How do Mac computers differ from regular PC computers?

Answer 1

OpinionThere is not a lot of difference between an Apple computer and a PC.

Apple computers don't do anything different from other computers. They contain much of the same hardware, for example the same CPUs, memory, graphics cards, etc. that you'd find inside a PC. As such, Apple computers can perform all of the same functions that a PC can. They are comparable in almost every way especially for internet or office tasks.

One difference is that Apple computers come with Apple's own operating system called Mac OSX, rather than Microsoft Windows or Linux. Which is 'best' is purely down to user preference as they each have good/bad points.

Another difference is that Apple computers tend to cost a lot more money than an equivalent specification non-Apple PC computer.

The only other difference is the amount of software available to run on each, as Apple computers have much less software available - especially games software - so if playing games is important to you then an Apple computer probably is not for you, and not if you are on a budget either.

Some are willing to pay extra to get an Apple, some prefer the low cost and extra flexibility of a PC. Ultimately, the choice comes down to what suits you and the task(s) intended for your computer.

There is one major difference,and you mentioned it, "It`s System" Thats the major difference between the two. I have used both PC and Mac OS X.

If the PC changed it`s system tomorrow I would go back to a PC

The only thing I like about Apple is the "System" Period.

OpinionIt is difficult to compare computers for several reasons unless you want to compare specific brands and models.

Generally, Macs cost more but that's because Mac has concentrated on better and more costly components. You can't buy an inexpensive Mac- they don't make any. Selection is limited. Many consumers prefer the wider selection of Windows based models. That may allow a consumer to purchase a computer that more closely meets their needs. Windows PCs are more readily available and can be purchased on sale at discount prices. Not so with Apple. Deals are rare and the Apple Store is often the only available outlet although Apple has periodically entered into contracts with chain stores like CompUSA. And, many make their purchase online.

Technical specifications can be different or similar depending on the brand line you are comparing. The operating systems currently used in Windows makes them more comparable to Mac. However, Windows can be installed in the present generation of Intel- based Macs. There is less software written for Mac and gamers and business systems gravitate toward Windows.

The most important difference is security. Because the majority of the world's computers are Windows most attacks are launched at PCs. A Mac owner who runs no security software is less likely to encounter problems than a Windows user with high security installed. Many Mac owners have no additional security software installed. Apple's operating system is based on UNIX, one of the most secure operating systems available. UNIX is built with a stronger permission structure that prevents unauthorized execution of software. UNIX stops when it encounters an unauthorized redirection. While this does not make Macs invulnerable it does make them less vulnerable and security software is available for those who want to install more. Of course any user of the internet and email must learn good habits and not click on unknown links.

Apple has been a leader in ease of use and simplicity of design and always scores high on reliability.

The conflict between Apple lovers and Windows lovers has been raging for years. Windows owns the major portion of the market. Apple owns a tiny loyal corner. Both types of systems have their devoted fans. In the end the decision and preferences belong to the user-purchaser. Remember that PC owners like their PCs and Mac owners like their Macs.

See related links for additional comparisons.

Answer 2

Well not much they just have a different operating system than a Toshiba or dell computer, they are built by apple just like any other computer they also use the same processor as any other computer would. They do not get virus that easily and they also have fast internet. I have one and i like it better than my dell computer.

Answer 3

Some apple Mac's are faster than normal computers and come with more softwares - they are suitable for photo editing, writing essays, creating videos and creating websites - maybe this is why they are much more expensive than a normal computer.

Answer 4

Contrary to popular believe, Macs are a type of PC (personal computer). The difference is that Macs are built by Apple itself, so Apple has complete control over both the hardware and software installed on the computer. Microsoft only creates software, and then other companies install the software on computers created by those companies.

Macs are considered easier to use than Windows computers because the hardware is designed by Apple so it is easier to set up. This comes at the cost of control however - in that Macs are not as customization as a windows computers. Mac computers are usually faster than Windows computers, but they are also usually more pricey. To be fair, if you paid as much for a Windows computer as you did for a Mac, you could probably get a computer about as fast as the Mac, or perhaps faster.

In terms of the OS, Macs tend to be easier to use, but again this is at the cost of control. Macs are also less popular than windows computers, so many software developers don't bother to make their software compatible with Macs.

Answer 5

Apple laptops run a different operating system than PCs, which normally run Windows. This basically means that you will be using different software to run all your software! Programs you can run as well as how the OS operates vary greatly between Macs and PCs, so weighing the benefits of both depending on what you need out of a computer is crucial.