Mac vs. PC
Printed From: CorrectCraftFan.com
Category: General Correct Craft Discussion
Forum Name: Off Topic
Forum Discription: Anything non-Correct Craft
URL: http://www.CorrectCraftFan.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=13780
Printed Date: January-07-2025 at 4:38pm
Topic: Mac vs. PC
Posted By: davidg
Subject: Mac vs. PC
Date Posted: May-26-2009 at 2:58am
|
Hey all, thought I would try posting this here to see what your thoughts are on laptop computers.
My 19 year old son needs a computer for college, and of course, he wants it pretty quickly. I have really been studying computers the past few days. He just needs a computer for school work, and iTunes, and web browsing for the most part. I would appreciate any comments on either. Here is what I have learned so far. PC's: The Vista operating system takes up a lot of RAM, and can be problematic, so I have heard. However, PC's are much cheaper. More prone to virus attack as well. Mac's: Easy to use, and mostly immune to viruses. Much more expensive. However, I did find a used G4 PowerBook for ~$400. My son is leaning toward that. Any thoughts out there on the advantages of one vs. the other. Is it wise to buy a used computer? Any experiences (good or bad) with Vista? I have heard MS has a new operating system in the works, but, not sure when it will be released for full production. Thanks! Dave |
Replies:
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-26-2009 at 3:13am
|
Find out what specials the college has on laptops. When I was in college, the school offered student disounts which were a much better deal than I could find anywhere else.
I had an Apple back then, but currently have 3 PC laptops. I like the Macs, but can't justify the estra costs. Bought my wife a very powerful Toshiba laptop at Fry's back in December in the $750 range. BKH ------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: quinner
Date Posted: May-26-2009 at 3:06pm
|
Have one PC running Vista and have found it to be pretty stable, in fact the OS as a whole is much better then XP IMO.
Virus Protection Software is readily available for PC's and in many cases free from your service provider however more times then not it really will dog the machine down. Is that true about MACs being mostly immune to viruses?? ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1143" rel="nofollow - Mi Bowt |
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-26-2009 at 3:19pm
|
Mac's have a Unix based operating system and are therefore more difficult to hack and deploy viruses.
Also, those that distribute viruses are looking for "street cred." They want quantity. There are a lot more PCs than Macs out there, and therfore the bad guys get more bang for the buck when spending the time to come up with a virus. BKH ------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 12:50am
|
I'm a VP of IT and have spent my whole career wading through PCs and Macs in work and home life. In my opinion, the PC has no place in a private residence or at school. I like Microsoft's client/server architecture over the Macs but that's about where it ends. Macs cost a bit more but the hardware lasts forever and holds its value like nothing else out there. We have approximately 30 Macs at work which we purchased in 2005 and we don't even have to think about replacing them for a couple more years. Plenty of performance to spare, pumping out magazine pages every day with the latest versions of heavy-duty software like InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and the like. We just acquired a company with Mac G4 cubes from 2000, still running relatively recent software at a respectable performance level. PCs from that time period are typically at the recycling plant.
Also, keep in mind that with a Mac you're paying for outstanding software too. iPhoto, iMovie, Garage Band, iDVD, et al are all top-notch software packages that would cost thousands of dollars alone in the PC world and come bundled for free with your new Mac. The latest Macs run on Intel chipsets which will run windows flawlessly with Bootcamp (which of course comes bundled with the Mac), which will allow you to run Windows and Mac OSX on the same computer with no problem. Best of both worlds. The extra money paid for the Mac is well worth it and you'll see it on the resale side as well. Check out prices for 5-10 year old Macs on eBay and you'll see what I mean. BKH is right on what he said as well. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 2:21am
|
Guys....I appreciate all the feedback on Mac vs. PC. I have been going nuts with this issue. I am very apprehensive about getting my son a PC running Vista.
