One of the oldest arguments in recent computer history, this is a question more and more travelers are coming up on as they consider a new laptop. We’ll shine the light on the major differences so you can make an educated decision with which way to go. There is a great deal of misunderstanding among the general public as to what a Mac really is, the advantages and disadvantages, and where Windows is as an operating system today.
What Makes Macs Different?
Mac OS X is a type of computer operating system, just like Windows. The major difference between Windows and Mac is that whereas Windows can run on most hardware, Mac OS X is designed specifically for certain hardware. This makes the various versions of Mac OS X (i.e. Snow Leopard) much more stable, since they’re created with the computer parts in mind. That also means you can’t run Mac OS X on PCs or anything other than a Mac (although there are some unsupported methods of doing this). Because OS X is developed for specific hardware that only Apple makes, you pay a premium for any Mac laptop you buy. The hardware is generally high quality but part of the inflated price is also brand and proprietary hardware.
Is Windows Terrible?
This is the perception that many people have, especially after reading about the disaster that was Windows Vista. The latest incarnation, called Windows 7, is a very stable and well thought out operating system. It can run on netbooks and just about any other kind of laptop. While the operating system separately is most expensive than Mac OS X (~$159 compared to $29), purchasing Windows in a bundle with a new laptop will save you a lot of money. For travelers heading out on longer trips or business travel, keep in mind that it’s easier to repair PC laptops from most anywhere in the world, unless you are near an Apple store. It should be something to consider depending on where you travel in the world.
Crossover
Apple programs and applications won’t work on Windows machines and visa versa. While most manufacturers now make both Windows and Mac software, all of your old Windows or Mac CD programs won’t work if you decide to switch over. There are a few options and free ways to crossover your program though.
Through the use of virtual machines, Mac users can run Windows on their laptops in separate windows. It’s literally like having a little computer within a computer. Another advantage of virtual machines is that you can use them to test software or play around in, without effecting your primary computer. Virtual machines also work in Windows laptops but the only operating system you won’t be able to run is OS X. Mac users can also use free program Wine Bottler to run many of their favorite Windows programs on Mac. This program creates a little Windows “bubble” on your Mac, letting you run many Windows .exe files.
