Macs cost less than you might think.
Compare a Mac side by side with a PC, and it becomes pretty clear, pretty quickly that Macs are very affordable.
Aside from holding their value, they also live long, healthy lives and look gorgeous—things that are a little harder to put a price tag on but are nonetheless very important considerations.
Which computer is right for your business, your budget, and your life? Read on.
How much extra for the extras?
When comparing a Mac to a PC, ask yourself: Is everything I need included? If not, you may have to add a wireless card, a video camera, FireWire or Bluetooth later on. Then you’re talking downtime, and perhaps even paying someone to install the stuff. On most Macs, all of the above comes standard.
Macs also come loaded with great software like iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, iWeb and GarageBand. If you had to buy these types of software programs separately, you’d pay hundreds or even thousands more. Easy to learn and use, they’ll not only make you look like a creative genius, they can help you market your business—and save you time and money. Spending less is good. Getting less isn’t.
Mac or PC? Why not both?
The Mac can run either XP or Vista side by side with Mac OS X*. In essence, you’re paying for one computer but getting two. Now that’s a deal you don’t see very often. And most popular applications for Mac and PC use the same file formats. So it’s easy to share documents or move existing files back and forth between a PC and a Mac.
How fast is fast enough?
If you’re creating high-end video presentations, obviously you’ll need as much processing speed as possible. You won’t need nearly as much firepower if you’re doing word processing, email and web browsing. You can save money by getting the right processor speed and RAM for your needs. But remember, your needs might grow. The good news is: Even basic Macs come loaded with the latest dual- or quad-core Intel processors and a healthy helping of RAM. With so much power under the hood, your Mac can keep up with your growing business.
Macs live long, happy lives.
Of course, the longer you use a computer, the less it actually costs. Some computers last 18 months before they’re worn out or obsolete. Others hum happily along for five years or more. Read articles. Ask around. Current owners of the computer you’re considering can help you decide. And even when it comes time to get a new computer, your old Mac likely will have far more value than other used computers with similar specs.
What's your time worth?
Viruses and spyware cause lost time. And money. Not to mention loss of hair pulled out. As of the end of 2005, more than 114,000 viruses could strike a PC, and that number skyrocketed to 257,000 in 2007. Not so with a Mac. Every Mac comes with a solid UNIX foundation that helps keep it virtually virus- and spyware-free. You keep on working. You spend less on IT support.
Just like in any relationship, low maintenance is good.
PC users often have low expectations of their computer. They put up with unnecessary trial software, crashing systems, endless security updates, viruses, fear of viruses, even hours on the phone with technical support. It’s amazing to Mac users that PC users deal with all of this when there’s an easier way. The Mac just works. Seems hard to believe when you’re used to so much difficulty. And because it works, that means you can just work, without an IT guy having to come out and rescue you. Imagine all the time and money you’ll save—and all the great things you can accomplish, without endless frustrations.
We’re here to help.
If you love the idea of having world-class support at your beck and call, consider our award-winning AppleCare* Protection Plan. It extends your Mac’s 90 days of complimentary support and one-year repair coverage for up to three years. AppleCare is even helpful if you have a basic question. We also offer free support and workshops at any of our Apple Stores.
Compare for yourself.
Download these comparison charts to use as a guide for comparing various computers and what you get out-of-the-box with each. Choose the type of computer you’re looking for, and run a comparison yourself.
Comparison, complete.
We recommend the Mac. So do our customers. Is there a better endorsement? To learn more about a Mac, call toll-free 1 (800) 854-3680. Visit your nearest Apple Store. Or order online anytime.
*Requires additional third-party software such as Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion and Windows software. Or you can save a few bucks and run Windows using the Boot Camp software that comes free with Leopard.
