Posted by: Scott Shannahan

Those of us known as Mac users are used to the question: should I get a Mac?

Here are a few of the questions (and answers) that frequently follow…

Can I use Microsoft Office?

Yes, Microsoft offers Office 2011 for the Mac. It has Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Any document that is created on the Mac version can be opened and edited by its Windows equivalent. Apple also offers iWork, their take on the Office Suite that can save as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.

Will my printer and scanner or other devices work with it?

If it’s been made in the past few years it will likely work. You may want to search the device’s manufacturer’s website to be certain. Things do usually “just work” as claimed by Apple, but a bit of homework upfront is better that replacing your equipment. Things like digital cameras or monitors work with no issues.

Can I use the files from my PC?

Yes, you will just need to move them over to the Mac. Just place all your files on a USB drive or move them over a local network.

Will I have access to the software titles available on the PC?

Some yes, some no. Check the software vendor’s website to be sure. One key thing to remember is that your Mac can run Microsoft Windows via a program called Boot Camp. This gives you the option to boot your Mac using Windows or Mac OSX. It’s not a difficult process as long as you read up on it before you begin (you can find all you need here). A copy of a Windows operating system (OS) is necessary and a little time of course, but when it’s all said and done you can easily switch between the two OS’s be restarting your machine and holing down the option (alt) key.

My company uses a Microsoft Exchange Server. Will they work together?

Yes. We use a Microsoft Exchange Server with no issues (expect for the odd MS curve ball from time to time). With the release of Mac OSX 10.6 Snow Leopard, programs like Mail, iCal and Address Book work seamlessly with Microsoft Exchange. Always check with your IT department’s policy on supported hardware and software to be sure.

Macs don’t get viruses… do they?

They can, but it’s less likely. Most viruses are made for Windows due to the volume of users. As the Mac OS gains market share more viruses may be developed to attack the Mac operating system. Antivirus software is available for the Mac, but I have never used it.

Are they easier to use than a PC?

Any computer will take some getting used to. There are great resources for “switchers” on the Apple website and on the web. A computer is just an extension of the user however; if you have trouble ejecting a CD on your PC, you may be out of luck.

Are they more expensive?

I guess that depends on the model of PC to which you are comparing them. A Mac mini starts at around $750, while a Mac Pro starts at $2600.

What is AppleCare? Do I need it?

AppleCare is an extended warranty offered by Apple. It gives you 3 years of hardware coverage and support. I would recommend it as it has saved me a few times with things like strange error messages or hard drive failures. The customer support line is excellent. A few questions, a few clicks of the mouse, and you’re up and running, or at least directed to an Apple Authorized Repair Centre. With this plan, I’ve had hard drive failures and been back up and running in a day.

In closing, I would recommend “switching,” based on my experience. Since it’s a personal decision, try stopping at a store that sells Apple products and test-drive one for yourself. Be sure to run through some of the tasks you do with your PC on a daily basis and ask the sales person as many questions as possible. It took me about a week to switch from Windows XP to a Mac back in 2001. Now I can’t imagine switching back.

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One Response to “So I’m thinking about switching to a Mac…”

1. Tweets that mention So I’m thinking about switching to a Mac… | The Idea Factory -- Topsy.com says:

   January 27, 2011 at 3:58 pm

   [...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jamie Brace, The Idea Factory. The Idea Factory said: So I’m thinking about switching to a Mac… A quick FAQ – Read more: http://bit.ly/gFgiuk [...]