Hi all,

I'm currently in the market for a new laptop and seriously need some advice. My main concern isn't the technical specifications, but more to reliability, stability and in the case of a MAC, its user-friendliness and ease of change from Windows to Mac.

As a 'loyal' PC-based user, I'm once again questioning my loyalty to Unc Bill. I have in the last 24 hours, gained some knowledge about MACs through some of the related threads here, esp the "MacBook/MacBook Pro Users" and through MAC 101 just so i won't come across to all you experts here as 'naive' or 'stupid'

My main concern is mostly the fact that I'm a TOTAL illiterate when it comes to MAC products hence would like to know how difficult it would be to get used to the new OS platform?

PS: I am aware that XP's runnable on the MB/MBPs through bootcamp [though i've no idea what bootcamp is *oops*] but let's leave that advanced topic for another time. For now, just provide me with whatever U think I should know.

Heislyc,

Thanks for the explanation on bootcamp and parallel.

I'm hoping to 'find' the reasons here, hence initiated this thread .

Also, I ain't considering it just cause most people think it's 'gaya'. What's the point of looking stylishly cool if it's a white elephant? Might as well just get a shell for that purpose, right?

onscreen,

Will definitely try out the OSX when I can.

My current shortlist of notebooks are:-
1) Sony Vaio (SZ38GP) - 13.3", 1.7kg
2) Sony Vaio (FE38GP) - 15.4", 2.8kg
3) MacBook Pro 609ZP/A - 15.4", 2.6kg
4) Fujitsu - 13.3"/14.1", 1.8kg (C2D isn't available yet so can't compare)

Maybe I should save everyone the trouble and tell myself it's way too troublesome to even consider a Mac? Am already looking like this

N0eL,

Hope you're having loadsa fun with your new toy. From the way you'd put things, I am assuming it shouldn't be too difficult to operate from the Mac platform, and primary setup's a breeze.

Any particular 'tips' u'll like to share? And anything else I ought to brace myself for should MBP turn out to be the Champion? I guess I'm here just to seek 'solace' - at the very least I won't feel guilty for not having done any research before making this purchase

Keith,

I've shortlisted the Mac because I need a replacement to my current laptop. As highlighted by N0eL earlier, if you compare specs for specs alike, the prices between a Windows-based laptop and the Mac isn't too great. In fact, if you take into consideration the 'other' stuff [other than the fact that Mac comes only with 2 USB ports ], I dare say Mac's probably cheaper than Fujitsu's 14.1" yet-to-be-launched C2D model.

I'm definitely NOT a gamer, and do NOT intend to start gaming on this new laptop. It'll probably be more for everyday activities like what you mentioned, and if time permits, I do have intentions to learn how to use the Adobe CS2 programs [then again, the damn program's been installed on my home pc for abt 1 year now but I prob opened it uhm, less than 5 times?! so as u probably can tell, that part's really and totally 'optional']

I honestly think the MB is a pretty good buy other than the fact that I find 512MB RAM insufficient for my needs - I'm looking at min 1GB RAM and C2D 2.0GHz [I'm sure I'll definitely appreciate the additional 2MB cache RAM]. Don't ask me why I need something that's so fast - guess I'm just 'kiasu' - it's all Intel's fault. If not for the additional 2MB cache RAM i'd even settle for the C2D 1.83GHz *siGh*

This post has been edited by tinkerbel: Dec 4 2006, 07:29 PM

mymac,

You give me the impression that you have some knowledge of PC before making the switch to Mac [I've heard of Linux but i'd never used one before]. And from the way you're explaining, I think I shouldn't have too much problems switching to a Mac - and if i do, at the very least I know who i can call upon [I'll look u up, even if ur gonna laugh at me or ask me to refer to ur grandma ]

Now, moving on to Applications and more advanced stuff [whatever it maybe], I shouldn't find it too much different from Windows-based right? I mean, taking earlier advice from aMDCoPPer, just need to put in the mac in my search, and ensure the applications i'm downloading is MAC 'versionalised'

N0eL,

I'm bound to look you up too. Maybe I should start scouting around for a 'si-fu' who'd teach me what I need to know about a Mac too? I read somewhere about the glossy screen thingy you mentioned. MB comes with glossy screen whereas for the MBP there are 2 options to choose from, and as much as I don't remember what the other one is called [u mentioned matte though], the gloss ones weren't recommended. Is that what u were referring to?

