From Windows to Mac - Black Friday Sale

[Simple Living]

I'm posting this here, instead of on the tech forum, because it's very time sensitive (today only!) and I'd like as many responses as I can get.

I hate Windows with a passion that burns deep within my soul and has the redhot intesity of 2,000 burning suns. I'm tired of the fatal errors and reboots and viruses and endless problems that they cause. :Headbang::Hammer:

I'm switching to Mac. :TheWave:

Mac never has sales, from what I understand. Today is Black Friday and they are having a sale. It's not much of one, but it's something. Basically $101 off. Where I live, that would pay for most of the tax ($112.92). Not bad. If a sale at least pays the tax, I'm happy.

My question is this: I don't really need to buy this pc today. Do you think I would be better off waiting until after Christmas (or even next January when there might be possible price breaks)? Is $101 in savings NOW worth it?

I'm looking at the 24" iMac 2.4GHz (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?nnmm=browse&mco=AF8E4DB8&node=home/shop_mac/family/imac). Normally $1,799. Sale Price $1698 $101 Savings.

What I will be buying today is their Office 2004 for Mac (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?mco=10C38583&fnode=home/shop_mac/software&nplm=T9188LL/A)for $149 with a $100 Mail-In Rebate. They never offer rebates on software either and it's a today only deal. I use Word a lot, so this software will be great. It's a one day sale only.

[maestrowork]

Personally I don't think $101 is that much of a saving. It's less than 10%. However, the 24" iMac is gorgeous (plus you can still run Windows on it using BootCamp). I would say, go for it either now or later. I also have Word because I'm used to it -- but I didn't install the other Office stuff. I personally prefer the iWork 08 apps.

[Simple Living]

Personally I don't think $101 is that much of a saving. It's less than 10%. However, the 24" iMac is gorgeous (plus you can still run Windows on it using BootCamp). I would say, go for it either now or later. I also have Word because I'm used to it -- but I didn't install the other Office stuff. I personally prefer the iWork 08 apps.

I figured the $101 pays for most of the tax. Given that they don't ever have sales to begin with, I couldn't decide if this was enough to just buy it now. Do they do price reductions in January on "last years' model"?

I checked out iWorks 08 and you're right. I'm getting that. It's $79 usually, but on sale today only for $68. Again, not a huge savings, but if it pays for the tax, it's ok with me.

EDITED ASK: Do you go for the extended warranty? $169 for three years.

[maestrowork]

If you don't need the Mac now, just wait... they MAY have some deals before or after the holidays.

iWork is Apple's office suite. It's not as comprehensive as MS Office but that's why I like it -- it's not bloated. It's simple. iWork comes with three apps: Pages (word), Keynotes (presentation), and Numbers (spreadsheet). It's only $79 -- it's a steal.

If you don't buy the iMac now, at least get the MS Office deal -- it's a good deal -- if you really think you will get a Mac in the near future anyway. Do know that it's a 2004 version (and it doesn't seem like Microsoft plans on upgrading it soon).

[Williebee]

A hundred bucks is a hundred bucks. But it wouldn't surprise me if there aren't some sales opportunities after Christmas, at least if all the so-called economic forecasters are correct.

I was going to say that I'd save my money on the Office package, but I don't think that OpenOffice is available/stable for Macs above OS10 yet.

It is a sweet unit, though.

[maestrowork]

Not sure about stability, but OpenOffice is available on the Mac via the X-Windows platform (the Mac runs on A/UX).

I've tried it -- it's a bit clunky (but free). I still prefer iWork:Pages for what I do.

[scottaz]

MacWorld Expo is in January, and Apple usually announced now/updated models. If you don't mind buying a computer that may get a significant update in a couple of months, then by all means go for it today.

MacMall.com also has deals on current and older models.

The Applecare extended warranty is a good deal. For me it is never an option, but a necessity.

[Medievalist]

Wait.

There will be deals after MacWorld in January. There have been for the last twenty years or so.

Be sure to check Amazon's prices too, and if you're deserving of an educational or government discount, check that; it doesn't take much to be applicable.

[Medievalist]

If you don't buy the iMac now, at least get the MS Office deal -- it's a good deal -- if you really think you will get a Mac in the near future anyway. Do know that it's a 2004 version (and it doesn't seem like Microsoft plans on upgrading it soon).

The new version is in late alpha :D

[Simple Living]

If you don't need the Mac now, just wait... they MAY have some deals before or after the holidays.

iWork is Apple's office suite. It's not as comprehensive as MS Office but that's why I like it -- it's not bloated. It's simple. iWork comes with three apps: Pages (word), Keynotes (presentation), and Numbers (spreadsheet). It's only $79 -- it's a steal.

If you don't buy the iMac now, at least get the MS Office deal -- it's a good deal -- if you really think you will get a Mac in the near future anyway. Do know that it's a 2004 version (and it doesn't seem like Microsoft plans on upgrading it soon).

It's definitely the 2004 version. I'm definitely getting a Mac in the very near future, if not tonight. So, end price: $49 for the 2004 Office for Mac and $68 for iWork 2008. Will just have to choose. iWork seems more user friendly. (I hate making software decisions.)

[Simple Living]

MacWorld Expo is in January, and Apple usually announced now/updated models. If you don't mind buying a computer that may get a significant update in a couple of months, then by all means go for it today.

MacMall.com also has deals on current and older models.

The Applecare extended warranty is a good deal. For me it is never an option, but a necessity.

Very helpful, thanks. They may update certain models, but wouldn't they also charge more then?

My needs are pretty simple. I'm a writer, I use the internet, e-mail, plan to create my own media rich website, photoshop a few photos and play a very occasional pc game. Even if updates occured, the iMac 2.4GHz is more than I need and can grow into. (Right?) I'd like to get the 2GB Memory, though.

[Medievalist]

If you're going to be exchanging files with others, like editors, MSWord is awfully standard.

