Stories Collected While Living in France

French la Vie

PC or MAC

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Each thing in this photo is older than me. Yet my laptop that isn't even ten years old is fading out faster than these things.

When I started a blog I borrowed French Husband's PC laptop. Using his PC laptop which was a massive learning curve for someone like me who used only pen and paper. Learning how to "do" a blog was a miraclous feat…. I should be consider for sainthood on the merit alone. Now that my computer is literally breathing its last breath French Husband says I should change to a MAC. I think he thinks I like learning curves and is often throwing curve balls at me!

Most people tell me it is easier, and that it is better for managing photography files, that it is more user friendly?

What type of computer do you use?

Comments

66 responses to “PC or MAC”

  1. Linda

    I think a MAC is good if you are fabulously talented with computers. I bought one after years with my faithful IBM computer and found it very hard to learn. In fact, I gave my new MAC to my husband and got my own Dell lap top. I just understand it more and like to use photoshop which I didn’t have on the MAC. I like to stick to what I am used to. But I do know MAC users are crazy about their computers.

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  2. Cy

    I’m sure you’ll get lot’s of MAC inthusiasts telling you to go with a MAC, but I love my Dell laptop too! It’s light, about the size of a thick fashion magazine, fits perfectly in my breifcase, I hardly know it’s there! Stick with your PC. Why waste valuable time trying to learn the MAC when you could be out doing what you love, antiqueing and spending time with handsome French Husband!

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  3. Hasmin

    Corey, I’m probably the last person to give you advice on computers. (computer challenged…I’m the poster child!) I personally use an HP. I asked my husband what he thinks (he’s worked with both), and he would prefer sticking with a PC (more software available), but he also says that MACs are now capable of running PC software, if it’s setup with a dual boot system. (whaat?) So, I think you should base your decision on what you want to do on your computer, or should I say, what you want your computer to do for you.

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  4. vanessa

    I used a pc all my life and switched to a mac when i went to college. i love it. i’m not great with computers, but it didn’t take me that long to get used to. it’s very user friendly. it will cost you a bit more. but the good news is it won’t be out-dated as fast as a pc.

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  5. Elizabeth Harper

    I used to be a diehard PC user who would not consider a MAC until someone who knew how involved I was with photography bought me one as a birthday present.
    Well, I was so entranced by the things I could do with my MAC that I barely left the loft apartment I was living in at the time. I’d go two days with showering which I never do normally, I wouldn’t take five minutes to even go down the hall to check the mail and starting scrounging for food that produced some weird combinations, eating whatever was there because I couldn’t tear myself away from my MAC to run to the store.
    Well, like with all new love affairs, I finally came up for air and back out into the daylight, but my love for MAC is still going strong four years later which is more than I can say for the relationship that introduced me to the world of MAC.
    I love using Aperture to manage my photo’s and MAC folks were right all along…I can do more with it and it is intuitive!
    I promise, I don’t worship at the First Church Of MAC…I know those PC diehards want to pooh pooh the intense appreciation MAC lovers have for their tools, but I can’t tell you how many people once they switch, never go back. It kind of makes you wonder doesn’t it?
    Good luck with your decision and by the way, MAC versus PC is the only thing my sweetie and I disagree on with any real energy. He’s a PC user and he seems much more invested in proving his PC is a versatile as my MAC while I don’t need to debate anything because I know the difference having used both. Most PC users cannot say that.
    Taking advise from someone who’s never spent any real time on a MAC is like taking driving lessons from someone who’s never been behind the wheel.

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  6. TACE

    I’m a Mac. I’ve used both. My husband is a web developer and did most of his work on a Mac, I went through 2 or 3 PCs while he was on the same Mac.
    We have Macs that are over 7 and 10 years old that we handed off to relatives when their pcs died. Macs can have issues too but we’ve had very good luck with them.
    I’m not a diehard Mac enthusiast but I certainly enjoy mine.
    My Mother-in-law who is now 70 just switched to a Mac a couple years ago because the virus’s she was constantly getting on her Pc were ruining her enjoyment of the internet. Switched to a Mac and after getting over the slight differences she has been having a blast.
    Anyways, ultimately you should get what you want. Maybe you have a friend or relative who has a Mac and can let you play with it. 🙂

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  7. Kit

    I’m still on a PC and have ne ver learned my way around Mac. My husband has one of each – a PC for most of his everyday work and a Mac for artier photography and doing more complicated stuff. In the end it comes down to how curvy you like your learning curves!

