For most people the available free antivirus, spyware etc is fine
Many open source software programs are available which are suitable for most people
Software for PCs is cheap compared to Mac
Virtually all software (Free and paid for) will work on a PC, whereas it’s limited for a Mac
If you want to update a piece of hardware the Mac costs you an arm and a leg, whereas PC hardware is cheap off the shelf
If you do have a problem it is easy to find someone who can help you with a PC, not so with a Mac
A PC is most likely used at work so there is no learning curve at home
There are also many other advantages of a PC
Taking the above into account, the Mac is just a very expensive style item

Bill

Didn't these kind of conversations used to occur 20-25 years ago?

The 80's are back!!! Yay !!!

You can't stop a 14 year old guy (the son of the atricle's writer) from accesing porn sites, unless you shoot him point blank. And he doesn't give a rat's foreskin if the site is "trusted" or not.

Here (Greece) Macs have never accounted for more than 5% of the total computer sales, and that 5% may be exaggerated. I had the chance of sitting in front of a Mac only once, worked in IT, and NEVER saw a Mac used in an environment outside graphic arts/design. Of course things are different in the U.S.

But to my knowledge, if you want what Diki wants, you can get a Mac, but with that, ALL the negatives Abacus noted.

But needed, unlike the Mac. And freeware antivirus software trails the commercial stuff by several weeks, Pray nothing happens until a free version comes out (if at all).

Advantage, Mac.



The vast majority of things that most people do with a computer (email, calendars, web browsing, music, photography, video, IM etc.), Macs already contain FULL versions of what many consider some of the best programs available, designed for simplicity and ease of use (unlike most open source software). And the main productivity apps like Office are comparably priced.

Advantage, Mac (or at least a tie!)



How many of us have the skills to upgrade even a PC effectively? And if you have a PC you definitely NEED a guru to help you. Most Mac users get by without one. Granny wants a computer? Get her a Mac every time, unless you WANT to be over her house fixing it all the time!

Advantage, Mac (unless YOU are a 'guru'!)



If Mac users can figure Windows out for operation (and probably work), how hard can it be for a Windows user?

I'm sorry, but if you are a IT guru, on a VERY tight budget, looking to squeeze the most value out of a home built computer, using primarily open source software, yes, the PC is a FAR better choice than a Mac.

But I have a sneaking suspicion that the vast majority of posters on THIS forum are not that skilled, and, just like with arrangers, would happily pay a bit more for something that was easy to operate, full featured, and didn't need constant upkeep, that did everything they needed to do with the minimum of fuss, looked great, and came with full featured music and audio apps out of the box.

The days of Macs being 50-70% higher in price than PC's has long gone. A $1000 iMac Core Duo will keep up with anything our members are likely to throw at it (and it will run Windows, too, if needed) without breaking a sweat, all in a stylish package that needs almost NO maintenance, or OS skill (unlike Windows machines).

If you ARE a geek, go PC (and best of luck!). If you are NOT, consider an alternative to having to rely on others to keep you up and running.

Advantage.... us, for at least having a choice!