[Maritime Q-Scout]

What should I be looking for?

Mac or PC?

if PC what specs?

I want something that boots fast and will last a minimum of 3-4 years before replacing. I don't game, mostly internet, videos (movies/tv), I'd like to hook it up to a TV, I am a fan of having the optical drive.

It's been years since I took a good hard look at what's out there, so I thought before I do I'll ask the CP brain-trust.

Also, never used a Mac before, but I'm open to considering it. Why should/shouldn't I?

I've always used a PC, I use a PC at work.

I ask as the worry of anti-virus is basically non-existent with Macs, and I'll be purchasing an iPhone 5 come September/October (whenever the release is).

This is step one in my research and consideration.

I also should say I have my mind made up on a desktop as I find I'm more productive with them, and I waste far less time on a desktop than laptop. I don't lie in bed for hours farting around on my desktop. I do have a playbook which now fills that void, but I don't waste nearly as much time on it.