What is Digg?214 Comments
- TritonX, on 10/28/2007, -14/+53I haven't seen the primary reason to dump windows, decades of unreliable software, sooner or later some of us get tired of it.
- toastgodsupreme, on 10/28/2007, -10/+35reason 9:
Because thanks to OSX running on Intel based systems, we can dual boot and not lose any functionality. - stalefries, on 10/28/2007, -11/+33"Macs don’t get viruses. Now don’t misquote me. I didn’t say Macs CAN’T get viruses, but so far, they just don’t. I always love the looks I get when I say this to a Windows user who knows nothing about Macs."
It's so true. An uncle of mine has friend with a Mac, and he was absolutely shocked when she opened it up in a coffee shop and didn't care that the wireless was unprotected! Thanks to that one reason only, the next time I go and visit I'm gonna help him get a Macbook (Student discount+no sales tax in Oregon is very nice). - inactive, on 10/28/2007, -20/+41Why is that Mac and Linux users have to write countless numbers of such articles. It's like they are so insecure and have to constantly justify their existence.
- mattymayhem, on 10/28/2007, -13/+33Surprised the 9th reason wasn't
Macs pull the ladies. - Aupajo, on 10/28/2007, -3/+23My sales team would love to visit your neighbourhood. Where do you live again?
- inactive, on 10/10/2007, -27/+469: The switches have crappy PCs and think all Macs are super top of the line.
- wazzledoozle2, on 10/28/2007, -17/+35One reason windows users dont switch: Crap like this article. I get it, you like your mac. Now STFU!
- dantidote, on 10/28/2007, -18/+36I just switched, best god damn thing i've ever done.
- Kazbaeden, on 10/28/2007, -18/+34Funnily enough, reasons 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are reasons I DON'T have a mac.
- nexah3, on 10/11/2007, -30/+45You know I switched from Mac to PC..about 5 years ago..
And couldn't be happier. - inactive, on 10/28/2007, -4/+188 Reasons Windows Users DO Switch to Mac
by Steven Leigh
Oct 09, 2007
If you made it through my first article, entitled “8 Reasons Windows Users Don’t Switch,” you may be a little annoyed with me by now. I admit the article certainly had a negative tone, and that was the focus. But now, we can focus on what IS working to get Windows users to switch to Mac.
As I mentioned before, I am a new “switcher,” having been a Windows user all my computing life, and had very negative opinions of the Mac. Experiences with earlier models (pre-OS X) had given me a very bad impression, and I had not tried a Mac in many years. The good news is that if Apple and its fans converted me, they can likely convert anyone. So without further ado, let’s get to the reasons Windows users are switching.
1. iPod/iPhone
The statistics tell us that the majority of iPod users are Windows users, and with 90% market share for Windows, this isn’t surprising. There is often mention of the “halo effect” of the iPod, and I used to scoff at the idea, but now I think there is a lot of truth to it. I bought an iPod over a year ago because it was the best music player out there. At the time, I didn’t want to use iTunes because I didn’t like it, and I tried numerous other options until I came to the conclusion that nothing integrates as well with the iPod as iTunes. I reluctantly gave in to iTunes and started using it full time. After a while, I started to get used to the way it worked. In fact, I started to LOVE the way it worked. I started to wonder why more programs didn’t work this way. It took me a while to realize that most programs on a Mac do work this way, and by that point, there was no turning back, it was inevitable. Now that the tech world is going nuts over the iPhone, we can only expect more and more Windows users to come to the same conclusion I did.
2. Apple Stores
I started visiting the Apple store in my city looking for iPod accessories. I didn’t like Apple, and I didn’t like Macs, but I was already in the mall, so why not go look around, right? Of course, occasional visits turned into frequent visits, and before long I was in the store to check my email, do some web surfing, or just kill time while my wife was shopping. Even though I was resisting it, I was impressed by how fast and easy to use the Macs were. The stores are extremely inviting, and the employees seem to strike that perfect balance between giving you your space and helping when needed. When combined with the support, the classes, and even the children’s activities, it’s hard not to be won over by these wonderful stores, even if you start out as a cranky Windows know-it-all like I did.
3. The Ads
I know, I complained about the “Get A Mac” ads in my other article, and I still think some of the ads have a negative effect on savvy Windows users. But most of the ads are very well done, and extol the virtues of the Mac experience perfectly. John Hodgman (the PC guy) is such a talented actor that he manages to be lovable while at the same time a little creepy, making you want to disassociate yourself with him. Even though I complained about these ads, they played a major part in my switch to Macs. At one point, I remember watching all of them back to back on the Apple site, and by the end, I was having a hard time remembering why I loved Windows so much. These aren’t the only ads that work, of course. Apple has always had a lot of style, and that style extends to their advertising campaigns. No one can create that feeling of “gear lust” the way Apple can.
