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Are You a Mac or a PC?

Hi, I'm a Mac, and I'm sure this isn't the first Mac vs. PC debate you've read, and I'm sure it wont be the last. However, unlike other debates, I'm not going to sit here and tell you how awesome Mac's are. Well, maybe I will a little. But, I'm going to go beyond that and tell you why making the switch shouldn't be a concern. Why cost shouldn't be a concern. Why and how your life will become easier and more productive because of a Mac.

Mac's do everything better.
Whether it's video editing, music, word processing, presentations, checking your mail, or just browsing the web, Mac's do it faster, safer, and more reliably. With Mac Mail organizing your emails is a breeze. Never lose an email again with their powerful search feature. Organize all your listing photos with iPhoto. Video chat with clients, associates, friends and family.

Ok, so Mac's are great. We know this. But I know you're thinking to your self I can't switch because... (fill in the blank). Well here are some common concerns and the reasons why they shouldn't be.

Common concerns (and why they shouldn't be)

I need all my files transferred.
When you buy your new Mac a Mac Genius will transfer all of your files from your old PC to your new Mac free of charge! Simply bring the old computer with you when you buy the new one. All of your old files will work on the new Mac. Word documents, excel files, photos, emails, etc. You won't lose a thing!

I can't use a Mac, it will take too long to learn.
Apple offers great training on their products. They have "One to One" training where you can go in once a week for an hour and sit down with an expert and learn anything you want about your Mac. It's only $99 for a years worth or One to One training!

From the Apple website:

"As a One to One member, enjoy a year’s worth of personal training sessions for just $99. Sit down for in-depth, face-to-face sessions with your very own personal trainer. Experts in all things Apple, our Trainers help you get the most out of your Apple products. Just tell them what you want to be able to do, and they’ll teach you how."

I can't afford a Mac.
MacBook A common misconception is that all Mac's are $3,000. Sure, there are some Mac Pro's that are $3,000+, but for the average user your can get into a MacBook laptop for only $999! This isn't a stripped down system either. It has all the tools you need to run your life. Whether it's video, music, word processing, email, this has it all! If you're more of the desktop type you can get into a Mac Mini for only $599!

I need Windows for...
I know many of you need Windows, and in some cases even Internet Explorer, for your MLS, and until they upgrade and get with the times this will be a common problem. But a little known fact is you can run Windows on a Mac!

Parallels is a program that allows Windows to run while the Mac operating system is running. It can be downloaded at the Parallels website.

My wireless Internet will need to be re-configured.
Mac's hook up with ease to your wireless network and in most cases easier than your PC would. They also remember your location so if different settings are needed for the office and the house it will remember those settings when you switch from place to place. Like everything else on a Mac, connecting to the internet is just easier.

My computer is fine, I don't need a new one.
This may be true, but why wouldn't you want the most powerful technology out there to help you? It's all about the tools you have, and adding a Mac to your arsenal will help tremendously. Also, your computer may be fine today, but why wait for a catastrophic fail to realize you need a new one?

Are you convinced yet?

I hope this post can help you make the decision to switch to a Mac. They really are the perfect computer for a real estate agent and will make your life so much easier, productive, and fun.

If you're ready to enter the Mac world check out the Apple Store, pick out your new system, and enjoy!

I missed any of your concerns please let me know and I will tell you why they shouldn't be one!

Posted by James Shiner on 03/26/2009 12:44 PM

Comments (38)

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38 Comments on Are You a Mac or a PC?

MAR

We've been seriously looking at switching to Mac. Thank you for all of your information. I was wondering if the MAC word processing program documents will work with a PC? We have multiple computers and are hoping not to have to change them all to MAC. Thanks!

I've heard that Macs have the added bonus of not being the target of these huge internet viruses that happen, too. I am a desktop person and wasn't aware that MAC made a desktop version. I thought they were all laptops. I'm gonna have to investigate this.

I'm a fossil - I'm a PC. Until my revenue increases, I be staying a PC. Great info here for me to research though...thanks!

Heather... I am running an imac with a 17" monitor. It is the only mac in our office of over 90 agents, and it is the coolest machine in the office. I get comments from passersby all the time. And what's more fun, is what you see is the entire computer. There is no tower beneath my desk. What you perceive as the monitor is the entire machine, including the CD or DVD drive.

My high-end, imac was $1,295.00 when I bought it.

Okay. I a bit of both. We have an iMac which replaced an older eMac and I've owned numerous Macs. However our MLS is not Mac friendly and there are a few applications which are industry specific that only run on a PC. I also use Tablet functionality on my laptop which still isn't available on the Mac, which is strange since Apple was the company that brought out the Newton years ago which means if someone should have done a Tablet it should have been Apple. In addition I have an iPhone, 2 AppleTV and numerous iPods so its not that I don't like Apple, I love Apple, but I can't run software that I need for parts of my business on the Mac.

