[MAC newbie]: Concerns about moving to MAC from Windows

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kojocel Author

Level 1

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[MAC newbie]: Concerns about moving to MAC from Windows

Hello.

I want to upgrade my PC.

I'm having thoughts of moving from Windows to Macintosh (Mac Pro), but there are a few things that concern me.

I use my PC to do these things (in a more or less exact order):

1. InDesign, Photoshop, Quark XPress

2. Internet browsing

3. MS Office

4. Video games

5. Music, movies.

Now I know I can do all these things on a Mac as well, except solving the troubles with Video games.

My PC upgrade would cost me around 200 EU max (video card + some ram), while the cheapest Mac Pro I found on Amazon is about 600 EU + shipping taxes.

Could anyone tell me what is it that Mac Pro desktop or Mac mini desktop have that would make me invest in it instead of simply upgrading my PC?

Is there a "secret ingredient" about those MAC machines or is just a simple overpriced hype?

Thank you for taking time reading this and for any help.

Best regards,

-- C.

Posted on Nov 18, 2013 2:41 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

Klaus1

Level 9

52,759 points

Nov 18, 2013 3:08 AM in response to kojocel

The 'secret ingredient' is the operating system.

But it is hard to advise you as you are looking for a second-hand older macPro rather than the new model which comes out next month, so we don't know what specifications the MacPro you buy will have.

But a bit of general 'homework' to assist you in making your choice: 🙂

Macs are cheaper to own that PCs: http://techpatio.com/2010/apple/mac/it-admins-total-cost-ownership-mac-less-pc

and: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/apple/tco-new-research-finds-macs-in-the-enterprise-ea sier-cheaper-to-manage-than-windows-pcs/6294

Why will you love Mac? http://www.apple.com/why-mac/

- Better Hardware http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-hardware/

- Better software http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-software/

- Better OS http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-os/

- Better Support http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-support/

- It's Compatible http://www.apple.com/why-mac/its-compatible/

Switching from Windows to Mac:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2514?viewlocale=en_US

and

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2518?viewlocale=en_US

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Answer 2

kojocel Author

Level 1

0 points

Nov 18, 2013 3:21 AM in response to Klaus1

Klaus,

Thank you for your time and answer.

I will "digest" all the info you were so kind to help me with once I get home.

Just a few small aside notes:

1.I'm reluctant to those apple links.

Why?

Well, instead of

http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-software/

it could just as well look like

ww.microsoft.com/why-windows/better-.../ 🙂

I'm more after personal user experiences than official commercials.

2. I'm on Windows 7 x64, core i5 760, nvidia gt 430, 4gb ram.

I know those desktops will come out in december, but I can't afford the prices.

I'm on a really tight budget - no more than 500 EU, so I'm trying to invest the money as best I can (not all, if possible).

After I read the info, I'll get back here.

Thanks again.

Have a very pleasant day.

-- C.

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Answer 3

Klaus1

Level 9

52,759 points

Nov 18, 2013 3:26 AM in response to kojocel

Well, instead of
http://www.apple.com/why-mac/better-software/

it could just as well look like
ww.microsoft.com/why-windows/better-.../

Of course, and so you should in order make a balanced judgement. You also need to look at the inevitable costs of replacing/updating your software applications if you change to a Mac.

If I was in your shoes I would stick with upgrading what you have, but I hope you end up with whatever works for you! 🙂

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Answer 4

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Nov 18, 2013 5:24 AM in response to kojocel

The Mac-mini for all but games.

The iMac - prices go from $1100 up to $3k

The cost of cross platform license for some apps

A new motherboard and processor + better graphic card(s) - and 4GB RAM is not cutting it today at all.

An SSD would help you get more out of your system if you are not already.

I find I get more done on Windows 8.1 than on Mac anymore. They both "just work" and Mac seems like fun at first but in the end, Windows is more flexible is many ways.

My Mac Pro is 7 yrs old and Apple is not supporting it with the last two operating systems but it is better now than it ever was.

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Answer 5

kojocel Author

Level 1

0 points

Nov 19, 2013 4:41 AM in response to The hatter

Thank you guys for your help.

I will postpone my Mac acquisition for the time being.

Speaking of my Adobe software licence, I'm pretty sure I won't have to buy another version of it, since I know I can change my licence key (Windows) to a Mac one. Though I will have to worry about the rest.

Have a very pleasant day!

-- C.

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