| In recent years, entry prices for new computers and | | | | non-threat of viruses, but also because of an |
| laptops have dropped considerably. Macintosh | | | | advanced operating system and software. Apple, |
| computers, though, still tend to have a higher initial | | | | after all, applies the same innovation and standards to |
| cost. At the same time, Macintosh machines rate | | | | its OS as it does to construction. Those familiar and |
| consistently higher than their PC counterparts in | | | | comfortable with Windows actually have the option |
| regards to quality, value, and performance. How, | | | | to run it on the same machine along with the Mac's |
| then, does a higher-priced machine end up being the | | | | default OS, thanks to the Boot Camp feature. |
| better value? | | | | Regardless of what OS you're operating, Macintoshes |
| Starting with hardware, Macintosh laptops and | | | | are compatible with the most popular and |
| desktops are released with the latest and most | | | | omnipresent of Microsoft software (e.g., Microsoft |
| reliable engineering components, whereas the | | | | Office, Excel, PowerPoint). |
| majority of PCs are designed in a cutting-corners | | | | Whether you're new to computers or just Macs, |
| format in order to achieve those low out-of-the-box | | | | they are tremendously easy to set-up, learn, and use. |
| prices. This translates to faster overall performance | | | | They don't require the same extensive installation |
| that continues to outdo competitors even after an | | | | and assembly as PCs; they're ready for action |
| operating system update; many PCs will become | | | | immediately. They also come equipped with a lot of |
| substantially more sluggish after undergoing a | | | | great modern technology that PC users need to |
| standard, full Windows updates. Basically, Macintosh | | | | purchase separately. |
| computers are designed for longevity. These high | | | | All newer Macintosh machines have built-in, automatic, |
| technological standards and longer life spans help | | | | self-configuring wireless access. Macintosh computers |
| make a used Macintosh a better value than a used | | | | also come with something called iSight, a built-in |
| PC. | | | | webcam. This easygoing integration occurs even with |
| Of course, there are other factors that create this | | | | external software. With devices such as printers, |
| value and overall advantage. Mac machines are far | | | | phones, and digital cameras, the bulk of your work |
| less vulnerable to such distressing problems as viruses | | | | lies in a simple plug-in. Likewise, Macintosh machines |
| and malware. Nearly all computer viruses are designed | | | | offer more software for making the most of all |
| to attack PCs. Macintosh computers offer an | | | | these assets. It comes equipped with programs for |
| additional level of high security. Anti-virus software is | | | | easily editing pictures or videos, for having a |
| available (though seldom used) for Macintosh if a user | | | | four-way video chat with friends, for creating music, |
| desires an extra bit of safety. On the whole, fewer | | | | and much more. |
| viruses mean fewer repair/upkeep costs and the | | | | Many people think the difference between Mac and |
| prospect of a longer life. Fewer virus threats also | | | | PCs is only an advertising spectrum, but the longevity |
| mean fewer (if any) updates, scans, and alerts, | | | | and ease of use of Macintosh computers are |
| allowing you to work or play without interruption. | | | | appealing to many consumers. The many benefits |
| Mac machines run more smoothly and with fewer | | | | and advantages offered by the computer help to |
| interruptions than PCs not just because of the | | | | offset the price tag. |