Apple macbook or sony vaoi laptop

DonFred

Hi all, Im in the market for a new laptop. Mainly use it for internet, ipod (music), and sometime typing up letters. Leaning towards the Apple Macbook but never had one before, always went for Compaq. Would it be much of a change? Also like it to have wireless, so maybe I could hook it up to a ipod touch through wi-fi if possible.
Appreciate any help.

Cheers

AlmightyCushion

All laptops nowadays have wi-fi as standard so don't worry about that. The mac will be running mac os x. This is completely different to windows (which I presume you have been using for quiet some time now). Some programs tha work on windows won't work on os x. Also there will be a bit of a learning curve going from windows to os x.

monkeyfudge

Bootcamp in OSX will allow you to install windows on a partition of the MacBook.

kowloon

There's going to be a bit of getting used to vista if you buy a new windows laptop so the OSX isn't too much of an issue.

VIAOs are like most sony gear, you pay more for the name.

You're insultated from a lot of virus trouble through OSX and it's going to work out better than vista for your music.

If i didn't user my laptop as a games machine i would have bought a mac.

BostonB

monkeyfudge wrote: »

Bootcamp in OSX will allow you to install windows on a partition of the MacBook.

And you'll need a Windows CD to do that.

monkeyfudge

BostonB wrote: »

And you'll need a Windows CD to do that.

Well generally you do need a CD if you want to install something, yes...

AlmightyCushion

kowloon wrote: »

VIAOs are like most sony gear, you pay more for the name.

You could say the same for apple.

kowloon wrote: »

You're insultated from a lot of virus trouble through OSX and it's going to work out better than vista for your music.

As long as you keep yourself up to date with windows updates and av updates you can have a very secure windows machine.

I don't see how os x is better than vista for music.

monkeyfudge

Oh... before a Mac Versus PC argument sparks off can I post this clip I found this week?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PADkpyVWAwQ

AlmightyCushion

Only if you're on my side nonkeyfudge, this one could get bloody.

Dont be at yourself

I switched from Windows to Mac two years ago, and I don't think I'll ever go back. OS X is fantastic.

I type this on a Vista notebook in work, and I'm itching to get back to my macbook!

monkeyfudge

AlmightyCushion wrote: »

Only if you're on my side nonkeyfudge, this one could get bloody.

<Clutches brand new MacBook Pro>

AlmightyCushion

monkeyfudge wrote: »

<Clutches brand new MacBook Pro>

*waves banhammer*

Choose wisely.

BostonB

monkeyfudge wrote: »

Well generally you do need a CD if you want to install something, yes...

No theres lots of other ways to install something. I'd say installing be CD is least common these days. You might have it on a DVD or on network drive or as a downloaded ISO or exe . But of course that wasn't the point of my comment, but that you'll have to buy Windows for Mac if you want to dual boot. Its a substantial extra cost.

BostonB

monkeyfudge wrote: »

Oh... before a Mac Versus PC argument sparks off can I post this clip I found this week?...

http://www.cad-comic.com/comic.php?d=20060513

BostonB

DonFred wrote: »

Hi all, Im in the market for a new laptop. Mainly use it for internet, ipod (music), and sometime typing up letters. Leaning towards the Apple Macbook but never had one before, always went for Compaq. Would it be much of a change? Also like it to have wireless, so maybe I could hook it up to a ipod touch through wi-fi if possible.
Appreciate any help.

Cheers

Yes it will be a change, but you'll get used to it. If you want one just buy it. These days the hardware is the same, the only difference is the software. A lot of people prefer OS X to Windows and you won't know if you do unless you try it.

BanzaiBk

AlmightyCushion wrote: »

This is completely different to windows (which I presume you have been using for quiet some time now). there will be a bit of a learning curve going from windows to os x.

What is that supposed to mean? You can't even consider buying a mac unless you have been using one for "quite some time"? That's ridiculous. Have you ever even used/seen a mac irl?

OP the only learning curve that really exists with OSX is the first 15-20 mins of playing with it for the first time. It's bizarre to me why people over exagerate this "OMG massive learning curve it's NOT LIKE WINDOWS!" statement.

