Mid-range Mac or high-end PC?

[HappyNap]

Hi! I'm a bit stuck. I'm looking for a fast computer. I have two options, both cost the same. Which one would you get?

1. Windows PC with:

• i5 3.4GH processor
• 512GB SSD
• 16GB RAM
• watercooling fan

1. Mac Mini with:

• Core i7" 2.3 quad core processor
• 1 TB hard drive
• 8GB RAM

I'm not fussed about graphics. Thanks!

What do you need a fast computer to do? Specific software application?

Any associated hardware you currently have which you want to keep? Will that work with different system/different OS?

Does your pricing comparison include a suitable monitor? If not, what will you be using as a display?

The MacMini is lovely and small but as a PC user I still struggle doing things on a Mac. I love my iPad though so one day I may switch from using a PC.

I have suitable hardware (monitor, keyboard etc) that will work with both of them.

I do have one piece of software that only works on Windows which I need to use occasionally, so thinking of setting up boot camp if I go with a Mac.

Other than that, I think I'm just tired of Windows letting me down but at the same time a bit weary of Mac and whether everything will be compatible.

You sound a lot like me. Having been using a PC since my teens (late 80's - first PC I had was an Amstrad 1512), I am weary of changing to Mac. Yet I have an iPad, an AppleTV and I rarely use the laptop unless typing lots or doing audio/video encoding (which I suspect I could do on a Mac, though not sure if a MacMini would do it - no MultiDVD drive, can one be added externally?).

Wish I could be more help but alas I think I am looking for the same answers as you are. You have clearly put quite some thought into this, so have sorted out the potential issues with monitor/software. Think we need a Mac expert.

The SSD drive would definitely make the first run fast (along with 16 GB RAM) but the only downside is whatever version of Windows you get (I still prefer Win XP, so a not a fan, nor expert worth talking to about the comparison).

Is it really worth getting a Windows system with just a year before the new version of Windows comes out and no doubt there may be additional software or facilities incompatible with older versions...

PS I also have a number of iMacs (5 in total) but there are still things (and software, free or cheap) that are Windows only or have a very expensive Mac version.

Thanks nanny and network.

I would be getting windows 7 and not 8, because some of the programs are not compatible with 8. I see what you mean about having to upgrade the iOS and the cost of it.

I already have a laptop that has windows 7, i5, 4gb ram and 500gb hard drive but it's just become so so slow and keeps jamming. Technically that shouldn't happen, but I have no idea why.

I'm still not sure what to do ...

i have a Mac Mini and have to say it is brilliant. so much better than a windows PC

Thanks the return. May I ask which model Mac mini you have?

Having used both frequently and in depth, I would say go with what you prefer in terms of the operating system and applications.

If you think you'll spend a lot of time just using bootcamp with Windows then just get a Windows PC. I say that because the hardware is usually cheaper than the preset Mac setups with comparable configuration.

However if you think you would prefer the Mac OS (and there are lots of pros and cons for either) then go for the Mac.

Siarie, thank you!

Do you think the Mac would last longer than the PC?

Also, does the new Yosemite mean I can easily access documents and edit them, the ones on the Mac?

Anything design or photo based ; mac every time I wish of bought mine years ago
As an aside they hold value for resale

Sleep, thanks. I'm not buying the mac screen, just the machine.