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Mac or PC?

Do you remember those old Apple ads where a nerdy PC interacted with a cool Mac?  If not,  go here for a YouTube refresher.

For several years now, our house has been undergoing a transformation back to Apple from PC domination.   I started out using Apple computers way too long ago and have been pushing this transformation.  The first computer that I really remember using was the Apple IIe.  I remember going to the Apple retailer with my dad to purchase it, and I can still see multicolor apple logo.  After the Hubster and I married, I would have to say that PC's entered our home due to the lower cost and ready availability. A few years ago, I started the move with a Mac mini.  Other MP3 players have been replaced by iPod Touches in all of our pockets except the Hubster who has an iPad.  When I went back to school, I purchased a MacBook Pro.  The transformation is nearly complete and I couldn't be happier. However, I'm not sure I fit the stereotypes of a Mac user found here.

The debate is flaring up in our house again though as Youngest chooses what computer to buy for college.  We use this is a learning experience in our house.  As fledgling adults, we look at this as the first opportunity that the boys will have to make a major purchase.  They have to do the research and make the final decision.  We contribute the funding.  Of course, I can't resist pointing out helpful websites or articles that give computer buying advice.  If asked, I will sit down at the computer and discuss features and necessities.  I also occasionally point out some things that they should consider. However, I will not tell them what computer to buy.

Two years ago, Eldest fell heavily on the PC side of the fence.  I don't think that Apple had a chance.  He was convinced that his RPG's (role playing games) were not compatible with the Mac. When Eldest was making his decision, there were several offers that gave a free netbook with a desktop purchase.  I had hoped that he would choose that option, but he fell in love with a laptop with a 17" screen that I felt would be way too big and heavy to carry around campus.  Of course, he had to upgrade almost everything in the crazy thing so the final product ended up costing way more than I would have liked. He loved it though (and still does).  He learned the hard way that even careful research cannot prevent all eventualities.  In the first year, the computer had to go back for service twice--I must say that the manufacturer was responsive and the computer now works well. It turns out that I was right about carrying it around, and it rarely makes it out of the dorm room.

I am curious to see which way Youngest goes.  I find him on my Mac more than I see him on the PC that resides on his desk, but the big offer right now is a free Xbox with a computer running Windows 7. Apple is up against some tough competition.  Youngest isn't in to the RPG's like his brother, but he spends a lot of time using the Xbox with his friends.  Right now, he seems to be leaning toward a basic desktop with a netbook or tablet that he can carry around.  He had remembered those offers from his brother's shopping adventures and mentioned that he wished those offers were still around.  He has figured out that getting both are in the budget as long as he doesn't do a lot of upgrading.

Decision time is coming soon (or needs to be) since he has to be at school in the middle of August. So where do you fall in this debate?  Are you a Mac or PC?

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