> why everyone is recommending a Mac That’s because of the needs you listed. Software needs: there are a lot of great code editors for OS X and they are eithe

> why everyone is recommending a Mac That’s because of the needs you listed. Software needs: there are a lot of great code editors for OS X and they are either free or very cheap. The OS also comes with a lot of UNIX tools preinstalled and you can easily install more. Hardware needs: “lightweight, long battery life, slim”, that’s a description of the MacBook Air if I ever read one. The description also fits Ultraboks, but because they were introduced relatively recently and so few are sold, you’re not likely to find a good one for $500. > How easy is it to get used to coding on a Mac / installing packages? Given that you‘re familiar with Windows and Linux distros, that’s not going to be a problem. And in the off-chance that you do not like working with OS X, you can always install another OS. I recommended the MacBook Air because there’s a big second hand market for them, they’re available within your budget, they fulfil the needs you listed, they’re all around solid, and Apple’s service and warranty is legendary.