and no hassles from Windows to deal with anymore since I switched 15 years ago.
I have seen hundreds of Apple groupies lining up at a mall to buy a new IPhone release at the mall. That is what I refer to as cult-like.

[spinner1001]

I have seen hundreds of Apple groupies lining up at a mall to buy a new IPhone release at the mall. That is what I refer to as cult-like.

And Taylor Swift fans, too?

[Freehiker]

Macs are good for viewing not good for creating. Windows all the way. Let the hate mail fly.

Incorrect

[JoelJohnson]

A lot of great advice on here, but the machine that you use really should depend on what your needs are currently. For me, now that I am retired, I don't need all of the bells and whistles. I switched to a Chromebox and love it! It's very user friendly and does everything that I need, so if all you are doing these days is surfing the internet, you may want to consider a Chromebox. It's similar to a Mac Mini in that it's a small box that you can attach to the back of your monitor. It has easy access to all of the Google apps--I don't even use Word anymore--Google Docs is great and it's free! The base model is usually around $300, and they sell that at Amazon.

I started using a Chromebook when they first came out. With over 50 years in the IT community, I found the Chromebook to be safe (can't get a virus), easy to use and dependable (everything you do goes to the Google drive, so that if anything should happen to the Chromebook while using it, all you have to do sign on to any pc with chrome and everything comes right back).

I have a used Chromebox (from a friend that passed away) and am willing to let anyone try it. If they don't like it,all I have to do is do a factory reset and all personal information is erased.

[huge-pigeons]

A big thing to consider when buying a computer is the total environment you live in. For example, do you use a tablet? If so it’s probably an iPad. Do you use a cell phone? It’s probably an iPhone. If you own a newer car, you probably have Apple car play. You probably use/have used iTunes. If you use any of these Apple technologies, they will be easier to integrate together using a Mac instead of trying to get windows to work well with them.

Read this article from PC magazine: Windows Computers Were Targets of 83% of All Malware Attacks in Q1 2020

Windows Computers Were Targets of 83% of All Malware Attacks in Q1 2020 | PCMag (https://www.pcmag.com/news/windows-computers-account-for-83-of-all-malware-attacks-in-q1-2020)

Read this article: What Is the Most Secure Operating System? Updated a couple months ago, Microsoft is the least secure OS

The Most Secure OS: What is the Safest OS Available? (https://tech.co/antivirus-software/what-is-the-most-secure-os)

As for innovation, let’s see which company (Apple vs Microsoft) is the leader:
1. What’s more common, a Microsoft tablet or iPad. Microsoft failed here
2. Do you use a Microsoft phone or an iPhone? Oh, forgot, Microsoft failed miserably here too
3. Apple was voted the #1 innovation company in the world for many years, Microsoft, never!

[CoachKandSportsguy]

In 40 years of using a Mac every single day, I have never seen a virus, lost data or had any corruption of my computer, nor have I ever spent a single dollar on anti-virus or any other sort of protection, nor on Tech Support. ZERO losses, ZERO for protection. ZERO support.

FACT CHECK SAME TIME PERIOD: TRUE

unfortunately, same experience over the same time period comparison between my wife's mac and my pcs. I have never lost so many files as I have working at my former job on Office 365 at any other time or machine or software.

For me the hardware choices and the increased software availability for the PC over time won me over to the PC. However, in retirement, other than the python investment courses i am currently taking, there is nothing I have on the PC which isn't on the MAC, other than experience and familiarity.

Since the P in PC is personal, its a personal choice and its really up to you and your use case and your budget. .

[harby]

We have been long time customers of Apple products (iphones & Mac)...we have from minimac, iphones, laptops, ...to Mac desktops. We love Apple because we always get fast reply from Apple (not from robotic answers!) via phone whenever we need assistances and they always do their best to solve before hanging up.

[JMintzer]

This thread isn't a Mac vs Windows thread...

The OP has decided he wants to purchase a Mac and is looking for info on which model to buy...

Yet, the Windows "Fanbois" just had to put in their $0.02...

[kendi]

Depends on what you're going to do with. I'm at least my 20th Mac and it's a PowerBook Pro. This is the last one I'll buy. When this is done, I'll buy an iPad & Magic Keyboard. That will do most anything you might want to do and runs a simpler system (iOS).

if you're just doing occasional web surfing, shopping & email, I'd give consideration to an iPad. I also wouldn't worry about SSD space. Hardly anyone depends on Hard Drives any longer, everything is remote (Cloud) storage

I use external hard drive for back up. That way I know I will always have my information regardless of hackers, connectivity issues etc. don’t like my personal info in the cloud. No matter how safe they say it is, I don’t believe it’s ever 100%

[midiwiz]

I was in computers for 40+ years and an Apple user since the Apple 2 in the early 80’s.
Windows sucks. Windows has plug n pray, meaning you have a 50% chance of a driver working, so you are praying each time you install 1.
Windows is the most hacked environment, not Apple, not Linux. Every hack you hear about has involved windows. Every apple computer can run windows (if for some reason you have an app that requires windows), and it can run any version of Linux, and it can run multiple releases of osx.
The best cpu you can buy is the apple silicon m1/m2/m3 which is in every new mac/ipad. Hands down beats any intel cpu and AMD cpu (getting close).
Innovators use Apple products, followers use windows.

