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This is the personal blog of Don McAllister, the host and producer of ScreenCastsOnline.

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Sunday
Mar292009

A new Mac in the family....

Received an email earlier today from my brother with the news that he'd just pulled the trigger on a new MacBook. He'd mentioned a few weeks ago that he was interested in getting a Mac, but I wasn't sure when he'd finally jump.

It's a refurb 2.4Ghz aluminium MacBook - very nice!

Now my position on recommending a Mac is very clear, if someone asks, I'll always say a Mac is the best option for ease of use and value for money. What I won't do is try and justify why you should spend the extra cash on a Mac compared to a PC.

It's just too hard and life is too short.

If they don't get it, they just don't get it, and no amount of discussion will get them to change their mind. I could blather on about it just works, or about the great software included with the Mac, or the fact that tons of utilities are provided as standard, or that it's (as yet) untroubled by viruses or malware, or that the hardware is usually top spec, or that the build quality and fit and finish is second to none, and you'll save lots of time actually using your computer rather than fiddling with it, or that you can rebuild it easily and simply within a couple of hours, or.... well you get my drift.

If all they can see is a £300 PC laptop vs a £900 Mac laptop, it's really not worth getting into the discussion.

So I'm delighted to see my brother gets it!

No pressure from me, although I'm sure my experiences with the Mac have had a lot to do with his decision, he just feels ready for a change.

It's due to arrive in a couple of days so I'll give him a hand setting it up and making sure he has some essential apps installed. I know a particularly fine set of video tutorials I'm sure he'll make good use of too!

Actually, it should be a good experience for both of us. It's been a while since I switched so it will be interesting to view the Mac experience from a fresh pair of eyes. Know doubt it will influence how I approach any ScreenCastsOnline intended for Mac switchers. Funnily, I've been meaning to update my switcher shows and the "New to the Mac" page on the website, so this is perfect timing!

I'll post my list of essential apps over the course of the next week and let you know how we get on!


Reader Comments (3)

It's a thrill to see the light go on about Macs with people you know. I'm sure you'll be able to hook your brother up with some good apps!

March 29, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterPaul

B-but the Apple Tax, Don, the Apple Tax!!1

Good on your brother, he will surely enjoy the new mac.

March 29, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterTim

>I know a particularly fine set of video tutorials I’m sure he’ll make good use of too!

Really? Maybe you can recommend some here on your blog.

BOb

[yes that was meant to be punny]

March 29, 2009 | Unregistered CommenterPIlotbob

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