4. Mac Users
Yes, Mac users appear on both my lists. While some Mac users drive Windows users away in droves with their zealotry, the smart ones are slowly and quietly converting their family, their friends, and everyone they meet to Macs. There is no magical formula but what works best is leading by example. Don’t ramble on and on to someone about how great iLife is, write them a song in Garageband, or print a photobook for them as a gift. Don’t criticize their choice of Windows, but instead show them how much quicker and easier you can accomplish the same tasks they do every day. As I stated before, one of my big reasons for switching is that I got to play with a friend’s Macbook quietly on my own, while he patiently answered any questions I asked. This is often the experience at an Apple store as well. If you have questions, they get answered, and if you would rather explore on your own, they don’t push.
5. Macbooks and Macbook Pros
Statistics are showing that Macs comprise about 5% of the overall computer market share, while they comprise about 17% of laptos sold. Why, you may ask? I mentioned in my previous article that the inability to upgrade Macs is often an issue with Windows users, but with laptops, we have a unique situation. When replacing a laptop there are no parts to re-use, and even Windows users are forced to buy a whole new system. In addition, Macbooks and Macbook Pros are very competitively priced right now, and in many cases, are cheaper than a similarly equipped PC laptop. Combined with the fact that Macs can now run Windows, there is almost no reason NOT to buy a Macbook or Macbook Pro if you’re in the market for a laptop. After all, you get the best of both worlds. You get one of the best-looking, best-performing laptops in the marketplace, with the ability to run virtually any operating system you wish (including Linux). You have everything to gain and nothing to lose.
6. Vista
I said last time that Windows Vista is the best operating system Microsoft has ever developed, and it’s true—almost. It has a great interface, fixes many major problems that have been around for years, and is generally a great upgrade. BUT when you factor in the viruses, the spyware, the fact that Microsoft wants to control everything you do, limited hardware support, and lack of (useful) bundled software, Vista doesn’t look so spiffy. Even though I like it a lot, there is no question that Vista is a total flop, and though I would have liked to use it, the compatibility issues are still numerous, and drivers are not showing up. I get the impression that many users were waiting to see what Vista would be like before they decided to switch. Once they saw it was more of the same, there was a big surge in Mac sales. Even those who liked Vista initially have had to admit that it’s not going to be usable anytime soon. (Stay tuned, I plan to write a thorough rundown of why I believe Vista failed in a future column.)
7. Design
I don’t have to tell anyone how great Apple’s designs are. Macbooks and Macbook Pros are a thing of beauty. iMacs are now better ooking than ever. Even the new iPod Nano, which looked stubby and ugly in early photos, turned out to be much better than anyone anticipated. Apple not only knows how to design their products, they know how to sell you on the design. When you walk into an Apple store, you don’t see a bunch of beige and black computers stacked tightly next to each other. You see a spacious, open layout with some slick-looking computers inviting you to play around. The television ads are no different. They highlight the products themselves as much the software they run. I think Windows users are starting to realize that good design in hardware and software is worthwhile, and we’re setting aside our beige boxes for something a little more elegant.
8. Security
Macs don’t get viruses. Now don’t misquote me. I didn’t say Macs CAN’T get viruses, but so far, they just don’t. I always love the looks I get when I say this to a Windows user who knows nothing about Macs. Their eyes glaze over as they imagine something unimaginable. Viruses, spyware, and all the other junk are such a way of life for Windows users that they assume it’s just the nature of computers. This may change in the future as Macs gain more market share, making them more of a target for viruses and spyware, but for now, there is no need to run any additional security software on a Mac, and that’s just a good feeling.
Conclusion
Apple is doing a fantastic job of showing off its products and creating a welcoming community to draw in new Mac users. I can only see continued growth for Macs in the future. If Apple and its users can manage to draw a die-hard Windows user like myself out of his comfort zone, they have really accomplished something, and I have to say that I’m so glad they did. While there are always things that could be changed, I have to reiterate the fact that a Mac running OS X is the best computing system in the world right now, and I hope that Windows users give Macs an unbiased chance to show them what they’ve been missing. - TheLoneWolf071, on 10/28/2007, -5/+18Number one reason people don't switch, cause they don't care.
To the average user, it doesn't matter what OS you use, as long as you can surf the web and write up reports... that's it. - petard, on 10/28/2007, -14/+278 Reasons Windows Users DO NOT Switch to Mac
1. Windows PCs are cheaper
2. More bang-for-the-buck
3. Why pay for product licenses again?
4. Windows does everything just fine
5. Service packs are free
6. Macs do not do anything their PC (or a new PC) cant do
7.GAMES!
