Migrating to mac

[rajoker]

i am a hardcore windows user and want to migrate to mac how easy it would be for me ? and can i get softwares for mac easily like windows

[nixgeek]

Have you ever used the Mac before? If not, I would recommend heading over to the Apple Store and test drive a system. Consider that you're using a computer that is being used by everyone so expect some issues from other users (the ol' ID-10T and PEBKAC issue ). But at least this way you can get a feel for OS X and the Macintosh.

As for software availability, I guess you can say that Windows has more software available for it but how much of that software is actually useful? The majority of the stuff out there is a rehashing of a major product that actually has a Macintosh equivalent, sometimes from the same company that makes the popular product. Same thing when it comes to games, but this one doesn't hold as much water. Even still, the top billing games usually have a Macintosh port, even a Linux port.

As for general usage, anything that you'll find on the Windows side you'll find on the Mac side. Be it a direct port or a great equivalent to what's available on Windows, you'll find it for the Mac especially if it's an open source application.

One thing to note: Don't treat OS X like you would Windows. If you expect to use OS X like you use Windows you'll be extremely frustrated. If you want Windows, stick with it. Otherwise, open yourself to the way of doing things on the Mac. This is what I've done with Windows and Linux considering that I started on the Mac, and I've learned a lot from all the platforms to make a well-balanced decision about each of them.

[rajoker]

thanks nix in fact i myself was thinking of test driving a mac befor buying it.
one more thing i am a graphic designer apart from a few command changes will there be any major issues while designing . and can mac softwares be cracked?

[ElDiabloConCaca]

Asking about illegally circumventing copy protection isn't something that's discussed here. Read the board rules concerning piracy, p2p and other illegal activities.

If you are a graphic designer, then you will be happy to know that the entire Macromedia MX/2004 suite is available for Macintosh, as well as Adobe's Creative Suite and QuarkXPress. Font support is top-notch with software like LinoType FontExplorer X.

If you have valid licenses for your software on your PC (which is questionable, since you asked about cracking), then you may want to inquire with the makers of the software about a "cross-grade" license -- meaning, you exchange your Windows software for the Macintosh counterpart for a reduced price.

[nixgeek]

Oooh, big mistake. Asking about illegal software or downloads is against the board rules here...you're not going to find that kind of help. You might want to look at purchasing copies of said software for the Mac, or see about a possible discount to replace the discs (doesn't hurt to ask). If you can't afford it, you might want to look at open source solutions that might be able to do the job for you.

[Satcomer]

Originally Posted by rajoker

i am a hardcore windows user and want to migrate to mac how easy it would be for me ? and can i get softwares for mac easily like windows

Look at sites like VersionTracker and/or MacUpdate to get most all software and also see when software is released on the Mac.

Also there are several prices in the real world to get Mac software. Then there is always the readily available web stores. Just ask around and look for the best prices on Mac software you want plus ask us here for some real good stores.

[baldprof]

Perhaps you are familiar with the O'Reilly Press Missing Manual series?

Well there happens to one especially for "switchers". I highly recommend it. That will step you through the "here's how you do it in Windows, and here's how you do it on a Mac."

Also there is this at the main Apple site.

[rajoker]

guys, guys, i am also against piracy but since i am shiting from windows to mac all my licenced softwares which i purchased for my very hard earned money go to waste tha is why i was trying to look for such things nevertheless i am still thinking about it , thanks for everybodys advice and comments.