Mac vs. Windows.
 

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.

Desktop or laptop?

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

Thanks. Lots of good information!

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...)

Windows if like being hacked.

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.

If your phone is iphone get Mac. Otherwise Windows.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Macs
 

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.

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.

Mac Pro

Mac Mini
 

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,

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.

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

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.

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.

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

MacBook Air with the M2 chip

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/a47411...4-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/d6b362...4-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/ae1d9c...3-675482edb985

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

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

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

Mac or Windows or both
 

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.

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.

Chromebox
 

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 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:

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

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.