If you’re planning to “switch” from a Windows machine to a Mac, or know someone who is, CNET has an interesting article about good Mac items to buy.
When it comes to the computer itself, the CNET staff says to go with the Titanium PowerBook G4. Though it’s pricey, it’s portable and “nearly as speedy as the 1GHz, dual processor Power Mac G4.”
A midrange choice is the iMac. The CNET staff notes that it’s “exceptionally easy-to-use and powerful for the price. With a new 17-inch monitor sitting atop that crisp, white dome, the iMac can’t help but impress.”
For those on a tighter budget, the eMac is recommended. “If you’re not looking for expandability (you can upgrade only RAM, up to 1GB) and you’re not dead set on a trim LCD, the eMac proves as thrifty and solid as the iMac was in its early days.”
When it comes to an operating system, they definitely recommend the upcoming Mac OS X 10.2 (Jaguar). “Apple’s newest OS offers some tempting options, such as faster performance, the Sherlock Web search tool that aggregates results into one desktop window, and a barrel of bundled software, including Mail, a calendar app, an updated version of iTunes and a new utility that lets you sync with a Palm OS device and some PDAs. Plus, you’ll find built-in support for Windows networking and long-awaited VPN capabilities.”
They prefer Microsoft Office v. X as the office suite for switchers. And the iPod and AirPort Base Station are on their accessories you’ll want list.