My other son has a Gateway with XP (I think). Basically, its been pretty good, but, we let our Trend Micro/PC-Cillan anti-virus lapse last year, and before we could get it renewed, he got hit with a nasty virus and we had to pay Geek Squad $200 to get it going again. ARGH!!!!!! Joel...your input on Mac's lasting a long time is re-assuring. I was afraid if we buy this G4 that it will break down soon, and I would be kicking myself for getting it. The G4 doesn't have any word or database programs loaded on it. Any recommendations for the best program to get for a Mac, and where to get it? Should we get MicroSoft Office for Mac? I assume it exists. Thanks all! Dave |
Posted By: eric lavine
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 9:54am
|
I have had 10 computers since, but like my first poa.....i miss my I-MAC, it was fast and never once got a virus.....me niether BTW with the poa ------------- "the things you own will start to own you" |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 9:55am
|
You can get Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac, Student edition. Should only run around 150 bucks and is fully compatible with the PC version. The G4 Powerbooks run the old Motorola processors and have not been produced for over 3 years at this point. Still a fine machine that will serve you well but for the long term you might want to see if you can get into a used Macbook or Macbook Pro with the Intel chipset. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: Riley
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 10:36am
|
When my daughter went to school in 2006, her college had a deal on a lap top that came with all the software she needed, a 4 year warrantee and on campus tech support. I could have bought a laptop cheaper at Staples, but thought this was a good deal as it left me out of the loop and and everything she's needed for it is right at school.
I'm now looking to buy a lap top for my son and hope his school has the same sort of deal. As far as Vista goes, I got stuck having to buy a new computer in one day last December, (2nd time my mother board failed at about 3 years). I've found Vista is not hard to get adjusted to and my new computer has 5 times the RAM, but is not any faster. The big problem I've found is a lot of my software had to be upgraded, which cost me a lot more time and money than I anticipated. ------------- |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 10:41am
|
I run my business with PC's, 10 in all, all worthless pieces of ^*&*%. Wish I was starting all over again but I could never afford to outfit all those machines with new software. I run Small Business Server 2003 and have 2000 Pro, XP and Vista depending on the age of the machines. The newer the software the less I'm able to maintain the system. We run a system wide anti virus that crushes our performance on all machines and I still have to reload Operating systems in these things once a year to get them to perform properly again. Not really a fan and in the end more expensive to maintain. I'm supposed to be running my business but now I'm a parttime systems guy debugging atleast one pc problem everyday. We have a hugh software upgrade coming this week and I think I'll need a labotomy when it's done.
On the other side we bought our son a Mac laptop last spring when he graduated HS(don't remember which one but it cost about $1800) we got some school discounts. That machine is awesome and came with everything he needs, must have an office package on it or something as he has spreadsheets, databaes, WP, movie making, everything he needs. It's compatible with anything that comes from the pc side, It's his right arm at college and he just loves it. Take a good hard look at teh Mac, worth the extra money I think. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: Terp
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 11:57am
| Dave, my wife and I "converted" from PC to Mac last fall. Not one regret. Maybe a bit more expensive up front, but not in the long run when you consider the machine's longevity and the liklihood of reduced expenses and headaches assoc. w/ system maint/downtime and recoveries due to pc security issues. |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 2:55pm
|
Another option would be to get a PC laptop and install a Linux distro like Ubuntu on it, with OpenOffice. Completely free. Alan, you should seriously think about making your shop a Linux shop. There is some amazing stuff going on in the open source world. Ubuntu + Open Office should be enough for your basic functionality on each machine. If you use specialized software that only runs on Windows then you can fire up virtual machines for that software. Either that or just keep a minimal amount of PCs around the shop as needed and convert the rest to Linux. At least set up one machine with Ubuntu and try it out. You'll be amazed at how polished and reliable it is, and the price is right. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 4:10pm
|
I ran Linux or Solaris with Open office on PCs for years. I did not even own a microsoft product until 2004. However, I don't think I'd recommend that route for a college kid. Too much Microsoft out there. It's just easier to use the tools that are found throughout your environment. BKH ------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 6:17pm
I'd have to do some serious homework on the subject Joel, Our embroidery software and our business management/point of sale software is windows specific. When I add that to the multiple copies of Illustrator, Photoshop, Coreldraw, and a few others I'm easily $50,000 deep into software. My stomach is turning right now just thinking about it. 
Worse thing is I went the Pc route 15 years ago because the embroidery/POS products for our industry weren't available for the MAc platform, today they are readily available. Being in the graphics business I'd be better off MAC. I have in the past considered just converting the Prepress department to mac and still run the office on pC. It's still an expense I could do without right now so we'll trudge through it. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
M3Fan wrote:Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 7:51pm
|
Lots of good dialogue on computers! This is really helping me. Of course my son called me an hour ago and wants to know what "we" are doing with his computer, and can he get it tonight, etc, etc, etc. Of course, I am travelling and on the road and won't be home until late tomorrow.