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  8. Miss Maddie’s

    I have a Mac.I love it!
    They range in size from itty bitty to gigantic.
    I had a pc before but who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!
    Susan

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  9. Shannon

    I have a MAC and I love it. I worked with a MAC when I was a graphic designer. It’s the way to go.

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  10. Laure

    Corey, Macs are great machines, easy to learn, and are more resistant to viruses. That said, they can sometimes be a challenge with software because all sites don’t support Macs to the same level as mainstream PCs.
    I urge you to check out your blog software on a Mac before you purchase. The photography won’t be a problem as Mac’s have some of the best programs going, but the blog? Hmmmm – best to check it out first.
    As to the learning curve? It really is a very intuitive machine/OS and I really don’t see you having a problem. Good luck and enjoy the adventure!

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  11. wilsonian

    Mac, baby!

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  12. Sugar

    FH is on to something! My son brought a Mac and my daughter wants one too. We use Pentium, but it’s old and like your laptop, it’s not performing as well as we would like.

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  13. Donovan

    Computers (all) can be so damn frustrating at times and I think that this decision is all about your personal preference.
    1. How important to you is variety of software and support: A look around your local Darty store would confirm how much more popular PC’s are. Some would argue that this is less of a decision between a Mac or a PC and more about the brand of Apple vs Dell vs HP and others. However this doesn’t address the point that there is far more software available for PC’s but is that important to you? For example a search for blogging software on download.com shows more than 500 programs for Windows and 40 for the Mac. If you only use a handful of programs and these meet all your needs then this is a non-issue. You should double check that programs you are familiar with run on both platforms.
    2. How important are aesthetics.. look vs features. Is your computer a piece of furniture in your study or something you pack away when you have finished using it. These days there is little difference in quality, reliability and performance of major brands. On price, a PC will offer slightly more performance than a Mac at a similar price. So unless you are a techno-geek – the choice of well known brand computer with a good warranty might just come down to “looks and feel” and maybe price.
    3. Operating System: A new PC almost certainly means a move to Windows Vista. So choosing either Mac or PC would still require you to get used to a new interface, the step to a Mac would involve a new, slightly different way of working but would ultimately have to win the award for being more intuitive, but not so much to make it a compelling choice.
    So, no recommendation from me, but hopefully something to think about. This was sent on behalf of my wife Ange, an avid fan or your blog (and I also suspect the pictures of French husband:))

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  14. caren k

    MAC! My family used to have PC’s – and I was the last to change. Now that I have – I’ll never go back!

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  15. Gayle

    Corey, I switched to a Mac last January after many years of using a PC and I would never go back … the Mac is wonderful. Although people kept warning me about a steep learning curve I found that the only problem I encountered was that I kept expecting things to be more difficult to do than they are … it just seemed too easy and user friendly to be true. Also, I’ve found that most software is available for the Mac; Photoshop runs beautifully on my iMac.
    Good luck with wahtever you choose, a new computer is always exciting!

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  16. Beverly

    I don’t even have a laptop! I still work from the old version of a pc, and I don’t do well with change!
    Sorry, I’m no use to you Cory

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  17. michelle of bleeding espresso

    I understand your dilemma. I’ve been thinking about a new laptop since mine is fading every day, but do I jump ship and go Mac? Hmmm…looking forward to your decision 🙂

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  18. Miz Booshay

    Dear Corey,
    I use both.
    The Mac is real pretty and all that.
    But my husband is a PC man. And he is the brains in this field.
    He is not able to help me with the Mac at all.
    Thus. In my case. A PC would be nicer to manage.
    I do not think the Mac is easier than a PC in any way.
    It’s just prettier.
    So. If you have some Mac users in the family who can help you,
    go ahead and get a Mac. But if you don’t have anyone to help you, you are really on your own and the Mac doesn’t come with instructions. Everything is a guess.

