Switching from PC to MAC what was hard getting used to?

[SoiBiker]

So what can you do on a PC that I can't find software to do on a Mac?

[SoiBiker]

I agree, full-price Macs are expensive. Which is why I've never paid full-price for a brand-new one. Second hand/recon they're great value though.

[JB300]

Bought a 13" MacBook Pro for the hardware (last 2 laptops cost more 1 lasted 2 years, the other 18 months), BootCamped it to run both IOS & Win7 and very happy with it.

The biggest problem I have is with the keyboard layout, constantly hitting the wrong keys & still cannot find a way of getting a new line in an Excel Cell.

[robblok]

So what can you do on a PC that I can't find software to do on a Mac?

Good business accounting software, I know as that is my trade. Sure you can get some commercial programs and such.. but nothing really good like on the PC. Also much of the fiscal programs for business use are available for PC and not Mac.

Yes this is business use.

And program wise there is just many times more available for PC so also more chance its better as on a Mac. Sure a mac might have a calculator program but on the PC there might be 10 (just an example) so more choice. There is just many times more normal and freeware software for PC's. Just look it up if you don't believe me.

Sure we can argue about the other points.. but here.. sorry these are the facts.

[SoiBiker]

I guess it depends whether you want quality or quantity. Who wants ten slightly different calculator?

[SoiBiker]

Then again, a quick search reveals at least a dozen different calculators for osx...

[robblok]

Then again, a quick search reveals at least a dozen different calculators for osx...

It was an example.. meaning there is just more variety on PC..

[SoiBiker]

And the fact that there's loads of calculators for osx shows that maybe the disparity isn't quite as you think.

Most of these idea people have about Macs date back to the days of the PowerPC architecture. Now that Macs have been built on Intel architecture for years, the differences between Mac and PC are much smaller.

Certainly what matters for most users is that they can find software that does what they want it to do. Nobody seems to be able to give an example of when that wouldn't be true for the Mac.

[THAIPHUKET]

OP HERE.

Well friends, I didn't intend to start a religious debate. But following it was fascinating.

As I said, I will stick with a Windows Laptop. May be the ASUS Zenbook UX305

Review

http://www.techradar.com/reviews/pc-mac/laptops-portable-pcs/laptops-and-netbooks/asus-zenbook-ux305-1264384/review

Specs http://www.asus.com/Notebooks_Ultrabooks/ASUS_ZENBOOK_UX305/

Question= Where to get it with non-Thai keyboard?

[SoiBiker]

Invade IT might be worth a try - they're excellent at responding to enquiries.

[SandyBear]

I'm a an old school windows guy. I loved to build computers, optimizing components, installing latest drivers and updates. I did start with MS-DOS, win2, win3, win95, 98, 2000, XP, and was happy. My friends with mac pre-osx were having many issues, more than I had. But with Vista the instabilities became intolerable and I tried the then new alu imac with OS X. That's still my main computer now, from 2008. That's unbelievable longevity, in computer terms. It now runs Yosemite with no major problems though my iphoto library is probably too big for snappy processing.

While the OP did not ask why Mac or PC is better, I honestly was a bit confused she starting out with OS X. From having been able to found things easily in windows, I had to re-learn were all the settings were and how to change things. It took me about 2 weeks to become comfortable with how the OS X works. What I find amazing though, is the depth of functionality and features embedded in OS X. It all works beautifully, though sometimes a search online is required to find out the finer details. What mazes me is that I no longer worry about optimizing my system or installing updates or new drivers. I simply am getting stuff done.

My kids wanted a computer so I got them a windows 8 touch screen laptop. It was cheap but the build quality was poor, keyboard and touchpad flimsy. The new tile interface was a pita imo, and I eventually sold it on to get a MacBook Air. The family now runs 3 macbook airs and 1 pro. Couldn't be happier. I have played around with both wmware and bootcamp, works great. The build quality is amazing and very satisfying to the touch. Also, the bout in apps are perfectly adequate to get work done. My daughter (11) is making music in GarageBand, video projects in imovie, screencaptures in quicktime the does voiceovers in imovie. Personally, I'm more inclined using Google docs and drive, works well for my needs.

I have just upgraded from a 2010 MacBook Air 11 to a 2015 air 13. The main reason is the faster SSD provided in the 13 and the SD card slot. I had wanted the new macbook 12, but I don't agree with the removal of all ports except the USB-C.