Keith,

Yup, I do know about the default MB build. The thing about that is the Graphics Card and the screen size. I'd rather much prefer the MBP but i suppose if i decide not to want to spend too much, the RM5299 model is another option.

And may I ask, what's your screen preference? Glossy or Matte? Any particular reason?

onscreen,

I hate to have to ask u this but what would the Sony Clear Bright Display monitor be - glossy or matte?

It's hard for me to comment on this but on my next visit, I'll definitely ask them to show me the difference between the gloss and matte screen. Er, could you also enlighten me a little on what u mean by 'environment lighting'?

I move around quite a bit but unless environment lighting here means places not conducive for reading/using a pc, i should be fine. And I guess I can be considered a rather 'hard core' user on this new machine, esp if it's gonna be a Mac. Will prob sacrifice a few nights to figure out the new toy

N0eL,

Will do but until I find a si-fu who's willing to work on teaching me more about Mac, I'm gonna have to call on you - and the rest here . You're right about the service and support. Coming from the service industry, I am kinda particular about getting useful support - esp since I probably be using it quite a bit [though I doubt I'll call to ask why the machine isn't functioning when power source is unavailable ]


onscreen,

The Sony one is probably an enhancement but i really ain't too sure. I'm not too much into monitors either but must admit I've no problems with the Sony Clear Bright Display monitors.

I've no idea what my current Fujitsu is but compare it with the current ones (and the Sony monitor), the screen on my Fujitsu's a little dim for my liking - then again, that was 'ancient' technology but i sure have taken note of this.

I'm assuming the Matte's probably the better one with greater viewing [and since it's available as option on the MBPs]?

Ok, besides screen can someone tell me if there's an equivalent of Microsoft Access on Mac? If my memory doesn't fail me, the last time I checked, I remember someone telling me it's not available though Word, Excel & Powerpoint's available.

azxel,

Will definitely get into myMUG as soon as I can find the time. Nah, the matte/gloss screens aren't part of me worry - it was just a topic that came up.

Well, I like to think I've got common sense and I'm the type who likes changes; especially for the better. My only and main worry is not being able to do my own troubleshooting, and knowing which or what programs to use but i think the latter can be easily resolved; esp with the availability of forums here.

I'm definitely a willing student, just need to find a very patient and willing teacher that's all

I was considering the iMac last year mainly because I wanted to learn the graphic applications [Adobe CS2], plus obviously the iMac would enhance the look of my room as compared to d usual 'box'. However, I made my final decision based on price and thus got the usual 'box' instead.

This time however, it was a mere fluke. I didn't look at Mac initially because my perception was that it's premium priced but after having made the price comparisons with the pc-based notebooks (as detailed above), it was quite at par.

I guess my only reason for considering this switch is due to the price vs its specs. Admittedly, I'm driving myself crazy giving myself so many options; I'll like a big screen but I don't like the weight

Guess I'm just being a typical 'woman' here, ain't it?

carpathia,

It's a good thing I'm not running too MANY applications [or at least I don't think i am!]. I prob hope to use whatever software that comes bundled with the Mac - other than for the rest. Speaking of which, I do know there are limitations when it comes to applications for Mac but I don't think there'll be an 'oh-so-common-application' today that won't have an equivalent for Mac users, right?

Yes, I am aware after having gone through MAC 101 that applications are minimised to dock unless you command quit it.

Er, just how difficult would it be to connect to my office network - which is primarily windows based? It's a one-time off config or do I have to re-map drive each time?