I've seen and played with both manufacturers offerings(prev. owned a MacBook and a TX series Vaio) and really at this price point it probably comes down to what one you would prefer. Vaios are pretty flashy laptops. I loved my TX series Vaio; great processor, comfy keyboard, brilliant screen, etc. I found the build quality to be great but some people bemoan the hit and miss reliability Vaios have. My friend's Vaio TZ runs Vista snappily and looks great. I've never played with a standard sized Vaio though.

Macs certainly appeal lookswise to people and are a pretty good weight/size for portability. I had my MacBook for 2 yrs and now have a MacBook Pro and both have been great machines. You can run Windows XP/Vista if you need/want through a number of programs on a Mac, Bootcamp is one of these programs and is free.

If you are only going to be doing basic work then any kind of laptop would be ok. Had you a specific model Vaio in mind? I know any MacBook would be perfectly fine for word processing/music/internet.

anthony4335

I have both , but would find it hard to recommend a Mac. It is good, but I do not see how it is so much better that a windows based machine. Both have there draw backs, but I think that a windows based system is easier to use. If you treat your windows machine with a little care it should run fine, and what I mean by care , is to not install every bit of software that comes across your desk. Which is not a problem with mac as the majority of software is windows based. But certainly try out a mac, and if you do buy, you can like others have said install windows onto it later on, which I did.

AlmightyCushion

BanzaiBk wrote: »

What is that supposed to mean? You can't even consider buying a mac unless you have been using one for "quite some time"? That's ridiculous. Have you ever even used/seen a mac irl?

OP the only learning curve that really exists with OSX is the first 15-20 mins of playing with it for the first time. It's bizarre to me why people over exagerate this "OMG massive learning curve it's NOT LIKE WINDOWS!" statement.

What I meant was there are difference between the two os that will take a bit of getting used to if you are going from one to the other. That's why I said there is a bit of a learning curve. I never said it was an impossible feat or that the learning curve was massive so I don't know where you are getting that from.

BanzaiBk

AlmightyCushion wrote: »

What I meant was there are difference between the two os that will take a bit of getting used to if you are going from one to the other. That's why I said there is a bit of a learning curve. I never said it was an impossible feat or that the learning curve was massive so I don't know where you are getting that from.

Fair enough.

kowloon

AlmightyCushion wrote: »

You could say the same for apple.

As long as you keep yourself up to date with windows updates and av updates you can have a very secure windows machine.

I don't see how os x is better than vista for music.

You could say the same for Apple, they are overpriced, but if one decided to go for a windows based laptop there are an ar$eload of cheaper and better alternatives to sony.

Even if you did update all the time it's still not a virus safe as an Apple, most people don't update anyway, and without broadband it'll cost you.

OSX is easier to use with players, iTunes IMO.
Remember that most boards users are more tech savvy than the average joe who doesn't want to keep up with the game.

OSX doesn't have the same issues with a process crashing and taking the rest of the sytem with it.

I'm still on windows xp, don't plan on switching to anything else until theres a good reason or i'm forced to.

BostonB

kowloon wrote: »

You could say the same for Apple, they are overpriced, but if one decided to go for a windows based laptop there are an ar$eload of cheaper and better alternatives to sony.

I've had good experience with Sony machines. I especially like their screens which are usually better than other laptops. As for better and cheaper I think you'd be hard pushed to get both together. Not impossible though. I'd had mixed experiences with Aldi machines for example.

kowloon wrote: »

Even if you did update all the time it's still not a virus safe as an Apple, most people don't update anyway, and without broadband it'll cost you.

True. But I don't see viruses as a bit problems on Windows machines. Unless you're clueless to web security and open every email and download any old crud.

kowloon wrote: »

OSX is easier to use with players, iTunes IMO.
Remember that most boards users are more tech savvy than the average joe who doesn't want to keep up with the game.

Since you can use the same players and iTunes with windows and theres a lot of players you can't use with OSX only with Windows. I don't understand your point.