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  19. debra

    Mac—-intuitive, non-crashing, lovely Mac 🙂

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  20. Kristin Wight

    If you talk to a PC user they just say PC and move on. If you ask a Mac user, they are always so passionate. I think that alone gives your answer. To be passionate about a computer, it must be good!
    I converted after I married my Mac Husband. (He programs on Macs and now, iPhones) So I had no choice! But I am ever so glad he made me do it. I have never had major problems with my Mac.I believe it is more logical and easier to use. You can move files, you can delete things, you do not have to restart every time you install something… and no virus checkers! I have not had a virus checker in 10 years! You do not have to worry about it at all!
    Have you seen the “Hi, I’m a Mac” commercials? You should look at them on apple’s website. The new MacBooks are WONDERFUL! I got mine this week! I can go on and on about Macs. I’m a fanatic about them. However, you should have bought it while you were in the USA! : ) Its cheaper! But I guess now you can get the newly released MacBook! It’s beautiful!

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  21. Brenda

    I guess you will have to research the programs… see if what you like is available on a Mac. Personally, I would love a Mac but its too expensive for me right now. I currently won a HP laptop on a promotion for HP. The reviews were good.I guess I’ll see when I get it Monday. But , in short, I would compare with the programs I use.

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  22. sheala feeney

    Morning Corey,
    I have a PC at home and all our schools use MAC.
    Macs can do so much, and Your Hunk of Burning Love can help! Have fun choosing.
    XOXOXOXO,
    Shea
    PS~ I went shopping for baby stuff last night! AAhhhh!!!!

    Reply
  23. Patty

    I used a PC for work for many years and now I use a Mac at work and at home – its wonderful and very easy to set up with no help and not a lot of computer experience. I think it took barely a week changing from a PC to a Mac before I was fully comfortable – that was it! You will not have to worry about viruses and yes photos will be easier to manage.

    Reply
  24. Melissa’s Cozy Teacup

    My husband has us on Linux software which was a huge learning curve for me! Just think of how much exercise your brain will get, staving off Alzheimer’s and dementia!

    Reply
  25. kim

    We only have MACs at our house and we love them. My husband works in IT and he only uses MACs and he’s convinced my entire family back home to buy them and they are sold on them too. So… yeah… we highly recommend a MAC.

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  26. Ulla

    Get a MAC Corey… you won’t regret it!!!
    Kisses!

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  27. Suzanne, the Farmer’s Wife

    About six months ago I got a MAC and I’ve never looked back. It’s fantastic. I’ve yet to take the photograph applications class at the local Apple store. The newspaper I worked for used MAC’s for graphic applications. You’ll laugh Corey, because I have the super-sized senior citizen desktop model with the 24 inch screen.
    – Suzanne, the Farmer’s Wife

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  28. Miss Sandy

    Have mercy if my PC died there would be much weeping ad gnashing of teeth! My husband bought me a lap top and it sat for one year before I learned how to use it. I don’t think I could or would want to start over with a new system, although, I relish a good challenge. I hear great things about the MAC, so just maybe I could be persuaded after all…but not until mine dies!

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  29. Dee

    I have a new HP Laptop…SOME people think I should have a Mac…I’m afraid! haha This is my second HP Laptop…I just love it!

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  30. Annette

    Corey, I am delurking for the first time to tell you… get a Mac, for sure! I used nothing but Windows based computers at work. When I retired, I purchased a Mac to use with graphics type programs at home. I love my Mac, and dread having to relearn Windows if I should purchase software for my Bernina sewing machine. Mac programs are very intuitive… just click and go! (I had no one to help me learn.) Macs are used in many schools in the USA, as opposed to PC’s. And, it is true that within the past several years, the Mac operating system can boot into Windows, as already mentioned by Hasmin. Thank you so much for your lovely blog. Good luck with your purchase.