Appreciate your reply

*Ugh* I leave for a meeting and when I return I find myself lagging way behind on this thread

fortynine,

Most graphic-based designers prefers Mac because the system's faster, plus it gives better 'precision' - ok, that's not entirely the right word but I'm sure u know what i'm talking about. Accuracy in colour reproduction comes mainly from the screen. However, there's quite a big group of graphic design students today who operates from windows-based pc. Perhaps the cost of a Mac is just too high for most. But 'high-flyers' within the Creative Industry are mostly avid Mac users.

allvin,

I suppose since you're gonna wait till next year for the X3000 and "Santa Rosa", u may also want to wait for them to introduce the 888MHz front bus speed. I was told to wait but i figured there's no way of keeping up-to-date with latest technology. My theory, or at least I tell myself there's really no best time to get something Personally, I believe the quad core will be introduced to lappies, they probably be called Core 3 Duo or maybe Core 2 Duo 2/3/4? *shrugs*

Er, what's Hackitosh?

onscreen,

Is OpenOffice compatible with Microsoft Words? I guess I'm asking about Mac Office because my proposals and files need to be shared mainly amongst Windows users.

azxel,

Nah, I've absolutely no intentions of mastering the graphic softwares - leave the professionals to it - i'll stick with what I know best. But would like to know the basics of it - then again, like i said, I have the program installed on my desktop. I just never got into the mood of trying it out

The MBP's 2.54kg if I'm not mistaken - I wouldn't say it's light [current laptop of mine weighs 1.7kg] though most 15.4" screens in the market today are averaging 2.8kg.

So, actually-ah, is it possible for me to find bootleg application softwares out there? Don't lah ask me to buy Mac Office - no $ oredi leh

Acquiesce,

If gonna get a Mac to install XP, might as well just get the a Windows-based pc. Some more got Vista coming up - but beware, if you're gonna run Vista, make sure you have sufficient RAM otherwise u'll regret even installing it

azxel,

Apologies. I meant to say the accuracy in colour reproduction has all to do with the monitor screen in use when viewing the document - maybe, just maybe the accuracy on an Apple screen's better than the usual LCD monitors. If i'm not mistaken, CRT monitors are way better when it comes to colour accuracy - can someone confirm this?

Ah, you described my term 'precision' in the most accurate manner [well, then again u ARE a Graphics Professional!] . I think most people are trying to get away with using Windows-based applications in the Creative studios due to it being cheaper than the Macs but ah well, it hasn't been easy finding new blood who's trained on a Mac. Most can use the CS2 programs but functions mainly on windows-based and when they change to Mac, I find them seriously slow. Well, at least they can operate a Mac - then again, if you can use Illustrator on a PC, u probably be able to adapt to using Illustrator on a Mac. I just don't know how to use Illustrator only mah. Give me Office and I bet I be able to adapt quickly too

artyca,

Any problems with the MB getting too hot? I thought I read that, and that's an issue I haven't quite addressed yet. Also, what about battery lifespan?

And since I'm talking about batteries here, what is the rough lifespan of a Mac battery? And what's the 'replacement' cost of one? Also, I know the MBP comes ready with a Video Adapter [or whatever u call it] but the S-Video cable is not bundled along with it. Is this particular cable special for Mac or can we use just any S-Video cable? Ok, I basically need to know how much that's gonna cost as I probably be using that too.

azxel,

Open Office is compatible with MS Word? Even the formatting remains? Okie, that ought to be good enough to know. I do know sometimes when I export my Word documents to a Mac machine, the apostrophes (') comes out looking weird, as in some ASCII character.

Er, Open Office got MS Excel also? Er, or to make things easier, can get uhm... much much cheaper Mac Office from around or not ah? Would that be safe?

Yes, I'm currently using the 1st Generation of Centrino introduced laptop by Fujitsu. Fujitsu's weight's pretty standard at 1.7kg for the 13.3" and 1.8kg for the 14.1". And YES, cost me a bomb too but I was looking for a light-weight one then due to frequent outstation travelling. You seem to be pretty familiar - wanna tell me what screen that is? I find it a little too dim... be it matte/gloss/watever it is [doubt it's gloss though!]

artyca,

Guess I'll just have to tell the shop to ensure the necessary 'whatever'-wares are updated when I make my purchase.

Well, I do care about the overall lifespan of battery - first 'chiplak' laptop I used [dun even remember the brand.. Twinhead I think] had very lousy battery lifespan. The following ones; being Fujitsu is great!