Having used the air 11 for a number of years, I can only vouch for its greatness. Perceived quality, size, keyboard, battery life and the usability of OS X.

Now a tip - I did order my new MacBook air 13 online directly from apple. I was able to change to my desired keyboard immediately after placing the order by calling apple customer service, requesting to change the placed order. I only asked to change the keyboard, all else being the same as ordered. As everything is made in China and also any adaptation to customers requests, it was no problem for the apple back office to change and update the order to the desired keyboard. The air was then built to my specs and shipped from Guangzhou.

So, you might call me an apple fan boy. But I keep my eyes and mind open and I have hopes that win10 can be what 8 should have been. I still have my homebuilt win7 but only start it 2-3 times a year, always requiring 100+ updates. But I'd be eligible for a windows 10 upgrade, when it's time....

[Mcffee]

Investigate warranty/repair issues here before buying an Apple product.

Apple hates giving warranty, see the issue with the coating spots on Retina screens they just refuse to replace that crap with the excuse that it's 'cosmetic'. That Apple's Retina screens are made by Samsung does not matter here. Also Apple does not obide to the European legal 2 years warranty in stead of only one they just ignoring it. And when then they took over Beats that makes absolute rubbish headphones then you know enough.

[NeverSure]

People use whichever one they prefer, and for a lot of people that ends up being a Mac.

"...and for a lot of people"

Yeah, like 13.8%. LINK

Microsoft still dominates the enterprise environment with Server and Active Directory and as long as that is true, a lot of people need to know Windows. Microsoft is what one studies if he wants to work in system administration and its what has to be taught to employees. A person going to school with the plan of getting a job with a company would be wise to learn to use Windows.

There are also many, even on here, who started with Microsoft and became what Microsoft calls "power users." That means they really know their stuff and they like the ability to upgrade hardware or even build their own PC. There are many like that and they are very good at it and MAC is too limiting.

The only time I've ever recommended a MAC was for a couple in their early 70's who'd never run or owned a computer. That's hard to imagine but true, and all they wanted to do was exchange emails with kids and grandkids etc, surf the web a bit, and print some emailed pictures.

Cheers

[SoiBiker]

13.8% of the market is still a lot of people, no?

I've built my own PCs many times. But for my personal laptop I'd rather have something that just works with as little intervention from me as possible.

Interesting to see how many Windows 'gurus' have bought into the idea that they're somehow superior, though.

[Cbr150r]

I don't see any advantage switching OS's if you're already proficient with one.

My preference is windows. I gave OS X an honest try for 3 months but always felt drained after every usage because I still couldn't do everything I wanted to do without googling a how to do here and there. Obviously 3 months of usage does not equate to years of knowledge with windows.

After 3 months I dumped OS X as I couldn't identify a single thing it did better than windows (Yes it approaches things differently but is that approach better, IMHO nope)

[SandyBear]

I've had a number of laptops and notebooks. My first was an AT&T safari in 1994. The second was a dell Inspiron for nearly 5000 usd, full spec. Thereafter a couple of acer, 2 asus, until eventually going apple. While I can agree apple seems unwilling to address "cosmetic" issues, I've had 2 macbook batteries exchanged (1 outside warranty), one charger, my iMac screen changed twice and now lately the iphone5 power button fix program. I'd say that Apple warranty is second to none for issues that clearly affect the device's functionality. I've had Apple products fixed in different countries, irrespectively of where they were purchased (excl the iphone5 power button which had to be fixed in the country of purchase).

I've also opened and upgraded many alu MacBooks over the years (while not the air). They are a pleasure to work on with nice quality materials, compared to the mostly plastic pcs and windows laptops. I'm just about to upgrade my sister's MacBook Pro with a new hybrid/fusion drive. Still, overall, my MacBook Air 11 was my favorite, it ticked all the right boxes, size, weight, keyboard, screen, performance, only missing the removed SD card slot.

Edited April 6, 2015 by SandyBear

[SoiBiker]

I don't see any advantage switching OS's if you're already proficient with one.

My preference is windows. I gave OS X an honest try for 3 months but always felt drained after every usage because I still couldn't do everything I wanted to do without googling a how to do here and there. Obviously 3 months of usage does not equate to years of knowledge with windows.

After 3 months I dumped OS X as I couldn't identify a single thing it did better than windows (Yes it approaches things differently but is that approach better, IMHO nope)

Computers are computers. They do pretty much the same things, whatever OS you use.