So as much as I like the Mac (I can run circles around dedicated Mac users even on a Mac). I've become a PC guy out of necessity.

James...I am a PC... That's why they make chocolate and vanilla.......I am sure they both have advantages....but i started using a PC and I don't feel like starting over...I am HAPPY

Hi James- It was Greg's enthusiasm the night of the twestival was the final pull I needed. The push was my poor performing PC. iLife '09 is great. I did need to buy iWork so that I'd be able to use my excel spreadsheets & word docs (btw, you can export out from Mac back to excel and word). The only thing which I cannot figure out is printer through my PCs on the network at home.

Nice post, but a continuing battle. What about Linux?

Gabe - macs are currently running system OSX, which is Linux based.

Funny story....

I have spent the better part of ten years trying to convince a client of mine (Realtor) to switch. Unsuccessfully.

Finally... he got fed up with Windoze and bought an iMac. He was so excited. But it arrived and sat on this office floor. And sat. And sat. I kept asking WHY he hasn't hooked up the new toy (I would have had the package opened before the FedEx guy got back in his truck!). He said "he wanted to wait until he had a full day to hook everything up, etc.". I told him that it won't take long... just DO IT. Everytime I spoke to him I would get the same story. This thing sat on his office floor for 6 weeks, waiting for the day when he could devote some "time" to hooking everything up.

One day I called him, and was again told he was "waiting for the day....". I ordered him to open the damn box and open it up. NOW.

In less than ten minutes (no exaggeration)... the computer was set up. It was connected to the internet. His printer worked. His scanner worked. His iPhone synced. His wireless keyboard and mouse worked and his account was set up. He was dumfounded. He was in business. Totally.

Why? Because Windows makes your life miserable. You have to get RID of all the crap that they bloat your system with. Then download patches..updates... download archaic drivers for printers, scanners, etc. Nothing is easy. Nothing is simple. He was waiting for the "day" because setting up a new Windoze computer took ALL freakin' day long to get it all together including a few hours on the phone to Dell in India, blah blah blah.

Long story short... he dumped his Dell laptop 3 months ago and is all Mac now! In fact, he brought his laptop to his [new] office a couple of weeks ago. He needed to print something, and was about ready to call the IT guy to see what was involved in hooking up his laptop to the office printers, etc. (You have to call the IT guy ALL the time because... it's WINDOWS! ) But... just out of curiosity... he tried doing it himself first. Lo and behold... it instantly recognized all the printers instantly in the office. No stupid drivers needed. No IT guy needed.

Macs just WORK. I've had 25 in the past 25 years. I have run several businesses from Macs. I wouldn't take a Windoze computer if you gave it to me for free. I really wouldn't. Macs make work enjoyable. Windoze gets in the way of your productivity. Oh.. and if you DO have an issue? Try calling Apple support or visiting the Genius Bar at an Apple Store. It's a refreshing, dare I say, enjoyable experience. First class service all the way around. You feel like sending them flowers thanking them for their exemplary service - they're THAT good! It's really a different experience if you're used to dealing with most computer companies.

I've used both and they are good for different reasons. I went from Macs to PC just because of the lack of software available.

I moved to MAC a long time ago (unfortunately, I still use both though). My mortgage site does not work on the Mac. Yes, I have downloaded Firefox and also ran some other program but still 'no go'. The MAC is awesome because its VERY easy to use, create newsletters, presentations, etc. I love 'click and drag' and cant stand 'cut and paste'.

Like I said though, I have to use both. Having a blast with my iPod, iPhone, Mac, and Macbook though!! I have done my fair share at increasing Apples profits.

MAR

Im PC mainly because I can troubleshoot and fix my issues HW and SW. If I can't figure it out, I know people that can. With MAC I would likely loose that.

I have considered switching over though next time I need a new computer. I guess it comes down to i'm reluctant (scared) to try something new that would effect my business.

Thanks for the heads up on the Mac using the internet explorer for the mls! I had no idea. I would rather have the apple computer.

It's a Good Life!

Fran

I am thinking that you have just convinced me my new computer later this year will be a MAC. Thanks for the post & the kick in the pants to just go do it.

MAR

I've used both and though I believe I'll remain a PC guy, you do indeed make a good case.

APR

Currently use a PC but planning on switching to a MAC soon...

APR

I better buy Apple shares before you guys run to buy Macs.

I have done both....but prefer a PC.....

Ginger of Southport

MAY

I have an affair with my Mac almost daily. I LOVE it. I just use my PC, but I have passion for my Mac. All the cool things I do in my tech life are coaxed out of me by my MAC. My PC just does what I tell it to do, but there's no inspiration.

MAY

Had an Apple 2e years ago and then went to PC and have used it for years, always upgrading windows and adding extra space. Perhaps I should do some research into a Mac You have posted some good answers to questions and concerns that I have had about considering a change.

