Tips for Switching From PC to Mac
By Patrick Norton - Posted Feb 26, 2003
So you've finally decided to ditch that Windows PC and invest in a Mac. Here are some tips you can use to make the transition smoother (or to sell yourself the idea, if you're still a bit hesitant).
Before you switch
Before you switch
- Hardware
Speakers and most USB devices will work with your Mac. For all your hardware, you should check for an OS X driver. - Software
OS X has great applications for editing video, playing and making MP3s, and tweaking photos. It even includes Quicken. But if you have a fair amount of cash invested in more advanced Windows software, are you willing to shell out the bucks to purchase Mac versions? - Games
Are you the type who must play every new game when it comes out? You'll either need to keep a Windows system around or consider moving your gaming to a console. - Custom software
Do you use custom applications from your office? Are Mac versions available? If the answer is no, you can try running Virtual PC. - File conversion
Some files will need to be converted. If you have a specific batch of files you live with day in and day out, make sure they work properly on the Mac. Most will, but I've heard that AppleWorks has trouble with some Microsoft Office files. Try before you buy if you can. An office suite you can try is OpenOffice.org - Test of patience
There will be a learning curve when you start on OS X. A good book will ease the pain, as will the phone number of an expert who lives OS X. I had Leo and Megan to go to for answers, which eased my pain.
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