Should You Choose Mac or PC For Your Business?

Mac Vs. PC: The Battle is On

It’s a debate that divides groups just as much as the iPhone vs Android argument. Mac vs. PC - is one really better than the other? When it comes to your business, you need the gear that makes the day-to-day as easy as possible while delivering the best value for money. 

So which has the features you need? Why should you choose one over the other? Let’s let them fight it out.

Which is going to cost more?

In terms of up-front costs, Mac is famously more expensive than PC. Here in Australia, Apple Mac computers range between RRP $1599 (for a MacBook Air) to around RRP $3749 and up (MacBook Pro). A PC, on the other hand, starts from as little as $250.

However, there’s more to think about than upfront costs. It’s estimated that Macs have a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) because of their quality and productivity. That said, anyone with an Apple product knows some add-ons are often needed; many Apple computers don’t have the ports to support certain connections. So the costs to configure the system to suit your needs tend to add up.

The winner is: PC

Which will help our productivity?

This one’s difficult to answer. It really boils down to personal preference. Some people find it easier and faster to navigate a Mac, while others find them difficult to get the hang of - especially if they’re used to working on PCs.

The best way to decide here is to research how well each operating system (OS) runs the apps you use most. If the OS and your existing apps don’t integrate well, it could slow you down.

The winner is: It’s a tie

What about security?

Cybercriminals tend to target Windows systems (on PC) rather than macOS. Mac is based on Unix, an operating system that’s tough to exploit. It’s also easier for Apple to roll out new security features when they’re needed, since it has full control over the software and hardware.

Whichever system you’re using, be vigilant with anti-virus software and be sure your business’ IT security is solid.

The winner is: Mac

Which is easier to use?

Steve Jobs said: “You’ve got to start with the customer experience and work back toward the technology - not the other way around.”

Usability is a core focus at both Apple and Windows and this is another debate that is a matter of opinion. If you’ve never used a Mac before, it can be a learning curve. But once it clicks into place, you’ll notice features and shortcuts that make it super user-friendly.

The winner is: Mac (we reckon)

Are they compatible with my other devices and systems?

Apple fans are loyal - because they have to be. Apple devices integrate seamlessly with each other, but as a business, you might find getting them to play nicely with your existing systems to be a challenge. PCs come equipped to handle a massive range of software programmes and external hardware, like keyboards and monitors. 

The good news is that, as Mac continues to expand into the business world, it’s releasing more business software - there’s now a Mac equivalent for virtually every type of software that runs on PC.

The winner is: PC

So, shall I choose Mac or PC for my business?

It depends. Not very helpful, we know. Whether you choose Mac or PC should depend on your business’ processes, current systems and your personal preference.