I have broken the hinge on my lap top, or to put it in more detail, broken the hinge attachment points for the hinge on the lid. And it so happens its over 5 years old and parts aren't made any more for it. It is a real power hog, and although it is a portable, its hardly a lap top, 17" XLT Dell.
Thinking about getting a new device, and I am getting pretty crapped off at all the up-dates and down loads using our small amount of internet time (8G). So would be looking at a computer to take in the van permanently on the road, low power usage.
So what is it to be Windows or Apple. I have thrown the gloves into the ring!
GerryP said
10:08 AM Jun 26, 2016
Mmmmm, where's the popcorn?
My personal choice would be Windows, but having said that, Mac does provide excellent products. I find there's a much wider choice, at much lower prices for Windows based laptops. I also find Windows more versatile (less locked down), but that is probably not a consideration for most.
One of the things that a lot of people are up in arms about with Win10 is automatic updates using their data without permission... don't let that alone put you off - updates CAN be turned off by simply setting your wifi connection to 'metered' under network settings.
Ultimately though, the choice is yours. Pop into a store and have a play, check prices and features. Both will do what you need.
Ron-D said
10:27 AM Jun 26, 2016
I always was a windows man but I was swayed into trying the apple system by daughter who is in the I/Tbusiness ,it took a bit of getting used too, but there's a lot more apps and the system seems to be a lot faster,the security seems to be better ,and once your used to apple in my opinion you would never go back to windows...
Bagmaker said
12:23 PM Jun 26, 2016
if your asking, its probably Apple.
dave48 said
12:50 PM Jun 26, 2016
As a free software man for many years I can recommend Ubuntu if you want something that is
1. Free
2.Lightweight ( about 1.4Gb installed )
3.Don't need to install virus protection spyware protection or any other protection.
Use your old computer to experiment with. Download it and put it on via your DVD or USB. Doesn't matter which. If you need any help there is tons available and I would be more than happy to help
Dave
Roving-Dutchy said
05:04 PM Jun 26, 2016
Hi Dave
How hard is it to learn a new operating system such as Ubuntu.
Cheers
David
The Phantom said
05:47 PM Jun 26, 2016
For a new user to Linux, I would suggest trying Linux Mint. The latest distro is Mint 18 "Sarah" which is a LTS (long term support) till 2021.
I am using Mint 17 "Rosa" and it is very stable. Also an LTS to 2021.
Mint is very similar to Windows in looks and usability and takes virtually no learning. If you can use Windows, you can use Mint.
Nothing wrong with Ubuntu, in fact I find it excellent but Mint is so much easier to use.
Another advantage with Mint is that it will load onto an older machine and run perfectly well.
The major thing to realise with any of the Linux distros is that Windows software will not work on a Linux system but there is loads of Linux based software for just about any requirement.
Give it a go, you just might be pleasantly surprised.
The Phantom
NeilandRaine said
06:00 PM Jun 26, 2016
I prefer windows, I don't like being owned by Apple, but to each their own.
You can stop auto update downloads.
Santa said
06:50 PM Jun 26, 2016
Went through a similar process when I bought a new PC about 18 months ago.
Looked at Linux, it won't handle most of the software I use and understand, and quite honestly I use a PC as a tool, not a hobby so couldn't be bothered messing around learning to use what is a pretty obscure system, guess you get what you pay for.
My wife has an Apple tablet, she reckons its great, I dislike it with a passion, she frequently asks me to print something or carry out a task the fruit machine won't handle, it also refuses to handle some of the software I use.
So, Windows 10 it was, it does exactly what I want it to and its a good stable operating system, have not had a security breach in the time I've been using it.
dave48 said
06:52 PM Jun 26, 2016
Hi Dave. Yes Phantom is right. They are very easy to use and look more and more like windows as time progresses. I used Mint some time ago and yes it's probably easier for a new user. I would suggest you download it over the internet ( free ) and install it alongside windows that you are using just to look at it. When you go to install it it will see that you have windows and ask if you want to over write it or install it alongside it. Alongside it means when you boot your computer it will ask you which system you want to use. Go into the Linux system you installed and play around with it. When I was system testing for Linux I used to give the programs under development to my wife and if she ( who I love to bits ) couldn't wreck it. Nobody could. We've been using it for years. I would suggest you give it a try. Nothing to lose.