You didn’t say what your requirements are for a computer. We use multiple Mac computers and multiple iPads/iphones/Apple Watches in our home. The iPads are used for hours every day and I think an iPad could do 99% of what a normal person would ever need a computer. You can hook up a 27” monitor and a keyboard/mouse to the iPad. Get the 12.9” iPad. With at least 256g of storage if not more.
I use Mac’s for personal use and as a server that runs the whole house automation, keeps all the important docs, backs up all Apple devices, and streams music and videos to all TVs/stereo systems and all the cars.
If you need help there are many people here in the villages that can help you convert from windows to apple

in computers? nothing you said was anything IT related, very user driven since if it were IT related experience you would already know that Linux has been very hackable. Also OSX is hackable just that no one that hacks really cares 2 dumps about anything apple related. Also x86 machines are completely able to run linux without issues.

[midiwiz]

I was a developer/system programmer/database guy/storage guy/network guy/engineer for solid state devices/ and numerous other positions since the mid 70’s. I went to work for a major website company and you were not allowed to use windows computers because of bugs/security issues/on and on. I also had 2 windows people working for me and they had to patch windows every month while we had Solaris/aix servers running that haven’t been rebooted for over 365 days.
For decades, if you have to use word/excel/powerpoint/office, you don’t need a pc, you can run all of them on a Mac. Get an iPad 12.9” with the attached keyboard/trackpad and never look back

seriously the 70s as a comparison to now? ugh.......

[markhollis]

I sold MacPractice in 2020 supporting 30,000 users in medical, dental, chiropractic, and eye doctor practices using our Mac-native software developed for Macs, iPads and iPhones. Of course many clients were forced by their hospitals to use and communicate with Windows and even Unix-based software, and they did. So I think you are making a good decision to change.

BTY, numerous third party devices like keypads, mice, etc. connect wirelessly using Bluetooth, should you choose to incorporate one into your environment.

Once you use a Mac, you may find that you will want to do all the things you can on the Mac everywhere you go, so I do recommend you consider a capable MacBook or MacBook Pro. I just purchased a MacBook Pro 16". Get more than enough memory and storage for what you want to accomplish.

The best feature of Apple's products is the Apple environment. To get the fullest benefit from the Apple experience and as other devices require replacement, you will probably want to incorporate an iPad and iPhone (and maybe even an Apple Watch) as your mobile devices over time. When you have all 3 (or 4) you can choose to set them up so you can, for example, answer a phone call on your iPad in the shower even when your iPhone was left in your car or elsewhere in the house. You will be able to start a task on any device and continue with it seamlessly when you arrive home to sit at your desk where you have a mini or iMac or your MacBook Air or Pro connected to a monitor, etc. as you choose.

Best wishes for your adventure with Apple products as Apple continuously enhances your security, functionality and capabilities. Apple updates their FREE MacOS, iOS, iPad OS, and WatchOS, every year with easy to implement upgrades throughout the year. Apple users love to keep their software current, and Windows users statistically dread it.

Anecdotal evidence sometimes to the contrary, when reaffirming your personal decision to opt for Mac, I suggest you Google search 'Macs at IBM' and read what the company that supports 500,000 users has discovered as they have migrated their employees, 80% of which preferred Mac. I think you will find tremendous value that saves them untold money for every Mac user. They estimate $535 saved Mac v. PC in just the first 3 years.

[Taltarzac725]

Thanks for all the posts. Lots of useful information here.

:bowdown:

[ibistony]

Got the Mac Mini M2. Can't beat the deal and the product is outstanding. Stick with the Apple Eco System.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

A big thing to consider when buying a computer is the total environment you live in. For example, do you use a tablet? If so it’s probably an iPad. Do you use a cell phone? It’s probably an iPhone. If you own a newer car, you probably have Apple car play. You probably use/have used iTunes. If you use any of these Apple technologies, they will be easier to integrate together using a Mac instead of trying to get windows to work well with them.



