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Are you thinking of purchasing a computer but can't decide between purchasing a Mac OS and PC with Windows?
You're in the right place! How you choose will depend on your personal computing needs, so choose wisely.
Security
One difference between a Mac and a Windows PC is their level of security.
Microsoft Windows is more popular around the world than Mac OS, so most cyber attacks focus on Windows.
Malware like Trojans is a common threat to PCs but rarely harms Macs, which aren't completely protected from malware but tend to be more secure than PCs .
Quiz
Maria wants to get a new computer because her laptop is full of viruses. What system would give her a more secure experience?
If you want to avoid having to constantly update antivirus software and malware detectors, you're better off with Mac OS.
Random-Access Memory (RAM)
RAM allows your computer to perform all the tasks you ask it to do. Your computer can slow down if you don't have enough RAM to process the applications you use.
Keep in mind how much RAM you need. Most PCs can have RAM added but you cannot add RAM to Macs.
4GB is a basic level of RAM and is good for basic computer usage such as media streaming and web browsing
8GB is for basic office tasks
16GB is good for gaming and other process-heavy apps
32GB is a ton of RAM, which is good if you need a lot of power such as video production
Did you know?
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Pricing
Mac
Limited variations
Features such as touchscreens
cost more
Macs are costly due to a limited range of prices but last a long time
Photo by Allef Vinicius on Unsplash
PC
Many variations such as touchscreens, and two-in-one laptops with stylus
Customizable
Offer a large range of prices to fit your budget
Quiz
You have a tight budget and you're not sure you can afford a top of the range laptop. What type of computer would best fit your budget?
You might want to purchase a PC since the price range will fit your budget.
Graphics
Many graphic designers use Macs because they have a simple operating system with a Retina display.
This makes the text and images extremely sharp. Also, Macs have a wider viewing angle. This helps you view your screen without noticing any distortions.
Photo by Patrick Ward on UnsplashWhat Software Do You Need?
One more difference between the two computers is the systems they operate on. Macs operate on MacOS and PCs use Microsoft Windows.
Neither is "better" in terms of performance or usage, but Windows is more widely used, so there's more software available.
If you go with a Mac, you can purchase Parallels or Bootcamp so you can run both operating systems.
Things To Consider
Quiz
Sara got a new job at a software development company. She needs a new computer that can handle a lot of operations at once. She also likes to game in her spare time. Which computer should she buy?
Sara would be better off with a PC with a lot of RAM because it will be able to handle her processing needs.
Take Action
Should you buy a PC or a Mac?
It all comes down to your personal preference and needs. Consider the following:
This Byte has been authored by
Melissa Arostegui
Instructional Designer