Macs+vs.+PCs

What is the difference between a Mac and a PC
As the years progress the line between PCs and Macs is becoming increasingly thin. The introduction of new technology on both sides means that eventually consumers will have to rely on cost, aesthetics and customer loyalty when choosing one platform over another.

Most major software packages are available on both platforms and operate almost identically once you are inside a program. There are a few exceptions (i.e. Final Cut Pro is Mac only), but for each exception, there are equivalent software that do pretty much the same thing on the other platform.

The Windows operating system is the one most people are familiar with. If you buy a PC "off the shelf," from a retailer such as Best Buy, Windows is most likely pre-installed on the system. Windows PC currently represent from 92%-94% of the U.S. PC market. Benefits of PCs:
 * Windows**
 * Large installed user base
 * More software available (especially free software)
 * More hardware upgrades available
 * Many games and other software are released on Windows before Macs
 * More choices in models and styles
 * Generally cheaper than Macs

Macs
Macs have the reputation of being an artist's tool, but the reality is that anything that can be done on a Mac can also be done on a PC. Currently, Macs have about 6% of U.S. PC market. Benefits of Macs:
 * More elegant operating system
 * Less prone to viruses

Recommendations
For someone in the market for a home computer trying to choose between a Mac and a PC can be difficult. The right choice depends on several things:
 * What will the computer be used for? For example, video games are typically released for Windows first and Macs later. If you are impatient you may want to consider a Windows PC. However if you are going to be working with a lot of media, Macs have excellent software for photo and video editing. Finally if you are really tech savvy and considering setting up a home server or like programming you may want to consider a Linux PC.
 * What are you most familiar with? Unless you are trying to broaden your horizons, go with what you know. If you have used Macs all your life you know how to troubleshoot them, don't make more work for yourself; the same caveat applies, of course, for Windows/Linux users.
 * What are your friends familiar with? This might sound like a goofy question, but aside from the fact that they may be borrowing your computer from time to time, your friends are your best source for free tech support 24/7. If your friends are all Windows users, and you switch to Mac or Linux you will be all alone if you have a problem.

Most of all, remember to research, research, and research. You are going to be spending a lot of money on this machine (most likely near a $1000 depending on where you shop and what software you need to buy) don't make a decision you are going to regret.

Also spend time on the different machines. Parkland has both Windows and Mac labs for you to try out different systems. Remember that most companies offer reduced pricing to students.