That said, I like iWork very very much. I also like the 49.00 MarinerWrite, which does just enough and can open / exchange MSWord files.

The thing about MSWord is that editors often/publishers often/offices often use the Track Changes and Comments features, and those just don't translate to other word processors.

[Medievalist]

Very helpful, thanks. They may update certain models, but wouldn't they also charge more then?

My needs are pretty simple. I'm a writer, I use the internet, e-mail, plan to create my own media rich website, photoshop a few photos and play a very occasional pc game. Even if updates occured, the iMac 2.4GHz is more than I need and can grow into. (Right?) I'd like to get the 2GB Memory, though.

The thing is that when they update they drop the prices on the current models.

I buy new macs in January, because of MacWorld, or June, because of the Developer conference.

If you already have, as a Windows user, an LCD monitor, USB keyboard and mouse, you might want to look at a Mac mini; it would be fine for what you have in mind.

[citymouse]

I have iWork on my 2006 iMac. My editor has MSword on her PC. W had no problems tracking changes from me to her or from her to me.

BTW you will love your iMac. The man who does my covers uses a Mac (of course) and he pushed me for years to get one. I kick myself that I dumped so many $$ and time propping up a parade of PCs over the years.
C

[ORION]

I switched over 3 years ago and never looked back -I love mac- I have a Powerbook G4 and a macbook that can do both mac and windows- I do have office for mac because it's easier with my agent and editor. I don't know how much you save buying in January. But if you want to take it off this year's taxes - that's a consideration.

[maestrowork]

Right, the mini is another alternative if you already have monitor, mouse, etc. But the iMac with the 24" screen is gorgeous! (I want one) I really do prefer iWork over MS Office for Mac. It can read and export Word files. But if you do a lot of Word track changes then you may want to get MS Word (however, Pages also have track changes, but it's just not compatible with Word).

ETA: citymouse seems to verify that track changes in iWork/Pages work with MS Word, too. Nice.

[Simple Living]

Ok, I've thought about it. I considered everyone's responses and I think I'm going to wait until after the expo in January. Even though $101 is $101, I don't want to jump on that when there could be more of a price reduction on some models later.

Even if it doesn't pan out. It will only be $100 more. Also, I'll probably go with iWorks instead of the 2004 Office for Mac. One of the reasons I'm switching to Mac is for the ease of it. Since it's only an $11 savings, I'll wait to buy it, too. Thanks everyone.

[Simple Living]

I switched over 3 years ago and never looked back -I love mac- I have a Powerbook G4 and a macbook that can do both mac and windows- I do have office for mac because it's easier with my agent and editor. I don't know how much you save buying in January. But if you want to take it off this year's taxes - that's a consideration.

Actually, this was a part of my consideration. I don't want any write-offs for this year. I do want them for 2008.

[Serena Casey]

I second the motion to get AppleCare. You're not likely to have huge problems, but if it's needed for some reason, you'll be glad you're covered.
I'm looking at the 24" iMac 2.4GHz.
I'm green with envy.

[scottaz]

Ok, I've thought about it. I considered everyone's responses and I think I'm going to wait until after the expo in January. Even though $101 is $101, I don't want to jump on that when there could be more of a price reduction on some models later.

Even if it doesn't pan out. It will only be $100 more. Also, I'll probably go with iWorks instead of the 2004 Office for Mac. One of the reasons I'm switching to Mac is for the ease of it. Since it's only an $11 savings, I'll wait to buy it, too. Thanks everyone.

Good choice.

After you get your mac, you might want to check out Scrivener (http://www. literatureandlatte.com). It's a great little piece of software developed especially for writers. And inexpensive (about $40).

You should also get an iWork trial pre-loaded, to see if you like it. I use Pages (part of iWork) in order to maintain some MS Word compatibility, but I use Scrivener for all my writing.

Good luck!

[Simple Living]

I second the motion to get AppleCare. You're not likely to have huge problems, but if it's needed for some reason, you'll be glad you're covered.

I'm green with envy.

My concern about AppleCare is because I'm planning to move to a state that doesn't have any Apple stores in it (per Apple). I'd have to ship it to get it worked on. I hate doing that. But, I think it would be worth it in the long run. I'll be getting it.

[Medievalist]

My concern about AppleCare is because I'm planning to move to a state that doesn't have any Apple stores in it (per Apple). I'd have to ship it to get it worked on. I hate doing that. But, I think it would be worth it in the long run. I'll be getting it.

It really is worth it, and there are lots of non-Apple stores that are certified by Apple to support AppleCare. Pretty much any college computer store, for instance.

The shipping option is often quite fast, by the way.

[Medievalist]

Right, the mini is another alternative if you already have monitor, mouse, etc. But the iMac with the 24" screen is gorgeous! (I want one) I really do prefer iWork over MS Office for Mac. It can read and export Word files. But if you do a lot of Word track changes then you may want to get MS Word (however, Pages also have track changes, but it's just not compatible with Word).

ETA: citymouse seems to verify that track changes in iWork/Pages work with MS Word, too. Nice.

It looks like it does, but it actually doesn't -- there's a truncation issue, and a file size issue.

And yeah, the 24'' screen on the new iMac is lovely. It seems so huge at first ...

[gp101]

I love my G4 laptop. Safari is a great browser. And Word for Mac is better than the PC version, I think. Get the Applecare. I didn't and regretted it when my superdrive died a year later (I had used a third-party chip when I increased my ramm and this apparently caused the problem). They're expensive to fix if it's a major problem like mine. My friend says that the cost of replacing the screen on his laptop was alone worth the price of Applecare.

[Serena Casey]

My concern about AppleCare is because I'm planning to move to a state that doesn't have any Apple stores in it (per Apple). I'd have to ship it to get it worked on. I hate doing that. But, I think it would be worth it in the long run. I'll be getting it.
I have to ship mine if I have problems, because I live 5 hours from the nearest Apple Store :( and 3 hours from the nearest authorized reseller. I do have to pay the shipping, but since everything else has been covered, I figure it's a good deal.

