If you're reading this, chances are it's because you use a Macintosh at home or work and, almost by default, that means you love the Apple platform. Or perhaps you've had it up to here with your PC, the Vista transition or the flaky things that PCs do, and now you want to make a clean break.We've got some great insights to offer both camps, from reviewer and Mac expert John Welch.

Welch offers up his list of most useful and favorite Mac applications, running the gamut from personal productivity (text editor, blog posting, diagramming, chat and more) to hard-core IT functions (Windows Mobile-to-Mac OS synchronization, scripting and script debugging, virtualization, dual boot and more) to leisure-time diversions (gaming). He names a total of 22 programs.

Welch has cast the net far and wide to identify the best OS X applications, including more than one from Microsoft and more than one from Apple itself.

Look at his selections as a conversation starter. We know many of the Mac faithful hold fervent views about what works best on your computer. Please share your favorite (or least favorite) Mac apps and utilities, or weigh in on John's picks. In the weeks to come, I'll report on the community's most useful Mac apps.