Mac vs Windows

If you are confused about buying a Windows or a Mac PC, we have this information to assist you in making your decision.

Note: Do not purchase a Chromebook or Netbook unless you only plan to surf the Internet and do word processing.

Windows PC

Customizable and maintainable--Windows PC are typically designed so that broken hardware can be replaced, and old hardware can be upgraded
Windows PCs come from a variety of manufacturers, creating a variety of options in area like price, performance, and appearance
Easy to find an inexpensive option if all you need is a web browser and a word processor
Often options equal in performance to Macs and are cheaper
You can build a Windows PC on your own (or have a techie friend do it)
With available performance options and upgrading capacity, Windows PCs are better than Macs for hardcore gaming
Windows holds the majority share of the market, which means that the majority of software is developed to run on a Windows operating system, rather than Mac
Many Windows PCs on the market have touchscreen capabilities

Windows operating systems have historically been less stable than Mac ones, and thus are prone to crashes and 'blue screen of death'
Without a sold antivirus software suite, Windows PCs are less secure than Macs
Cheaper Windows PCs tend to be built with lower-quality components, making them more fragile and less reliable
Because of the diversity of hardware and software on the market, not all of its features function as smoothly as designed, resulting (for instance) in driver-related issues

Up until recently, Mac PCs have been virtually virus-free
Macs are designed as a whole unit, typically using high-quality parts and software, making them durable and long lasting
Mac operating systems tend to be more stable, slicker, and faster-running than Windows
Mac PCs almost universally boot faster than Windows PCs
With nearly all of the software developed in-house, Macs encounter much fewer driver issues
Mac PCs integrate seamlessly with their Apple tablets and mobile devices
Macs are designed to look sleek and stylish
For software that needs a Windows operating system, you can always run Windows inside a 'virtual box'

Mac PCs are almost always more expensive than Windows PCs
Though it's starting to change, Mac PCs have traditionally lacked the customizability of Windows PCs
Mac designs are elegant, but they're one-size-fits-all; there ar no alternative options if you want a different look
Apple PCs lack touchscreens
Mac PC designs tend to be less gracious with hard drives/SSD size than Window PCs
Mac OS-specific software and programs are sometimes more rare in comparison to those designed specifically for Windows PCs
Macs frequently lack the specs for high performance, hardcore gaming
When Macs break, typically the only solution is to send it to the manufacturer or an authorized repair shop, both of which can be expensive

Purchase what you are most comfortable with unless there is a reason to change
Check with your college to see if they have recommendations
What are you going to use the PC for? Word processing? Internet browsing? Accessing EKU online resources (Blackboard, email, library databases), programming and game design? Graphic design? Recreation and gaming?
We suggest purchasing an extended warranty, especially if you are getting a laptop. IT Geeks are not permitted to work on hardware issues, except to troubleshoot issues.
Also, we suggest insurance in the event of accidents
Make sure whatever you purchase meets Energy Star Requirements
Purchase a computer with as much memory (RAM) and hard drive space (HDD/SSD) as you can comfortably afford