[maestrowork]

Actually, this was a part of my consideration. I don't want any write-offs for this year. I do want them for 2008.

There you go. Wait until January.

[maestrowork]

I second the motion to get AppleCare. You're not likely to have huge problems, but if it's needed for some reason, you'll be glad you're covered.

I'm green with envy.

AppleCare is a must. Chances are nothing will go wrong, but if something does, Apple covers everything. There was a woman at the Mac store and her whole MacBook was replaced for no charge. I have another friend who actually dropped his and broke the LCD but Apple replaced it at no charge anyway.

[Cassiopeia]

Call apple directly, they have always given me 100 bucks off a new laptop. :)

I have both windows and mac machines. I rarely have a virus on either. Where you surfin dude? ;) I'm posting this here, instead of on the tech forum, because it's very time sensitive (today only!) and I'd like as many responses as I can get.

I hate Windows with a passion that burns deep within my soul and has the redhot intesity of 2,000 burning suns. I'm tired of the fatal errors and reboots and viruses and endless problems that they cause. :Headbang::Hammer:

I'm switching to Mac. :TheWave:

Mac never has sales, from what I understand. Today is Black Friday and they are having a sale. It's not much of one, but it's something. Basically $101 off. Where I live, that would pay for most of the tax ($112.92). Not bad. If a sale at least pays the tax, I'm happy.

My question is this: I don't really need to buy this pc today. Do you think I would be better off waiting until after Christmas (or even next January when there might be possible price breaks)? Is $101 in savings NOW worth it?

I'm looking at the 24" iMac 2.4GHz (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?nnmm=browse&mco=AF8E4DB8&node=home/shop_mac/family/imac). Normally $1,799. Sale Price $1698 $101 Savings.

What I will be buying today is their Office 2004 for Mac (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?mco=10C38583&fnode=home/shop_mac/software&nplm=T9188LL/A)for $149 with a $100 Mail-In Rebate. They never offer rebates on software either and it's a today only deal. I use Word a lot, so this software will be great. It's a one day sale only.

[Codger]

A hundred bucks is a hundred bucks. But it wouldn't surprise me if there aren't some sales opportunities after Christmas, at least if all the so-called economic forecasters are correct.

I was going to say that I'd save my money on the Office package, but I don't think that OpenOffice is available/stable for Macs above OS10 yet.

It is a sweet unit, though.

I've been using OpenOffice on my iMac for over a year without any trouble. I'm at OS X 10.4.1. I would never install any MS OS or application on my Mac. Why open the virus/trojan door needlessly?

[Cassiopeia]

I've been using OpenOffice on my iMac for over a year without any trouble. I'm at OS X 10.4.1. I would never install any MS OS or application on my Mac. Why open the virus/trojan door needlessly?

I have Parallels for my new mac laptop so I can use Windows on it. It's only a virtual machine and I still scan for viruses and such. I find it interesting that so many people complain about trojans and viruses and yet I never find any one any of my windows machines. I DO however use, an antivirus, spybot and adaware and my linux firewall has an agressive antivirus scanner built in.

Not only that but I am careful where I tread online. My son however, plays games online and is constantly having to reinstall due to viruses and trojans.

[Simple Living]

Call apple directly, they have always given me 100 bucks off a new laptop. :)

I have both windows and mac machines. I rarely have a virus on either. Where you surfin dude? ;)

I used to get viruses on my early PCs before I knew what I was doing. I personally haven't had a virus in years and it's for the exact reason you, uh, indicated! The sites I visit are not inclined to get them. Although, I did visit a local news website and got a virus on my pc at work. It was caught immediately by security. Someone in Hong Kong was trying to get into my pc. I'll never understand why people do this.

Thanks for the tip on calling Apple. You never know, that could work out! Just let them know I'm a brand new convert from Windows and, who knows....?!?!?!?! ;)

[Simple Living]

I would never install any MS OS or application on my Mac. Why open the virus/trojan door needlessly?

I'm right there with you. I sent several of the Kleenex Board of Director's children through college with the problems I had with Windows. Never again.

[Medievalist]

I used to get viruses on my early PCs before I knew what I was doing. I personally haven't had a virus in years and it's for the exact reason you, uh, indicated! The sites I visit are not inclined to get them. Although, I did visit a local news website and got a virus on my pc at work. It was caught immediately by security. Someone in Hong Kong was trying to get into my pc. I'll never understand why people do this.

Thanks for the tip on calling Apple. You never know, that could work out! Just let them know I'm a brand new convert from Windows and, who knows....?!?!?!?! ;)

They do have lots of discretionary powers, so yeah do.

Also: Don't Buy More RAM from Apple. They way overcharge; do be careful to buy it from a reputable company, like Crucial. I've bought thousands of dollars of RAM from them, and on the rare occasions where a simm malfunctioned, even years later, they cheerfully replaced it overnight.

[Simple Living]

They do have lots of discretionary powers, so yeah do.

Also: Don't Buy More RAM from Apple. They way overcharge; do be careful to buy it from a reputable company, like Crucial. I've bought thousands of dollars of RAM from them, and on the rare occasions where a simm malfunctioned, even years later, they cheerfully replaced it overnight.

And that didn't interfere with the extended warranty?

[Medievalist]

And that didn't interfere with the extended warranty?

If you buy the RAM from Apple then it's also covered on AppleCare.

Apple even includes instructions on how to add RAM in the manuals that come with a computer.

You do want to buy the RAM from an Apple authorized source, because bad RAM can really be, well, bad.

[Simple Living]

I found this article on Why the Mac is the Ultimate Writer's Toolbox (http://http://mac360.com/index.php/mac360/comments/why_the_mac_is_the_ultimate_writers_tool_box/).

