Purchasing hardware can be expensive and confusing for a startup or small business. It may also be stressful trying to decide between different computers, laptops, and mobile devices. When it comes to a small office, choosing the right hardware is all about identifying your company’s most pressing technology needs. PCs and Macs both have benefits and drawbacks, so your selection will depend on your industry, your long-term goals, and other considerations.
Applications + Features of Macs vs PCs
Apple offers several exclusive apps that have widespread appeal within the creative sector. Access to applications like Final Cut Pro and Sketch can be a compelling reason for graphic design and videography companies to choose Macs. There are also a number of applications offered for both iOS and Windows, and plenty of companies use Windows exclusively. Unless you’re in one of only a few specific industries, either operating system should suit your company’s needs.
When it comes to connectivity, your business shouldn’t have any issues whether you choose Macs or PCs. It’s true that Apple products can be synced for each user, but this feature may not be needed if your employees mainly work on one device. However, you may want to consider Apple products if your team regularly uses mobile devices exclusively. For both Mac and Microsoft, how it is managed and maintained truly drives the the viability of the product.
Both iOS and Windows users can easily utilize cloud-based apps to stay connected. Office 365, Dropbox, Google Drive, and other email and file sharing services can be accessed on both Macs and PCs. Ultimately, your team members will have easy access to their information even if they don’t use an Apple ID to connect their devices.
Mac vs PC: Security
Macs have a reputation of being less affected by cyber attacks, but no computer is immune. Some Mac users fall into the trap of thinking they don’t need antivirus, firewalls, and other IT security systems. Nothing could be further from the truth. Your data is far too important to be lax about security, so you should plan on hiring an IT team like INTELITECHS as soon as you purchase your hardware, if not before. We use a multi-pronged security strategy to keep both Macs and Windows PCs protected. With the proper protection against cybercriminals you can feel secure in your decision to use either Windows or iOS as your operating system.
Mac vs PC: Reliability
Small businesses want hardware that will last. You may not have the budget to continue upgrading your hardware any time a new operating system is released or if your computers start to slow down. When you choose the right computer for your needs and manage it properly these issues should be few and far between.
Macs have been known to last longer than Windows PCs. This is an overgeneralization since Windows is utilized by many brands and therefore the computers’ reliability varies. Poor hardware and software maintenance can also decrease a computer’s lifespan. It’s important to factor in the cost of new hardware when making your decision. Apples to apples comparisons of hardware will also determine longevity. PCs are more affordable than Macs, so you won’t have to stress about reliability quite as much if you go the PC route.
INTELITECHS works with both Mac and PC users to create a proactive and comprehensive IT management strategy. This is sure to decrease your hardware costs over time while increasing your confidence in your company’s data security, managed devices, and other IT concerns. Let’s get started! Contact us to schedule a call with our team.