My tablet is a Samsung, using an Android OS. My previous tablet was a Nexus, which used an Android OS
My cell phone is a Google Pixel, which uses an Android OS. My previous two cell phones were both Samsungs, using Android OS.
My desktop is a Windows machine. My laptop is a Windows machine. I don't use iTunes, I use YouTube Music and AmazonPrime music. For my car, I have CDs, the radio, and and my first cell phone, which I've converted into an MP3 player.

If you gave me the newest, most expensive, gizmo and gadget-equipped Apple and Mac, I'd donate it to a school and buy an Android or Windows machine.

If you paid me $500,000 to keep an Apple or Mac, I'd take your money, and use the devices as lawn ornaments.

[BrianL99]

I use external hard drive for back up. That way I know I will always have my information regardless of hackers, connectivity issues etc. don’t like my personal info in the cloud. No matter how safe they say it is, I don’t believe it’s ever 100%

Good advice, I also do the same thing.

I did at one point, ran into an iCloud issue and lost some old data. They admitted it was an their glitch and gave me a substantial Gift Card (it didn't help with my data, but getting them to admit to being at fault, was a win).

[JMintzer]

My tablet is a Samsung, using an Android OS. My previous tablet was a Nexus, which used an Android OS
My cell phone is a Google Pixel, which uses an Android OS. My previous two cell phones were both Samsungs, using Android OS.
My desktop is a Windows machine. My laptop is a Windows machine. I don't use iTunes, I use YouTube Music and AmazonPrime music. For my car, I have CDs, the radio, and and my first cell phone, which I've converted into an MP3 player.

If you gave me the newest, most expensive, gizmo and gadget-equipped Apple and Mac, I'd donate it to a school and buy an Android or Windows machine.

If you paid me $500,000 to keep an Apple or Mac, I'd take your money, and use the devices as lawn ornaments.

Congratulations...

[Freehiker]

My tablet is a Samsung, using an Android OS. My previous tablet was a Nexus, which used an Android OS
My cell phone is a Google Pixel, which uses an Android OS. My previous two cell phones were both Samsungs, using Android OS.
My desktop is a Windows machine. My laptop is a Windows machine. I don't use iTunes, I use YouTube Music and AmazonPrime music. For my car, I have CDs, the radio, and and my first cell phone, which I've converted into an MP3 player.

If you gave me the newest, most expensive, gizmo and gadget-equipped Apple and Mac, I'd donate it to a school and buy an Android or Windows machine.

If you paid me $500,000 to keep an Apple or Mac, I'd take your money, and use the devices as lawn ornaments.


Suuuuure

[spinner1001]

What was that?

[JMintzer]

https://media.tenor.com/IN7ZI22IP3UAAAAd/board-mac-vs-pc.gif

[markhollis]

Ignorance is bliss.

If you use Windows and Android and do not want to change, it is best that you not try MacOS, iOS or WatchOS. Studies demonstrate more than 90% of users of both Windows and MacOS prefer MacOS. Also in companies where employees are given the option, more than 80% prefer Macs. STAY AWAY!

[BrianL99]

Ignorance is bliss.

If you use Windows and Android and do not want to change, it is best that you not try MacOS, iOS or WatchOS. Studies demonstrate more than 90% of users of both Windows and MacOS prefer MacOS. Also in companies where employees are given the option, more than 80% prefer Macs. STAY AWAY!

Why try to confuse folks with facts?

[MrChip72]

Ugh. Why do some people actually care at all what OS other people use? Who cares? It's good that we have multiple options to be honest.

There's people all over the world that have one government sanctioned option, or none at all.

[Taltarzac725]

Picked up a very cheap Windows computer that had been wiped clean and then rebuilt. On Amazon. I did wipe it before using it just to be safe. Does not have Wi-Fi built in as they are business used computers. I guess they wanted to keep their data safe from workers surfing the web.

[retiredguy123]

Ignorance is bliss.

If you use Windows and Android and do not want to change, it is best that you not try MacOS, iOS or WatchOS. Studies demonstrate more than 90% of users of both Windows and MacOS prefer MacOS. Also in companies where employees are given the option, more than 80% prefer Macs. STAY AWAY!
Studies? What studies? There are a lot more users of Windows and Android than Mac. If 90 percent prefer Mac, why don't they use it?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Studies? What studies? There are a lot more users of Windows and Android than Mac. If 90 percent prefer Mac, why don't they use it?

The person you responded to used a subset. Important to pay attention to those kinds of things.

Among "users of BOTH Mac & Win" - meaning, people who use both, not people who use one, plus people who use the other instead. People who are dual-OS users. Folks who might use apple at home, but windows at work. Of THAT subset of people, he claims that studies state that THOSE people prefer their Mac experience to their Windows experience.