Last time I had a PC laptop, I ditched Windows and used Linux on it for a few years. Now there's an OS for people who like to tinker and want flexibility, or for powerusers who'd rather type commands into a terminal than play around with one of those silly GUI things that make everything too simple. Ultimately though I found I spent too much time faffing around with the OS and not enough time actually using the computer for the things it's useful for. I don't have that problem with my Macbook.

[empireboy]

When I did it I was lucky enough to have Mac Friend who talked me thru when I got stuck... but in general it was a breeze and after such a short time I knew I never wanted to go back. Now and then I flirt with the idea of changing back and try a PC O/S... only to be so glad I made the change!

[richard_smith237]

My Father is 75 - I wouldn't consider him computer literate... About 6 months ago he made the switch from Windows to Mac (after using since 3.1 days).

He used to call me up for help with Windows... I've not had a call about computer issues / troubles since he's had his Mac.

That in itself answers the question: A 75 year old who's used computers a bit can make the switch easily.

I myself had a 're-learn' many of simplicities of using a computer - I had difficulties finding the Uninstall program when I wanted rid of some software on the Mac... I found out there isn't one, all I had to do was click on the program and delete it !!!

------------

On the Debate of which is better: Each have their Pro's and Cons:

I leave my Mac on all the time - Probably only rebooting once or twice per month. I don't need to get into the Nuts and Bolts of Max OSx because nothing goes wrong. For personal use the Mac never gives me hassle - it never hangs, never crashes, has no bloatware. I never waste any time on my Mac than doing what I'm there to do.

I use Windows at Work.... I've taken apart and put together Machines and back-up machines... I've re-installed and re-installed again Operating Systems, I've got into the Nuts and Bolts of Windows (without programming). I've had to do that because Windows has always failed me... Be it viruses, system crashes, blue Screen of Death etc etc... I've spent many stressful hours nursing a Windows Machine back to life, sometimes just getting me through the day... other times back to full health... Its never a fun time.

That Said: I couldn't do my work on a Mac - Specialised Software required for my Work is Windows OS only. I also find some other programs such as Excel and Word much better to use in Windows.

Thus IMO to answer to the timeless debate of Which is Better: IMO its Mac, hands down and if the Software I required was available for a Mac it would be a no brainer.

Instead I use two computers - One for Work (Windows) another for Home life, Browsing, fun Movie & Photo Editing, Banking etc etc.

Do I like Apple any more than Microsoft ?... Not really, I just like a product I feel is better.

EDIT: Additional Comment: Storage Space !!!.... My MacBook Pro came with 256 GB and its not enough... Most Windows Machines come with 500 GB or 1 TB these days.. Thus: When getting a Mac get the extra storage. I'm now low on space and need to find a reliable way of Upgrading...

Edited April 6, 2015 by richard_smith237

[wooloomooloo]

What took the most getting used to for me, was just little things such as the 'X' used to close a window is in a different position on the Mac compared to Windows. It took about a month to properly get used to it but like I say, I'll never go back to Windows now.

No different here when purchasing my first iMac last July. I was baffled at first, but I'm a big shortcut key fanboy and didn't take long to work out that closing a window is Command-W or Command-Option-W to shut all windows of any particular app [Command-Q for the same outcome].

Some basic shortcuts here: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201236

My employment is Windows-based and I know dozens of shortcuts through experience and I now know plenty of OS X shortcuts. They are well worth learning and become second nature after continual use.

I was sceptical at first but now content that LastPass performs even better on OS X. Security and speed does it for me.

The below screenshot is produced via Command-Shift-4 for an alternative Windows Snipping Tool.

I won't be going back to Windows anytime soon as I can perform any action within seconds compared to Windows. I will sell this beast soon enough and upgrade.

[thousandpercent]

Apple products are like Prada shoes. The name costs a lot. If you care about the price, you can get a similar machine for about 60% of the price of a Mac (ASUS ZenBook UX305, for example), or for the price of a Mac you can get a much better machine. Check our Lenovo especially, or Samsung. You won't be one of the cool kids, but you'll have a lot more money in your jeans than they do.

