[elithrar]

> Why do hackers like Macs that much? Wouldn't it be better to use cross-platform tools?

I think a lot of us like OS X because we get a Unix build environment with a fairly slick GUI and good third-party app support.

Being able to use the same OS for day-to-day tasks (Word docs, Photoshop/Lightroom, etc) and for development is nice, and despite some inconsistencies, the quality of third-party applications is pretty high (i.e. Transmit, TextMate/MacVim, Pixelmator, Adium, etc).

Battery life, when it comes to portables, is also a bonus; most Macs have better battery life and less weight than a similarly specced Dell/HP/Lenovo machine (anecdotal, but I think I'm in the ballpark here).

[mathninja]

This is exactly what I say when I explain why I like using a mac. Also the touchpad is amazing. For most of my day-to-day tasks its better than a mouse. I would have never imagined that this was possible.

[5hoom]

Totally agreed. The MBP trackpad is a wonderful thing & when combined with various swipe gestures I find it really efficient for getting around.

Things like being able to do a two finger swipe to scroll an out of focus document or four finger swipe to show active windows are just really nice.