[Madison]

buy the mac! i cannot imagine how people live with windows - i have to use them at school and they drive me off the wall :) no offense to windows users, but it's time to join the REAL race of computers...

[Codger]

I used to get viruses on my early PCs before I knew what I was doing. I personally haven't had a virus in years and it's for the exact reason you, uh, indicated! The sites I visit are not inclined to get them. Although, I did visit a local news website and got a virus on my pc at work. It was caught immediately by security. Someone in Hong Kong was trying to get into my pc. I'll never understand why people do this.



I do nothing on my iMac for virus/trojan protection. (Have not for over a year) That's the point of a non-MS Mac environment. If you start loading the Mac with a bunch of Windoze apps, you are opening doors for contagion. If you want to be apart time system security administrator, stay with M$. Why move to Mac?

[DVGuru]

I'm an Apple enthusiast, so I'll give you some advice.

1) Always buy Applecare. Apple computers aren't invincible like some people tend to believe.

2) OSX loves RAM. Get as much as you can afford--1 GB minimum. However, buying it from Apple is a rip off. Crucial.com has great prices. You'll have to find out if the iMacs RAM is user upgradeable. I installed RAM myself in all the Macs I've owned over the years. I've never owned an iMac though.

3) If you want an Apple now, buy it. The one thing I've learned with Apple is that any Mac you buy today is going to be upgraded in the near future. That's just how Apple operates. An update could come in January...or it could come in the summer. If you can hold off for a while, then by all means play the waiting game. Otherwise, just buy it. Apple's updates are usually just speed bumps. Any writing program out there will work fine on the current Mac lineup.

Here's some sites that might help you:

http://www.macrumors.com/ - Apple rumor site. Any news of future updates will most likely be posted here.

http://macosg.com/group/index.php - A forum dedicated to Apple.

[maestrowork]

They do have lots of discretionary powers, so yeah do.

Also: Don't Buy More RAM from Apple. They way overcharge; do be careful to buy it from a reputable company, like Crucial. I've bought thousands of dollars of RAM from them, and on the rare occasions where a simm malfunctioned, even years later, they cheerfully replaced it overnight.

Yup. Apple wanted $150 for the 1GB RAM. I got a Kingston from MacConnection for $49.

Also, there's a small utility called memtest which is very useful.

[Simple Living]

I do nothing on my iMac for virus/trojan protection. (Have not for over a year) That's the point of a non-MS Mac environment. If you start loading the Mac with a bunch of Windoze apps, you are opening doors for contagion. If you want to be apart time system security administrator, stay with M$. Why move to Mac?

That's exactly why I want to switch to Mac. Once I do, the only thing I want to do with windows is open one to get some fresh air. Nothing M$ will ever touch my Mac.

[Simple Living]

I'm an Apple enthusiast, so I'll give you some advice.

1) Always buy Applecare. Apple computers aren't invincible like some people tend to believe.

2) OSX loves RAM. Get as much as you can afford--1 GB minimum. However, buying it from Apple is a rip off. Crucial.com has great prices. You'll have to find out if the iMacs RAM is user upgradeable. I installed RAM myself in all the Macs I've owned over the years. I've never owned an iMac though.

3) If you want an Apple now, buy it. The one thing I've learned with Apple is that any Mac you buy today is going to be upgraded in the near future. That's just how Apple operates. An update could come in January...or it could come in the summer. If you can hold off for a while, then by all means play the waiting game. Otherwise, just buy it. Apple's updates are usually just speed bumps. Any writing program out there will work fine on the current Mac lineup.

Here's some sites that might help you:

http://www.macrumors.com/ - Apple rumor site. Any news of future updates will most likely be posted here.

http://macosg.com/group/index.php - A forum dedicated to Apple.

Applecare is a done deal. So is the $99 for their classes.

The only reason I'm going to wait until January is for tax reasons. You've all convinced me to not worry about waiting for updates or deals. Honestly, my needs are so minimal that the iMac will be all I need for years with plenty to learn and grow into in the meantime.

As for the RAM, right now, it comes with 1GB. I know that I'll want more. My question is this: Once I buy the extra RAM from, say, Crucial, will this affect my 3yr AppleCare warranty? If I don't buy it directly from Apple and have them install it, will it nullify the contract? I've had this happen before so I'm gun-shy. Because I'm new to Macs, I don't want to install it myself.

[Simple Living]

Yup. Apple wanted $150 for the 1GB RAM. I got a Kingston from MacConnection for $49.

Also, there's a small utility called memtest which is very useful.

Memtest. Got it. Thanks. I'm taking all this down in my notes.

[Simple Living]

Alright. Time for a dumb question. I keep seeing the words "Tiger" and "Leopard" used in different models. I know the iMac I'll be getting comes with Leopard, which is more updated than Tiger, but what do these terms mean? Are they operating systems like Pentium, etc.?

[maestrowork]

Tiger is Mac OS 10.4.

Leopard is Mac OS 10.5.

It's like Windows Vista vs. Windows XP.

[Smiling Ted]

I believe that if you buy the computer directly from Apple.com, you can avoid the sales tax, which takes care of the $101 dollar issue.

As for buying components (like RAM) one guy who worked at Apple recommended Macsales.com. I haven't tried them yet.

Windows apps and virus potential - I've been running MSOffice 2004 for years on my iBook and then MacBook, and haven't had any problems.

Personally, I prefer the MS Office suite because it's the business standard, and if you want something simple, you can go into the Preferences menu and strip it down to whatever you please. Also, if you buy the Students/Teachers version, it's pretty cheap.

Any, that's been my experience. Hope it helps.

[Simple Living]

I believe that if you buy the computer directly from Apple.com, you can avoid the sales tax, which takes care of the $101 dollar issue.

As for buying components (like RAM) one guy who worked at Apple recommended Macsales.com. I haven't tried them yet.