[SandyBear]

I'd still argue - what is a better machine? While you can possibly find a windows laptop with faster processors, more ram, more disk space, it's a little like the pixel mania in digital cameras. It's not necesarily the camera sensor with the most pixels that produces the best results. First it's about the user and his/her needs, abilities and experience, then the way to get there, eventually what equipment that fits best. Horses for courses. I got my kids an average Samsung win8 touch screen SSD laptop. After a few months of frustration with freezes, virus and related flowers and bees discusions with my kids and lost work and tears, I switched also them to Mac. Before this I was still open that for some, especially on a budget, a windows machine can get things done, but after having been a hard core windows PC builder, the tiles paradigm in win8 lost me. I've now been told that there are 3rd party apps that hides the tiles and gives you the old style start menu, but I couldn't be bothered. I don't have to chase the last value dollar in terms of GHz or GBs, and thoroughly enjoy the apple hardware quality feel, OS X Unix core and stability, the NeXT graphical interface heritage AND the useful included software apps. In a perfect world I'd be in the linux camp, but so far I've always run into one issue or another. After suse, Ubuntu and others, my favorite flavor is Mint, but I nowadays don't have the time or patience for fiddling around. I just need to get things done, and IMHO my macs keeps me productive. This includes my first imac 24 from 2008 that I shortly will be upgrading by putting a compatible SSD and replace the superdrive with a 2.5" 2TB harddrive. It will then last me another 2-3 years....

[SandyBear]

So been price browsing. The asus zen book ux305 is roughly the same price as the previous version of the MacBook Air 11. I know which one I'd take....?

Cheers! ?

Edited April 6, 2015 by SandyBear

[lvr181]

A no win "argument". Horses for courses as they say.

Microsoft is a software company not a computer manufacturer. And there are millions more of Windows PCs used throughout the world than Apple computers.

As for online safety of the internet, why would a determined criminal want to hack an Apple (with very few users compared to Windows machines) when for the same effort he/she is likely to get a better return hacking Windows machines?

And let us not forget the pricing differences either.

[jacko45k]

I've no experience of the Macbook Air, but I've been using a Macbook Pro for a few years and it's fantastic. Switching isn't a problem as Macs are very user friendly.

Whatever model you choose I recommend to change. Once you go Mac, you never go back!

Yes well said, that is indeed one of the problems....... you are now in a certain category.:yawn:

[IMHO]

A no win "argument". Horses for courses as they say.

Microsoft is a software company not a computer manufacturer. And there are millions more of Windows PCs used throughout the world than Apple computers.

As for online safety of the internet, why would a determined criminal want to hack an Apple (with very few users compared to Windows machines) when for the same effort he/she is likely to get a better return hacking Windows machines?

And let us not forget the pricing differences either.

Microsoft are indeed a manufacturer (Surface, Nokia and very long history making input devices) - but I agree - it's too little, too late, too uncontrolled now.

As for the "Apple install base is too small for hackers", followed up by a suggestion that Apple owners are higher value targets, seems a little at odds, no?

Edited April 6, 2015 by IMHO

[robblok]

For those who are talking about the blue screen of death.. probably XP users ever since windows 7 and up I have had no such problems. Actually most of my problems in the past came from having illegal copies of windows downloaded from the internet or bought from shady vendors not knowing what kind of crap they installed extra.

I loved win7 now win 8.1 with a shell is great too, no more crashes never a problem, and for a far better price as any mac.

[bubba]

No "Delete" button on my Mac keyboard - I absolutely HATE that! Other than that, I've been running XP on a mid-2010 Mac mini for years, it's an awesome little bugger. Newer Mac's are dedicated to forcing you to buy expensive add-on hardware with only ONE usb port and no audio input. NFG in my opinion.

Not sure which keyboard you have. Here is a photo of the Apple USB keyboard:

And the Bluetooth keyboard:

I'm seeing a 'delete' key on both of those.

As for USB ports, the latest iMac has four USB inputs. You can of course use one of those for audio input, which is fairly standard these days. If four USB inputs are not enough for you, you can buy a USB hub for 100 baht.

And if you want to run a 14 year old OS that is no longer supported by the vendor (Windows XP) on a Mac, well, ok....

[rotary]

I use Windows and Mac computers. Apples are much less headache than Windows. I am so sick of Windows updating every few days. Apple updates are far less often. When Apple has a operating system upgrade it is cheap or free. With Windows that charge like a wounded bull.

As far as having file problems using files from Windows on an Apple you will have more problems between different versions of Windows with files than you will with Apple using Windows files.

[Somtamnication]

Both have its positives and negatives.

I am just so used to using Windows, that I am going back to it. Love the Mac Air I have, but the OS is not for me. I hate walled gardens.