Should I Get a Macbook?

[trogdor796]

I have a degree in computer networking, and have a lot of experience with computer hardware in general as well as the windows operating system. So, I'm sure you're thinking, "why in the world would he want a mac then...". Well, I've never really used Mac's or their operating system much. I'd like to get some experience with it, and learn how to use it. Unfortunately, it's not as simple as downloading and installing Mac OSX. But, since my current laptop is from June 2011, I'd say I could use an upgrade. I can afford one right now too, but I like to think and do a lot of research before making a big purchase.

I also like the idea of having a computer that doesn't require a lot of maintenance. I know how to solve all of the driver conflicts or install new windows updates and everything, but it would be nice not to worry about it for once.

I realize that Macs aren't good for gaming, but I already have a desktop for gaming that I built myself, and would only do casual/light gaming on this, or none at all.

So, I'm pretty much looking for people's opinions, especially those that have used or own a macbook.
Do you like them?
Is it a good idea to familiarize myself with the operating system?
Do you prefer the Macbook Air or the Pro?
How about configuration, should I pay extra for the model with the discrete graphics card or not? How is apple support?
Is it too late in the current model's life to consider getting one, to where I should wait for a refresh?

I'm going into Best Buy tomorrow to look over the models and compare them. Hoping to get some answers before then, even though I don't plan to buy anything either way tomorrow.

TLDR: If you are a Mac user(especially one that switched from or is experienced in Windows and Mac OSX), would you recommend that I, a skilled windows user, get a macbook for the sake of familiarizing myself with them and replacing my somewhat old laptop?

 

[caqde]

It's probably not a bad idea to familiarize yourself with the hardware/software that might be connecting to the networks you work on in the future. I do recommend getting familiar with Mac OS X as it is a bit different than Windows. You shouldn't have to many issues using it but there are a few oddities compared to using Windows when it comes to OS X. (Personally I'm sticking with Windows).

Mac OS X should be able to do what you want as far as a notebook goes. I've used them because my GF got one through school and I had to learn/help her with a few things on it.

 

[napster100]

I'm not really a Mac user though I have used them a bit, I'd say there more for media things, and bare in mind that there are still updates for Mac too ie, this recent SSL encryption bug http/nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2014/02/24/anatomy-of-a-goto-fail-apples-ssl-bug-explained-plus-an-unofficial-patch/

I'm not particularly a keen Mac user, but just like windows it will have bugs too as will and dose Linux the OS that's supposed to be even more bug/virus free than Mac.

I guess really it depends on what you want out of your machine.

 

[trogdor796]

Thanks for the replies guys!

Yeah, I don't expect it to be perfect and bug free, I just figured that my next laptop could be a Mac so I can learn to use the operating system and since gaming isn't a priority a Mac is actually an option.

Still comparing all the prices and configurations. Wish it wasn't so expensive to get an actual dedicated card in one

Any other thoughts are welcome!

 

[napster100]

Yeah I'd agree there, hardware in Macs are a pain in the back! Haha. I wish you luck on your Mac adventure, it may come in handy one day