Windows apps and virus potential - I've been running MSOffice 2004 for years on my iBook and then MacBook, and haven't had any problems.

Personally, I prefer the MS Office suite because it's the business standard, and if you want something simple, you can go into the Preferences menu and strip it down to whatever you please. Also, if you buy the Students/Teachers version, it's pretty cheap.

Any, that's been my experience. Hope it helps.

I know the online store charges tax according to the shipping destination. I was surprised at that. I thought online shopping was tax free. Then again, I don't shop online.

The more I learn about Mac, the less price is a factor. I'm not saying I want to be overcharged, but in the general scheme of things, I'm no longer concerned with saving a few bucks once it's all said and done.

[DVGuru]

The more I learn about Mac, the less price is a factor. I'm not saying I want to be overcharged, but in the general scheme of things, I'm no longer concerned with saving a few bucks once it's all said and done.

When I got into filmmaking I purchased a Powermac to use Final Cut Pro for editing. I fell in love with OSX and got rid of my PC for good. Over the years almost all of my friends and family have switched to Mac and not a single one has regretted it.

Since security is a primary concern, here's a tip for when you get your Mac. I'm not sure about Leopard, the new version of OSX, but both Panther and Tiger had the firewall off by default. This won't make sense right now since you don't have an Apple yet, but If you go into System Preferences>Sharing>Firewall, you can turn the firewall on. You can take it a step further by clicking the Advanced button and checking the box for Enable Stealth Mode. This makes your computer completely invisible on the internet.

There's also a program called Little Snitch which is available here: http://www.obdev.at/products/littlesnitch/index.html This will block outgoing traffic, while the Apple firewall blocks incoming. It costs $24.95, but is worth it IMO.

[Simple Living]

When I got into filmmaking I purchased a Powermac to use Final Cut Pro for editing. I fell in love with OSX and got rid of my PC for good. Over the years almost all of my friends and family have switched to Mac and not a single one has regretted it.

Since security is a primary concern, here's a tip for when you get your Mac. I'm not sure about Leopard, the new version of OSX, but both Panther and Tiger had the firewall off by default. This won't make sense right now since you don't have an Apple yet, but If you go into System Preferences>Sharing>Firewall, you can turn the firewall on. You can take it a step further by clicking the Advanced button and checking the box for Enable Stealth Mode. This makes your computer completely invisible on the internet.

There's also a program called Little Snitch which is available here: http://www.obdev.at/products/littlesnitch/index.html This will block outgoing traffic, while the Apple firewall blocks incoming. It costs $24.95, but is worth it IMO.

Very noteworthy, thanks.

Currently, I'm sitting in a coffee shop with my Windows laptop. I'm here because I normally only use the internet while I'm at work. I figured I'm there nine hours a day and can get everything I need done, as well as my work, during that time, so one way I saved money was having my home internet service turned off. Using my laptop only on the occasional weekend to check in using the coffee shop's wireless, is the only time I ever really needed to take my laptop out of the house.

I say that to ask this. Knowing that you didn't need your computer very often while you were away from home, and you were buying a new computer, would you buy a notebook or the iMac? Once you've had the convenience of a laptop/notebook, could you give it up knowing you didn't take it out of the house very often?

[DVGuru]

It all depends on what you want to do with the computer. If you're just using it for word processing and web/email, then you could probably get by with a MacBook. You won't need a lot of screen real estate and processing power.

If you decide down the road that you want to edit photos and video, or play games, then you might want to go with the iMac since it has a larger screen and faster specs. My guess is that the iMac will be more upgradeable than the MacBook (I'd still add RAM no matter which computer you choose). But if you don't have access to the internet at home, then you're at a disadvantage with the iMac, whereas with the MacBook you can turn Airport on and pick up a wireless signal at work or a coffee shop. Another thing to consider is hard drive space. You might get more with the iMac, which is good if you get into using iTunes and iPhoto. The best piece of advice I can offer is to be prudent when making a decision. Macs have a long life span.

I currently own a Mini and Powerbook G4. I use the Powerbook for writing and the Mini for everything else. If I had to choose it would be the laptop, but that's just me. Once you assess your own needs you'll be able to make a decision.

[Medievalist]

I say that to ask this. Knowing that you didn't need your computer very often while you were away from home, and you were buying a new computer, would you buy a notebook or the iMac? Once you've had the convenience of a laptop/notebook, could you give it up knowing you didn't take it out of the house very often?

You can have the best of both worlds; get a laptop, and use it with an external monitor and keyboard at home.

[Simple Living]

It all depends on what you want to do with the computer. If you're just using it for word processing and web/email, then you could probably get by with a MacBook. You won't need a lot of screen real estate and processing power.

If you decide down the road that you want to edit photos and video, or play games, then you might want to go with the iMac since it has a larger screen and faster specs. My guess is that the iMac will be more upgradeable than the MacBook (I'd still add RAM no matter which computer you choose). But if you don't have access to the internet at home, then you're at a disadvantage with the iMac, whereas with the MacBook you can turn Airport on and pick up a wireless signal at work or a coffee shop. Another thing to consider is hard drive space. You might get more with the iMac, which is good if you get into using iTunes and iPhoto. The best piece of advice I can offer is to be prudent when making a decision. Macs have a long life span.

I currently own a Mini and Powerbook G4. I use the Powerbook for writing and the Mini for everything else. If I had to choose it would be the laptop, but that's just me. Once you assess your own needs you'll be able to make a decision.

Considering your comments, so far, I'll likely stick to the iMac. My only need for a laptop is "just in case" I might need to take it with me somewhere. I'm sure there will be times when this will be the case, but they've been so few and far between for me. I miss the comfort of a desktop computer.

[Simple Living]

Thanks again to everyone who replied. This thread made a world of difference.

