Mac Mug

A very long, lecture-like definition: Although the Macintosh platform currently (as of early Jan 2006) only holds 6% of market share compared to Microsoft Windows and Linux, it is un-doubtingly (and fact as well) the most powerful and advanced system created up-to-date. In addition, Mac users tend to be more educated, and internet savvy (apparent by the "thumbs up" and "thumbs down" ratings of the definition "Mac" on this website) according to a study done by news.com. Hence iDork. The myth that Apple Computers cost more than your typical PC is inaccurate. I personally group computers prices in three general areas. 1. $800 and under, 2. $1000-$2000, and 3. $2000 and over. PCs can run anywhere from $300 to over $2500 (typically portables). Apple computers are generally in the $1000-$2000 range, excluding the Mac mini which costs only $500, however is only the computer itself, without a keyboard, mouse and display. If you wish to go "Pro," (i.e. Video editing, professional photography, sound engineer, etc...) you may have to spend more than $2000 to get your top-of-the-line machine. The typical computer user, however, can easily spend $1300 for an "already very good" Mac (1.9Ghz iMac), or a less than mediocre PC, whose monitor is almost guaranteed to burn out within a year of use. Ultimately, Macs are not cheaper, nor more expensive than PCs...they are in the "sweet spot," if you will, of computer prices. The operating system is one of the most important things to think about when talking about the Mac. Macs will never decide to restart on you when you are at the end of writing your 16 page thesis, nor will it ever get a single virus. Unlike Windows, the Mac OS is designed to have top-of-the-line security; preventing the problem from ever happening. Most third party applications are "stand-alone," and require no installation of files besides dragging and dropping the app into the "Applications" folder. If the app does require installation of files within the computer's "System" folder, it requires authentication (entering the root password of the computer). Even if a single virus did exist on the Macintosh platform, you would have to authenticate before installing it. Another thing that windows users complain about is the setup of the Mac OS X interface. So what? The buttons are on the left side. Just because things are different doesn't mean that it's bad. There are many rumors and myths among Mac "bashers" that just aren't true, or are just pure opinion. Many windows user say "but there's no start menu." Guess what? It's a different operating system. Instead of a start menu, there are better ways of achieving the same thing in an easier and productive way. One last thing to point out is that Macs just look COOLER. Both the computer and operating system just have a cool, sleek look. Micro$oft just has no taste. In the end, Macs just make more sense. Don't listen to stereotypes, rumors, and myths. Open your mind and try one yourself...It just may change your definition of what a Mac really is.