Helpful Mac vs. PC at Penn article for future students and parents

Much2learn
Wed, 14 Oct 2015 15:59:35 +0000

When DD enrolled, I contacted Computer Connect and asked this question.

They said that most Computer Science majors prefer a Mac because all Macs come with Unix installed, but PCs do not. Either one will work but there is more setup/hassle factor with the PC.

I have used both and in my experience the PCs were a lot cheaper, can also process things faster once it is set up and working properly, and has more flexibility with settings. However, they were more likely to have issues that require you to deal with complex settings to fix. For students who enjoy that sort of thing the PC can be a better choice. But, if you are going to take it for repairs instead of working it out for yourself, your PC savings may be eaten up by repair bills.

The reality is that either one will work.