Mac vs PC – Part 1

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I really have heard enough of this to be able to make my own argument, one for each side. Tonight, I’m gonna do the Mac side of things first. It’s easier to argue for anyway.

To me, there are two main types of computer users. The techies (me included) – people who are familiar enough with the interface to understand its limitations, and general consumers – people who use computers for a purpose. XD

Before I actually delve into why one should opt for Apple computers over Windows brands, I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you have been a Windows user for most if not all your life, with little or no experience on Mac, Linux or a non-Windows operating system, you could be in for a shock when you change. Mac OS X is radically different from how Windows works, and it will take some serious time and effort to switch.

Having gotten that over with, it’s time to begin the debate.

Why Mac is better than Windows (I say Windows because PC’s include Linux, and clearly, it trumps all)

• Reason 1: It doesn’t come loaded with useless software that you never asked for.
  Whenever you buy a brand-name PC (not one you assemble yourself), chances are, it comes with a ridiculous amount of well…crap. Sure, the 6-month antivirus could come useful (see reasons below why it really isn’t), but seriously, who still uses Nero or Microsoft Works (which, by the way, is an oxymoron)? People want alternatives, not being stuck with the same mediocre software that they never asked to be installed on their computers. To make matters worse, PC makers plaster stickers all over their computers. WHY? Answer: these software and hardware companies subsidize the computer maufacturer, so they can lower the price of the computer – why PC’s seem to sell cheaper than Macs. Apple on the other hand handles the hardware and software, which means it comes with software loaded on it that is usable and to be honest, is nothing more than what Windows by itself as a software has. iTunes -> WMP, iPhoto -> WL Gallery, iChat -> Messenger, you get the point. The whole iLife suite is just what Windows has, available as a separate package at the Apple Store.
• Reason 2: The Dock
  I can’t even begin to tell you how annoyed I get at people whose PC desktops look more like a jungle than what it’s supposed to be – clean, with a at least somewhat visible background wallpaper. Having downloaded files (sometimes complete with embarrassing file names projected onto a screen), shortcuts, document folders, installation icons plastered all over the place renders the whole “clean” concept moot. Mac on the other hand, this is much easier to handle, as your files are easily accessible in Finder, anything can actually be searched in Spotlight with accurate results returned within seconds, and of course, the Dock, where programs you use for 90% of the time can be stored. There aren’t that many anyway. It’s a much better way of organizing things as a searchable, directory-based structure (Mac puts all Applications in well…the Applications folder. You can’t change that) rather than in a four-columned Start Menu. The equivalent of the Start Menu in Mac, the Apple Menu, is for system operations, such as computer information (Properties, or ‘Get Info’ as on the Mac, is actually for file information. Not finding out how much RAM you have), software update, and shutdown or logout procedures – as it should be.
• Reason 3: Spotlight
  When was the last time you used Windows search, typed a search term, and have good results returned to you within 30 seconds? Or for Windows Vista or Windows 7 users, the same thing, but from the searchbar on the Start Menu? What was that, did you say “never”? Great, me neither. But let me introduce you to spotlight. It is pure genius. I can’t remember where I read the article, but the author of that article helped write code for a search application on Mac servers way back when, which eventually became Spotlight, available on all Macs. It returns blazingly-fast and awesomely accurate results. I get pleasantly surprised every time I use it. It’s so good, I almost never have to go into the App folder to launch programs that aren’t on my Dock – just type and hit Enter.
• Reason 4: Securiy
  This is more applicable to techies, but everyone would benefit from reading it. Nothing beats a solid Unix base. Sure, it’s not a 100% failsafe system, but it’s definitely better than Windows Defender, Firewall and Security Centre everyday. Being a security-based system, any essential services that are changed in Mac OS X needs your permission to continue – by asking for your password. Having said that, it isn’t like in Vista or Windows 7 where the screen dims, takes up ridiculously large amounts of RAM, and asks you whether or not you can do something as simple as change a setting, delete a file or whatnot. It’s smart enough to distinguish between human and computer. Unlike Windows.

Seems that Mac is better eh? We’ll see…I have my Windows reflectable tomorrow. Although I highly doubt it beats Mac. Still, Linux for the win (that’s Part 3 btw).

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Filed under Critique, Debates, Mac, by Chester