The PC (Windows) vs. Mac (Apple) debate has been alive for years. PC users will defend their computers as the superior, while Mac users will steadfastly insist theirs is the best. So who is right?

I’d call it a draw as this discussion is much like our fathers arguing “Chevy” vs. “Ford.” It’s really a personal preference. Depending on how you will use your computer, either one can be the right choice.

(To keep things as balanced as possible, I invited Bill Browne, our local Mac expert, to join me in co-authoring this article.)

Both Macs and PCs are used in homes and businesses. There are definitely more PCs on the market than there are Macs. Although businesses rely on PCs due to the large amount of programs that are available, Macs abound in business as well.

Since there are more PCs around than Macs, it’s easier to find someone to help you. We have several PC businesses here in Anacortes, whereas the nearest Mac store is in either Bellingham or Alderwood Mall.

Volume also helps cost. PCs typically cost less, mainly because of the competition among manufacturers. At the low end, however, Macs and PCs are often very close in price when compared feature to feature. And, while competition may keep the cost of a PC low, it’s often the result of cheaper parts.

Apple tends to build “the whole widget.” They build the computer and write the operating system and the software that is used. In the PC world, Microsoft writes the operating system, but third parties vendors along with Microsoft produce the computer and software. As a result, there is more software available for a PC.

Since everything is integrated, Apple’s Macintosh repairs are from one source. Being able to seek technical support from a single company is a plus. With a PC you can expect to work with Microsoft for the operating system, a manufacturer for the hardware and perhaps a third party for your applications — cases of finger pointing are not uncommon.

Macs are also less prone to virus attacks. Currently there is no virus circulating that affects the newest Mac. As methods to attack the Mac are discovered, Apple posts software fixes on the internet that your Mac can automatically download and install to remain protected.

PCs are more at risk, but this can change. Viruses do exist for the older Mac, but because there aren’t as many Macs in the world, there aren’t as many viruses.

Mac computers have also been known for their ease of use, although they lost the edge with the arrival of Windows XP. Nonetheless, Macs tend to be simpler, more straightforward, and are considered to have an edge in design.

If you look at the latest Apple Mac Book and compare it to an average notebook, you’ll see the difference immediately. Keep in mind though that you’ll pay for this design.

Although Macs have come down in price, they are still more expensive. A Mac Book laptop starts at $1,099, for the most basic model.

By contrast, a bare-bones Dell Inspiron notebook starts at $499. Now granted, the features are not the same, but for those on a limited budget, price is an issue.

You may hear people tell you to buy an Apple, since it is easier to use.

Please be cautious here. All computers have become increasingly complex. Neither is as intuitive as a pencil and paper.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what your priorities are. If you have been using a PC for years, the switch to a Mac may not be as easy as some say. It can be an interesting challenge.

I have both a PC and a Mac and work with both in our business. Each has its advantages. Macs are very nice computers, but I love my PC too. I do not have a favorite. It just depends on what I’m doing.

For me, one of the most important decisions in purchasing a computer (or software) is: “What do the people around me use?”

I disregard opinions from those not local. I find that when things go wrong, distance does matter. I make my decisions based on thoughts and experiences of colleagues and friends.