AND FINALLY
8. What they have just works, why waste time and money to switch? - Hoxie, on 10/28/2007, -17/+30I like how mac ads always make fun of windows error messages. However, the macs at school give me "error- code 000045389" every so often.
- supermanred, on 10/28/2007, -8/+21It's true. I have yet to run antivirus on this machine, 8 months. Still as fast as the day I bought it, and virus free. Oh, should I say faster than the day I bought it because Leopard sped everything up a bit.
- Speed, on 10/28/2007, -5/+17"that Microsoft wants to control everything you do, limited hardware support"
Yeah, as opposed to Macs, where I can install all kinds of hardware onto them. In fact, I think I'll put it on my Dell lap-oh wait... - MikhoohkiM, on 10/28/2007, -1/+12you don't get a mac because you like Vista #6?
- inactive, on 10/10/2007, -16/+27Theres something wrong with YOU if you can't keep a stable windows install!
- Renton, on 10/11/2007, -1/+12I switched to Linux 7 months ago. I guess that makes it... still a PC.
- Scatropolis, on 10/28/2007, -4/+14Here here!!
- sonicdevo, on 10/28/2007, -8/+18Allow me to refer you to...
http://www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net/c.cgi?u=ma ... - HUKI365, on 10/28/2007, -1/+10I can upgrade my MacBook to just as much an extent as any other laptop: Harddisk, RAM, open-the-case-and-void-the-warranty-for-anything-else.
- Rikkochet, on 10/28/2007, -3/+12At the end of the day Mac's popularity with the masses is really going to rest with the IT-savvy people who know prospective novice PC buyers.
At one time or another I've probably had to "fix" more than half of the PCs belonging to people I know. Closer to 75% if you cut out distant acquaintances, really. After that happens, they'll come to you for buying advice. Invariably, the Mac question comes up. I'll tell them they can feel free to buy a Mac, but I can't help them with it because I don't have a Mac nor much of any experience with MacOS.
If I'm the only person they know who admits to knowing PCs well and I tell them straight up that Macs are great but they're on their own, they'll very often follow up with "Ok, tell me what I should buy" - and they'll usually buy it.
Apple can have world class customer support dripping out their ass, but the stigma of 1-800 support numbers from lousy companies has ruined the game - not many people will willingly phone a toll free support line when they expect it to take hours to resolve something they know is simple.
So good luck, Apple. I don't like or dislike you more than MS, but at the end of the day, you're a different world that I have no need to play in, and for all the people who use me as their pet geek, they'll probably stick to PC. - bluenullity, on 10/28/2007, -5/+14Reason I switched... cause I have free will to use any tool that pleases me. My happyness is my reason.
Macbook Pro with OSX, Vista, and Linux. Guess which one I use the most... all of them bitches. - xdevit, on 10/28/2007, -8/+161, 2, and 3..
Im sorry but if those are the reasons you switched, your a few fries short of a happy meal. - deadbaby, on 10/28/2007, -1/+9I'm far more productive on OSX than I am on Windows or Linux. I spend less time dealing with keeping my OS running. It just works.
- jackyyll, on 10/28/2007, -0/+8Yeah, they happen to run Mac OS 9 also, don't they? :p
- Donnerschlag, on 10/10/2007, -0/+88 Reasons I Stayed with Windows:
8. Software Availability: With windows you get developers programming for Windows before they do MAC since there are more Windows users. Thus, Windows will almost always get their hands on newer software and updates before MAC.
7. Prices: The price of a Windows machine is by far cheaper than a MAC. You can walk into a store and buy a decent machine or laptop for your budget.
6. Accessory Availability: I like to walk into a store and be able to pick something off the shelf and plug it into my machine and use it, I dont need to worry if my machine supports it.
5. Software/Hardware Support: If you call a support center for software or hardware you bought they know how to address the issue since most call centers are trained in Windows (I know, I work at one).
4. Games: The is one of the most important for me, I like to walk into a store and pick a game and not worry if it supports my OS. Also we get our games first and get support over MAC users. I know what you can now dualboot a MAC with BootCamp and play the games now, but isnt that basically a Windows Machine?
3. Repair: With my Windows machine I can just run down to the store and pick up the part that is broken or fix it myself. With a mac you have to send it in to an Apple center or just toss it out your window and drop another $2k on another machine.
2. Non-proprietary: I really dont like how MAC can only use certain hardware, with the PC you can use practically all the hardware devices out there. You can run windows on almost any hardware configuration, I dont see that as much for MAC.