I don't know which studies he refers to but let's pretend it's true.

I'll tell you what is also probably true: most people who use both in their lives, use Mac at home, and Windows at work. Not the other way around, because Windows is the default business operating system among the two (Linux/Unix is also a default business OS but it's not being considered in this comparison).

Who enjoys computers more? People in their work place, or people in the comfort of their own home? People doing data entry on spreadsheets at work, or people paying games on Twitch at home? Of course they're enjoying their Mac more, they get to use it for what they WANT to use it for, as opposed to what they're stuck getting paid to use it for.

I'd suggest that if their job required them to work on a Mac at their desk, and they had a windows machine at their house, they'd probably prefer the Windows OS.

I've worked on both, I hated the Mac. It was a very old version by today's standards but somewhat new when I was using it. In fact it was my introduction to personal computers. My previous experience was with Unix and Wang. Once I learned DOS, I was hooked and knew I'd never buy an Apple product again.

[bopat]

Linux is pretty good too.
Most of the internet runs off of Linux or a derivative.
Android is a derivative of Linux. MacOS is a derivative of Unix, the predecessor of Linux.

Windows is the oddball. But now they're moving towards Linux with WSL (windows subsystem for linux) and docker and such.

Linux is open source and free as in speech.

You can try any of them without erasing your hard drive by using a "live cd" version, just write it to a USB stick and boot from it.

For example, debian (the one I use):
Debian -- Live install images (https://www.debian.org/CD/live/#live-install-stable)

Comes with everything you'd want including web browsing, email, productivity (documents, spreadsheets, presentation, database, etc), video editing, audio editing, etc. etc. either on the base image or a free install from the app store.

You can run Windows, Android, MacOS and other stuff on it with KVM/QEMU in a virtual environment. I've got Windows 10 and MacOS in virtual machines on top of my Debian Linux.

Lots of Linux distributions are based on Debian. Here's one that's pretty user friendly:
Download LMDE 6 - Linux Mint (https://linuxmint.com/download_lmde.php)

[JMintzer]

The person you responded to used a subset. Important to pay attention to those kinds of things.

Among "users of BOTH Mac & Win" - meaning, people who use both, not people who use one, plus people who use the other instead. People who are dual-OS users. Folks who might use apple at home, but windows at work. Of THAT subset of people, he claims that studies state that THOSE people prefer their Mac experience to their Windows experience.

I don't know which studies he refers to but let's pretend it's true.

I'll tell you what is also probably true: most people who use both in their lives, use Mac at home, and Windows at work. Not the other way around, because Windows is the default business operating system among the two (Linux/Unix is also a default business OS but it's not being considered in this comparison).

Who enjoys computers more? People in their work place, or people in the comfort of their own home? People doing data entry on spreadsheets at work, or people paying games on Twitch at home? Of course they're enjoying their Mac more, they get to use it for what they WANT to use it for, as opposed to what they're stuck getting paid to use it for.

I'd suggest that if their job required them to work on a Mac at their desk, and they had a windows machine at their house, they'd probably prefer the Windows OS.

I have both a Mac and a PC at work. I HATE working on the PC, so I use the Mac, almost exclusively...

I've worked on both, I hated the Mac. It was a very old version by today's standards but somewhat new when I was using it. In fact it was my introduction to personal computers. My previous experience was with Unix and Wang. Once I learned DOS, I was hooked and knew I'd never buy an Apple product again.

If a Mac was you're initial introduction to personal computers and you actually preferred a PC at the time, you're the 1%...

NO ONE like the cumbersome OS of those machines. Macs were simply intuitive in their use. They still are...

[daniel200]

I have used Windows machines since Windows 1.0. Currently I have a Dell all-in-one desktop that is solid and reliable …

But, the Dell seldom gets used anymore. I do 99% of my computing on my Ipad now. It is convenient, mobile and able to do almost everything thing I want without firing up the Dell. The only reason, I use the Dell now is for my annual tax return… and that is only because I find the big screen more convenient

[JRcorvette]

My Telikin seems to be on its last legs. I have been thinking about going to a Mac computer rather than the various windows computers I have had or used over the past 25 years.

Any advice on what kind of Mac would be a good choice?

The Telikins are good but I would like a change.

The MacBook Air is a nice laptop and can probably do everything you want. We switch to Apple from Windows about 10 years ago and have had zero issues or problems plus Apple has excellent customer support!

[JoelJohnson]

I've used all kinds of computers over my over 50 years in the computer industry. I got a Chromebook about 10 years ago (and use it 99% of the time), I converted my Windows 7 laptop to Linux Mint (and use it when the Chromebook doesn't do something I need). I will NEVER go back to Windows (or use a Mac).