Ok, I got the ansewr on the S-Video oredi. It's apparently a generic cable so can get from anywhere; thank God it's not proprietorship to Apple. Apple too many propriertorship stuff... worst than Sony

Took me quite a while to figure out what fanboyism is but after reading allvin's reply my suspicions been confirmed

allvin,

You sure seem to know quite a bit about the hardware stuff - U sent to Pluto after reading your reply but well, must admit i did learn something out of it. Though, I probably won't be able to guess what HDR & SM3 is so, be good if u can shed a light on that? Just keep it simple will do. I'm just curious that's all *gulps*

You sure have my utmost for being so patient waiting for the new technologies to be introduced. Actually, I'm wondering if I should hold back buying the Mac until Leopard's been launched? When is it expected to be out anyways? Some say not sure, some say it might be in Jan 07? What'd u experts out there think?

goldfries,

Assuming only the typical work programs (iMail, Safari, Words, etc) are being used, the battery charge should last a little longer right? Then again, it also depends on screen settings and preferences.

3hrs is a little 'short' but well, if that is it, that is it. Besides, I'm pretty much used to lugging along the adaptors and power cords with me. Speaking of which, are the adaptors usable without any 'convertor' in MY?

supafreak,

There's NO S-Video adaptor? But But But how's that so when I'm pretty sure I got that information straight out of one of the Mac sites and noted it down as one a question to ask.

Anyhow, I guess I'll just have to figure out how to get it plugged to the TV - but that's probably a little too advance for me at this stage. Will definitely look you up if i need to. If gotta get the Mini-DVI to Video Adaptor then gotta get lor but i think the MBP comes bundled with uhm a DVI adaptor or something like dat - i'm assuming it's for a different purpose?

So, when are u inviting us over for a movie?

goldfries,

Thanks for merging the replies - I tried to do that in one of my previous replies but this time guess i forgot *oops*

I'm assuming 3hrs are estimated based on 'hardcore' stuff? In that case, normal usage say just for surfing purposes at 'dimmer screen' preference should give it up to about 4+hrs? Anyhow, guess it's really not too important though I'll like to have peace of mine knowing I won't need to change batts every year or so. Any ideas anyone?

I think MBP uses DVI, not mini-DVI. Dunno what the difference is, nor have I gone into such advance usage for now

I don't know about u but I'm going to bed now... Nite nite...

Ok, I'm gonna attempt at merging my replies - let's hope i don't need another moderator to help me re-edit my posts. Certainly don't wanna be kicked out of this forum!

goldfries,

I've absolutely no idea how you're able to surf without the wi-fi being enabled? Also, need to know if applications like bluetooth are automatically set to on, or like mobile phones, we can enable it whenever we need to use it?

A computer without an Internet is uhm, well to me kinda useless actually! Won't be able to get much work done. Ok, admittedly I'm also used to having the internet at the tip of my fingers - Too bad, I'm not located at the 3G Island.

artyca,

I think the plug points in Germany is different from those in Malaysia. Our typical points are basically the one with 3-square holes (1 at the top, 2 at the bottom). Guess I just need to get this information from the Mac shop but otherwise, will just have to carry an additional adaptor [but the thought of having to carry the additional adaptor just for power source purposes on a daily basis is just *ugh*)

redlum,

What programs are u using that frequently crashes? It's not something common I hear about of Macs. Thanks for the link - I'm definitely more comforted knowing NeoOffice is 100% compatible with Words & Excel. As for Powerpoint, I'll just tell my boss I can't do it anymore because if i do, it won't work on any other PCs in the office

goldfries,

Aren't you lucky you can remain in 3 different camps without being harassed by each other? You'd probably find a total different scenario when it comes to women!

This post has been edited by tinkerbel: Dec 6 2006, 01:54 PM

I think I need to re-plan my time esp if I want to ensure I'm being productive at work - this forum definitely ain't helping me increase my productivity

Doubt there'll be a need to disable wi-fi but bluetooth is prob something I prob can disable unless when necessary. Yeah, there are pros and cons for the different OS but generally people try to use whatever they're used to - my personal theory about Change is that people DO like change, it's just the process of it that they can't seem to stand, hence to simplify things they just tell you they don't like change - and that to me, is total BS

Have no idea who Guy Kawasaki is but to me, he sure sounds like he's related to Honda

No one seem to be able to give me a suggestion as to if I should hang on and wait for Leopard to be released before getting the MBP. For Windows, at the very least I know there's free upgrade to Vista for purchases made now.....