It depends on the application. Mac is better for graphics and is used in advertising agencies and the such. I like Windows for business as you can get more programs for it in my line of work. In addition, it is also alot cheaper.

I, too, have always had computers with Window and so I do not know too much about the Mac computers. Microsoft always seemed easier to deal with since it was more widespread. However, many people have told me that there were added benefits when using the Mac. For example, many claim that they do not have the bad experiences with computer viruses with the Mac as they used to have while using Windows. The applications are mostly the same and programs like Word and Excel exist as well in a similar version. Many schools and universities have switched over to Mac as well and most students swear by them and comment on how great the Apple computers truly work. My husband has become convinced to make the switch as well, next time we are out shopping for a new computer. He is ready to try something new, and quite frankly so am I. We still, after 15 years of being computer users, experience great trouble daily related to viruses and other invasive problems, even though our antivirus software and other applications are supposedly up to date.

I had a Mac for a short time before it got struck by lightning, and I loved it, but now I have a newer laptop with Windows, and it works fine. I can't tell you exactly what I liked most about the Mac. It was just easier to use, and the programs were easier. The best thing was not ever having to clean the history or cache and not having to use an anti-virus or run a spyware tool. I did it anyway, just out of habit, but it never found anything.

If I could ever afford another Mac, I would definitely get one. I got this laptop because it was cheap and it does what I need for right now, but if I had extra money to blow, I'd go with another Mac.

I have always used the Windows platform. My primary line of work involves currency analysis. I use my work PCs to access trading and chart platforms, as well as to receive live economic news streams. My laptop is also on the Windows platform and performs the same functions as my work PCs at home when I am on the road. My laptop also functions as my personal portal to the internet. I never use the desktops for anything but for my primary line of work. Web surfing, writing online, personal emails, all get routed through my laptop.

I have had one desktop crash in the last 3 years, but it was due to a defective hard drive. Since I use them mainly as access portals to web based platforms, it did not cause a loss of data.

Most of the platforms that I need to access can also be accessed from Macs as well as Linux based machines, but for now, I will remain with Windows.

In general, my easy answer is this, Mac for the home, PC for work. Now for clarifications...

for some disclaimers, I use PC's at work, my primary computer at home is a PC, my laptop is a Mac, and other computers in the home are Mac's. When

If you have some specific, PC application that is NOT on the mac and you really need to use, then you should go with a PC.

Many applications now days can very well be run on both platforms. Examples Word, Excel, Power Point, Acrobat, Photoshop, Elements, and iTunes.

Costing factors...

While yes, it is cheaper at initial cost of a PC vs a Mac, the actual costs are NOT factored in. On the Mac, it is not necessary to purchase additional protection software such as Anti Virus, Anti Spyware, Spam Blocker, and many times having only one of those is not sufficient, so adding a 2nd set takes up addition money and Disk space. No equivalent free software out of the box free on the PC side that would equal the iLife suite, it is via 3rd party software sites, example Picasa or Gimp, iTunes is free on the PC, various assortment of free web design, and I don't know what would be close for Garage Band.

Out of the box, the Mac does not need all of that. It comes per loaded with iLife, that has a suite of iPhoto, iMovie, iTunes, iWeb, & Garage Band.

Aside for all of that costing stuff of software, unless you're an IT Pro, one episode of a virus or other compromise on the PC side, I'm sure that your time and money saved is down the tube. Heaven forbid, it is a compromise of your financial stuff.

But here is an important factor that should be accounted for, whatever plat form you choose, if you a friend neighbor or family member that will help you in time of need, its best to go with help from them. That is very important. If you don't have that, then more the reason I would advise going with a Mac.

Hope this helps...not trying to start a debate.