The problem is, I WANT MY MAC AND I WANT IT NOW! I just have to figure out if waiting for the 2008 tax break is worth it. :)

[scottaz]

If you want it now, then by all means get it now. It isn't like all current models will be discontinued at MacWorld Expo in favor of an all new lineup.

When it comes to buying a computer, I always say go with the need at the time. Otherwise you'll always be waiting for that "next great thing."

[TurkeyLurkey]

When it comes to buying a computer, I always say go with the need at the time. Otherwise you'll always be waiting for that "next great thing."

I agree.

BTW... I made the switch recently and got a MacLappy. I also have a wireless connection so I can walk around the house with it. Sometimes I will have it on in the kitchen to double check a recipe online, or to type a few more words in my WIP while waiting for water to boil. (Lappys are very convenient, for me at least.)

[Secret Agent]

I realize I'm too late to do other than make you feel better about your decisions. But here goes.

AppleCare is great for a usually unnoticed reason. Not only does it cover failure of your hardware for three years, it gives you unlimited calls to the support line.

Adding non-Apple memory to an iMac will not void your AppleCare unless you break the RAM sockets when installing it. Scum memory is much more likely to just not work than to smoke the system its plugged into.

The next product refresh in January at Macworld is unlikely to change the iMac line much but even if it does, your system will be fine for several years.

Good luck.

[Secret Agent]

If you want the Mac now, and want the tax deduction in 2008, it might be as simple as charging to a credit card so you don't pay until after Jan 1.

[Medievalist]

Adding non-Apple memory to an iMac will not void your AppleCare unless you break the RAM sockets when installing it. Scum memory is much more likely to just not work than to smoke the system its plugged into.

It's not so much a problem of smoking the system, as it is failing Leopard's RAM check; it's pretty picky.

[Simple Living]

If anyone's willing to clarify, here's where my thought process is on a couple of things.

As far as timing, it's not a matter of getting a newer version that I'm concerned with. Strictly a tax thing. But, a great point was made that I can put it on a credit card that won't come due until next year. So, for tax purposes, they don't necessarily go by the exact purchase date? If it appears on my January 2008 statement for the first time, that's good enough to be considered a 2008 purchase?

Regarding RAM, I'm definitely buying more. I won't be the one to install it, not being familiar with Mac and for fear of destroying everything. After I buy the right kind of RAM, what's the best way, in my case, to have it installed safely without affecting any warranties?

[Secret Agent]

Sorry that my answer created more questions. I'm not a tax law professional, but most individuals use a cash basis of accounting rather than an accrual basis. That is, people show income when received and expenses when paid and the IRS is cool with this. So the day you pay for the iMac is the day you account for it. Companies usually accrue income and debts, counting them when they become assets or liabilities. That's one issue. If you expense the computer in 2008 you are probably OK. If your tax adviser finds you should depreciate the machine over several years, then you'd probably account from the point it was put in service. At this point you need proper financial advisor. The key with cash or accrual is you decide once for everything and you are stuck with that decision. Depending on the best tax advantage for you, you can expense or depreciate each piece of equipment. Get a good small-business tax person who knows the state laws in the state you are going to be filing from in 2008.

Installing memory in an iMac is easier than everyone thinks. There are several (free) photo illustrated and video tutorials on how to do it on the web. Here's Apple's guide:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=303084

Just make sure you follow a guide for the exact model iMac you buy.

[JimmyB27]

Not sure about stability, but OpenOffice is available on the Mac via the X-Windows platform (the Mac runs on A/UX).

I've tried it -- it's a bit clunky (but free). I still prefer iWork:Pages for what I do.
You can also get Neo Office (http://[COLOR=#008000]www.neooffice.org) which is a native Mac port of the Open Office software. I've been using it since I got my Mac, and it's pretty good.
I've had to hold back the smugness just lately. A friend of mine with a Windows laptop tripped over the power cord and it snapped off the jack inside the machine. She had to spend €200 to get it fixed :o. The magnetic power cord is just the best invention ever, and one of those nice design touches I love about Macs

Re: iMac vs MacBook, I have a MacBook Pro, and it's awesomely great. What's not to love about being able to surf the web while on the loo?

[Medievalist]

Regarding RAM, I'm definitely buying more. I won't be the one to install it, not being familiar with Mac and for fear of destroying everything. After I buy the right kind of RAM, what's the best way, in my case, to have it installed safely without affecting any warranties?

Honestly, you can just do it yourself. If you can replace batteries in something, you can install RAM in a modern Mac. You simply follow the directions in the manual for the Mac in question.

[Simple Living]

Sorry that my answer created more questions. I'm not a tax law professional, but most individuals use a cash basis of accounting rather than an accrual basis. That is, people show income when received and expenses when paid and the IRS is cool with this. So the day you pay for the iMac is the day you account for it. Companies usually accrue income and debts, counting them when they become assets or liabilities. That's one issue. If you expense the computer in 2008 you are probably OK. If your tax adviser finds you should depreciate the machine over several years, then you'd probably account from the point it was put in service. At this point you need proper financial advisor. The key with cash or accrual is you decide once for everything and you are stuck with that decision. Depending on the best tax advantage for you, you can expense or depreciate each piece of equipment. Get a good small-business tax person who knows the state laws in the state you are going to be filing from in 2008.

Installing memory in an iMac is easier than everyone thinks. There are several (free) photo illustrated and video tutorials on how to do it on the web. Here's Apple's guide:

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=303084

Just make sure you follow a guide for the exact model iMac you buy.

I research things to death. Right up until the time I it home, I'll have questions! I'm sure a lot of it is out of excitement. I'm starting to get the Mac high I've heard so much about.

As for the tax question, we have an IRS office here in Minneapolis so I think I'll just call the small business department and get it straight from the greedy uncle's mouth himself. Then, I think I'll head to the Apple Store and visit my Mac. :) That's dangerous because I could very well come home with it.

Thanks for your advice and for the link for the Ram installation.

