Microsoft Office for Apple Mac vs. for Windows

Hi there,

I'm looking into buying my first Apple Mac Pro. I've used Dell and Windows up to now. I'm just wondering, which system is used predominantly in Germany? Is it Windows or iOffice?

cheers!

turasteanga

Windows is more commen and mostly used here

iOffice? Do you mean Microsoft Office for Mac? This is compatible with the Microsoft Office for Windows at any rate. You'll also have no problem setting up a Mac on a Windows network.

Networks, and Documents formats are 2 different things...

Clearly, but network compatibility is important in a work environment none-the-less

Hi there,

I meant the Office for Mac, I think it's called iOffice. I'm only new to Mac so I could be confusing something! I'm not sure if it's so compatible with Windows after reading a couple of reviews but I'm ready for a change. I think Windows Office 08 is bringing out something for Mac soon.

So Windows is used more commonly then. Think I'll still go for the Mac though

cheers turasteanga

I've never had compatibility issues between office for Mac and office for windows.
Smart move to go Mac.

That's good to hear then! It's a lot more money but I think the quality should be much higher and the design sleeker. That's what I'm after, as well as all the technical genius!

The cases of the MAC's are higher quality, but the internal hardware is the same... In the end your paying for the apple name and OSX..

Not a bad thing to pay for an OS which makes working with a computer as easy as it should without bugging you with security holes, tons of stupid installation and maintenance work, and occasional system crashes, is it?

As a former PC user I was a little concerned about the switch to Mac, but overall I am very happy with the stability of OS X,

I have used office for Mac and also Apples new iWork 08. It really depends on your needs and budget. Although Apple Keynote (with iWork 08) blows away MS Powerpoint

Some Application alternatives I am using
Project App: Merlin from www.projectwizards.net
Visio : OmniGraffle from www.Omnigroup.com

If you need real Windows compatibility you can also use Parallels or VMWare Fusion to create a virtual Machine (or BootCamp) you will need a MS licence
Hope this helps
Kb

Thanks guys,

I'm not too worried about the switchover to Mac anymore as most people think it's a good idea It's very helpful to get feedback from users, so cheers for that. Thanks for the website tips, I'll have a good look at those. I was able to go into a shop and try out a Mac for a few minutes which was good. The main difference that felt weird was the mouse with one button and the X (close) sign etc on the left side of screen instead of the right. But I think I can manage that . I've heard other people say iWork is pretty good but will probably get Office for Mac later when the new version comes out. I don't intend to buy another laptop for a few years so this will be an investment. I think most people are still on Windows so was worried about compatability. Mixed reports there, some people saying it's bad, others saying it's grand. Guess I'll just have to find out for myself!

Is this the same OSX that I use on my mac that occasionally crashes, needs maintainance work and has software patches? Yes, they are less frequent than my PC (although my current PC has never crashed) but to make out that OSX is like a PC but with no weaknesses in the OS at all is bollocks. I like both of mine equally. Both have great features, both have no so great features.

The Mac is cooler though!