If you are a student wondering what computer to buy, you’re up to a really big challenge. The Web is overflowing with statistics of all kinds. Some sources say that Mac is better than PC, while other numbers claim the exact opposite.
Well, unlike those sources, I won’t tell you what the preferred choice is or push you in one of the two directions: macs or pc for college. Both are of high quality and, in the end, it all comes down to your preferences and your budget. That being said, I’m presenting you with some of the uses of a computer, as well as the characteristics of these two laptops for each category. Based on this, you can make the important decision of what the best laptops for college are for you.
1.Coursework
Naturally, you’d be most focused on finding the best PC or best macbook for college because of the coursework you have to do on a digital device. However, in the sense of completing your homework and doing your projects, none of the two beats the other. Most of the coursework can be completed by using software available to Mac and Windows platforms. When it comes to the windows vs mac coursework battle, I’m not sure that there’s a true winner.
You’ll definitely need a device not only to write papers, but perform research and prepare for it, too. Regardless of the platform you’ll use, I’d recommend that you check free essays by eduzaurus.com before you start working on your papers. There are some great essays there that should help you handle your tasks more efficiently.
Surely, you’ll come across certain courses that require specific software as part of the task. However, you can always tell your professor about it and ask for an alternative.
2.Viruses and Malware
Mac computers experience fewer issues with viruses, spyware and malware. However, no platform is fully immune from the threats in today’s digital world. As a matter of fact, some sources show that Macs are now more targeted by hackers than PCs are. Whether this is because of the challenge or the higher level of impenetrability the laptops are known for, we can’t be sure.
PCs have been struggling with these issues for a long time. There are many progresses and antiviruses that do excellent job in fighting viruses and malware. Even so, when it comes to this category, the results are clear – PCs are much weaker in terms of malware and spyware protection.
3.Warranty
Apple usually offers a year-long warranty on all the newly bought computers. Or, you can also choose to pay extra for the AppleCare+ extended warranty. This warranty covers you for three years and will add up to two incidents of what they call accidental damage. Before you choose to get this, you should read the details regarding accidental damage, available on the Apple support website. There are deductible fees that come with this option.
As for PC, most manufacturers offer the standard warranty coverage that ranges between one and two years. There is also an extended warranty coverage that covers labor and parts for manufacturer defects. You can also get accidental damage protection which, in the case of PC, is usually more affordable compared to that of Mac.
4.Cost
In the end, it all comes down to what you pay for and what you can afford. The PC market is relatively more affordable than that of Mac, which means that you can get an amazing deal on a computer at discount retail stores. But, there are also some higher-priced PCs that pretty much cost the same as Mac and have amazing features.
So, though the comparison shows that Mac is more expensive in general, it’s basically ‘you get what you pay for’, especially in terms of longevity.
5.Choices
You should definitely know that PC is more widespread in terms of selection. This is an excellent news for those on a low budget since, let’s face it, PCs have a much more numerous selection of affordable laptops. They have a much bigger variety of options and many different PC manufacturers. Therefore, you’re looking at a really wide selection when compared to Mac, and not only in terms of laptop types, but also accessories and configurations.
On the other hand, Apple has done a great job in listing all the models they sell. They also have a great selection of customization options, including memory and hard drive upgrades, processor upgrades, etc.
Conclusion
It’s never easy to choose a device, especially now when there’s such a big choice. In the end, it should come down to your preference. So, go online and check the stores to see what fits you best. That’s the device you should use in college.
Author’s bio
Emma Rundle is an IT expert that works freelance for several companies based in the UK and the US. She works as a programmer and app developer. In her spare time, Rundle writes guides for students who study to join the world of IT experts.