    Reply
  31. Jeni

    Once you get used to a macs format, you’ll wonder why you ever had a PC. A really great feature of Macs is that they take care of themselves, which means they don’t build up junk in their hard drives and slow down like a PC. Apples’ come with a nice photo editing application called iPhoto. It’s not nearly as complicated as photoshop but is mainly for adjusting light and color balance. If you like more features than that, there are quite a few mac friendly photo editing programs that you can download online for free. If you are willing to pay a couple hundred dollars for a photo editing program, then there is Adobe CS3 and Aperture. The first is, again, rather complicated and has some features that I found either cheesy or useless. The second is made by Apple so is a little more user friendly and has a lot of cool auto settings.
    As far as blogs go, mac has one application that uploads pictures onto your online automatically from your photo library. You have to pay for it and my brother tells me it’s over rated, but I know some people who like it.
    If you go with a Mac, it’s best to by the applications that are produced by Apple because they are made for Mac computers instead of being compatible with them.
    Macs are great, but just like applications, some people are simply not made for them. So if you have a friend that has one, you might want to go play with it.
    Best of luck.
    Morganne (Jeni’s daughter.)

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  32. Gail

    Dear Corey,
    The Mac vs. PC debate will continue on into infinity. Living abroad, you have missed the funniest commercials. The Mac was winning until recently, when Bill Gates came out with a bunch of good comeback commercials re the PC. Now Mac has a new round of PC bashing commercials. The debate and battle goes on. I love all the commercials and rivalry. Very creative.
    hugs,
    Gail

    Reply
  33. christine

    i must chime in on the MAC camp! After 20 years of PC use (and marriage to a PC programmer/administrator by trade) I’ve switched to Mac and am SOOOOOOO happy with it! It simply requires less “upkeep” to run well. My husband fantasizes about using a Mac himself at home, but with his work needs that’s not going to happen!

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  34. Lilly

    Hi. You’ll love a mac I think. They’re very user friendly and visually pleasing. Once you’re over the little hump of changing from one type of computer to the other, I think you’ll be happy with a mac.

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  35. martina

    I’ve always used PCs. Now have a Dell laptop which I really like, most of the time. Last night the data protection system was acting up which was scary but all is well. What do people mean less maintenance with Mac?

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  36. Ruth

    Hi, I have to join the “Mac-camp” – I own a computer support company and though we use Linux & PCs (Windows) predominately at work – I have a Mac I run the business on and a personal Mac. I switched years ago after 1 too many “blue screens of death” and have NO REGRETS. My sister reached her breaking point a year ago and the whole family converted to Mac with very little learning curve. I think you will LOVE it – the MAC operating system is Unix which is an extremely reliable piece of software. You can’t go wrong. That is why the legions of MAC users are so loyal! Good luck.

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  37. Joanny

    Corey
    We have MAC and PC’s here at our house….
    I am not the MAC user have an old PC workhorse however, my computer crashes, gets plain weird at times, and my family laugh and say switch Mom to a MAC — it is easy friendly efficient better spam protector and doesn’t crash like the PC
    So if you can afford to buy a good top of the line MAC it would be a better investment… Good Luck, Corey (Even (French) any Husband’s can be right at times— and I think this is one of the time…..Joanny

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  38. kenju

    I know nothing about Macs, except that the people who have them are passionate in their support of them. I use a regular PC and it’s not a laptop. I hate laptops unless I can attach a mouse to them.

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  39. heather

    i would think the best thing to do is find someone with a mac and borrow it for a bit. try writing up a post or something (uploading photos temporarily to see how it goes), do some of your normal computer stuff. then you can see how you like the system. i’m sure there’s pros and cons to both, it just depends which you feel more comfortable with.

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  40. Dawn

    I switched to a MAC last autumn and I have enjoyed it very much!
    I still don’t know all the ins and outs, but like the ease of it.

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  41. dotsie

    You will love a mac. I’ve used one for years, and love the creative parts of it. When I use a pc at work, I can’t wait to get home to my mac. It is easy to use…I have yet to “take a class.”