JUN

I used to support over 50 windows machines in an office for 10 years. The day I left my old job, I bought a MAC and I will never every go back to using a Windows PC again. Does anyone know when FMLS will work with Firfox or Safari? Or is there another browser I can use to access FMLS on my mac? thanks!!

JUN

I have always used a PC. Never used a Mac.

But I am so ready to make a change. I have two desktops and 1 laptop right now and I am always having an issue with one or the other.

I get so frustrated. Yes, I know how to fix many issues myself but the time involved in all these fixed is ridiculous.

Our MLS system still doesn't work completely on the MAC so I am just biding my time.

JUN

I'm a PC ... but if I ever want a PlaySkool computer, I'll get a Mac :-)

JUL

I'm a Mac and have been for almost three years! Just bought my husband one for Father's Day/Birthday. He's thrilled! Anyone considering a Mac should take the plunge. They are great machines and more and more software is coming over to the Mac world - but Parallels or VM Fusion run Windows, so no one has any excuse, really!

JUL

The first corporate PC I used was an Apple IIe 64k that ran visicalc on and could create a very small spreadsheet. Shortly afterthat every corporate job had a PC based set up. One of my clients runs a local PC and Microsoft shop and they built a new PC for me a couple of weeks ago with Intel Quad-core and an evaluation copy of Windows 7 64 bit. I'm having plenty of fun with Windows 7 and this new horsepower, and also like the fact I have great local support.

AUG

I'm a maciac! for real estate, I don't know what other system is better! wiht iweb I upload photos of homes we've toured with a click, I upload photos to flickr and facebook and do so many cool things, I would die if I had to use a PC!

AUG

I'm am cuurrently a PC, but I am becoming aware of MAC's uses. I believe I soon will try and find time to learn Mac's more thoroughly and possibly even purchase one.

The software for Macs so much more reliable. The only way I cna try and describe PC's issues is that they often distribute "beta" software rather then wait.

I am a PC but use my wife's Mac from time to time...biggest drawbacks to a Mac I see are cost of hardware and software compatibility/availability. Macs have plenty of creative applications but many business applications, games and 3rd party hardware are not available on a Mac.

For example, if you have a Blackberry smart phone there is no Blackberry Desktop Maager application for Mac.

AUG

I am a PC. For me the main issue is price. I already have everything I need. Replacing my computer alone would be bad enough, but what about my printers. I have an old dual tray Laserjet 4050 and an Officejet 4215. Could I use these printers with the MAC? If not do they make something similar for it, how much would they cost?

Is a MAC worth it?. Everyone agrees a Mercedes E Class or BMW 7 Series is worth what they cost, but that doesn't mean I can buy one.

AUG

PC, now and forever or until Microsoft insists on making PC's look like Macs (and then I'll go to Linux! I am NOT a Microsoft fan). You left a reason out: I tend to see double because of a vision issue, and Mac is ALL visual! The worst hour I ever spent with a computer was dealing with a Mac at Kinko's -- I could not see well enough where the darn icons were (which I couldn't understand anyway since you had to understand what the little pictures were) to use the "drag and drop" thing. The job would have taken ten minutes on a PC. Never, ever, ever do I want to sit in front of one of a Mac again, unless it has software for the visually impaired installed and lets me do keyboard shortcuts. ;) So, there is a reason -- thanks for letting me put my opinion in!

AUG

Great post, and very helpful in answering the "why" questions many people have. I made the switch and have MUCH less downtime with my Macs. And yes, I can run Windows at the same time, but rarely need to.

When it comes to business, reliability is key. I opted to spend a few extra dollars on a Mac. The trouble and time I've saved have been amazing!

Thanks again for a great post!

Tony =)

AUG

Hello, I am a PC

But, everyone has told me that I need to change. Thanks for the post, I will now have to look into it.

AUG

It sure is interesting to see how many people buy one or the other for perceived reasons over real logical, investigated and reasoned out reasons. I especially like the "PC, now and forever or until Microsoft insists on making PC's look like Macs" and "PlaySkool computer" comments.

I'm a mac or course, but hey, what ever floats your boat. I can do so much so easily on my mac and I run window on it for the poorly coded sites that only work with IE.

AUG

I don't think the MAC (pot smoking office worker) vs. PC (dorky office worker) marketing campaign was designed to appeal to me. If I were interviewing those two guys for a job, I would hire the PC over the MAC every single time. If I was going to go socializing, I might take the MAC sometimes. The trouble is I never socialize with my machine. It's always strictly business.

SEP

Great post, James! My husband's laptop just went kaput so we were actually at the Apple Store today looking at MacBook Pros. I've used mostly PC's but used a Mac at work for a few years when I was doing graphic design and when I worked for a product development company. These were pretty ancient Macs back in the late '90s, but I still loved them! Now I think if my husband gets one...I may have to switch over myself, too. We also have iPhones and having trouble updating them on the PC.

BTW, they only transfer files from your old computer if you purchase their $99 one to one add-on.

Leilani