Originally Posted by
captkdobbs
I forgot to mention that bootcamp doesn't replace OS, you just build a separate partition on your hard drive for Windows. (The instructions are on your Mac and easy to follow. Applications/Utilities/BootCamp Assistant)
Then, from your OS, you tell the machine 'next time you turn on I want you to use Windows'. When you're done with your training (or MS Office, etc) you tell your machine 'the next time you turn on I want you to use OS'. It's actually pretty slick if you don't need to switch back and forth mid-task.
I have used my Mac with both Boot camp and Parallels. Bootcamp seems to run Windows application a little bit better than Parallels, but both are good. Bootcamp is pre-installed so it will save you money but re-booting is a hassle.
You will need to buy a copy of windows 8 or 7, if you can still get one, for either application so you might be better just buying a cheap windows machine if you are primarily concerned about $$$.
Important tip with Bootcamp - Do not short change your Windows storage when setting up your partition. I only allocated 30 gig and when I got close to 30 Gig my computer totally bogged down. As far as I know it is a one shot deal and you can not easily adjust your partition size. You may now be able to buy 3rd party software to do this but by the time you do this you would have been better off just buying a cheap windows machine.
My Bottom line: If you are just concerned with $$$$ purchase a windows machine. If you want the convenience of having a Mac and also being able to run windows then use get a Mac with Bootcamp or Parallels.
Bootcamp - runs windows applications better, but is inconvenient.
Parallels - Runs windows applications pretty well (including most DOD CAC enabled applications) and is more convenient, but more costly.
Scoop