Macs
I understand that there needs to be competition, but let me please say that Macintoshes are not the be-all, end-all solution that some people think they are. I will first cite their ad campaign. The idea that a Mac or a PC is "better" at some things is absurd, as it is really only the software that affects what a computer is used for. Next is the idea that Macs are somehow invulnerable to viruses. This is simply an absurd claim. The truth is, Macs hold such a small market, hackers do not care enough to spend time creating viruses for such a small user base, as their code will proliferate on a larger scale if they design it for a PC. As exemplified recently, Mac security flaws exist.
Of course it depends on what you are using your computer for. If you want something to bring with you that says, "Hey, look at me, I'm part of the counterculture," then a Macbook is for you. They are sleek and stylish their batteries don't explode. But if you really want something that can integrate well with the networks and the people around you, why would you choose anything else? The truth is, computers are no longer standalone machines. Without an internet connection, a computer's potential is severely limited.
However, I have given some consideration to what they were saying. Say Mac were better at certain things, like video editing. What is it that would make it "better" at editing videos? Are they speaking of the speed at which the hardware actually processes video file formats? Highly doubtful. So more than likely, they are catering to the user who wants to easily manipulate his or her videos in a way that will impress family, friends, and the average Joe. But what about a business solution? Surely if you are looking for a truly professional job, all of the best software will be targeted at PC-based computers. Why? Bigger market of course. Of course, we can take into consideration that Macs now run on x-86 architecture, making software portability a much more feasible option, but that doesn't necessarily mean it will happen. So really, what it comes down to is what you expect the output to be, and truthfully, Windows has enough intuitive, useful software for it that it is unlikely a Macintosh has a usability that is unachievable for a PC.
So what is the real Mac appeal? As I said (somewhat caustically) before, it has a roguish good look to it. It carries with it a message. So it really does depend on what you expect out of what you are purchasing, a conversation piece or a tool with which to use on a very functional basis. While I do not disagree that Macs are entirely functional, they will never match the versatility of the PC.
So while the social battle rages on, Microsoft will always hold the upper hand in the market. It may be true the people seem to be enchanted by pretty things, functionality plays a much larger role in major buying decisions. People want a computer system that can do many things, and this versatility is much more reasonable with a PC. So while Apple will continue to be a competitor in the field, Microsoft simply offers a superior product. Then again, we could all just switch to Linux...
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