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[ultrafxr]

I need a new computer.  This five year old Dell Laptop is getting to be a real problem - slow and slower.  Always owned PCs, never even tried a Mac but I know Mac users rave about them and from what I hear and read they are pretty fast and reliable.

The big issue(s) for me is I don't want to give up my Windows based programs that I am familiar and comfortable with such as MapSource; Quicken; Mastertune; Microsoft Office; just to name a few.  I've read up on running Windows on a Mac but wonder if anyone has any experience doing so and what are the pros and cons.  The Mac is a big ticket item plus the cost of Windows to install on the Mac and most likely virtualization software to allow Windows to run simultaneously with OS X.

Or I could forego Windows and just buy the Mac native versions of programs I want that are available.  That would entail using Garmin BaseCamp since MapSource won't work natively on the Mac.  That in and of itself is unappealing!

And what about peripherals?  I have USB mouse and keyboard and HP printer I connect to wirelessly.  Any issues in getting drivers for these?  Do Macs go search the internet for appropriate drivers like Windows?  And how does all this work when switching between OS X and Windows?

Comments and experiences definitely appreciated.

[dayne66]

Been almost three trouble-free years of MAC ownership. We had to install Parallels on two of our MACS so my wife could access DealerTrack(just a sliver of the CPU is used to open IE and DealerTrack is the homepage...and it's used for nothing else). I don't miss the PC issues one bit....no viruses, no slowdowns, no blue screen of death. It was a bit of a learning curve at first...but, now, there is not a chance I'd go back.

[ultrafxr]

Been almost three trouble-free years of MAC ownership. We had to install Parallels on two of our MACS so my wife could access DealerTrack(just a sliver of the CPU is used to open IE and DealerTrack is the homepage...and it's used for nothing else). I don't miss the PC issues one bit....no viruses, no slowdowns, no blue screen of death. It was a bit of a learning curve at first...but, now, there is not a chance I'd go back.

You mentioned Internet Explorer.  I switched to Google Chrome a while back.  I think it will run natively on the newer Mac Operating System won't it?

[dayne66]

You mentioned Internet Explorer.  I switched to Google Chrome a while back.  I think it will run natively on the newer Mac Operating System won't it?

DealerTrack only supports IE.....but, have not checked in a couple years...should give them a call and see if they support any other browsers yet.

[05Train]

I went Mac 4 years ago and never looked back.  I'm running the same laptop I bought in 2009; only thing I've done is added a bigger hard drive (750 gig) and more RAM.  I keep toying with the idea of partitioning the drive and adding windows just to run the Dynojet and TTS software, but I don't want to hobble the thing. 


Sent from my iPad, probably while I'm pooping.

[Fired00d]

I've been a PC user for many years... last year got an Ipad... a few months ago work got me an Iphone... when it is time to replace my home PC I'm seriously thinking about getting a Mac Book and never look back. From what I've been told there are many apps for Mac that can run most MS (Office) software. I think that I've had the opportunity to play/learn on the Ipad/Iphone the transition may be a little easier when the time comes.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

[Pete7539]

You can find a lot of great deals here

http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals

Same warranty.

I use bootcamp to install windows 7 on my computer and a few other friends. Easy to do and it comes preinstalled on all Macs of recent years. It walks you through it. Just partition how much storage you want for Windows. I only set aside 25 gigs. I think it requires 18 to install. I left some space in case I wanted other programs. Only use it for PowerVision. Once installed, if you want to switch between Mac and Windows. Shut down computer, less than 30 seconds to do so, startup while holding option key. It then shows you the two operating discs to choose from. Select windows and it runs just like a windows computer. When you're done shut down the computer, then just turn it on again and it starts up as Mac, again within 30 seconds up and running whatever browser you choose. If you prefer, you can have Windows as the automatic startup. I have Safari, Firefox, and Chrome installed. All work fine. I will never buy another Windows PC again. And I was hell-bent against Mac until a co-worker told me how flawless his was. I've had mine for 3 years now without issue. I bought AppleCare protection for peace of mind. And whenever I have a question or issue as dumb as it may be they've resolved it, speaking in clear English, immediately.

[dlaws01]

I use the MacBook Pro with the Parallels program so I can still use Windows only software on it.  I love it and won't go back to a PC.  I did however install Norton AV software just in case something tries to sneak in through the windows side.  Absolutely fast and tons of apps to go with it if you want.   

[lilcoot]

Went through three PC laptops in 5 years.  Decided to try a MacBook Pro seven years ago, and have been very pleased.  I dropped it so often, all the corners were bent and the screen hinge was cracked, but it never stopped working.  Unlike the PC notebooks, it never slowed down, either. Finally broke down and got a MacBook Air for traveling two years ago.

Now waiting for my cell phone contract to expire so I can get an iPhone. 

[FLH91]

Hello Ultrafxr,
  we went with the MacBook Pro last fall and love it.  We have microsoft office loaded on it with no issues.  I figure I'm going to dive into Basecamp when the snow flies and see if I can make it work.  If I can't, we'll have to use one of the parallel type programs.
FLH91

[Trimster]

I love it, like others have said, partition the harddrive, use Bootcamp to Windows for your TTS, Mapsource or whatever.

[mark]

Another satisfied Apple user here.  iPad, iPhone, and Mac.  Had the Mac for about 6-7 yrs., and never one bit of trouble.  I was replacing my PC about every 4-5 yrs. 

[LovemyCVOgirl]

Converted to the Mac 3 years ago and it was the best decision I ever made.  As other's have stated, there is a learning curve but it is hands down better than a PC.

[porthole]

Having used and been frustrated with PCS since the beginning, every time I think about up upgrading I look at the "A" products.

And every time the near 3K cost and additional software I would need (Quickbooks being the main) I have gone back to a sub 1K laptop.
Using an iPhone for and iPad for several years now has gotten me closer to switching though.

and BTW, the Mac is no longer immune from virus attacks that it once was. Processors, memory and drives have become very similar across both platforms now, with only the OS being the big difference.

30 second boot time would be nice. Even better, instant like on the iPads.

[gadgetz]

I converted my wife and I over to Apple products several years ago and went completely WiFi at the house. She uses her iPad at home and for her work, no more laptop or work computer for her. I use a Macbook Pro 15" and absolutely love the thing. I also use a mini iPad and an iPhone 5.

The MAC is the best computer  I've ever had and wished we had them at work. You might try to find a used one first so as not to get complete sticker shock, but then I liken that purchase to buying an Ultra Classic to the CVO Ultra. PC = Basic Ultra Classic, Mac = CVO Ultra. Your gonna get what you pay for when it comes to computers.