Had Enough! Going Mac

Rob MacKillop

Rob MacKillop

Edinburgh Correspondent
After much deliberation, asking many questions, and playing with many computers in shops, I've decided to switch from PC to Mac. More specifically, I'm opting for an iMac, the 21.5" 2.7GHz version, but with upgrades - i7 processor, 8GB RAM, and it comes with 1TB internal memory, supplemented with my current 1TB external hard drive.

Expensive? Yes - £1500. But the thought of spending a thousand quid on a pc with good monitor, which, like all my previous PCs, lasts about one year, two max, before becoming totally sluggish, bug-ridden, and noisy - was too much to bear. The current iMacs are simply amazing, intergrated, reliable workhorses. I have an iPad2, and absolutely love it, so Im looking forward to streamlining it with the iMac.

Sold a lute a couple of weeks ago, so the dosh is there. My Adobe software can have their license transferred, but I'm not absolutely sure my Nik Software can be, so I've sent them an email. If not, there are other ways of using PC software on a Mac.

I intend to strip my laptop to a bare minimum, using it for some of my music typesetting chores with Sibelius.

So, all you Mac users out there, any tips and advice for someone new to Mac computers (iPad aside)? I'll be ordering it on Monday, and hope to have it up and running by Friday.
 
Welcome to Macville - you'll never go back :)

Step 1 - turn the right mouse button on! :)
 
I myself don't like Macs, I had to use them for around 14 years in my previous job and rarely found much that was more pleasant to use on a Mac than a PC. I am not alone apparently, there seem to be a few like me somewhere in the world! However, in saying that you cannot deny that the Mac platform is probably the best choice for a dedicated photo editing machine Rob. Pretty much all of the interfaces on Photo software on Mac and PC are very similar, if not the same and you don't need security software running in the background with a Mac if you want to have it connected to the internet.

They also look nice and the mat silver keyboards with white keys are really nice to use! Careful how you clean it though, they don't like moisture or more specifically being sprayed with surface cleaner.
 
Step 3 - stroke the iMac whilst whispering "My Prescioussssssssssss..."
 
I've been using Macs since 1985. The biggest problem for those who switch from a PC is that they often expect a Mac to work the same. All the tasks that you are used to doing on the PC can be done on a Mac but there will be many instances where how you do it might be different. Keep that in mind as you go through the learning curve.

Mouse or trackpad? I'd opt for the mouse for photo editing.
The i7 processor is a good choice too. As is maxing out the Ram.
 
Cheers, Ralph. I do expect to be scratching my head sometimes, but I'm sure I'll manage most things, and can always ask for help when needed.
 
I got a similar machine in January, Rob. (21.5", etc., but I can't remember the technical details on memory and all that.) Anyway, it's our family computer and we all love it. The trackpad seemed a cool idea when we test drove the iMac at the iStore. I'd get the mouse if I had the option again. The wireless keyboard and trackpad are nice features.
 
Think you'll be good to go with NIK - Just download the Mac versions and use the existing serial number I expect
 
Hi Rob, although i still use PCs for some stuff at IMSL (specialised software etc) I switched to Macs a few years ago and have not regretted it all (when I need Windows I just use a virtual machine). I can confirm that your Nik licenses are difinitely cross-platform. They will just work and Nik are fine with that. Same with Lightroom. So it will only be PS that will need a cross-grade. Although the Mac is less susceptible to malware than PCs, all of mine / ours (4 laptops, 3 iMacs, 2 Mac Minis and a Mac Pro) are running Intego software (Mac Anti-Virus & Security - Intego). No significant impact on speed. I use either a mouse or an Intuos tablet for editing although the trackpad is nice. I use an Evoluent mouse with all bar the laptops.
 
Welcome to the mac club Rob, I use both the iMac and MacBook but unlike the guys I've always used the trackpad.... i just find it easier
 
Thanks, Pete. That's what I needed to know. I'll go ahead with the purchase. WoHoo!

- - - Updated - - -

Cheers, Davie. I'll start with the magic mouse, which comes with the iMac, then see how I get on.
 
Good on ya Rob I'm working toward a switcharoo soon!
Im looking at getting on of the new MBP's ... Sexy retina screen agogo
£2500 though :(
 
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