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  42. Patricia

    HI
    Don’t switch to a Mac… it’s so user unfriendly, like ‘n Ipod, terrible.
    Windows is straight and easy, and very cheap.
    500 euro will buy you a good one but a mac will take the dubble (with all the trouble for free…).
    Love youre pictures you’re realy funny.
    Patty from Amsterdam

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  43. Franca Bollo

    Once you go Mac, you can’t go back.*
    *Full disclosure, since 1986 I’ve used only Macs with an occasionally visit to PC enfer when I’ve used my sister’s or father’s. The experience makes me want to claw my eyeballs out. Poor user interface, non-intuitive, I could go on. Macs are so user friendly, a manual would just be a waste of paper.
    And, of course, there’s its industrial design … with your eye for beauty, need I say more?
    But, to the PC’s credit, they are cheaper (and you get what you pay for …)
    FB
    Obama ’08

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  44. Kayla

    I love PCs. In school we always had to use MACs and they frustrated me beyond belief.
    My old laptop just recently decided to stop working so I got myself a new Dell and it is so cool! Very easy to use and you can even register your fingerprint for logins to make it easier. And the fact that its purple pretty much puts it over the top.
    I think either computer would be fine.. I always liked the way MACs looked but the operating system was what was frustrating (for me anyway)! You can do the same things on a PC that you can do on a MAC, too. But, I’m a little bias towards PCs.

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  45. Ed in Willows

    The only advice I can offer is be careful about choosing a PC with Windows Vista. There have been so many bad comments coming out against Vista. I personally have used PC since I started. I know that Mac users are passionate about them and would never change. My own computer is getting old too and I will be shopping for a new one soon. I plan on waiting at least 2 years until Microsoft can work all the bugs out of the Vista platform. If you can possibly buy a new PC with Windows XP in Europe, go for it. Which ever way you go, I suggest getting an external hard drive for storing you photos and music. If you ever get a virus in the main computer hard drive, at least your valuable files will be safe.

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  46. tut-tut

    Three letters: M A C

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  47. Bev F

    We had MACs for years and then our son talked us into going PC. I will NEVER go back to MAC. Not ever. You are so limited in your programs. There is a whole nuther computer world out there that is not available on MAC. My only caveat with PC is to “upgrade” back to Windows XP. Vista needs more work.

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  48. Y

    Hi, Corey,
    I was working as graphic artist in LA before, as far as treating pics, it is the same – depending on what kind of software you use, and how fast your computer can perform.
    I use PC now, since they are reasonably priced.
    I have 2 older mac as well – from 10+ years ago, and they are still usable w/o problems!!! I bet that PCs can’t last this long. But who wants grandma computers!??
    2-3pcs in 10 years, VS 1 mac in 10 years?
    I think.
    Good Luck!!

    Reply
  49. carol

    Hi Corey!
    I really don’t have much to add to this discussion. I’ve used both, but not for doing much of anything.
    My daughter-in-law’s father who is very computer savvy and does a lot of photography recently switched to a MAC and loves it.
    Best wishes with your decision!

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  50. Lori Witzel

    My $0.02; sorry for the long comment!
    My hubbie used to think Macs were, and I quote, “overpriced pieces of !@#$%^” He then went to work for Apple doing tech support, and what he, Mr. All Things Tech, learned about the operating system and such made him reconsider — he now thinks they are a vastly superior tool. He currently works at Home Depot doing tech support, and still thinks Apple’s computer is a better tool.
    I use a Mac at home for artwork, schoolwork and business, and a Dell PC at work. The Mac is different, but it’s easy to learn what’s different.
    Yes, there may be less software authored or remade to run on a Mac, so do check whether what you need is Mac-friendly. But if “must use” software is not a serious constraint, my Mac is much more stable — no crashes — compared to my office PC, processes images much more quickly, and I find the user interface much less obscure than some elements of Windows.
    I can run all Office apps on the Mac, so business use is no issue. The software I use for correctly formatting my college schoolwork did have a Mac version that works just fine.
    And don’t forget the issues caused by viruses and other malware — the Mac is not immune, but there is a whole lot less awfulness out there likely to infect a Mac. My hubbie has to “scrub” his PC (he has both a PC and a Mac) every week to keep ahead of the virus-slime.

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  51. Mountain Mama

    I have a PC now but learned on a Mac and have to agree with your husband. Mac is easiest to use.

