How to Buy a Mac Computer

Buying a Mac requires a bit of legwork, but any Mac user will tell you, the effort is worth it. With today's Macs, you can run all major OSs, even Windows Vista. Your accessories like printers and digital cameras are all compatible with Macs. Plus, Macs are far less susceptible to viruses, and from day one you can have your Mac up and running in minutes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide if you're interested in a desktop or a portable computer. Currently, Apple offers an iMac desktop and a Mac Pro, formerly called PowerMac, which is a professional-grade desktop. Mac mini is Mac's latest desktop design. In portable computers, the MacBook, formerly the iBook, and the MacBook Pro, formerly Powerbook, are your two options. The MacBook Pro is a professional-grade laptop.

2. Calculate your budget and stick to it. It's easy to end up spending more than you can afford, so be careful. Apple does offer financing options through its website, but you may want to avoid going into debt.

3. Shop around. Apple determines what each machine will cost, but you can find deals. On the Apple website, check out the Hot Deals page to find refurbished or discontinued Macs. Most of these come with a solid warranty from Apple and even though they may not be the latest, they'll most likely meet your needs. Also, the Apple website offers discounts to teachers and students. Businesses and government organizations can take advantage of discount offers.

4. Buy a Mac locally if you want contact. You can go to an Apple retail store and interact with the merchandise, talk to a Mac "Genius" and make an informed decision. Apple stores are listed on their website. If a store isn't in your area, consider purchasing your Mac from an Apple reseller in your community. You can find a listing of all Apple resellers on the Apple homepage.

5. Surf other Internet retailers to find great deals on Macs. Amazon.com, SmallDog, NewEgg.com and Buy.com often sell Macs and have discounts or rebate offers.

6. Consider waiting to buy a Mac. Apple regularly updates its Mac product lines, and knowing when these updates will happen can translate into big savings for you. After an update, many "previous generation" Macs end up in the Hot Deals listings. It won't be the latest and greatest, but it may be exactly what you wanted at a great price.

Resources

• Apple's official website

[caseyj]

on 4/10/2009 Could you clarify the potential pitfalls of buying a Mac computer at less than Apple company's list price? I bring this up because I see people buy Mac computers at list price, because the Apple store, located in a trendy and high end boutique style shopping center, says that they offer no discounts (duh!) except for a very small 5% to 10% to students and teachers (ouch!). Worse, the local Mac User Group maintains that they are no discounts available, other than to students and teachers, and that no one should try to purchase a Mac computer at any place other than an authorized retailer. The users' group recommends another independent, but authorized Apple retailer. In your post, what is meant (in step 4) by "Buy a Mac locally if you want contact"? What is "contact"? Without purchasing a Mac computer, I have received plenty of training and help from the local Apple store.