If you are a creative professional, you want the best possible tools to make sure your work reflects your talent.
The "PC vs. Mac" debate has been around for years, but there are definite pros and cons for each machine. You may be on the fence of which device may be best for your needs, and that's where we come in.
From price to features and more, we will break down the differences between PC and Mac for graphic design.
If you want to learn which is best, then keep on reading.
The Differences Between Mac and PC
In recent years, surprisingly, the differences between Mac and PC have decreased. However, there are still some key differences. Here are some of the prominent ones.
Hardware
With Windows machines, the hardware is exceptionally diverse. There are many brands, such as Microsoft, Dell, Razer, and HP, that make their respective computers. If you run particular design programs and need more power, you can likely find or even build your desktop or laptop with the exact specs you need.
On the Mac side, Apple only makes six computers across its desktop and laptop line. Additionally, these computers are not upgradable, so you are stuck with what you get out of the box.
However, Apple does provide excellent power from the likes of their Macbook Pro, iMac, and iMac Pro machines. If you are a creative professional with some severe workflow, one of these devices should work great for you.
Software
PCs run Windows OS, and Apple runs macOS, both operative systems are some of the most popular choices, it is a personal preference of which OS you prefer.
Most graphic designs use the Adobe Creative Suite, which includes InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and more. These applications run great on both operating systems.
Price
Some say there is an "Apple tax" that you pay to get a Mac computer. However, their devices' optimization makes the best experience possible.
The most basic Mac laptop starts at around $1,000, and that is for the Macbook Air baseline model. On the Windows side, some computers can begin at a price of about $650-$700 that can do similar things, but the design is not as premium.
All in all, it is up to you to decide what features are imperative to you and your design work.
Using a Mac for Graphic Design
The case for a Mac for graphic design includes the premium build, reliable software, and industry popularity.
Macs are built like a tank, and their unibody aluminum design is seamless and creates a beautiful piece of hardware. Additionally, Macs have monopolized the creative market for years.
macOS as the software is streamlined and well-optimized. The software, paired with the hardware, allows these two to work in harmony: "Since Apple is the only manufacturer to use macOS, they have a grip on security features, and you can have the trust that your machine will run well, given its optimized software," says security specialist Dean Chester from VPN reviews service Cooltechzone.com.
Additionally, if you are a motion graphic designer, you have the plus of using Final Cut Pro, which is a seamlessly well-optimized software in the Apple ecosystem. Not only that but if you are an iPhone user, it makes using a Mac that much more compelling.
You can sync your devices together and work on projects, transfer files, and communicate with clients all in one motion. Additionally, if something goes wrong, Apple offers stellar support through its Genius Bar and AppleCare over-the-phone support.
Also, if you need to run Windows, macOS allows you to do that through Boot Camp assistant. Boot Camp is great if you need to run a niche application or work with a client that may have a Windows machine. You can even run MS paint for Mac.
All in all, Macs offer excellent hardware and software options that make a streamlined, well-rounded picture.
Using a PC for Graphic Design
The case for a PC includes its diverse hardware options, upgradability, and more customizable software. As previously mentioned, many brands offer different computers that can best serve your graphic design needs.
Since most graphic designers run the Adobe suite, Adobe runs exceptionally well on Windows machines as well. Depending on what type of laptop you have, PCs have also acquired better build quality over the last few years, even rivaling Apple.
Also, if you are unhappy with a particular brand of PC, you can move on to the next one. Since Windows is available on various machines, you are not stuck with one specific manufacturer. You have the choice of precisely what you want, and do not have to compromise as much as you would on a Mac, since they are the only computer that runs macOS.
Windows may have more niche compatibility with various applications. If you need to run something particular for your client or design project, chances are it is available on Windows. Since Windows dominates around 77% of the desktop OS space, it is most likely compatible.
Moreover, PCs offer a lot of customization in software and hardware. If you want to mod how your desktop looks, the accent colors, or more, that is available to you. Also, if you're going to swap out an SSD, many Windows laptops offer that, like the Microsoft Surface Laptop or Razer laptop.
Which Laptop is Right For You
It can be hard to choose what machine is right for you.
If you want a seamless experience that "just works" and offers great hardware, then a Mac for graphic design may be right for you. However, if you want the freedom of more customization, hardware options, and more compatibility with niche apps, then a PC may be better.
All in all, the choice is yours. Both operating systems are great and will serve you well in your design endeavors.
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