Dave
-- Edited by dave48 on Sunday 26th of June 2016 06:53:11 PM
banjo said
08:57 PM Jun 26, 2016
I persevered with windows pc's for years, last July I bit the bullet and bought a MacBook Air, a slight learning curve followed but now would I ever go back to the dark side ?
Never in a million years, Apple Apple Apple.
Not cheap but simply the best, no virus software needed no daily updates, in short no more cr*p.
I run Firefox, as I don't like Safari, I use all my old programs no trouble at all, have not found anything that I use that wont run on a Mac, quicker, slicker and just well, or better.
Would I buy another Windoz based piece of rubbish, not with your money !
Krusty said
09:02 PM Jun 26, 2016
Definitely Apple. Sooo easy to use. If you're a computer guy then maybe Windows but if you just want to do stuff then Apple.
Mick c said
09:49 PM Jun 26, 2016
Windows wins hands down for business, Apple is fantastic for hassle free and security. Ubuntu and other freeware OS are great if you want something different from the two big corporate OS.
From my viewpoint, a working telecommuter semi retired and in the road. Tie that into the fact that my wife and I use IPhones and IPads for basically internet consumption, email, videos, and general stuff. Finally I do a lot of video and music composition and playing.
So our setup is a Windows 10 Laptop with Office for work and two iPhones, an iPad Air 2 and an IPad Pro networked together through ICloud.
It's easy that way.
So, the lesson, decide what you want to do. If it's productivity work don't go past Windows, if it's non work then Apple. There will be a learning curve.
macka17 said
11:59 PM Jun 26, 2016
Me.
I started with the old DOS and worked up.
Stopped assembling and setting up around Win 4.
Nowadays, at home a WIN 10 Lappie plugged into wall with 4 way printer alongside.
Missus I set her up with a WIN 10 PC.
we both tried Apple. No thank's.
Ubuntu and prior too Nah.
The old 10 does everything simple, reliable, and push of 2 buttons. resets itself automatically
when I do a "whoops".
When away from home. Samsung 10in Tablet, plus keyboard, sans sim. does everything
combined with one of two Pre-paids as Hot spots. through Telstra Broadband at home.
I've still got the old Linux (open 2.2n)/Ubuntu/Caldera disks
plus some of the original set up yourself and try it files.
Just found an old COREL Draw 9. discs 1/2/3.
DOS disks too.
Time this little black duck had another sort out I reckon.
PeterD said
02:00 PM Jun 27, 2016
Roving-Dutchy wrote:
Hi Dave How hard is it to learn a new operating system such as Ubuntu. Cheers David
No harder than learning Apple. As said above, use your current machine to try it out. You don't have to remove your Windo$e system, load your Linux in a dual boot situation. You can then compare both systems.
PeterD said
02:05 PM Jun 27, 2016
iana wrote:Thinking about getting a new device, and I am getting pretty crapped off at all the up-dates and down loads using our small amount of internet time (8G). So would be looking at a computer to take in the van permanently on the road, low power usage.
I too am having a battle with large usage since I went to Win 10. I have got rid of all the live apps on the start menu (disabled them first.) I think I may have to go to 15 G limit to cope. Unfortunately my machine will not convert to Linux (it uses a tablet for the screen.) It's also too new to ditch for a new machine.
Vince said
03:37 PM Jun 27, 2016
Hi Ian
Not long purchased an MacBook Pro 13" laptop and mastering using it as opposed to using Windows for the last 20 odd years
Not as hard as it seems and I like the fact it works along side my iPhone 5S as they talk to each other automatically
Best thing is no hard drive it's solid state so no moving parts - lightweight not too big and not too small
Lot more apps available
I'm converted
Cheers
Vince
vinnos said
01:45 PM Jun 29, 2016
ten years with a dell with windows went to apple macbook pro never been happier vinnos
Sharke said
02:11 PM Jun 29, 2016
I prefer my chromebook for general laptop internet use.
iana wrote:Thinking about getting a new device, and I am getting pretty crapped off at all the up-dates and down loads using our small amount of internet time (8G). So would be looking at a computer to take in the van permanently on the road, low power usage.