After I told him the input you guys have provided, and based on his research, he is really ready to go Mac. Regarding the Mac's, I did not realize that the older ones ran the Motorola chips. I will look for one that runs Intel. Which operating system is better? I have come across Leopard, as well as OSX 10. Are they the same or different? Is one older/slower (like me), or newer/faster? He is going to Eastern Illinois in the Fall. I think I will call their campus store to see what kind of deals and support they have. |
Posted By: Madcap
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 8:45pm
|
We made the PC to MacBook leap last year and am truly sorry we waited so long. I can't quote you tech heavy specs as I am a general user, other than to say the days of the world wide wait are over with. With the Mac, you simply open the lid and you are ready to go - as opposed to booting up a PC and watching the Windows dance go through it's start-up gyrations forever. ("Are you sure you want to do this? >NO<, But would you like to scan that file? >NO< How about updating that thing? >NO< Maybe you'd like to download the latest version of this? >NO DAMMIT, JUST TURN ON!<")
So, now we have been heading to the local Apple store, signing up for their free user classes and am amazed what a 19 year old kid can teach a couple of 40 year olds. Yes, the software that comes with your Mac is valuable, user friendly, fast, makes sense, and is designed to help you complete your goal with style and ease. It's an absolute pleasure to use. We've unplugged our Dell & HP desktops, as well as our IBM laptops for good. You bought a Ski Nautique, right? Use the same reasoning. ------------- '99 SN Air Tique |
Posted By: 91nautique
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 10:14pm
^^^^ great response If your'e unsure, cover it both ways.... Buy a Mac, Install Windows on it (software to do this included with the Mac) and run both operating systems and compare-- windows 7 is out now and you can try it for a year for free. It won't take long.... dont worry, getting rid of the windows monster off your Mac is a simple task... |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 11:35pm
It's all OS X, pronounced "Oh Ess Ten". Each version of OS X (as the operating system evolved) has a version number and is named after a cat. OS 10.3 was Panther, 10.4 was Tiger, 10.5, the current version, is Leopard. Leopard is terrific but there's nothing wrong with Tiger either. iLife 09 requires Leopard. I've been with OS X since the early 2000's with 10.2 and it's been fun to watch it evolve into a world-class amazing operating system. Their previous operating systems (OS 9 and below) were nightmares on many levels. Only Apple has (had) the guts to trash an entire platform and start from scratch with OS X! That move pissed a lot of people off who had to buy all new software but it was well worth it. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-27-2009 at 11:46pm
Well, not exactly. Sun Microsystems trashed Sun OS in favor of Solaris in the Mid 90s. It caused a huge uproar, but it was necessary to go to the next level in performance and reliability. Sun also spent billion ensuring backward compatibility of every version of Solaris thereafter. Hardware did not have to be compatible, but software did. I would argue that Microsoft trashes the OS everytime it comes out with a new flavor. Pretty much everyone I know is looking at big upgrade or migration costs of their application packages if they make a decision to move to the latest release of the Microsoft OS. BKH ------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 12:44am
OK Brian, you win! You're the best.  ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 1:09am
 Now that's funny Joel. You and I both know I can barely operate a computer. But, I have been in the business for years and lived through the OS change at Sun. BKH------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 1:34am
|
Sounds like we have some real Mac (and PC) experts on here. As mentioned, my son really wants to go the Mac route, so I have given up looking for a PC. New Macs are really pricey. I have found a few Macs around Chicago on Craigslist. I want to see what you guys think is the best bang for the buck on the following three Macs.
1.)PowerBook G4/1.5 Ghz (Intel)/15" screen/SuperDrive 1095/100GB HD/768 MB RAM/CD-DVD/Bluetooth/WiFi/Mic/iLife 04/iTunes/iPhoto/iMovie/......$600 (one owner who wants to upgrade) 2.) iMac G4/Leopard/iLife/800 MGh/40G HD/CD-DVD/iMovie/iPhoto/iTunes/Word Suite/15" Screen/Would downgrade to Tiger 10.4 if desired.....$200 (sounds like a one owner system) 3.) iMac G4/Wireless/1.5 GHz/80GB HD/CD-DVD/12' screen/Tiger 10.4/No Software....$400 (individual who buys and resells lots of computers...not exactly sure of background on this unit). I hope I have all those specs right, but, you probably get the gist. Just curious what the Mac experts out there think of these three offerings I found. I would like to by a system that will last my son for his college career, and not have to buy a new unit in 1-2 years. I would like to hear your opinions. Thanks! Dave |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 1:50am
|
Cary IL huh? Does your kid go to Cary-Grove? Search Chicago craigslist for only the word "Macbook". Should be plenty of solid sub-1000.00 offerings there. OSX Leopard + iLife 09 + iWork comes in one package for around 175 bucks so I wouldn't be terribly worried about the software. I'd just get the most horsepower Macbook or Macbook Pro that you can find. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 2:00am
|
Yes, The son I am buying the Mac for graduated from Cary-Grove last year, and spent this year at McHenry County College.
