Going Mac

[JennyG]

Sorry for the double post.

 

[zulemara]

I have a 15in macbook pro bought in Oct 2008. Originally I intended for it to be my "extra mobile" computer, but within a month, I had converted to using it exclusively while my custom built PC desktop collected dust.

Once you realize how a mac works, you start to "get it" and then it's easy from there.

As for documents, I suggest open office from openoffice.org it is free, it opens word docs just fine and saves them the same way and can then be opened on a pc with no problems. Unless you are doing super complex stuff, it works great, it is less bloated, and free!

I think it's worth it to get the pro because you might not think you need more memory now, but eventually :might: have to upgrade. In general, the more the better when it comes to that. I run so much stuff on a daily basis, it would boggle your mind. I need a pc for work so I run Windows XP in vmware fusion within the mac os, plus all my personal programs plus a remote desktop connection to another computer for forex trading PLUS if I really want to, I can play world of warcarft..all at the same time. 1.5 years with this computer and no noticeable slowdown to speak of, and that's coming from a techie. I don't anticipate needing a new computer for quite some time, although the imacs do tend to draw me in /drool

 

[JennyG]

although the imacs do tend to draw me in

Tell me about it!! We are the same way. Almost hate to visit the Apple Store or website.... the drool is just too much!

 

[BillM99999]

Congratulations on your conversion, Nikki!

We make our first foray in December 2005 (just before the shift to Intel), and have been completely PC free in our home since January 2007. I still keep a copy of Windows in Parallels on my MacBook for the one program I use that only runs in Windows (the download software for my dive computer), but I have become a full-fledged Mac snob

If 13" is what you are considering, I would definitely go with the MBP rather than the MB. The extra memory and faster processor are worth it, and the aluminum housing is just sweet. I'm about to upgrade my 3.5 year old black MB for one (but I will go 15" high-res for photo editing).

Whichever you choose, you will be very happy. Welcome to this collective.

 

[FanO'TheMouse]

I have been totally converted to Apple for some time. Love my macbook. I agree with what everyone is saying, you won't have a problem with MS office compatibility. Also know that all the Macs come with the ability to create PDF files which ANYONE with an adobe reader can read. This is very helpful when sending documents to people!!

I would also suggest that you get the One to One program. For like $100 for the year, you can come and get personal sessions with mac geniuses. I used to call them my MacDaddies. They will help you get used to the computer set up your mail, teach you shortcuts and teach you all the MAC software like iphoto etc.. Apple does offer free classes, but they were often at times I didn't like and were just the basics and not personalized to what I wanted to do. I would just make an appointment at the Apple store, take my laptop and once a week ask my questions and get my help. BEST money I ever spent on something not Disney.

 

[DisneyKevin]

I would also suggest that you get the One to One program. For like $100 for the year, you can come and get personal sessions with mac geniuses. I used to call them my MacDaddies. They will help you get used to the computer set up your mail, teach you shortcuts and teach you all the MAC software like iphoto etc.. Apple does offer free classes, but they were often at times I didn't like and were just the basics and not personalized to what I wanted to do. I would just make an appointment at the Apple store, take my laptop and once a week ask my questions and get my help. BEST money I ever spent on something not Disney.

I agree 100%.

 

[Michele]

You can find the answer to almost any question you have in Apple's tutorials and their discussion boards.

This is the best advice. The tutorials are SO informative and cover almost everything. Switching from PC to MAC would be a good one to watch.