I too am having a battle with large usage since I went to Win 10. I have got rid of all the live apps on the start menu (disabled them first.) I think I may have to go to 15 G limit to cope. Unfortunately my machine will not convert to Linux (it uses a tablet for the screen.) It's also too new to ditch for a new machine.
As I mentioned earlier, to turn off auto updates, go to network settings and while connected to your mobile broadband, set your connection to 'metered'. It will then no longer automatically update.
Tony Bell said
05:31 PM Jun 29, 2016
Windows 10
All old software will most likely run.
Drivers for printers etc(old and new) may not be available.
May not recognize some hardware components or optimize their usage.(per installation by shop required)
Some free software eg.Open Office, Calibre and VLC media player Belinda all excellent.
Difficult or near impossible for average user to turn off updates( both required or fixes eg. Data usage)
Strongly encourages cloud back up(again data usage)
No install disk may be difficult to re install after crash with appropriate drivers(both will require heavy data usage)
Virus subjected to spyware virus etc
Apple
May require new purchase of software licence,
All printers etc will work seemlessly
Will recognise all hardware,
Some free software
Will default to apple software eg ITunes which is not as good as good asVlLc above
Work seem less with IPhone
Can run most apps across apple products
Wants to backup to Icloud (can be turned off easily) Data use can be a problem)
Virus min attackable
Linix(Ubuntu Mint etc)
Drivers will be auto installec
Most software free
Programs are better
Some min learning require
Does not fix non broken situation software upgrade do not stop previous programs or hardware working
Local back easy eg USB stick
Virus no attacks
Android
Tablet covers and keyboards available
Hardware per installed drivers that work
Software free or verry cheap
Google unless turned of know all about you
Some min learning required
Operating system difficult to up grade
Cheap unit to buy
Phone can be used as a phone with an internal sim
Camera can be used portable
Backup to usb stick
Expandable memory
Share software music picture etc with Android phone
Portable
Please add any more comparative info
Best Wishes
Tony Bell
Tony Bell said
05:34 PM Jun 29, 2016
My previous post seems to have lost paragraft seperators for this I am truel sorry
Tony Bell
Tony Bell said
05:50 PM Jun 29, 2016
Windows 10
All old software will most likely run.
Drivers for printers etc(old and new) may not be available.
May not recognize some hardware components or optimize their usage.(per installation by shop required)
Some free software eg.Open Office, Calibre and VLC media player Belinda all excellent.
Difficult or near impossible for average user to turn off updates( both required or fixes eg. Data usage)
Strongly encourages cloud back up(again data usage)
No install disk may be difficult to re install after crash with appropriate drivers(both will require heavy data usage)
Virus subjected to spyware virus etc
Apple
May require new purchase of software licence,
All printers etc will work seemlessly
Will recognise all hardware,
Some free software
Will default to apple software eg ITunes which is not as good as good asVlLc above
Work seem less with IPhone
Can run most apps across apple products
Wants to backup to Icloud (can be turned off easily) Data use can be a problem)
Virus min attackable
Linix(Ubuntu Mint etc)
Drivers will be auto installec
Most software free
Programs are better
Some min learning require
Does not fix non broken situation software upgrade do not stop previous programs or hardware working
Local back easy eg USB stick
Virus no attacks
Android
Tablet covers and keyboards available
Hardware per installed drivers that work
Software free or verry cheap
Google unless turned of know all about you
Some min learning required
Operating system difficult to up grade
Cheap unit to buy
Phone can be used as a phone with an internal sim
Camera can be used portable
Backup to usb stick
Expandable memory
Share software music picture etc with Android phone
Portable
Please add any more comparative info
Best Wishes
Tony Bell
Tony Bell said
05:55 PM Jun 29, 2016
Tried again failed copied out to word processor and inserted again. Failed Failed!!!!!!!!