I take it none of the three Mac's above sound like great deals. #1 sounds like the best deal..ie...most power, and has the Intel chips. I will try searching using the term MacBook or MacBook Pro to see what I can find. |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 2:14am
|
#1 sounded OK but if it's Intel it should be called a Macbook. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 9:28am
| On #1, the guy told me it is a 2004, which he said is the first year (2004-2006) that Apple had an exclusive deal with Intel to use their Pentium chip. It is definately advertised as a Powerbook G4, and not a MacBook. Not sure if his info is accurate or not. |
Posted By: bkhallpass
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 1:51pm
|
The guy is misinformed and/or lying to you on several fronts.
The first generation Apple with Intel Chips were released in January 2006 and that was in the Mac Pro. Apple has no exclusive agreement with Intel for use of the Pentium chip. Most of the world used the pentium chip. Apple did decide that it would move forward exclusively with the Intel chip as opposed to the IBM/Motorola chip it has used for years. I would stay far away from this used computer. BKH ------------- Livin' the Dream |
Posted By: 66Skylark
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 7:50pm
|
I have an iMac and love it.
The only problem I had was with the pimply-faced kid I dealt with in the Apple store the day I bought it. He sold me on an iMac, touting the benefits of the iLife software. Unfortunately (for me), he failed to mention that iMovie will not accept video via USB. I needed a video camera with a firewire connection. Just be aware that – contrary to their Ads – not everything “just kind of works with a Mac…” If you decide to buy new, Apple often has discounts or promotions for teachers and students. When I bought my Mac they were offering a free iPod to teachers and students. Good luck! Kyle ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1445" rel="nofollow - 1966 Skylark http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1976" rel="nofollow - 1998 176 MA/ |
Posted By: 81nautique
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 8:08pm
|
Dave, Talked to my son last night, he has a Mac Book Pro 2.4g with iWork. Absolutely loves it. Only thing he said to think about was to get the microsoft office package instead of Iwork as it's a little easier to open files than import and convert them, not a big deal but thought it should be mentioned. The price included the laptop, software and a four year warranty that included everything even if it's dropped it gets repaired or replaced.
I'm not very proficiant on a Mac but when I use it I feel like I'm driving a ferrari then I get back on pc laptop and strap into the horse and buggy. ------------- You can’t change the wind but you can adjust your sails |
Posted By: 91nautique
Date Posted: May-28-2009 at 9:18pm
|
David
If your buying a used Mac, get the seller to quote the serial number on the machine (apple icon-top left hand corner-click about this mac) and go to the apple website and confirm what Mac your looking at. You can also get an estimate as to its value here http://www.mac2sell.net/ You can also get refurbished macs here http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/mac?mco=MTE3NjY Student pricing here http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/mac?mco=MTE3NjY and clearance prices here http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/clearance?mco=MTE3Njg QUOTE=81nautique] I'm not very proficiant on a Mac but when I use it I feel like I'm driving a ferrari then I get back on pc laptop and strap into the horse and buggy.[/QUOTE] That about sums it up... 66Skylark -- my nephew is using a USB video camera and imovie, have you tried a different USB cable? |
Posted By: Tim D
Date Posted: May-29-2009 at 12:27am
|
If you get a pc, get one with XP. Vista was rushed out to compete with Macs latest OS. You can go to Office Depot and see that XP cost more than Vista. A Mac will not get a virus because there is no viruses written to work. Bill Gates likes viruses, cause every anti virus that works with windows has to pay royalties to microsoft. ------------- Tim D |
Posted By: pwningjr
Date Posted: May-29-2009 at 1:51am
That's not entirely true- turns out that just like with most Windows malware, Mac OS (insert version here) is vulnerable to end-user stupidity (think pirated software p2p networks, install software, software turns out to be malware type of thing). However, because Macintosh OSes are based on *nix (or more specifically, BSD I believe) it is possible to keep one almost 100% secure, you just have to be smart about it- don't run with admin rights, don't install untrusted software etc. Fun fact of the day- the very first "virus" to reproduce itself on many computers was actually on Mackintoshes- because the floppy drive was controlled by software instead of hardware (Apple still hasn't seemed to have gotten the message), the virus wouldn't let the operating system eject the floppy until both the computer and the floppy had the malicious file... Several hand changes later you have several infected machines. P.S. I just couldn't help getting into an operating system discussion. It's too much fun. ------------- Jay "Proud to be a geek" Big Heavy (stephan): One can't always be perfect when water dancing on your shred stick. |
Posted By: 66Skylark
Date Posted: May-29-2009 at 2:22pm
|
Hi 91Nautique,
One of the guys in the TV studio here at work also works part-time at an Apple store. He's the one that told me that, at the time, my Mac with the version of iLife I had wouldn't take video via USB. The other issue we discovered was with the Sony camcorder I had, it transmited the video using MPEG2, which iLife did not support. My big complaints were that it wasn't a simple 'plug and play' process, like Apple’s Ads suggest. And, of course, the kid in the Apple store should have taken the time to explain things to his technologically challenged customer...
