Transition to MAC

[Lip_Ripper Guy]

I have finally reached the breaking point with my Dell PC's after having 4 substantial problems with 3 different computers in the last year. I am starting to take a look at the MacBook Pro, but I haven't used a Mac for 15+ years. Lots of people have made the transition already...how difficult was it for you? I'd say I'm above average in computing skills, but I need it to be a quick, seamless transition so I'm trying to do as much research as possible. Are there any "tricks of the trade" so to speak as far as recommended software/downloads/etc?

[Swimbait2009]

I was never a big fan of Safari, so I use Google Chrome. It's not without it's shortfalls, due to some lack of support from some webpages, but it's by far the FASTEST. Main thing you'll have to figure out (you probably already know this) is how compatible do you need to be with Windows based machines. Apple's office suite can read and save in Microsoft formats now, so that hasn't been an issue at all for me.

My transition was pretty fast. The main thing I had to get used to was the one button mouse. I've since had the same MacBook Pro for about 3 yrs and LOVE it! I'm trying to figure out what to do when it's time to retire this one...do I go with the iPad, or another MacBook. I don't use my computers for much more than browsing the internet and some basic spreadsheet and word processing. I'm waiting to see what sort of office suite is available for the iPad.

[Skeeter21i]

I've never owned a PC, been running Mac since '93 so can't help you on the transition question. As far as recommended software though you can go with Apples Office Suite like Swimbait mentions. Another option is Microsoft Office for Mac. It has Excel, Word, Powerpoint and Entourage. The company I rep for is windows based and I have no compatibility issues at all. The staff at all the Apple Stores in Mpls are very helpful as well. You will be happy with a MacBook Pro.