I know, I know....no macs....but.....
I switched to a 50% Windows/50% Mac setup about 12 months ago with a fair bit of hesitation (same boat as you...years of files/programs/time on Windows etc)....HOWEVER.....switching is not a big deal. You very quickly pick up on the differences and get used to it. I have had absolutely no issues with compatibility between the two platforms and the Mac is just a much nicer experience.
I am just about to order myself a 15" MacBook Pro and 23" Apple Cinema Display to put into a very similar setup as what you are after (to go 100% Mac!!!). Even though it is not a "dock" setup, Macs and external displays are hot-swappable. There is no stuffing around with settings etc, you just plug in your external display and everything just works. That is gonna set me back about $5100 AUD with a few other peripherals (external HDD, laptop bag & skin, wireless KB/mouse, laptop stand etc.)
I don't know if you have heard of it, but there is software for the Mac (modern Intel models only) called Parallels. It allows to install and run Windows on your Mac....BUT...unlike a dual-boot setup, you can run windows right ON TOP of Mac OS X. In coherence mode, Windows applications run straight on your Mac desktop, without the Windows GUI (as if it is running natively).
Things to consider.  |