<p>I really want a Mac but I am afraid of software conflicts with Macs since some programs run on only PC's and I don't really want to convert my Mac into a Windows computer. If I did get a PC what brand would I get? I was thinking of Dell XPS or HP Envy Series.</p>
<p>Don’t think there’s that much software involved under the biology major, as far as I’m concerned, and the few types of software are compatible as far as I know once again. As for whatever you’re using now, might be best to continue with that, so if you have a MacBook, continue with it, and same if you have Windows. As for specific brands with a PC, just go on Amazon or Best Buy or something and check the reviews/specs out. Brand isn’t that important when it comes to PCs, but yeah, the reviews usually tell you what’s up with each model. If you wanted to start off, just see what kind of specs you’re looking for depending on what you want to use your computer for (cheap and just for browsing the internet/ MS Office stuff, a gaming laptop, laptop for editing videos and stuff, laptop for watching movies, portable laptop, etc.)</p>
<p>I have a mac and am almost done with all of the bio. core requirements (minus physics). The only small problem I’ve ever had with having a mac is with the GChem lab programs (Spartan and Logger Pro). The Mac versions are different from the Windows versions so what you learn in lab might be different and its hard to practice using the programs to prepare for the lab final…because all the lab computers are Windows. Honestly, though, you’ll have problems with the lab programs no matter which choice you make. It’s almost like they designed the lab assignments with graduate level computer geniuses in mind rather than undergraduate bio/chem students. I heard they’re considering implementing the program for Ochem labs too, which is sad cause Ochem lab was somewhat more bearable. I had the unfortunate task of dealing with Spartan on one of my lab practicals and did not earn a single point on that one problem, which is not uncommon.</p>
<p>Anyway, back on topic…it doesn’t matter what you pick really. All you need is something that can run Word/Powerpoint and you’re set. If you get a mac, that means shelling out some extra dough for the Office programs…and then some more for the AppleCare plan incase you ever damage the shiny chunk of aluminum. It’s worth it though; I’ve had minor cosmetic issues (which genrally aren’t covered) and a single key come off my mac. Because of that, they replaced my entire keyboard and screen, no questions asked. One of the regrets I have about not getting a PC laptop is that you can play games on them. =/ I miss playing games in my free time…but I suppose being on task and getting higher grades isn’t so bad of a tradeoff.</p>
<p>if you get a Mac, you can install windows on it or run VMware or similar should the need arise. Software compatibility isn’t that big of an issue. If it is, you can use a computer lab on campus.</p>
<p>The only person I’ve ever known to worry about compatability was an EE + Physics double major and he was running custom programs and usually alternating between linux and windows(though on occasion he could get things running in OSX as well) You won’t have this problem.</p>
<p>Cost might be. Remember, in 10 years both computers will be worth roughly 0.</p>
<p>Lenovo Thinkpad. Better keyboard ergos than the Mac (which is flimsy in comparison); best in the business. I’m using a fully spec’d X120e and it is far more effective in taking down notes than a Mac is (I’ve used both). Dollar for dollar, a business-style Thinkpad is a better choice.</p>
<p>Regular cheap pc laptop. Most people buy a MacBook and use it way below its capabilities.
Don’t get HP laptops, they break easiy. Get Asus or toshiba</p>
<p>^ [how</a> about no! - YouTube](<a href=“how about no! - YouTube”>how about no! - YouTube)</p>
<p>Toshibas have pretty shtty keyboards. Get a Thinkpad, and don’t turn back, ever. ;)</p>
<p>There’s been tons of problems with Spartan and Macs this quarter (Chem 1LC). People had to end up using version 4 instead of 5 for Macs (they had to email the developer to do this).</p>
<p>Spartan’s a horrendous program that most of the chem. TA’s (some PhD candidates) can’t even figure out. It’s ridiculous that more time is wasted on that than time spent on actually learning chemistry.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t worry too much about compatibility for 1 or 2 classes (which others have already pointed workarounds to) I would say you are gonna have the laptop for presumably a few years, might as well get something you like using the other 98% of the time.</p>
<p>I go to UCI and there is quite a bit of walking no matter what major you are because every department seems to enjoy assigning their students to every random classroom in any part of campus, so I would say get something that is 13-15" and has a better resolution than the standard 1300x760 with good battery life. Perhaps one of those ultrabooks or a macbook air/pro.</p>