Is it Really So Straightforward?

Apple or Microsoft? Mac or Windows? Style or Use?

For many people, when faced with the daunting task of selecting their next computer, they see a stark contrast; between eye candy and work. But is it really that simple?

Apple computer's pride themselves on their aesthetic beauty. Equally they claim to be virus-free, and have a more intuitive operating system than the alternatives. To the casual onlooker, it would be a simple choice between the slight, but sexy Mac, and the bulky Microsoft machine. Appearances are important to say the least, but there are other factors which affect what we buy, and our rationale behind it.

However, there are those who will say that Apple computers are worth their weight in gold because of the technical quality on offer, which is far and beyond a PC. There is undoubtedly some truth in this, as shown by what appears to be a genetic predisposition to have virus antibodies. In addition to this, added features allow more advanced text editing and manipulation in numerous formats.

That said, the recent blip of a bug being reported in Apple's new Snow Leopard version of OS X, will come as a blow to those who advocate Apple's reliability, especially when the result is so serious. There have been cases where a user has suffered the loss of an entire account of data. The glitch seems to be caused by switching between guest, and regular accounts. But irrespective of where it comes from, it is still an indictment of their dependability.

This bug is certainly a deterrent to anyone considering buying into the new operating system. However, this does not necessarily mean that Microsoft is any better. On the contrary, part of the reason that this is such big news, is that Apple is renowned for its dependability, whereas viruses, bugs and technical hitches are an every day occurrence for the likes of Microsoft.

Regardless, what matters to professionals is data, and when this key element goes amiss, there will always be an inquest. Many will feel let down by a system they have come to trust, but perhaps this act of negligence on behalf of its creators is no more than a one off. Even so, it makes me wonder whether it is worth the extra money to buy this piece of equipment in the first place.

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