I'm a network administrator.
I work in a TOTALLY windows shop.
When I first started working in IT, i was a die-hard windows advocate.
after 5 years on the job,
I have purchased an Imac and LOVE it.
Apple sells computers as a whole package. OS X is a BIG part of that package.
It's GUI is simple and intuitive. It's UNIX core is a totally new interface I am excited about learning to use.
Thing about the Powerbooks, the 1 thing that puts them above and beyond Pentium laptops is the fact that they are capable of running the OS X operating system.
What's so great about OS X you ask?
1: quartz.
Apple decided to integrate OpenGL and PDF technology into the desktop window system. The different windows on the screen are actually 3d models. What's the advantage of this, other than a really cool looking desktop? The OpenGL technology allows the Video card to take over much of the regular windowing work, sparing CPU cycles for applications.
2: Stability.
Windows XP and Windows 2000 are very stable operating systems. OS X is more stable, and that says a lot.
3: The Ilife suite.
This is a software package wich comes with new macs. Let me tell you, it's easy to use, Very clear and crisp results, and it's the most fun thing in the world to hook up your video camera and make it into a DVD.
4: Ichat.
This is one of the only 3rd party AOL chat clients that I'll swear by. it's pretty, you can chat with people while leaving up your away message.
5: Fire wire 800.
That's 800+mbps. USB 2.0 is 480mbps.
6: They already have 802.11G capability. 802.11G is wireless ethernet, which is compatible with both 802.11a and 802.11b technologies. In english: Your wireless internet will work in many more places.