Mac or PC for engineering?

nevermind · 08-14-2007, 09:03 PM

Based on what (admittedly little) I know, mac will be better for design and pc will be better for programming... engineering includes both, so with computer would be best for this major?

kyledavid80 · 08-15-2007, 06:47 PM

For engineering, I've heard there's specific software that you'll be using that isn't available for Macs. Generally, engineers have PCs, from what I've seen.

hkapoo · 08-16-2007, 12:57 AM

Stick with the PC. You won't have to worry about software incompatibility.

the_almost · 08-18-2007, 06:47 PM

I asked myself the same question before I bought a PC.

For engineering, I would say it depends. From what I know, windows is used a lot more for engineering. With a windows based PC, you wont have any compatibility problems. I know some Autodesk software has trouble running with bootcamp, for example.

My state college, NCSU, has Macs recommended on their webstore for engineering though, So like I said, it depends on the programs you'll run, the school, ect.

You would probably be better off just buying a PC so you wouldn't run into any issues.

Hope this helps

ken285 · 08-19-2007, 05:28 AM

Unless you love Macs, go with a PC. Things will just be easier for you in terms of compatibility. If you do go with a mac, and things dont work out, you can always just use the school's computer labs though.

undefined · 11-16-2007, 10:48 PM

If you go into EE, you can use Matlab on Mac-based computers. There is a Mac version of it. But for programs like PSpice, you'll need XP. That's where Parallels comes in... I just run a virtual machine on my MacBook. I open up XP and I can easily use PSpice.

In the end though, I do wish I got a tablet PC, it makes life so much easier/organized.

COLUMBIAGRL · 12-31-2007, 10:58 AM

Mac is better, you get all the great mac features AND use windows apps on it.
It doesn't get better than that

!!!!!

Milkmagn · 12-31-2007, 01:46 PM

^sorry, but for engineering, PCs are undoubtedly better

averagedesi · 01-17-2008, 12:50 AM

Keep in mind that you could always use Parallels, Boot Camp, or any of the other similar types of software available to run Windows on your mac, which should take care of compatibility problems.

Sheed30 · 01-19-2008, 08:43 AM

But why would you get a mac if you're just going to run windows on it. Apple's hardware is extremely expensive....there's no point in wasting money

smoda61 · 01-19-2008, 08:52 AM

The new Intel processing MAC's will allow you to run PC software natively as well as MAC software. Our son is a CS engineering major and does both. Reports show WINDOWS VISTA actually runs faster on the Intel MAC than on a comparable PC.

halbhalb · 01-19-2008, 12:56 PM

^^
but a macbook pro with 2.4ghz core duo, 2gb ram, 160gb hd costs $2499, while a comparable lenovo T61p costs $1600. Upgrade the lenovo to the same price point and it will blow the mac out of the water.

smoda61 · 01-20-2008, 05:29 PM

Best advice is probably talk to the college you are going to attend. RPI, which my son considered, wanted PC only at the time he applied. Were he went MAC vs PC was up to student. That was something that was important to him. He wanted an engineering school that MAC or PC was an option. If you have the time, get the schools input and if you aren't a MAC Adict or want their strengths, PC will be cheaper as halhalb pointed out.

squelchy451 · 04-22-2008, 04:27 PM

IMHO:
Windows + cool looks + sleek hardware + $200-300= mac

Windows - problems + performance = Linux

I wouldn't use mac unless I didnt' like Windows

srunni · 04-22-2008, 06:25 PM

As many people have said before, Apple hardware is overpriced. You're going to be using Windows most of the time anyway in engineering, so don't bother getting a Mac.