Best personal computer for PhD research in STEM (geochem specifically)? My trusted ASUS laptop is finally failing me. I'm starting a PhD soon and am in the market for a new laptop. My ASUS made it through my undergrad and MSc, but with difficulty in the last few years \- I had to rely heavily on a department computer for my research.

I use MATLAB everyday and opensource models like HYSPLIT and PHREEQC, and of course the MS Suite and Adobe Illustrator. I've considered making the switch to mac, as many academics I know use and recommend them, but is it really going to be that much better? I've been told a mac will last much longer than a PC, but I'm not sure how objectively true that is.

Insights on making the switch to mac and recommendations for computer specs are appreciated!