<p>I just started to do some research on a new laptop for next year and cannot choose between a mac or pc. I am going to be a freshman next fall. Price is not really an issue, and I like both operating systems, but I want to make sure that my computer WORKS for four years. It seems to me that a macbook pro would be more reliable on the hardware side, but I worry about software compatibility issues. Do any business students have experience with a mac? What do you guys think? Thanks for the help.</p>
<p>i’d go for the mac!</p>
<p>Mac is good for media editing. That’s about it. I’d go with PC. It can do everything a mac can do and more.</p>
<p>First, check with USC about buying programs; with an .edu email you can usually access discounts on hardware and especially software. Second, as TrojAndrew points out, for video/media Apple wins my a mile. </p>
<p>But, while Apple owns the graphics world, the business and engineering worlds are overwhelmingly PC. Microsoft Office and its scion are the de facto software packages of business and contrary to Apple fanboy protests, the packages just don’t run as well on Macs as on PCs. That said, the transferability issues are normally quite minor so I wouldn’t sweat it too much. However, there are still PC-only software packages - especially true in the engineering world though there are a few biz packages in this group. Besides asking here I’d call the b-school and see if someone there can give you some insights.</p>
<p>Finally there is the Apple Tax to consider. For similar specs, Apples just cost more, not a lot more, but more. Additionally, there tend to be fewer vendors for accessories and prices there tend to be higher. It’s not a lot of money, but I just find it aggravating at times. One thing that makes this palatable is Apple’s superior security profile - you just don’t have the same virus issues you have with a PC.</p>
<p>It’s not my intent to sound anti-Mac, (this post was done on a Mac), I’m just offering my observations (and frustrations) when it comes to using a Mac in a PC environment. Given all that, for the next four years unless 'SC is running a PC exclusive software at the b-school, I don’t think it’ll matter too much which one you choose.</p>
<p>I’m also going into business, and I just got a macbook pro. So far I like it a lot more than any PC I’ve ever had. Much more responsive, boots up and shuts down instantly, and everything just seems more crisp on it. I did a lot of research online and asked friends who have had Macs and it sounds like they will last a lot longer than a PC. As far as software, most software is becoming compatible now as macbooks are becoming increasing popular, however if you run into a problem you can always buy windows pretty cheap at USC. Macbooks come with boot camp so u can start up either operating system.</p>
<p>Make sure you look up education deals. I know Dell has a pretty awesome program for universities, I’m probably getting a new computer through them for next year.</p>
<p>And honestly, any computer will last four years if you take good care of it. Doesn’t matter how fancy or shiny the hottest new thing is, if you spill on it, drop it, get crumbs into it, etc, it will die on you.</p>
<p>Not to mention <a href=“http://www.dreamspark.com%5B/url%5D”>http://www.dreamspark.com</a></p>
<p>Mainly benefits computer science or computer engineering majors.</p>