Computer setup is essential. But before we can get to the software, we must talk about the essential computer parts or the hardware. If you have the liberty to purchase a new computer, you need to decide whether you should get a Windows machine or a Mac (or even a Linux): the Mac v. Windows debate.
If you are struggling with this decision, and you are like me, the struggle is between a Windows machine and a Mac. For me, I am a Mac wannabe; however, with the hype of Macs, the beautiful design and Mac user experience, your reputation with your peers and colleagues who are die-hard Mac lovers, and the financial burden Macs impose, I struggle deeply. Read this article from Lifehacker: Mac vs. Windows: Your Best Arguments. But if I may, let me do a brief comparision.
Design
Macs branded all their products well with a streamlined, expected, beautiful, crisp, clean, and near perfect design. Steve Jobs's passion for an awesome design was paralleled by no other, and this has resulted in Apple's current reputation as being more hip and advanced than that of its competitor: the Windows PC. Yet, the Windows PC, due to its open philosophy, has a multitude of designs, brands, and looks. Because of this, neither has an edge and it comes down to preference 100%.
Price
To me, this is the biggest issue I have with Apple products. Yet from a business perspective, I cannot argue with them. Yet, one cannot compare base prices with one another because they are truly incomparable due to the two machines containing different hardware (processor, RAM, hard drive capacity, graphics card, USB ports, etc) and software (Mac OS, Mac Software v. Windows OS, Microsoft Software).
Software
While there is an abundance of great software for designers and developers, Macs tend to lack in this area especially as it pertains to normal business applications and even gaming. Most gamers prefer some sort of serious customization, which is not as easily attainable with a Mac. Since Microsoft doesn't make hardware like Apple does, it only makes sense that there
Yet, since we are talking about WordPress design and development, I personally do not believe that there is an edge either way. But we will talk more about this in the next post.
Security
Here is a another difference between Macs and PCs. Some of this is more pereception than reality as many would say that Macs never get viruses. There is no doubt or debtae that a Mac user is less likely to be infected by a computer virus because the iOS, a UNIX-based system, is more compartmentalized than a Windows machine. Because the majority share of computers tend to run Microsoft Windows, most viral attacks focus on Windows-based operating machines with malware like Trojans, fake antivirus programs and bots, and other spyware. Yet, these are rarely found on Macs; however, this is not due to Macs having a better security system. Personally, Mac users can be more vulnerable since they often take this notion for granted and don't protect themselves with some sort of anti-virus.
Conclusion
It really, 100% boils down to preference, choice, value, and finances. Simply, if you have the finances, aren't a serious gamer, or don't care about massive customization, then Macs are a great choice. Besides the obvious differences above, Apple provides a much better customer experience both in support and computer setup than a Windows PC. And if you like this and are willing to pay for it because of the provided value, then by all means go for it. However, since I have been a Windows user since DOS and Windows 3.0, it is better the devil I know... However, read this great article by the NextWeb from Owen Williams who documents his thoughts on switching from Windows to Mac.