Hylda&Jon said
06:27 PM Jun 29, 2016
We have both here but our main ones are Apple Mac's
Reasons...
The actual computers normally are, physically, a more stable construction (for example the case is made of one piece of aluminium) so, as you are travelling, they will stand up to more bumps and rough usage.
Though admittedly the new Windows update was free, ALL the Apple mac operating system updates have been free for many many years.
It is rare you have to worry about viruses with a Mac computer compared to Windows. I have used them for over 16 years and I go to all sorts of sites for gaming and info and never had a virus.
For every program that is made for Windows there is a similar one made for Mac. (just not as many of the same type)
On a Mac computer you can run a Mac operating system as well as Windows operating system on the same computer...even at the same time.
And last of all.....Mac computers don't crash or have as many problems as as Windows ones as they have a more stable operating system. (athough I have to admit they were more stable in the early days before they, like Windows, became more bloated)
Hope this helps
Jon
Santa said
06:49 PM Jun 29, 2016
Wonder why it is that Apple users seem to have a compulsion to attempt to convert Windows users to change?
PeterD said
11:07 PM Jun 29, 2016
Tony Bell wrote:
Tried again failed copied out to word processor and inserted again. Failed Failed!!!!!!!!
Tony, try editing the message rather than posting a second reply. Use the button up in the top RH corner. What system are yu using to post your replies?
Hylda&Jon said
10:48 AM Jun 30, 2016
Santa wrote:
Wonder why it is that Apple users seem to have a compulsion to attempt to convert Windows users to change?
Wonder why Windows users seem to have a compulsion to say their computers are better than Apple and Apple computers are no good. When on a forum asking advice to do with a program or something and I say I have an Apple there is always more than one person that says "Got an Apple? there's your problem. Why don't you get a real computer." This has happened more times than I could ever count to the point where it has become quite tiresome.
There are people on both sides that like to put their 2 cents worth in knocking users of both platforms and now you join that group.
The person asked, and I quote "So what is it to be Windows or Apple. I have thrown the gloves into the ring" So we give our opinions because we are asked. Should we not answer?
-- Edited by Hylda&Jon on Thursday 30th of June 2016 11:01:39 AM
Santa said
11:05 AM Jun 30, 2016
Hylda&Jon wrote:
Santa wrote:
Wonder why it is that Apple users seem to have a compulsion to attempt to convert Windows users to change?
Wonder why Windows users seem to have a compulsion to say their computers are better than Apple and Apple computers are no good. When on a forum and I say I have an Apple there is sure to be more than one person that says "Got an Apple? there's your problem. Why don't you get a real computer."
There are people on both sides that like to put their 2 cents worth in knocking users of both platforms and now you join that group.
The person asked, and I quote "So what is it to be Windows or Apple. I have thrown the gloves into the ring" So we give our opinions because we are asked. Should we not answer?
-- Edited by Hylda&Jon on Thursday 30th of June 2016 10:58:27 AM
As I posted earlier in this thread, my wife is an Apple user, I prefer Windows, not an issue, just a statement of fact, I simply don't feel the need to constantly beat the Microsoft drum.
Guess the fact that the vast majority of business machines still use Windows as an OS speaks for its self.
GerryP said
03:10 PM Jun 30, 2016
Sort of true Santa... while I agree that general business users are Windows based, you'll find that most graphics and printing based production companies use Apple products. I think it's partly traditional, but I also think that Macs had a much better focus on graphics products in the past, while Windows had more of a focus on business products.
I don't think there's a huge difference between them nowadays in terms of capability for the average user... Ford vs Holden... Toyota vs Nissan................
I have broken the hinge on my lap top, or to put it in more detail, broken the hinge attachment points for the hinge on the lid. And it so happens its over 5 years old and parts aren't made any more for it. It is a real power hog, and although it is a portable, its hardly a lap top, 17" XLT Dell.
Thinking about getting a new device, and I am getting pretty crapped off at all the up-dates and down loads using our small amount of internet time (8G). So would be looking at a computer to take in the van permanently on the road, low power usage.
