matthewkappenman.net/blog

Lately I’ve been asked by more than a few friends for advice as to what Macintosh computer they should purchase. These are all switchers mind you, so they are relative noobies in the realm of the Mac product line, so some of the obvious differences between the machines are not so obvious to them. So for everyone out there who is used to the number of extraneous configurations that PC manufactures offer, here are the 3* basic questions you have to ask yourself when deciding which Mac to purchase.

1. Are you a “digital” professional? i.e. Do you edit high-def video, composite large photoshop images or mix sound on your machine? If yes, you need a “pro.” Skip all the following questions and pick up a Mac Pro or MacBook Pro.

2. Do you like to play 3D video games, either on Windows or the Mac? If yes, you also need a “pro” as they have high end graphics cards, or an iMac with a “real” (not shared memory) graphics card.

3. Do you want to surf the web, check email, compose Word docs, rock out with iTunes and iPod, edit photos, create iMovies, or compose Garageband tracks? If yes then you need a Macintosh. Any model will do, however a Mac mini, Macbook or iMac will handle any of these tasks with ease.

*Extra question, which really isn’t a question but a consideration really…do you want a laptop or a desktop. I didn’t think it warranted a full numeric value, plus I love things in groups of three and didn’t want to mess everything up.

That being said please continue to call, email or facebook me as I would love to chat about what machine would work best for you…because it is always fun to talk about Macs and how cool they are. Also, if you’ve got a new machine and want to find out how to utilize it better be sure to check out the Lawrence Apple Users Group meetings for more info.