Mock OS X: Five ways to make your PC more like a Mac

By Rich Trenholm on 21 January 2008

Tags: mac | dock | dashboard | introduction | space | window | feel | look | widget | corner

As we move further into the 21st century, one issue divides the world more than any other. Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X are different ways of moving data round on a computer, so it's natural that they inspire the sort of ideological conflict not seen since Lenin chucked a stool at Adam Smith down at the Pedagogue's Arms.

To borrow a metaphor from Spartacus, some people like oysters and some people like snails. Except what if there was a way to make your snail do some of the cool things oysters can do, like make pearls? And what if you could make your PC do some of the cool stuff that Macs do so well? CNET is here to show you how.

Oh, and before anybody throws their Start menu out of the pram, the best way to have Mac functionality is obviously to buy a Mac. But it's not that simple for roughly 90 percent of the working population, chained to ancient HP WageSlave 486s in strip-lit spreadsheet farms across the world. For them, this article is a ray of hope. And we're sure there are plenty of people out there who are perfectly happy with Windows, but even they could benefit from the nifty features we have lined up.

While some of the software is free and some is paid, all get you on the path to Mac nirvana without sipping from the cup of Jobs. Bear in mind, though, that they may well use up your memory and make older PCs run noticeably slower, and you download them at your own risk. Click through to see our favourite five ways -- in no particular order -- to make your PC more like a Mac.

Like this article? Click below to send it to your mobile for free!

Be the first to comment on this article!

  • Leave a comment

All fields marked with * are required

What do you think

Your e-mail will not be displayed

You must read and type the 6 chars within 0..9 and A..F

You must read and type the 6 chars.


  • Asus VW223B

  • HP Deskjet D4360 Colour Inkjet Printer

  • HP Deskjet D2560

  • Vodafone Internet Stick

  • Acer Aspire Predator

  • Logitech QuickCam Sphere AF

  • Asus MK241H

  • Apple has killed the video store; will ISPs be next?

  • Kodak ESP 5 All-in-One Printer

More articles »

Find the right desktop

Brand
  • Multiple options can be selected

    The Explain Series

    • Asus VW223B

      Asus VW223B

      The Asus VW223B is acceptable for its intended audience — those who need to add a second monitor cheaply, and are undemanding in its use.

    • HP Deskjet D4360 Colour Inkjet Printer

      HP Deskjet D4360 Colour Inkjet Printer

      The Deskjet D4360 justifies its asking price nicely. At the same time, you do get exactly what you pay for.

    • HP Deskjet D2560

      HP Deskjet D2560

      A bare bones desktop printer with a minimum of features and accessories, the HP Deskjet D2560 is really only suitable for printing basic black and white pages. Don't trust it with your photographs.

    • Vodafone Internet Stick

      Vodafone Internet Stick

      For those blessed with excellent 3G reception in their homes the Vodafone Internet Stick will serve you well. Be sure to check Vodafone's coverage map before coughing up the cash.

    • Acer Aspire Predator

      Acer Aspire Predator

      Acer's Aspire Predator ticks most of the boxes for an enthusiast's machine, but the interior is a let down.

    More reviews »

    Membership benefits

    Create a personalised homepage

    Create a personalised homepage

    Choose your interests from our 16 categories and only see articles relevant to you. Sign up for a free CNET.com.au membership now!