My original post was meant to warn davidg to be sure, if he gets a Mac, to be sure it does what he wants it to do… I should have been clearer in my original post. Kyle ------------- http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1445" rel="nofollow - 1966 Skylark http://www.correctcraftfan.com/diaries/details.asp?ID=1976" rel="nofollow - 1998 176 MA/ |
Posted By: storm34
Date Posted: May-29-2009 at 8:23pm
|
davidg-
I have one semester left at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa and had a pc for 3 of those years. I bought a MAC about half way through the first semester last year and I honestly think it made school work much easier! Only regret I have is that I bought it too early....they came out with a new one about 2 weeks after I bought mine! I would wait until he is registered at school and go in to the mac store and see how much of a discount he would get...I think I got about 150 bucks off plus free software! Tell him to be patient and good things will come!! ------------- |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 12:50am
|
Chris....Thanks for the advice on the Mac. What model Mac did you go with, and which one would you have gone with if you had it to do over again? My son only wants it for word processing, iTunes, and surfing the web primarily. No heavy duty video editing, etc.
I have now started to focus in in the iBook, and MacBook. I just don't want to spend money for a unit that will be too much for what he really needs. I did find a MacBook here in the Chicago area that may be too much for what he needs. What do you guys think of the specs on this one? It sounds like its got all the up-to-date goodies on it that the guys on this post have recommended. The guy wants $900 firm. It also includes the remaining three years of the four year warranty. Comes with: * Apple MacBook with 13.3" Display * MagSafe power adapter, AC wall plug, power cord and lithium-polymer battery * Software: Time Machine, Quick Look, iLife '09 (includes iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, iWeb, GarageBand) and more * Display cleaning cloth * Owner's manual * original box * Microsoft Office Home and Student Edition 2008 * Apple Care Protection Plan !!!!! Specs: # Intel Core2 Duo mobile processor With 1066MHz frontside bus, 3MB shared L2 cache and 2.0GHz processor speed. # 2GB DDR2 SoDIMM SDRAM For multitasking power, expandable to 4GB. # Slot-loading multiformat DVD±RW/CD-RW SuperDrive With double-layer support records up to 8.5GB of data or 4 hours of video using compatible DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL media. # 13.3" widescreen TFT-LCD display With 1280 x 800 resolution to bring your games and movies to life. # 160GB Serial ATA hard drive (5400 rpm) Provides plenty of storage space and fast read/write times. |
Posted By: pwningjr
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 1:23am
|
That sounds like a good notebook (I don't know if it's a good deal for an Apple), should be more than enough for what he needs- unless he really multitasks a lot (and I mean several resource-heavy programs at once, which it sounds like isn't going to happen) that thing shouldn't even break a sweat (If I'm allowed to use that cliche :-) ). ------------- Jay "Proud to be a geek" Big Heavy (stephan): One can't always be perfect when water dancing on your shred stick. |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 2:39am
| Yeah, I am thinking this one is a bit high powered for what he needs. If I may use an analogy, why buy him a 2000 hp Ferrari, when he just needs a solid Chevy Impala to get him around town. I may actually buy him an iBook G3 or G4 to get him started, and then move up from there. |
Posted By: M3Fan
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 3:19am
|
This sounds like a solid machine, plus the Applecare warranty is awesome (but only lasts 3 years past the date of original purchase). Why buy twice? I'd get the most horsepower you can afford right now. Plus with this one you're getting iLIfe 09 and Office 2008, 2GB RAM, nice big HD, etc. ------------- 2000 SN GT40 w/99 Graphics/Gel 2016 SN 200 OB 5.3L DI https://forum.fifteenoff.com |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 10:51am
|
Joel....I have been looking at so many machines that I am starting to drive myself (and my son) crazy. Trying to find a machine that meets his needs, has up to date technology, and isn't priced too high is a tough task and time consuming. (Did I mention that I throw nickels around as if they were man-hole covers:)? That one is more than I wanted to spend, but, maybe its worth it at the end of the day.
