Tech: Apple vs. PC
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::21 jan 2008 :: 04:23pm
My last computer purchase was in 2000. Yes, it's time. This Dell has held up well with only one rebuild in the last 8 years (that is, once I got rid of that awful, awful beast called WindowsME and moved to XP), but it will soon be time to move along to something new. So, I wanted to pick your brains out there (figuratively speaking, of course):
Do I go Mac or PC?
As some background, I use Photoshop A LOT, and I'd also like to be able to put together home movies and burn them out to DVDs and at some point scan really ancient negatives from the 1940s. I also build the occasional website. Also, I last used a Mac back in 2000, and have flitted back and forth between platforms since I started using computers back in '91.
I have read that Macs can run your old PC software. I was curious how useful/practical this is in reality. Will my existing peripherals (USB printer, SCSI negative scanner, modems) work with a Mac? I have to say, I'm somewhat unenthusiastic about the PC prospect in that it can't be good when manufacturers start offering the OLD operating system as an alternative to the latest and greatest. Does Vista suck that bad?
So I probably ought to discuss with you on the phone or some other "real time" convo, but here are thoughts right quite:
1. I went all Mac this last August. It's been awesome.
2. Of your tasks, burning DVDs is super easy on the Mac.
3. Don't scan negative from the 1940s. Use Scancafe. I have been, for tons of old 40s and 50s family negatives and its been awesome. I will happily tell you more if you need.
4. You have options now where it comes to PC software on the Mac. The reality? You won't need it or use it.
5. SCSI scanner? Sell it. The only way you'll run it on a new computer (at all) is to move the board over. A modem? What's that? Check online for drivers for this stuff — it's either there or it isn't. But if it isn't. you can find Mac-based hardware to help you out.
6. I know Chrispy just switched a month or two ago. He might be able to offer more words of advice from a new switcher — I just realized the other day that it has been 3.5 years now since I made the dive, so I probably am not the best person to ask anymore.
Um, c-a-b-l-e modem, to be more precise.
So, I'll put you down in the 'pro-mac' camp, then? =) We'll talk.