1. Customization: Yea you can take a MAC out of its shell but that will get rid of the MAC look, basically what makes it MAC besides the OS. With windows you build your computer inside a toast, coffee maker or even inside a cardboard box and it still is a Windows Machine. You can overclock, watercool, add lights and do other crazy stuff to your machine. - JMScheib, on 10/10/2007, -6/+14I wish there were more articles coming from PC users like me who have NEVER experienced a problem using a PC. I have no need to switch. I can do everything on my computer that I can do with a Mac.
99% of the problems you have with your PC is YOUR FAULT. Learn a thing or two about the damn thing and you won't have any problems. Also, use programs like Firefox. I don't even have a virus scanner installed (knock on wood).
I've only heard good things about Macs. How they never have problems. Great. Same with me. I never have problems and I can get much more out of my PC. - toastgodsupreme, on 10/28/2007, -0/+8True. :(
But still, having a Macbook Pro with OSX and WinVista is great. And for those working in the industry professionally on the tech side of things, it's indispensable. Best way to learn Mac if you're a hardcore PC user, or vise versa. Just makes you that much more valuable. - santaliqueur, on 10/10/2007, -1/+9"They grow up, make some money, become pretentious *****"
Sounds like someone got left behind. Job market not so hot in your mom's basement? Don't sound so bitter. - Misaiato, on 10/28/2007, -3/+11And all the PC users feel compelled to reply!
- grouchyman, on 10/10/2007, -2/+10Much like the latter half your comment.
- zweben, on 10/11/2007, -8/+16That doesn't really work anymore.... any current mac can dual boot and play any computer game on either platform.
May or may not run well, (depending on the vid card) but it'll definitely run. - jackyyll, on 10/28/2007, -1/+8Who the ***** pays for windows?
- Spooner, on 10/10/2007, -6/+13You realize you're all just a couple tax brackets away from BITE ME, FORD BOY t-shirts, right?
- legendxx, on 10/11/2007, -19/+26I always love the look of a mac user when I play my favorite game.
- johnhummel, on 10/10/2007, -6/+13For me, it was little interface things. For example, when I'm using a Mac program, I can click the icon on top of the document, and drag that to something else. Typical example: Today I was using outlook, and had to attach a bunch of emails to another. So I had to find the right window in Outlook to drag the document from there.
In Eudora, I did a search, found the emails I wanted, then instead of going back to find where the originals live, I could just click the icon on top of each email document, drag it into the other email, and boom - I was done.
It's not a perfect universe, but for the extra money, it certainly is worth living in for those little interface extras - let alone all of the other points (UNIX being the biggest one for us geek types). - coldphoenix, on 10/10/2007, -0/+6Is it just me, or are viruses not the only thing you should be worried about when leaving your computer open to the world in the wireless department?
- leftcoastfunk, on 10/28/2007, -30/+36nice article. half of it is untrue.
- balloonenstein, on 10/10/2007, -5/+11I thought the article said "why DOS users switch to Mac"
Now that would have been interesting - eatrains, on 10/28/2007, -4/+10The wide majority of computer users don't care about upgrading their computer.
- santaliqueur, on 10/28/2007, -0/+6Nope, it's not like that at all.
- OutThisLife, on 10/10/2007, -6/+12Did he seriously just call Vista a good OS?
- inactive, on 10/10/2007, -1/+7Me too
- ThreeDee912, on 10/28/2007, -1/+6Are they running OS 7 or something?
- kent1146, on 10/11/2007, -5/+10It's not really a Mac anymore, if you run Windows on it, is it? At that point, it's just Apple OEM'ed hardware.
And let's be honest... nobody buys a Mac to exclusively run Windows XP because they believe Apple hardware to have the best performance or value. They buy a Mac because it can run Mac OS X. - anjinash, on 10/10/2007, -3/+8I switched to Macs for my main computing, but still use XP, Vista and Ubuntu on a regular basis. To me it's the best of both worlds, as I don't have to worry about adware, virii and other malware constantly - which is the same case with Linux... but unlike Linux I also have access to Adobe applications. I can also use Bootcamp or VMWare Fusion to run Windows applications when I need them (which is a good amount of the time).. because let's be honest here - Windows has WAY more applications, and some of them do not have reasonable replacements on the Apple platform.
Macs are far from perfect, but they are great machines and I'm in the process of switching my wife over to a Macbook - which will save me so much time in tech support for her. My only real gripes are with iTunes (hate it with a passion) and connecting Linux shared drives automatically at bootup is a bit flaky.. it only works when it feels like working and I'll have to manually connect. That's fine for me since I know how, but my wife can't do that.. and needs to in order to access all of our music/photos/media. I'm hoping Leopard fixes this, and hope to hell that Amarok is ported to OSX sooner rather than later. iTunes is draining my will to live. -
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