Mac Vs Pc For College

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With the growing number of students bringing Macs to campus(over 50% of the Fall 2016 freshman class), it is likely that there are more students(and parents) debating whether or not to buy a PC or a Mac. The very short answer is that Lehigh fully supports both Windows and Mac platforms; and, as stated previously, it is always recommended that you purchase the computer that fits your wants/needs for personal use as long as the hardware specifications fit Lehigh's minimum requirements(which new computers do). In order to help you make your final purchase decision, LTS has compared the following major points between both platforms. Be aware that you may have other considerations specific to your wants/needs; however, the following major comparison points should give you a solid starting point.

Before the Mac vs. Pc war fires up, I just want to say that hp computers by themselves are awful in my opinion. Even when you don't compare them to other notebooks they're build quality by any standard is outright terrible. They really are not designed to last and are more for people who are used to switching computers every 2 years or less.

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Jun 02, 2011  Mac vs. PC for College Students June 2, 2011 ClassesandCareers Staff Leave a comment. Mac and PC Matchmaking. A computer isn’t just your average school supply, it’s your partner in crime through the next few years as you conquer college. Through all-night study sessions, online quizzes, last second homework and frantic emails, it will. Handling Mac and PC employee preferences  The most obvious difference between Macs and PCs is the operating system. The interfaces are visually very different, menus aren't set up the same way. Making an apples-to-apples comparison on price for PC vs. Mac has always been difficult, though, because PCs and Macs typically have different pre-installed software and components, such as graphics cards, ports, and processor speed. Jul 21, 2018  What is the difference between a Mac and a PC laptop? PC laptop for college. In terms of resourcefulness, PC laptops offer lots to students for a relatively low price. Models such as the Dell XPS 13, priced at $799, run the latest edition of Microsoft Office Suite, perfect for writing that last­ minute essay or creating a.

Viruses / Malware / Spyware

PC
This has been and continues to be a major concern for Windows users. While the latest versions of Windows are much more secure than previous versions and Microsoft continues to make great strides in terms of security and protection, the Windows platform is still the target of the majority of viruses, malware, and spyware on the Internet.

Mac
Macs typically experience fewer virus/malware/spyware-related problems. Regardless of platform, no system is totally immune from threats and Lehigh still recommends that users take appropriate steps to protect their computer from virus/malware/spyware threats.

Coursework-related Software

(both platforms)
Most coursework across various majors can be completed using software available to both Windows and Mac platforms (i.e. Microsoft Office Suite for Windows and Mac).

However, there are certain courses that do make use of Windows-only software as part of the coursework. In these cases students with Macs can run Windows as a second OS either by using Apple Bootcamp or a 3rd party program like VMware or VirtualBox. Students who want to run a Windows-only application on their Mac can obtain a copy of Windows from the Lehigh Imagine program and install it alongside the Mac OS. If a student does not want to install Windows on his or her Mac, Windows-only course-specific software can be run on public site computers across campus.

STAR Services provides assistance with installing Windows on Macs.

Warranty Considerations

PC
Most PC manufacturers - especially those Lehigh recommends purchasing from - offer standard and extended warranty coverage that cover both parts and labor for manufacturer defects. Lehigh also strongly recommends purchasing accidental-damage protection which covers accidents like liquid spills, drops, etc.

Mac
Apple offers a 1yr warranty on all newly purchased computers. Lehigh strongly recommends purchasing the AppleCare+ extended warranty. AppleCare+ extends the warranty for 3yrs and adds up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage. Deductible fees apply for accidental damage, details are on the Apple support website.

Initial Cost vs. Longevity

Mac Vs Pc For College 2019

(both platforms)
The concept of 'You get what you pay for' is very much true with regards to the PC market. You may find a fabulous deal on a computer at discount retail store, but find yourself looking for a new computer only a year later. If you purchase one of the Lehigh-recommended brands/models (PC or Mac), your computer should last throughout your academic career.

College

Other Notable Advantages

PC
Selection/Custom Configuration
Because there are so many different PC manufacturers, consumers have a huge variety of options across manufacturers, models, and configurations.