[Simple Living]

The magnetic power cord is just the best invention ever, and one of those nice design touches I love about Macs

Magnetic power cord? I didn't realize they had them. (Never heard of them, actually.) Will have to look for that.

[scottaz]

Magnetic power cord? I didn't realize they had them. (Never heard of them, actually.) Will have to look for that.

I think the Magsafe power connectors are on the laptops only.

[Simple Living]

I think the Magsafe power connectors are on the laptops only.

Doh! No matter. Not a deterence at all. :)

[maestrowork]

It is very cool, though, for the MacBook. I don't know how many times I've tripped over the cord myself and now I don't have to worry about sending the laptop flying across the room... ;)

[Simple Living]

I called the IRS and got a tax question answered about writing off the computer.

She said that you have two choices. As long as the computer is used over 50% for business use, you can take a 179 (which is writing off the computer all at once) or take smaller deductions over the next three years, from the date you dedicated the computer to your business service. It all depends on the strategy you want to use. (Publication 535 is a great source for knowing what qualifies as business write-offs for self employment.)

I asked how buying my computer now would affect me tax-wise. She said that buying it in '07 and putting it into use in '08 eliminates my chance to take the full tax deduction all at once (the 179 option). I could only use it as a write-off for the three years starting in '08. I prefer that anyway.

That was the big quesion that kept holding me back, so I may be coming home with a Mac tomorrow! Ok, gotta go. Gotta get the shrine ready to receive the Mac... ;)

[maestrowork]

Let us know how you like it. ;)

And yes, I'm jealous!

[jdparadise]

Doesn't Apple offer refurb machines?

[Medievalist]

Doesn't Apple offer refurb machines?

Yes, Apple does. If you buy a refurb, make sure you buy AppleCare, and brace yourself for possibly a bit of a burn-in issue, that is, problems in the first six weeks of use; they're more common with refurbs.

[JimmyB27]

Magnetic power cord? I didn't realize they had them. (Never heard of them, actually.) Will have to look for that.
Yeah, on the laptops. The power cord is held in by a magnet, rather than being jammed all the way in. So, if you trip over the cable, you don't send the laptop flying (or break off the jack ;)), the cable just pops out. Genius.

[JimmyB27]

I think the Magsafe power connectors are on the laptops only.
They are, but you don't really need them on desktops. Usually the cables are tucked safely away behind the desk.

[Simple Living]

Doesn't Apple offer refurb machines?

Yes, Apple does. If you buy a refurb, make sure you buy AppleCare, and brace yourself for possibly a bit of a burn-in issue, that is, problems in the first six weeks of use; they're more common with refurbs.

I don't mind buying used when it comes to many different things. But, I have a very strict, unbreakable rule that must not be broken. I never buy used when it comes to high-end electronics or underwear.

[Simple Living]

Well, a little bit of sad news.

After consulting with a tax attorney, it's going to be to my advantage, tax-wise, to wait and buy the iMac in 2008. Taking the 179 deduction (all-at-once, as opposed to over a three year period) is better because I'm also working a regular, full-time 9 to 5.

I'm freelancing in order to be able to quit my day job permanently. I am NOT meant for a zombie-like existance in Corporate America. By next fall, I'll be able to quit. Until then, I need the full tax break. So, it's a month and a half of patience for me again.

I'm not waiting in order to get a newer model after MacExpo. Actually, I highly doubt they'll make any improvements in the iMac since they just made big ones this past August. They may increase the speed slightly, but that certainly isn't worth waiting for. Unfortunately, the tax break is, so I'm still Mac-less. On the upside, what do you think the chances are of the price going down a bit after the expo? :Shrug:

[maestrowork]

You can get a PC with Vista.

:D :D :D :D :D

bwhahahahahaha.

[Simple Living]

You can get a PC with Vista.

:D :D :D :D :D

bwhahahahahaha.

Now that's just plain mean! :tongue

Another option I'm considering is this: Part of me wants the portability of a notebook. When I move out to a small town, and start freelancing full time, I'm going to do more traveling and wish I had a notebook. For $3,000, I could get a MacBook and a 20" iMac.:e2brows:

For what I would need the notebook for, the MacBook would be plenty. (Why is the black MacBook $200 more than the white one? I don't get it.) And the only differences between the 20" and 24" iMacs are screen size, pixels and weight. This could be the best of both worlds. Something to really think about.

What do you think?

[DVGuru]

Another option I'm considering is this: Part of me wants the portability of a notebook. When I move out to a small town, and start freelancing full time, I'm going to do more traveling and wish I had a notebook. For $3,000, I could get a MacBook and a 20" iMac.:e2brows:

For what I would need the notebook for, the MacBook would be plenty. (Why is the black MacBook $200 more than the white one? I don't get it.) And the only differences between the 20" and 24" iMacs are screen size, pixels and weight. This could be the best of both worlds. Something to really think about.

What do you think?

I say go with the 20" iMac and buy a MacBook also. A 24" screen isn't necessary unless you're into photo and video editing. I had a 23" Cinema Display for editing my short movies in Final Cut Pro. When I parted ways with filmmaking, I found the monitor was just taking up desk space. Don't get me wrong, having a large monitor is nice, but I think it's overkill for anything other than photo and video editing.

Why the black MacBook costs more money? It's the same reason why the colored iPod Nanos only come in the more expensive 8 gig version. Apple loves to find ways to drain money from their customers. They know a lot of people want a black laptop, so they give it a bigger hard drive and charge more money. The majority of people are going to want a colored iPod Nano, so they only offer it in 8 gig, forcing them to pay more.

[maestrowork]

Oh, if you can afford a smaller iMac and a MacBook, go with that. Or, you can get a mini if you have an external monitor/keyboard/mouse. I agree that if you're not doing and video or desktop publishing (magazines, graphic designs, etc.) 24" is not necessary. 20" is plenty big -- enough for word processing, web design, etc.

