Why I Use Macs and Why You Should Too

The Mac is my platform of choice. It combines functionality with a sleek design, easy to use interface, and an unbeatable support team. Although there are numerous reasons I use the Mac, here are my top ten.

1. Independent Software Developers

The developers who choose the Mac are some of the best. They create software that adds on to the Mac experience, mimicking the interface and design guidelines that Apple sets for them. Many people may see this a communistic approach, but it keeps the Mac experience seamless. If you know the basics of one program, you know the basics of all of them.

2. Minimal Design

Glass and aluminum. Black and Silver. That is what Macs are made of (with the exception of the MacBook, which is made of polycarbonate.) From the glass trackpad, to the perfectly aligned keys, nothing is out of place on the Mac.

3. Bundled Software

Mac OS X (The Mac's operating system) comes bundled with an application to cover all the needs of the casual computer user. Email, web browsing, a calendar, an address book, and more.

4. It Just Works

I don't need to constantly fiddle with my settings. I can get work done without my computer freezing. This is because The operating system (OS) and the hardware go hand in hand. OS X is very intuitive, do you want to open a URL in a new window? Drag it onto the window or tab. Do you want to save that link for later? Drag it to the desktop.

5. No Viruses

Malware, spyware, trojans, all vicious programs that can destroy your computer and make you lose your precious data. Macs don't deal with those. OS X is built on UNIX, and offers a rock solid security system.

6. The Dock

The dock offers a unique computing experience. I have quick access to my most used applications. I can see which application are running and quit them. With the new stacks feature introduced in Leopard, I can have access to my most used folders. For example, downloads, documents, and my Associated Content articles.

7. MobileMe

Apple's syncing service. It keeps my iPhone, iMac, and MacBook all in sync. My contacts, bookmarks, preferences (settings), calendars, and more. I also get the iDisk, an online flash drive. Recently a new feature was announced, "Back to My iPhone." This lets me see where my iPhone is on a map. If I lose it, from there I can send a message to the phone telling anyone who has found my phone how to return. Say the person's intent is not good, you can wipe the phone clean remotely.

8. The Support

The Apple Geniuses are a godsend. Just schedule an appointment, grab a stool, and work out all your computing problems. The default warranty lasts for a year. It can be extended to three years by purchasing the Apple Protection Plan. Apple also offers the one-to-one program. You get unlimited access to a personal Mac trainer for a year. They will help you get set up, and whenever you need help with anything Mac related, just give them a call.

9. The Community

There are many predominately Mac communities out there. Something about the Mac instills a community feeling. These websites and forums keep me up to tabs on the latest Mac and Apple news. It is fun to discuss and speculate on the latest features and releases. I love to break out my Mac at the coffee shops and discuss with other "Mackers" as I lovingly call us.

10. Uniqueness

Macs make up less than 10% of the computers in the world. This keeps viruses to a minimum, and lets me feel less conformist (which is always a good thing, right?)

To wrap this article up, let me say that although Macs are expensive, think of it as an investment. An investment into a sort of sub culture, a community. Think of it as way to protect your data, after all, Macs don't get viruses. Did you buy Vista? Well, at the minimum, you payed over $200. That would be for the most bare version. With Mac OS X, there is only one version and the newly announced Snow Leopard will only cost $30. Contrary to what Microsoft wants you to believe, Macs are not overpriced when you think about other costs that you are avoiding with one.

I hope this article has shown you the other side of the story.