OFF TOPIC!!!
Can someone with computer expertise help me compare a Dell desktop PC with an iMac G5. I’ve used Mac-based products for years at work with no problems whatsoever, but am now in need of my third PC in then years. My Macs have never been hit with a virus while both of my PCs have been wracked to a basic standstill. Same with my sister. I’d go with a Mac in a heartbeat except for the price, with the Dell being exactly half price. Sorry to clutter this incredible site with such a mundane off topic question, but I don’t know a single soul who can help me around here on the prairie. People are either Mac or PC. I’ve used both for so long that they’re about the same. My work favors the Mac as does my heart. You can e-mail any responses or links to comparative studies. It would be thoroughly appreciated. Thanks JGW
If you listen to your heart and not your pocketbook, what does it tell you?
I have been a Mac user and owner since '88 and that is the computer that I like the most. I use a PC for work and absolutely hate the thing. Not nearly as elegant as the Mac and crashes quite frequently. I mostly do graphics work both for my job and my hobby. The Mac is a far greater (and easier) computer to use especialy for graphics work in my opninion.
Now, having said that, I recently read that Apple is going to switch to Intel processors by 2006, so if you buy the Mac now it will be (like all other PC’s)obsolete in more ways then one. They have to rewrite a lot of software to accomidate this change including the OS plus all the other software. I’ve read that this is not a major rewrite, but still.
I too am in need of a new Mac as mine is 4 years old and highly modified, and I am very interested to see how this Intel deal will pan out.
Mike
I’ll say a few things, as I think I’m in a similar situation.
It’s not a simple comparison and it can be addressed at different levels. If you’re buying a personal machine, Dell has a reputation for providing good service for individuals. Many companies provide excellent provided the service contract is assigned to a corporate account.
The main reason you haven’t had problems with viruses on the Mac is that virus writers mostly focus on the platforms that get them the biggest bang for the buck. MacOS X might have a slight advantage because it built on top of what is essentially UNIX, but this is a small factor compared to the market share issue.
Of course, you know that Apple has now announced that they are dumping the PowerPC and going to the Intel chip. The reason is that IBM is not responding to Apple’s needs. The G5 uses a lot of power, too much to build a good G5 based laptop. Apple just doesn’t have enough market share to get IBM’s attention.
In case you’re wondering what’s happening to the PowerPC, ALL the next generation game machines will be based on the PowerPC. That dwarfs the number of PowerPCs sold by Apple, and accounts for IBM’s stance.
As for me, I’m writing this on an IBM laptop running Windows XP. It’s hurts a little because I’ve been a Mac fan in the past. But the price performance on the laptop front finally got to me. I’m slowly converting the other computers around to windows machines – next one will be the daughter’s. The main reason is that mental burden of knowing both Mac OS and Windows well is getting to me.
There’s a lot more to be said. A good decision procedure (in my opinion) is to choose a platform that runs the applications you use and like well at a price you can afford. Then invest time in learning it the best you can.
At first I didn’t like the answer I got, but I’m learning to live with it, and it’s working out.
Better hold off until a third candidate hits the market just before Christmas. I hear Abel is getting into the computer game. Their first offering, reportedly scheduled to list for three times more than their nearest competitor, will be fully machined from aircraft aluminum, fully ported, feature a genuine cork mouse pad and will be offered in the standard glossy black, matte black, titanium or gold, and in brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout camo for an extra $1500. 
Choose a computer based on what you can afford? That’s a good one, especially on a flyfishing site. While we’re at it, we might as well dump all our expensive fly tackle and fish with a cane pole, bobber… and worm. Much easier to learn.
By the way, I was just over at Apple’s website looking for software updates. Got some great tips on hackle selection.
Seriously though, have fun picking your new appliance.
Both can perform much the sme thing. Here is what I tell my customers.
- Decide on what you want to do with the compter.
- Find which programs (software) does this best.
- See which computer operating system (windows or mac) supports that software.
If either one will do, ask yourself who you will call when you need help. What does that person know best. This question is often overlooked as we learn and get a great deal of technical support from friends or neighbors. What your mentor knows is what you should be strongly weighted towards.
Finally, consider price and the price of software. Often companies buy bulk software and you may be able to use an extra copy of their software, saving you money.
jed
I really love my IMAC G5…just be REALLY careful if you buy one from a Micro Center!!!
Did photo restorations and retouching on other PC’s, but none compare to the ease (user friendliness) of the Mac.
When did you say Abel was introducing the new machines? May have to give them a think!!
Trouts don’t live in ugly places
I really do like my iMacG5 (since oct). Been on Macs since mid 80’s. I don’t know much about computers, just that I like to turn 'em on and go to work; use mine mostly for graphics programs.
that pretty much sums up why I’m still a happy Mac owner. I"m told Tiger is awesome …with a global search function that sounds nifty.
Have Fun
Paul
Love my Mac! I’ve had 4 (this current one is a G4). Love the new OS operating system Tiger 10.4.1. Been looking at the G5’s but now may wait until I hear more about any revisions to made becasue of the move to Intel chips.
Greg
This is a topic dear to my heart so here’s my fifty cents.
First I’m among other things, the computer coordinator for a small pharmacuetical company.(yes I’m laughing to)
They have four dells, and two macs. And this year i got the unique priveledge of upgrading our systems slightly.
If the choice has to be dells or macs go with the macs…far better machine. But if you really want a nice machine with a reasonable price and a really nice warranty, and free service. Check your area for a place called “totally awesome computers” The guy who owns the place runs some pretty stupid adds but his machines are the top notch (pc’s). Only reason I went with them is I was looking into building my own machine last year. And discovered that their base models had the exact same parts that I would have used.
Completely upgradable with none of the proprietary crap you see on Dell (and a few other big makers).
I’ve used the computer as a server, gaming platform for the kids, and just about anything else you would use computer for, including a cad platform for my wifes garden layout. I’ve had one crash so far.
I have a freind who had his hard drive blow (due to his goof up) four days after the warranty expired, And Totally awesome computers replaced his hard drive for free. Best part is he had the computer fixed and back online the next day.
thats my fifty cents, have fun
I’m using a Sony laptop… IBM compatible. I would love to switch to a Mac. I think I heard that they are switching to Intel processors. Might want to check that out.