IBM or Macintosh: Is There REALLY a Difference?

Questions about your personal computer? Need advice about the latest in software? This week The Crimson starts a weekly column on computer life at Harvard--and it's designed for the layman. Letters are welcome and should be addressed to The Happy Hacker c/o The Harvard Crimson, 14 Plympton St., Cambridge, MA 02138.

I flipped a coin. I asked my roommates. I searched my soul. What kind of personal computer would last me my college career?

No matter how you look at it, you're not going to find the perfect P.C. But depending on your needs and technical prowess, you might find that one brand fits your needs better than others.

For most students, the decision of which computer to buy should be between the IBM PC (or any one of its imitators, most of which are quite good) and the Apple Macintosh.

When setting out along the purchase path, consider your short-and long-term needs. Aside from the basic word processing which all students need for term papers, think of what else you want to use your computer for. Are you writing a thesis? Will you be doing any data analysis for classes or research papers? Do you want to do fancy artwork for club posters or newsletters?

If you feel that your only interest is in word processing small papers (less than 10 pages), save a lot of money by buying a word processing typewriter. While they don't have all the features of a full-powered computer, and while they can only be used for word processing, the $600 to $1000 price tag might be more palatable than the cost of a large computer system.

A full--blown computer system is made up of several components. First is the basic system, which includes the computer system unit, memory, video monitor and keyboard. In addition to the system unit ($800-$2000), you will also need software ($10-$400), and you will probably want to buy a printer ($150-$1500). And that's expensive stuff.

Software is what allows a computer to perform a given task, like play chess or print out your homework. Often, complex software packages such as word processors and database programs can cost several hundreds of dollars. Most students can share the same software with dormmates who have similar computers.

Although a computer system can be complete without a printer, most students find it useful to have one always hooked up. The alternative is to use a roommate's printer or one of the many printing facilities at Harvard. (Stay tuned for more from the Happy Hacker on different types of printers available.)

Check Out Your Roommates

The first thing to factor into your computer purchase decision is what your roommates have and what computer you are most familiar with. If your roommates all own IBM compatibles ($1000-$2500) with lots of software and printers hooked up, there is little reason for you to be the rotten apple in the rooming group.

On the other hand, maybe you have more experience with the Mac ($1200-$2200) or you want it for its easy use. For most students who have never used a computer before and who don't have a hacker for a roomate, the choice is a little more difficult.

Making a Decision

The big difference between Macs and IBMs is that the Mac is a lot more fun. While fun alone does not determine most computer purchases, approximately three times as many students are opting for the Mac as for the IBM.

But the Mac isn't just for fun. It can be an extremely powerful computer and certainly will meet most student computing needs. Other advantages of the Mac include its special graphics abilities, its picture-oriented, user-friendly operating system, and the mouse which can be used to point and move things around the screen.

Some students prefer IBM-type computers because they can't stand dealing with the little mouse or the cute pictures. Additionally, IBM compatibles are better suited for some more complex applications, have a larger range of software available, and can interface with a broader variety of printers.

But to find out which computer you are most comfortable with, try writing one or two papers on different systems. Which one has an easier keyboard to type on, or a clearer monitor from which to read?

Money: The Bottom Line

When it comes down to it, probably the most important component of the computer decision is the price. Harvard's Technology Product Center (HTPC) offers Macintoshes to students at the most competitive prices in the area, with complete systems starting at around $1500.

If you're more inclined to buy an IBM type system, the HTPC sells them starting at a few hundred dollars more. However, for students willing to forgo the famous three initials, many bargains on IBM act-alikes (so-called clones) can be had around the Square and by mail-order. Both Club Computer and the Coop sell clones, and even better prices can be found through New York and California mail-order houses (check the back pages of computer magazines or talk to a member of the Harvard Computer Society for details).

No matter which computer you decide to buy, make sure it can be serviced locally and that it comes with a full warranty.

A Final Tip

And what kind of personal computer does The Happy Hacker use? Usually both.