Let's denote this first.
I did a video for this topic in the past. I'm thinking about redoing it, because it's not well refined, I stuttered a lot (it's a little bit of an issue I have) and I don't think it was clear. Also, it's about time I updated some of the information.
The way I see it, there are five basic points.
These are questions that you should ask yourself when searching for a new computer. You should first think about what you're willing to spend. There's no need to spend $2,000 on a computer you're really only going to use for web browsing and email. Set a limit as to what is the most you're willing to spend. Secondly, your career or school may have a requirement when it comes down to what you need. This is another important point - if you don't get a computer appropriate for your career or schooling course (particularly in college or university), it could hinder your performance. Thirdly, you should take your level of experience with computers into consideration. It will absolutely do you no good to try and build yourself a computer when you only know how to turn a computer on. The next point you should especially consider is what you intend to use the computer for. This will help you make an informed decision for your next purchase. And last, but not least, your personal preference. If your heart is set on a new Mac, that's your decision and your decision only.
When you first start your search for a new computer, it's always good to set a budget. $150-$350 for an entry-level, basic machine, $400-$650 for a mid-range computer, and $700 and up for a high-end machine. When it comes down to Mac vs. PC, this is usually the make it or break it part of the decision process. If you're looking for a basic computer and you don't want to spend a lot, don't buy a Mac. They are expensive, and not what you're looking for. Mid-range computers are computers that pack a little more punch and a few more extra features, and in the mid-range pricing, you can find the Mac Mini for $550CAD, but do be wary if purchasing the Mac Mini - it's a good example of planned obsolescence. But, if you are willing to spend a little more money, you can easily get a high-end Windows machine or a Mac computer. If you do decide to go the Mac route, shop around. There are good examples of Macintosh computers that are not good deals such as the 12" MacBook, but others such as refurbished MacBooks and iMacs.
For the most part; however, you're not going to really need to pay attention to this second point, but for some people, it's a must. Sometimes, if your company requires you to use a certain computer, be it Mac or PC, they might supply it for you, but other times, they may give you credit towards a new computer. This point kind of ties in with the fourth point, and that's what you'll be doing with the machine. If you're a business man or woman, a nice, mid-range computer is all you need. preferably a Lenovo ThinkPad costing about $500-$650. You will probably be doing mostly word documents, spreadsheets or presentations, but you'll also need something durable. If you're wealthier, you can get away with buying a base-model MacBook Pro.
When I talk about your level of experience when buying a computer, I'm talking about how well you can use a computer. A Mac may be a good investment as they're simple to setup, easy to use and don't require any real configuring. However, they're expensive. A Mac Mini would be a good computer for someone who really only wants to log onto the Internet and get going, or if you've got some more money, a MacBook Air would be a great starter laptop because the Mac OS X is simple to use. Windows PCs have become much easier to use and can also make for great beginner computers, especially for children, but they do require some setting up. Users can also opt to get a second hand or refurbished computer rather than a brand new one as well.
What you're intending on using the computer for is a rather big point to pay attention to. Someone who only wants to watch Netflix and play browser flash games would have no use for a workstation-grade computer, and a person who wants to play video games would have no use for a MacBook Air. If your basic needs from a computer are limited to browsing the Internet, watching movies and YouTube videos, emails, word processing, presentations, spreadsheets and browser flash games, an inexpensive Windows machine will suffice. People wanting to play games should consider building a computer, or getting a computer with a quad core processor and a graphics processor with at least 2GB of video memory. If you're into video editing, rendering or making music on the computer, you'll need a fast processor, like an Intel Core i7, and in the case of video editing and rendering, you'll also need a fast graphics card. While a powerful Windows machine would still be good for video editing and rendering as you have the Adobe suite of applications, a Mac would also be good as you'd also have access to iMovie, Final Cut Pro X with Motion and Compressor (video editing) and Logic Pro X and GarageBand (audio editing). For Final Cut Pro X with Motion and Compressor, you're going to need a fast Mac, preferably one that has a quad core Intel Core i7 processor, and if you're doing 3D modelling and rendering, a fast graphics processor.
I wouldn't suggest getting a Mac if you're into playing computer games. The game library that exists on Windows is far more expansive, you can build a decent gaming computer for relatively cheap and games that exist on both Windows and Mac generally perform better on Windows because they were initially written for Windows to begin with (Take The Sims 3 for example). Also, DirectX 12 will be coming out on Windows in the near future, and DirectX 12 will allow games to interface with the hardware more efficiently.
The reason I left this point for last is because it's not as important when buying a new computer as what you're actually needing a computer for. Of course if your heart is set on a new 12" MacBook there's nothing stopping you.
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