On that warranty, I went back and read the ad again, and it didn't say how much longer it had to go. The guy did say he bought an extended warranty, and that it is transferable. I will have to check on exactly how much time is left. Well, its time to go get the Southwind out of storage this morning, and start putting the old girl back together again. |
Posted By: tullfooter
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 11:37am
|
Chiming in late here, but this discussion is current around our house (3 Macs currently).
My son (waterskier2007) is a junior at U of M and has been using his Mac laptop (I couldn't even guess what model) without a hitch. He has been working with PC's at his summer job for the past 5 years. We had promised to replace his Jeep Wrangler, with 175,000 miles, if his grades were at a certain level. Well, he crushed the grades. But instead of a new car, he wants the new MacBook Pro, with some upgrades I can't even describe. (and no, he's not a geek) Looks like we're heading to the Apple store. BTW, I told him that I get the free Ipod touch. ------------- Play hard, life's not a trial run. '85 BFN '90 BFN White Lake, Michigan |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: May-30-2009 at 4:30pm
|
Steve;
I did call the Eastern Illinois U. bookstore. They had a similiar deal going on....buy a Mac and get an ipod for free (after rebate). We don't really need the iPods, but, sounds like a neat deal. I just went to pick up my boat, and was discussing computers with some folks at the farm where I stored it. They work in education. One person was a PC person, and the other indicated Mac (for all the reasons that have been discussed here). They definately said to go with the additional warranty. |
Posted By: waterskier2007
Date Posted: May-31-2009 at 2:06pm
|
The macbook that you mentioned sounds just like the one I use. The great thing about that one is that it has a 160 GB hard drive instead of the 120 that I have. As my dad mentioned I am upgrading because of a lack of hard drive space. The macbook is a great deal especially because it has microsoft office installed. which costs you 150 at the store. He should have a great time with that computer. ------------- -Brendan Kirchner Glass is made to be shattered http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v710/bkirchner1/scan_61217164725_1.jpg" border="0 - 85BFN |
Posted By: waterskier2007
Date Posted: May-31-2009 at 2:06pm
|
and thanks dad, im not a geek ------------- -Brendan Kirchner Glass is made to be shattered http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v710/bkirchner1/scan_61217164725_1.jpg" border="0 - 85BFN |
Posted By: davidg
Date Posted: June-01-2009 at 8:51pm
|
Guys....I appreciate all the help. We ended up buying my son the MacBook mentioned above for $900. It was fully loaded with software, and includes a warranty through next year.
The guy we bought it from showed us the reciept and it was a $1700 computer when new. So, more than I really wanted to spend, but, a pretty good value at the end of the day. Probably more horsepower than he'll need, but, its there if he does. |
Posted By: pwningjr
Date Posted: June-04-2009 at 11:23pm
|
Best of luck.
May your passwords be secure and your RAM unused. :-) ------------- Jay "Proud to be a geek" Big Heavy (stephan): One can't always be perfect when water dancing on your shred stick. |
Posted By: phospher
Date Posted: June-07-2009 at 1:57am
|
you should most certainly go with the mac. unix is far superior to windows in most every way. i work as an IT security engineer and think FreeBSD (which os x is built on) is the best. actually, this site should be running on a freebsd server. as mentioned earlier the linux option with ubuntu is a good idea too. while i know a lot about linux i am like os x on the desktop and FreeBSD for all servers, firewalls, routers, etc.. ------------- |
Posted By: pwningjr
Date Posted: June-08-2009 at 12:18am
|
phospher- http://xkcd.com/518/ - Hey, I should try installing freebsd!
A little geek humor never hurt anyone :-) EDIT: while I type this on slackware :-\ ------------- Jay "Proud to be a geek" Big Heavy (stephan): One can't always be perfect when water dancing on your shred stick. |
Posted By: roadkingpuck
Date Posted: June-18-2009 at 3:59am
| Have five kids who went to college. First two got PC's; last three got Macs. Macs way better. Definitely get the Macs. |