[Simple Living]

And who knows? It's rumored that one of the upgrades to MacBook is that it will be slimed down, iPhone style. That would be amazing.

[Simple Living]

Why the black MacBook costs more money? ... They know a lot of people want a black laptop, so they give it a bigger hard drive and charge more money.

The thing is, the hard drive in the black laptop isn't any bigger than the one in white. From what I saw, same exact specs.

[DVGuru]

The thing is, the hard drive in the black laptop isn't any bigger than the one in white. From what I saw, same exact specs.

The black MacBook has a 160 gig drive vs. the whites 120 gig. An additional 40 gig is hardly worth $200 in my opinion. Hopefully this isn't a trend apple will continue.

The slim MacBook you're referring to may be the flash-based laptop Apple is rumored to be developing. It's supposed to be ultra-slim by using flash memory rather than a hard drive. It also won't have a CD/DVD-ROM drive and will incorporate LED rather than LCD for the screen to help further reduce battery consumption. Of course, this is all speculation at this point.

[Medievalist]

Now that's just plain mean! :tongue

Another option I'm considering is this: Part of me wants the portability of a notebook. When I move out to a small town, and start freelancing full time, I'm going to do more traveling and wish I had a notebook. For $3,000, I could get a MacBook and a 20" iMac.

You can connect the MacBook to an external monitor, mouse, and keyboard, and still use the MacBook screen. This gives you the best of both worlds.

[maestrowork]

That's true.

[JimmyB27]

Now that's just plain mean! :tongue

Another option I'm considering is this: Part of me wants the portability of a notebook. When I move out to a small town, and start freelancing full time, I'm going to do more traveling and wish I had a notebook. For $3,000, I could get a MacBook and a 20" iMac.:e2brows:

For what I would need the notebook for, the MacBook would be plenty. (Why is the black MacBook $200 more than the white one? I don't get it.) And the only differences between the 20" and 24" iMacs are screen size, pixels and weight. This could be the best of both worlds. Something to really think about.

What do you think?

You can connect the MacBook to an external monitor, mouse, and keyboard, and still use the MacBook screen. This gives you the best of both worlds.
I was going to say this. For your $3k, you can get a Macbook Pro and a 20" monitor :D

ETA - geez you Yanks have it cheap!

[arkady]

You can also get Neo Office (http://[COLOR=#008000]www.neooffice.org) which is a native Mac port of the Open Office software. I've been using it since I got my Mac, and it's pretty good.

I second that. NeoOffice is the only way to go if you're using OS X. I don't understand why more people don't know about this excellent freeware product.

[arkady]

The black MacBook has a 160 gig drive vs. the whites 120 gig. An additional 40 gig is hardly worth $200 in my opinion. Hopefully this isn't a trend apple will continue.

The slim MacBook you're referring to may be the flash-based laptop Apple is rumored to be developing. It's supposed to be ultra-slim by using flash memory rather than a hard drive. It also won't have a CD/DVD-ROM drive and will incorporate LED rather than LCD for the screen to help further reduce battery consumption. Of course, this is all speculation at this point.

The LED screen isn't speculation -- the MacBook Pro I'm typing on right now has an LED screen. It's brighter and has better contrast, but if it reduces the power consumption by any significant amount, I haven't seen it. Apple's announced plans are to transition all their monitors over to LED.

[Simple Living]

Here's an Update:

I'm definitely going with the iMac. I spent three hours playing on it yesterday at the store and couldn't get enough. I have my current laptop that works perfectly fine for the rare times I need to take it out of the house. Later on, I'll get a MacBook to replace my laptop.

AppleCare is a certainty. What do you think of ProCare for $99? Unless I'm missing something, it just means that I get bumped to the front of the line when it comes to repairs. What about every other schmoe who bought ProCare? Doesn't seem all that worthwhile to get. What are your opinions?

Also, it comes with iWork ’08 30-day trial and Microsoft Office 2004 for Mac 30-day Test Drive. For those of you who are freelancers, which do you prefer? I like iWork but it supposedly doesn't have as much formatting capability as MO for Mac.

[Shadow_Ferret]

You can get a PC with Vista.

:D :D :D :D :D

bwhahahahahaha.
I have a laptop with Vista. Best piece of equipment I've ever owned. And I got a ton of computer for the same price as some lowend Mac iBook.

[kuwisdelu]

I love my MacBook.

I think AppleCare is all you'd need, probably.

As for MS Office for Mac or iWorks? Depends what you'll need it for. If you're like me and you're not a serious user of all of Office's higher-end, more complicated features, I think you'd be best off downloading NeoOffice. It's a native Mac OS X port of OpenOffice.org, which is a free open-source program that imitates most of what MS Office does. NeoOffice has a Writer (Word), a spreadsheet program (like Excel), a presentation program (like PowerPoint), etc. and they're practically the same as their brother MS Office components, unless you're really into the high-end Office utilities for business, networking, etc. It saves as .doc and even .docx (Word 2007), so it's completely compatible with MS Office.

So if you don't need MS Office's flashier components that only businesses use for networking and things like that that I've never had a need for, I'd say go for NeoOffice. But if you really want to pay an arm and a leg, I'd say go for MS Office for Mac over iWork--mostly because if you would need iWork or Office over NeoOffice for any reason, then you'll probably need MS Office for Mac over iWork for the same reason.

[Medievalist]

AppleCare is a certainty. What do you think of ProCare for $99? Unless I'm missing something, it just means that I get bumped to the front of the line when it comes to repairs. What about every other schmoe who bought ProCare? Doesn't seem all that worthwhile to get. What are your opinions?

Yes on AppleCare; skip ProCare; just make an appointment, online, before going to the Apple store, and get there in time. If you're serious about freelancing, get Microsoft Office; yeah, you can work around it, but you'll be better off not having to.