I am a longtime PC user but the constant background talk about Mac's on this board has left me curious. A couple of newbies at my office have actually brought their Macs from home refusing to work on PCs. So, I decided to see what all the fuss is about and pick one up for my home.

My question is, for all the Mac users here, where is the best online store to shop for Mac software in general? Also, any other advice as I dive in?

Thanks,
Jeff

Jeff,
Two good places to get mac software is Apple.com and macmall.com. MacMall does have a bigger selection but most of the top softare is sold on Apple's site. Many applications sold today are written for both the PC and mac platforms and alot of times they can be found on in the same software package. Where the installers for either platform are on the same CD-ROM or DVD. Apple also has over 50 store through the states where you can buy mac software as well as hardware.

To look for an Apple Store near you checkout:

http://www.apple.com/retail/


Be seeing you,
Brian
(OS X Test Engineer)

Welcome to the Mac side of the aisle. I have been buying software from MacWarehouse for over 10 years and have nothing bad to say about them. MacConnection is also a good source.

Unfortunately, I have had nothing but VERY bad experience with MacMall. Plus, I have heard bad reports about MacMall from others. I refuse to buy anything from them. I would advise keeping your distance from them.

Buying from Apple is a valid direction to go as well.

I have bought some software at the Apple Store when I was in a pinch and needed it right away. Your local Comp USA will have a lot of software too, and the prices are sometimes lower.

Online, I usually check MacWarehouse and Outpost.com. My credit card gives me a 5% rebate on all purchases at Outpost, so that sometimes makes the decision for me.

Brendan Howard

I don't know if this'll affect your decision making in any way, but MacWarehouse is now owned by CDW...oddly enough, when I met my wife she was working in sales for MicroWarehouse, MacWarehouse's sister company.

Thanks, all, for your advice. I'll check out the places you've suggested.

My problem is that I've moved to Toronto and there are, unfortunately, no CompUSA's here. There are a few chains that carry Mac computers, but they seem to only carry the most essential software.

Now if I can only surpress my constant urge to "right click"

JF