Monday, June 11, 2012

Should I Buy a Retina MacBook Pro

Apple just released a suite of new MacBook products...and you are probably wondering "should I buy one?"  In the real world windows and Linux seem to rule the software world for business.  Since the MacBook Pro is portable, it might make a good carry on for travel and remote business.  The important part to understand is what applications will you need access to when away.  One think to consider, there are ways to remote into systems "at the office" to do your work away from home.  What is a must application for your business?

Everyone uses technology in different ways.  Perhaps you just need to check email and look at website changes or update log sheets online.  Maybe you need to do some accounting work.  Maybe you need to do graphic design work in which case you should already own at least one or two Apple products.  Consider all applications necessary and look at ways to use those applications as a Mac user.  Sometimes there are alternatives that are worth considering to existing solutions, but overall I suggest avoiding an overhaul of major processes and applications.

Spend some time at your local Apple store or Best Buy and get a feel for it.  Don't be too overwhelmed by differences from windows, it will come quickly and overall is more user friendly.  If you enjoy the feel of the machine now is the time to decide, how much bang do I need.  Again this will differ from person to person...however if this is not your primary machine try to cut back on the extras.  If you want and all in one machine to replace your desktop, perhaps spend a little more.  Remember storage options such as portable hard drives and network storage that could save a few bucks.