So what is it to be Windows or Apple. I have thrown the gloves into the ring!
Mmmmm, where's the popcorn?
My personal choice would be Windows, but having said that, Mac does provide excellent products. I find there's a much wider choice, at much lower prices for Windows based laptops. I also find Windows more versatile (less locked down), but that is probably not a consideration for most.
One of the things that a lot of people are up in arms about with Win10 is automatic updates using their data without permission... don't let that alone put you off - updates CAN be turned off by simply setting your wifi connection to 'metered' under network settings.
Ultimately though, the choice is yours. Pop into a store and have a play, check prices and features. Both will do what you need.
I always was a windows man but I was swayed into trying the apple system by daughter who is in the I/Tbusiness ,it took a bit of getting used too, but there's a lot more apps and the system seems to be a lot faster,the security seems to be better ,and once your used to apple in my opinion you would never go back to windows...
As a free software man for many years I can recommend Ubuntu if you want something that is
1. Free
2.Lightweight ( about 1.4Gb installed )
3.Don't need to install virus protection spyware protection or any other protection.
Use your old computer to experiment with. Download it and put it on via your DVD or USB. Doesn't matter which. If you need any help there is tons available and I would be more than happy to help
Dave
Hi Dave
How hard is it to learn a new operating system such as Ubuntu.
Cheers
David
For a new user to Linux, I would suggest trying Linux Mint. The latest distro is Mint 18 "Sarah" which is a LTS (long term support) till 2021.
I am using Mint 17 "Rosa" and it is very stable. Also an LTS to 2021.
Mint is very similar to Windows in looks and usability and takes virtually no learning. If you can use Windows, you can use Mint.
Nothing wrong with Ubuntu, in fact I find it excellent but Mint is so much easier to use.
Another advantage with Mint is that it will load onto an older machine and run perfectly well.
The major thing to realise with any of the Linux distros is that Windows software will not work on a Linux system but there is loads of Linux based software for just about any requirement.
Give it a go, you just might be pleasantly surprised.
The Phantom
You can stop auto update downloads.
Went through a similar process when I bought a new PC about 18 months ago.
Looked at Linux, it won't handle most of the software I use and understand, and quite honestly I use a PC as a tool, not a hobby so couldn't be bothered messing around learning to use what is a pretty obscure system, guess you get what you pay for.
My wife has an Apple tablet, she reckons its great, I dislike it with a passion, she frequently asks me to print something or carry out a task the fruit machine won't handle, it also refuses to handle some of the software I use.
So, Windows 10 it was, it does exactly what I want it to and its a good stable operating system, have not had a security breach in the time I've been using it.
Hi Dave. Yes Phantom is right. They are very easy to use and look more and more like windows as time progresses. I used Mint some time ago and yes it's probably easier for a new user. I would suggest you download it over the internet ( free ) and install it alongside windows that you are using just to look at it. When you go to install it it will see that you have windows and ask if you want to over write it or install it alongside it. Alongside it means when you boot your computer it will ask you which system you want to use. Go into the Linux system you installed and play around with it. When I was system testing for Linux I used to give the programs under development to my wife and if she ( who I love to bits ) couldn't wreck it. Nobody could. We've been using it for years. I would suggest you give it a try. Nothing to lose.
Dave
-- Edited by dave48 on Sunday 26th of June 2016 06:53:11 PM
Never in a million years, Apple Apple Apple.
Not cheap but simply the best, no virus software needed no daily updates, in short no more cr*p.
I run Firefox, as I don't like Safari, I use all my old programs no trouble at all, have not found anything that I use that wont run on a Mac, quicker, slicker and just well, or better.
Would I buy another Windoz based piece of rubbish, not with your money !
I started with the old DOS and worked up.
Stopped assembling and setting up around Win 4.
Nowadays, at home a WIN 10 Lappie plugged into wall with 4 way printer alongside.
Missus I set her up with a WIN 10 PC.
we both tried Apple. No thank's.
Ubuntu and prior too Nah.
The old 10 does everything simple, reliable, and push of 2 buttons. resets itself automatically
when I do a "whoops".