Mac
Simplified Selection
Apple very clearly lists the models they sell and offers ways to customize your selected model such as upgrading the hard drive, memory, video card, processor, etc.

For additional help, please contact the Student Technology and Repair Services Program at 610-758-2666 or helpdesk@lehigh.edu

Mac and PC Matchmaking

A computer isn’t just your average school supply, it’s your partner in crime through the next few years as you conquer college. Through all-night study sessions, online quizzes, last second homework and frantic emails, it will literally become your best friend. So how do you find your perfect match? And how do you take a side in the “Mac vs. PC” battle to pick the one that fits you best? Here are some things to consider as you look for your new companion.

Get beyond hype and marketing

Macs and PC’s have been going at each other for over three decades. Some users feel extremely committed to their choice of computer, as though it were a long-term, loving relationship. For many, it is exactly that and much more. For new students faced with this decision, it’s important to get around the sales pitches and take a hard look at the two different types of computer systems.

What do you want out of the relationship?

There are some significant and some insignificant differences in computers. Much of the decision on which type of computer is best rests in how it will be used. Online class requirements are the starting point. Find out what computer functions you need to be successful in your classes and what features would help make your life easier throughout your studies. It’s okay to be needy in this relationship.

For example: Most online schools want their students to have enough computing power to download and stream video presentations without having annoying memory dumps interrupting the professor’s presentation. If a student is going to purchase a new computer, these issues are important, as most new computers have sufficient RAM memory and fast processors to handle streaming video and download files quickly.

Tip: Knowing what classes and school you will attend will help you figure out your computer and software needs are. Need help figuring out your major? Browse our home page (classesandcareers.com) for a list of program and degree options. If you are looking for a school, our online education tool can help. Once you have everything figured out, talk to students, instructors, and school counselors to find out what your program requires.

Minimum computer specifications to get the job done:

• A processor of 1.6 GHz or faster
• Anti-virus application – updated regularly
• 256MB RAM or greater
• 20 GB hard drive or larger
• 56.6 kbps modem or high-speed Internet connection
• Monitor and video card with 1024 x 768 ppi or greater resolution
• Sound card with speakers
• CD ROM Player/Recorder
• Inkjet or laser printer
• Email address
• Internet service provider (ISP) account
• Microsoft® Internet Explorer® version 6.0 or later
• Adobe® Reader® 6.0 or later
• Microsoft® Outlook Express 6.0 or other email program
• Microsoft® Office XP, 2003, 2004, 2007 or Windows 7
• Microsoft® Word or equivalent
• Microsoft® PowerPoint® or equivalent
• Flash® Player

Mac Vs Pc For College 2018

Add-ons that make a difference

Both Macs and PCs have video capability so student can see each other as they chat on their college’s web network or using Skype. Macs come with the video capability built in, PCs require the user to buy and install a camera and its operating application. Most schools use electronically submitted materials, not printed copies, so the need for a printer is not as high. It would just be useful for when the student wants to review hard-copy materials. Be careful about choosing a color printer, they use a lot of toner or ink and can be very expensive to keep up. Generally, a black & white laser printer makes the best choice due to the low cost per page to print.

A List of Pros:

Mac

  • Runs OS x and Windows
  • Works great with iPhone, iPad, iPod
  • Simple to use
  • Stylish and trendsetting
  • Better & more software installed when purchased
  • Immediate access to iTunes store for iPod & iPhone
  • Fewer computer virus issues

PC

  • Build computer to meet personal needs
  • Lower cost than Mac
  • Wider variety of models available (6 Mac models)
  • Wider selection of software programs
  • Backward compatible – can run old programs
  • More PCs in the world than Macs
  • More businesses use PCs
  • Better gaming
  • More accessories available
  • More upgradeable

A List of Cons:

Mac

Macbook Or Windows For College

  • Far less aftermarket software available
  • More expensive
  • Accessories are more expensive
  • Networking with Windows computers harder

PC

  • Microsoft rules the world for Operating Systems
  • Vulnerable to viruses
  • Hardware, peripheral, & accessories can conflict

How to digest this information…

It all boils down to the person using the computer and what they want to use it for. For those students with larger checkbooks and a desire to be more stylish, the Mac offers a more all-inclusive package for those who haven’t used a computer much in the past. For students who want to use their computer for other tasks – like playing games – the PC is probably the better choice.