I think a novice user learns both pretty much the same, to a basic level.

kowloon wrote: »

OSX doesn't have the same issues with a process crashing and taking the rest of the sytem with it.

I don't experience many crashes on Windows, even when developing and debugging code. But there again I don't install lots of different programs, or mess about with the hardware like I used to. On OSX I've see crashes and lockups. But hardly any either and I know from the web others get them aswell. OS X should be a lot more stable, but perhaps most users won't experience many crashes (on either OS) in light office use anyways. On Windows I develop applications and support a few thousand users. Crashing and lockups aren't very common. Usually its something we've done in development thats caused it. I can't remember when it took the OS with it. I nly ever remember it taking the Application down which needs to be restarted.

If you like the design and look of OS X and Apple machines just buy one. Just liking the design/look is enough of a reason to get one in my mind. You don't need to justify it to anyone else. I don't see them as radically different anymore.

anthony4335

I would have to agree with the previous post about OSX crashing. Since I have had my macbook, it has locked up at least twice, and this was before I put windows on it. I only use this system for surfing, mail, and a little office work. As for the apps crashing this happens, usually with firefox, but has happened with Apples own apps as well, more that my desktop which I abuse the crap out of, and has yet to show me a blue screen. So for a new user who does not want hassle I would suggest a windows machine, regardless of the brand, however I am partial to Dell myself ,but the sony I had is still going 6 years later.

cornbb

There's no definitive answer to this OP. I use both systems every day and find I am at a loss when deciding whether to get a PC or Mac as my next home machine. OS X is quite nice, it does have its flaws but I think it has an edge over XP and certainly over Vista. The learning curve involved is minimal - when you step back and take a look at things objectively, both operating systems are 99% the same. The fact that you can run Windows on a Mac is a massive advantage too.

But bear in mind that if you use any specialised apps make sure they have an equivalent in OS X before switching over. Also bear in mind that you pay a massive premium for Apple hardware - although in this case that applies to the Vaio too. IMHO the basic Macbook has a very poor spec given its price, unless you just need it for basic web surfing/word processing. The lack of a good alternative to iTunes irks me too... Anyway do your best to make an informed decision, you will hear a lot of vitriol/misinformation on both sides, try to ignore it.

kowloon

You sir have beaten me, i can't sway the argument in favour of the Mac over a pc, but as things stand I still wouldn't buy a Sony laptop.

DonFred

Ok, thinking of going for either Apple Macbook or Dell XPS M1330 now. Basically all I want is something I can easily connect my psp, ipod touch wirelessly to without having to buy additional hardware or software, just take it out of box and away it goes. Any recommendations??

dulpit

DonFred wrote: »

Ok, thinking of going for either Apple Macbook or Dell XPS M1330 now. Basically all I want is something I can easily connect my psp, ipod touch wirelessly to without having to buy additional hardware or software, just take it out of box and away it goes. Any recommendations??

My my, you like the expensive/flashy laptops... You're looking for something fairly basic (based on what you've specified above) but you're going for the expensive models? Have you considered the Dell Vostro (business) or the Inspiron (home)?? Both are cheaper than the XPS or Macbook [xps start at €1129, macbook starts at €1049, while the Vostro's start at €349 and the Inspiron at €549]

AlmightyCushion

dulpit wrote: »

My my, you like the expensive/flashy laptops... You're looking for something fairly basic (based on what you've specified above) but you're going for the expensive models? Have you considered the Dell Vostro (business) or the Inspiron (home)?? Both are cheaper than the XPS or Macbook [xps start at €1129, macbook starts at €1049, while the Vostro's start at €349 and the Inspiron at €549]

Well 13" laptops are generally quite pricey. I presume the reason he is looking at the xps m1330 and the macbook is because he is looking for something small and light. If you are looking for the m1330 try dell outlet. You might find a bargain there. If you don't get one there try getting it through the business part of the site, it might be a bit cheaper. If you decide to go for the apple, they have a student discount (I think) try getting that on it to save you a few bob.