You'll smile if you make the switch

Recent Windows-to-Mac switcher: you'll smile if you make the switch

Friday, October 08, 2004 - 02:40 PM EST

By James O'Connor

In a recent report by USA Today, Matt Krantz talks about why Apple is seeing many new consumers and on-lookers. Windows has been plagued by viruses since the 1990s and it's becoming mainstream knowledge that the Mac is the virus-free platform of choice for the general public, large corporations, or power users (graphics, video, etc.). In other words, the majority of the market is beginning to look for a new solution.

Last year, in December, I made my switch to the Apple Power Mac G5 from a custom built (by myself) Windows machine. At first, I wasn't sure if it was the right choice or even if it would benefit me in the long run. Plus, I was skeptical whether or not a Mac could improve my everyday life and/or if it could even be part of my everday life. One year later, I am extremely proud at my choice to switch and know others are, too. My Mac has become part of my life and it can suit my everyday needs, as well as greatly exceeding them.

At this point, many of you may be wondering what I'm talking about. You're probably saying: "How can he know what will actually benefit me?" or "I can't give up Microsoft Office because it's my job to use it (or school)." First of all, Microsoft has a Mac version of Microsoft Office, and the files created by it are completely compatible with Office for PC. Second of all, if you are truly in desperate need of a Windows application, you can purchase Microsoft Virtual PC, which allows you to run programs in a virtual Windows XP.

So you can have all of your Windows applications, now what? The answer to that is infinite. You now have the stability of a Unix-based OS, unsurpassed by any version, patch or upgrade that Microsoft currently has for their OS. You have power at your fingertips. Apple�s line of Power Mac G5s and new iMac G5s contain 64-bit processors, created by IBM. You also have the option of purchasing AppleCare Protection. Under this, you have the ability for Tech Support for 3 years. If a product breaks, which hasn't happened to me, you can call Apple Tech Support. If it can't be fixed over the phone, someone will be sent to your house to fix it for you. Also, when you purchase products, they are all under a warranty of at least 90 days which gives you the ability to call up Apple Tech Support and have them help you in installing it or troubleshooting it.

It's one year later. I still get a smile on my face when people walk into my office and see my Apple Power Mac G5 with an awe-stricken face. It never gets old, and the system never crashes. My question at this point is this: What's your reason for not switching? Your daily life will simplified ever so much, and you won't have to deal with those annoying little nuisances that Microsoft "fixes." Make the switch.