Where Macs are better for students

Mac Or Windows For College

Macs are good for students studying audio, video, entertainment, graphics, or other forms of visually-based disciplines like motion picture production, graphic design, art studies, interactive website development, and other degrees which use a high-level of computer generated images and graphics.

Where PCs work out best

For students studying less graphically demanding disciplines, like history, accounting, business management, psychology, or other traditional diplomas, a PC works well because it doesn’t need a lot of frills and specialty programs to serve the user. Spreadsheets and word processing programs are straightforward tools students use frequently. Many people argue that a lot of the spreadsheet and data programs are better suited for PC.

Mac Vs Pc For College Students

TIP: Find out what programs you will be using in your program and do research to find which type of computer the software is best suited for.

Experience is an important teacher

Mac users laud the intuitive way the operating system functions with the user’s commands as well as the software’s functionality. This is referring to how a user clicks the mouse and uses the keyboard. Mac utilizes a “drag and drop” system for using the mouse to click on screen functions and icons. PCs use the same thing, but in a different way. Rather than pressing down on the mouse key and moving it around to issue commands, PCs have the user click once or twice, move the mouse and then click it again. Small difference, to be sure, but if the mouse button is disengaged while selecting functions with a Mac, the user loses their place and starts again.

Download seagate software for mac. The Seagate Drive Settings application for MacOS is included on the GoFlex for Mac series of drives. Simply double-click it to install the software. This download page provides a way to recover it if the software was deleted. Software Downloads. This driver provides write access for Seagate external drives in Mac OS without having to reformat. Be sure the drive is connected to the computer before starting the installation. Double-click the NTFSforMac.dmg file you downloaded.

A new standard for the term “ready-to-go”

Mac computers come out of the box pretty much ready to go. Plug it in, turn it on, and it makes itself ready for the user to immediately put it to work. PCs require more set up time and effort. Most PCs don’t come with the Word processor and Spreadsheet programs, unless they are ordered together with the computer and installed at the factory. Also, many PCs will recognize a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device plugged into them after set up, but some require downloading software and setting up the peripheral device manually, requiring more time and a little expertise in installing new hardware.

Mac Versus Pc For College Students

Customer service

Both types of computers require the user to contact product support, either online or by telephone, to resolve any problems with the computer. Frequently, the service support center can link up with the computer over the internet to identify issues and correct them. Most manufacturers charge a lot for these services unless a service plan is purchased with the original sale.

Desktop versus Laptop

Since online students have the freedom to view and interact with their classes anytime and anywhere, a laptop computer makes a lot of sense for most students. As long as the laptop meets the minimum operating requirements for the school, it makes life much easier when a student only needs internet access to go to class. As most coffee shops and public libraries offer free internet access, it’s far more convenient to learn from a laptop than from a PC stuck at home or in an office.

The bottom line

Frequently, the decision on which type of computer to use is already made … by the student’s budget. Fact: Macs can be expensive, PCs are cheap by comparison. Macs cost anywhere from $999 to $2,499. PCs can cost as little as $399 (including monitor). When the cost of a printer, scanner, camera, and software are added in, the PC is still the better deal from a cost standpoint.

Who wins?

Online students have a lot to consider when it’s time for choosing their computer. Mac users love Macs. PC users tend to prefer PCs simply because it’s what they are used to. Whichever way a student goes, their computer is probably the most important piece of equipment they will use for college… and in the long run it doesn’t matter which you pick as long as it fits your college needs.

The fact is your choice is determined by your budget, your preference, and the needs of the program and school. Good luck, and we promise we won’t judge you when you finally pick a side.

If you aren’t sure what program you should go into…

Mac Vs Pc For College

Check out our home page, Classesandcareers.com to browse through program and career options. If you know your program but need help finding a school check out our School Finder Tooland request information from an education counselor.