What is it?
A Mac is a computer made by Apple. It is called a Mac because it runs the Macintosh operating system (OS). Apple sells the MacBook, which is their line of laptops and the iMac, which is their line of desktop computers.
By now, you have probably heard of Apple's computers and wondered what is all the fuss about. It is their ease of use and the fact that they 'just work' that gives them their appeal. In addition, users find that they 'do' a lot more with a Mac such as create videos, build a website or view photo slides shows. Finally, they are aesthetically appealing, which may mean nothing to you at this point but once you have one you will know what I am talking about!
Because I work in the software industry, friends would often ask what is the best computer to buy. They asked if they should buy a Dell, HP or some other computer with Microsoft's Windows as the operating system. A couple of years ago, I started to recommend they buy an Apple, which runs the Macintosh operating system; primarily, because I was tired of trying to fix friends' Windows based machines that had slowed down due to a virus or had some other issue.
It's for you if....
- You are ready to buy a new computer.
- You do not mind paying a lot more for ease of setup, ease of use, no hassle on-going maintenance, and great customer service.
- You feel like you are not getting enough use from your current computer - you will find yourself doing more with photos, video, etc.
- You are frustrated with viruses.
- You dread having to set up a printer, camera or wireless network and when you set them up you don't want to have re-occurring issues.
- Your Window's based computer has slowed down for no apparent reason after one year of use.
- You are 'not-so-tech-savvy'.
- Your are tech-savvy but tired of constantly running anti-virus software and rebuilding your machine every two years.
What's cool about it?
Every piece of electronic hardware component that makes up a computer, for example, a wireless card, requires software to make it work. Because Apple makes both the OS and electronics for the computers they sell, there are little to no compatibility issues. Because Microsoft develops the Windows OS software and leaves the hardware & electronics manufacturing to other companies it needs to makes sure there is a lot of flexibility. This often leads to compatibility problems.
How do I get it?
You can buy from an Apple store, buy directly online or call Apple - visit www.apple.com/mac. I have done all three with very positivie experiences - their customer service is amongst the best you will find anywhere. There's no point 'shopping around' to try and get the best deal - their pricing is the same no matter where you buy. There are a few different ways to buy a discount Mac but note, don't expect a lot:
- Buy one under their Educational program - for yourself or 'your friend' (!). They are fairly laid back with regard to this program and easy enough to get the discounts. Go to their website to check out which school/colleges qualify first.
- Buy one refurbished by Apple - go to the Apple website, their 'Store' page and then look for 'Refurbished Mac.'
- Buy one of their Clearance model - go to the Apple website, their 'Store' page and then look for 'Clearance.'
Tips/Extras
Buy the extended warranty - it includes a year of Technical Support (double check on this) - something I highly reommend you keep up.
Unfortunately, folks spend can spend $2,000 on a computer but skimp on software and training purchases. It is unfortunate because the true value comes from the software applications and without training, one can not use these programs! I highly recommend you budget for extra software such as iLife, iWork and, possibly, MobileMe. They have other applications including programs for advanced photo and video but the average user will not need these. There are trials of all their software so 'try before you buy.' They have a one on one training program/classes and free online tutorial videos I recommend you take advantage of.
If you end up buying a Mac, stick to Mac accessories for future purchases. For example, if you need a wireless router, buy one of Apple's; if you need a back-up hard-drive buy one from Apple. The reason - as mentioned before - everything just works together without any issues or hassles; that's worth the price of admission, right?!
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