When away from home. Samsung 10in Tablet, plus keyboard, sans sim. does everything
combined with one of two Pre-paids as Hot spots. through Telstra Broadband at home.
I've still got the old Linux (open 2.2n)/Ubuntu/Caldera disks
plus some of the original set up yourself and try it files.
Just found an old COREL Draw 9. discs 1/2/3.
DOS disks too.
Time this little black duck had another sort out I reckon.
No harder than learning Apple. As said above, use your current machine to try it out. You don't have to remove your Windo$e system, load your Linux in a dual boot situation. You can then compare both systems.
I too am having a battle with large usage since I went to Win 10. I have got rid of all the live apps on the start menu (disabled them first.) I think I may have to go to 15 G limit to cope. Unfortunately my machine will not convert to Linux (it uses a tablet for the screen.) It's also too new to ditch for a new machine.
Not long purchased an MacBook Pro 13" laptop and mastering using it as opposed to using Windows for the last 20 odd years
Not as hard as it seems and I like the fact it works along side my iPhone 5S as they talk to each other automatically
Best thing is no hard drive it's solid state so no moving parts - lightweight not too big and not too small
Lot more apps available
I'm converted
Cheers
Vince
I prefer my chromebook for general laptop internet use.
Info here
http://www.google.com.au/intl/en_au/chromebook/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=en-ha-apac-aunz-bkws&utm_term=Chromebook&gclid=Cj0KEQjwwMi7BRDGptbvwOCDj8oBEiQAIALyDKuVS8FWicUxdAbBZdYIMVhFA1xscMPK-oQIpFuUR7saAt4V8P8HAQ
Cheers
Jeff
As I mentioned earlier, to turn off auto updates, go to network settings and while connected to your mobile broadband, set your connection to 'metered'. It will then no longer automatically update.
We have both here but our main ones are Apple Mac's
Reasons...
The actual computers normally are, physically, a more stable construction (for example the case is made of one piece of aluminium) so, as you are travelling, they will stand up to more bumps and rough usage.
Though admittedly the new Windows update was free, ALL the Apple mac operating system updates have been free for many many years.
It is rare you have to worry about viruses with a Mac computer compared to Windows. I have used them for over 16 years and I go to all sorts of sites for gaming and info and never had a virus.
For every program that is made for Windows there is a similar one made for Mac. (just not as many of the same type)
On a Mac computer you can run a Mac operating system as well as Windows operating system on the same computer...even at the same time.
And last of all.....Mac computers don't crash or have as many problems as as Windows ones as they have a more stable operating system. (athough I have to admit they were more stable in the early days before they, like Windows, became more bloated)
Hope this helps
Jon
Wonder why it is that Apple users seem to have a compulsion to attempt to convert Windows users to change?
Tony, try editing the message rather than posting a second reply. Use the button up in the top RH corner. What system are yu using to post your replies?
Wonder why Windows users seem to have a compulsion to say their computers are better than Apple and Apple computers are no good. When on a forum asking advice to do with a program or something and I say I have an Apple there is always more than one person that says "Got an Apple? there's your problem. Why don't you get a real computer." This has happened more times than I could ever count to the point where it has become quite tiresome.
There are people on both sides that like to put their 2 cents worth in knocking users of both platforms and now you join that group.
The person asked, and I quote "So what is it to be Windows or Apple. I have thrown the gloves into the ring" So we give our opinions because we are asked. Should we not answer?
-- Edited by Hylda&Jon on Thursday 30th of June 2016 11:01:39 AM
As I posted earlier in this thread, my wife is an Apple user, I prefer Windows, not an issue, just a statement of fact, I simply don't feel the need to constantly beat the Microsoft drum.
Guess the fact that the vast majority of business machines still use Windows as an OS speaks for its self.
Sort of true Santa... while I agree that general business users are Windows based, you'll find that most graphics and printing based production companies use Apple products. I think it's partly traditional, but I also think that Macs had a much better focus on graphics products in the past, while Windows had more of a focus on business products.
I don't think there's a huge difference between them nowadays in terms of capability for the average user... Ford vs Holden... Toyota vs Nissan................