Mac vs. PC

The great divide

When it comes down to it, there isn't that much difference between Macs and PCs for the average home computer user. A lot of your decision will be based on personal preference, what you use your computer for, and what you are familiar with already.

Cost

It is often claimed that IBM compatible PCs are far less expensive than Apple Macs. This claim can easily be both supported and disputed: it all depends on what level of computer you are looking for. You can probably find an entry level PC (basic operating system, little memory, no fun goodies) for less than the least expensive Mac. But when you begin adding the little extras that make a computer more than just a glorified typewriter/calculator, the pricing begins to even out.

The right click

One of the most obvious differences between Macs and PCs is in the mouse. Simply put: Macs have one button and PCs have two. This is mostly an issue for people who are already accustomed to PCs; they have come to depend on the right click, which is convenient and easy to use. Mac users depend more on keyboard shortcuts, which though they take a bit of time to learn, are quicker than the click-scroll-click style of the right click.

The virus factor

One thing that Macs clearly have over PCs is that there is far less risk of a virus. Why is this? Simply put, hackers just don't create viruses for Mac operating systems.

The cool factor

Those of you who care about such things probably already know: Macs just look cooler than PCs. With a new Mac model coming out just about every week (or so it seems) in many colors and shapes, Apple has far exceeded PCs in aesthetics.

More information on desktop computers