The Advantages & Disadvantages of Mac Computers

Security

• Because the most common computer used is the PC, the majority of computer viruses target PCs. One of Mac's selling points is that it is more secure from an attack than its competitors. However, as it gains in popularity and more people use it, more malicious viruses will most likely be designed to attack the Mac operating system.

Technology

• There's a reason why Macs are the most utilized computers in creative environments--they have higher quality sound and graphics than PCs and are sometimes known as the "working computers." Apple is also the creator of many popular products, such as iTunes, iPods, iBooks and iPhones, and it's more convenient to use them with Macs, as the technology used to create and use these products is also incorporated into the Mac OS X system.

Speed

• Mac's software is created by the same people who designed the computer and running system, rather than third-party vendors with PCs. This translates into smoother, faster running times for people who need to work quickly.

Equipment

• Mac upgrades are expensive, and it's sometimes cheaper to buy a whole new computer than pay for the upgrades. Also, Mac computers typically only work well with Apple products. For example, PC users can buy a competitively priced external webcam at any local technology store, while Mac users must buy a specific webcam that works with the OS X system. The same thing goes with desktop mice and more.

Software

• Because PCs are the most common computers, many websites and software products are based on a Windows running platform. Some Mac users cannot access important information or play games unless they install a Mac Windows program, which is usually much slower than the OS X programs.

Cost

• Many people think of Macs as the "cool" computers because of their sleek designs and hipster following. This status comes with a price, and as of early 2010, most Mac laptops start out at $1,000 versus paying $500 for a laptop PC.