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  52. Vikki

    I LOVE my MAC! It was a little awkward at first to get used to after being an avid microsoft user. Now, I can’t even imagine a world without my MAC.

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  53. Janet

    We have both in our home but I haven’t taken the time to really learn the Mac yet. My kids made the switch very quickly and easily. I was proud to use it the other day to post and edit a few pictures to my blog. LOL. I think for your purpose and photography skills you should use the Mac. Has Donna posted yet? She’s probably tell you to get a Mac.

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  54. cheryl

    My husband threatens that if I get a MAC he will not be able to help me (he is my handsome tech support) that strikes fear in the heart of this “techno-dunce”..so I’ll muddle thru with this PC that I am convinced is counter-intuitive to this artistic brain!

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  55. Jeanette

    How interesting I am looking for my first laptop…I am looking at the PC because my programs are not compatiable with MAC. I finally made up my mind went to the store because it was on sale this week and guess what they sold out!!!!!!! I can order on line, but now thinking what if a better deal is in sundays ads!!?? Or if I just what until black friday(day after thanksgiving) maybe they will be cheaper. Husband say your choice do what you want….not the answer I was looking for. Called Lorene asked her oppinion she said good luck with what you decide!!!!!!!!!!! No one any help. I have it in the cart just waiting to press purchase but what if????? Crazy I know I just need to click on purchase….still thinking is it right?? Oh brother what to do maybe just sleep on it and see what sunday’s ads bring? Undecided again, Jeanette

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  56. Sarah

    Really a Mac is the only way to go. You won’t regret it.

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  57. Kris

    Well, I can see that I’m behind the times as usual. I use a pc and feel it is about all I care to learn my way around. No curves for me right now maybe later.
    Kris

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  58. Carol

    Oh Corey DO go with a Mac! They are really the best, especially for anything art or graphics related but overall, for reliability and all.. definitely…a mac…. a new iBook if you can. The adjustment will be minimal and well worth it.

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  59. liz

    Mac. Mac. Mac. Mac. Mac. Mac. I can’t say it enough. Mac. Mac. Mac.

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  60. Shelley Noble

    MAC> Solely. MAC!!!!!!!!!
    Come, come to the Mac side of life, Corey, it’s a world filled with easy pleasure and empowered creativity!
    Don’t look back. Get a friend there to show you around on one to see how easy it is to do the great things in your future. Or…
    Next time you happen to be in California, I’ll do it!

    Reply
  61. Marie-Noëlle

    After going through all these comments… I feel as if I were a dinosaur… no laptop, no Mac… 😉

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  62. My Mélange

    Corey-
    What timing you have. I have been researching this very thing for the last 4 months or so. I am convinced I am going MAC, but I just waited b/c they had an upgrade on Oct 14th.
    I was waiting to decide if I wanted the new expensive version or the older- now drastically reduced version.
    I have decided that for my needs and budget(MACS are pricey)- I will buy the older version- I don’t like the look of the new ones and I don’t really need to pay the extra $500 for the latest and greatest.
    Glad I waited.
    My vote for you is MAC. Once you try MAC- you never go back 🙂
    Le us know your decision!!

    Reply
  63. Sue Tinker

    Corey,
    You will love the Mac. It is very user friendly and EASY. IPhoto is wonderful and has come a long way. I’ve made hardcover books, calendars, dvd’s and I’m not very technical. If they have Apple Stores there, you can take “One to One” classes for $99/year once a week. They’re great because you get the undivided attention of a usually young expert to help you figure it all out. I even did a website of my trip to Thailand last year. Good Luck. Sue

    Reply
  64. Christine E

    I must say I have just converted and got a super imac. It’s such a user friendly computer. Once you get started you wonder why you never got one sooner. Dont forget photoshop too for all your tres belles photos. Bonne chance x

    Reply
  65. jill

    I’ve always used MAC. I am an artist and I think they are made for that side of the brain.
    Photoshop lets you do anything you want to an image, but it is a lot of horsepower for the casual phototweaker.

    Reply
  66. Angelique

    I’m a Mac user. Anyone who loves good design would be a Mac user.

    Reply

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