PCMag: The Evolution of a Computing Authority
For over four decades, PCMag (originally known as PC Magazine) has served as a cornerstone of technical journalism in the United States. Published by Ziff Davis, the publication transitioned from a thick, print-based guide for the early IBM PC era into a comprehensive digital resource for the modern consumer electronics market.
From its inception in 1982, PCMag focused on providing rigorous reviews and previews of hardware and software, catering specifically to information technology (IT) professionals. While it began as a niche guide for personal computing, it evolved to cover a vast array of technology, including mobile devices, smart home systems, and cybersecurity.
Key Facts
- Founded: February/March 1982.
- Publisher: Ziff Davis (via PCMag Digital Group).
- Print Era: 1982 to January 2009.
- Digital Edition: Late 1994 to December 2022.
- Peak Circulation: 1.2 million in the late 1990s.
- Core Mission: Evaluating products to enhance productivity for IT professionals.
The History and Growth of PC Magazine
PCMag was co-founded by David Bunnell, Edward Currie, and Tony Gold. The vision was developed at Lifeboat Associates in New York, where Bunnell and Currie created a business plan that not only included PC Magazine but also paved the way for other publications like PC World and eWeek. The first issue, dated February–March 1982, featured a landmark interview with Bill Gates.
The magazine's growth was explosive. By its third issue, it had to switch to square binding because the content was too thick for standard saddle-stitching. The publication frequency also shifted rapidly; it moved from bimonthly to monthly in August 1982, and eventually to a biweekly schedule in January 1984 to manage issues that had reached as many as 800 pages.
Transition to Digital
The rise of the internet and a contracting advertising market in the computer industry eventually made the print format unsustainable. In November 2008, Ziff Davis announced the discontinuation of the print edition, effective January 2009. While a digital edition with print-like formatting continued until December 2022, the focus has now shifted entirely to the rolling updates of the pcmag.com website.
Editorial Focus and Specialized Content
Throughout its history, PCMag was known for its strict editorial standard. Former editor Bill Machrone famously stated in 1985 that if an article did not evaluate products or enhance productivity, it did not belong in the magazine.
Regular Departments
During its print era, the magazine featured several staple sections:
- First Looks: Reviews of newly released products.
- Pipeline: Short snippets on industry developments.
- Solutions: Practical how-to articles.
- User-to-User: Expert answers to reader questions.
- After Hours: Coverage of computer entertainment, reflecting the magazine's business-centric roots.
- Abort, Retry, Fail?: A humor page (later known as "Backspace").
Programming and Technical Depth
In the 1980s, the publication provided extensive coverage of programming for the IBM PC and its compatibles. It featured deep dives into languages such as C, Assembly, BASIC, and Turbo Pascal, with notable contributions from writers like Charles Petzold.
PC Labs: Pioneering Hardware Testing
One of PCMag's most significant contributions to tech journalism was the creation of PC Labs. Established as a formal test facility at 1 Park Avenue in New York in 1986, PC Labs allowed the publication to move beyond subjective reviews to objective, benchmark-driven data.
Under the leadership of the first director, William Wong, PC Labs developed a series of benchmarks used to evaluate hardware and software. This facility was essential for massive comparative projects, such as the annual printer edition, which compared nearly one hundred different models using standardized benchmarks.
Publication Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| First Issue | February/March 1982 |
| Print Discontinued | January 2009 |
| Digital Edition Ended | December 2022 |
| Headquarters | New York, USA |
| ISSN (Print) | 0888-8507 |
| ISSN (Web) | 2373-2830 |
Editorial Leadership
The magazine has been guided by several prominent editors-in-chief over the decades. Wendy Sheehan Donnell, who joined the team in 2007 as a senior editor for consumer electronics, was appointed editor-in-chief in January 2022. Other notable leaders include Dan Costa, Lance Ulanoff, and Jim Louderback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PC Magazine still printed?
No, the print edition was discontinued in January 2009. The digital edition, which mirrored the print format, ended in December 2022. The publication now exists exclusively as a website at pcmag.com.
What is PC Labs?
PC Labs is a formal hardware and software testing facility established by PCMag in 1986 to provide objective benchmarks and comparative data for product reviews.
Who founded PC Magazine?
The magazine was co-founded by David Bunnell, Edward Currie, and Tony Gold, with early business planning conducted at Lifeboat Associates in New York.
What does PCMag cover today?
While it began with a focus on IBM PCs, PCMag now covers a broad spectrum of technology, including mobile devices, smart home tech, gaming, security, health and fitness electronics, and software services.
How did the magazine handle its massive size in the 1980s?
Due to the volume of content, the magazine switched from saddle-stitching to square binding by the third issue and moved from a monthly to a biweekly schedule in 1984 to keep individual issues manageable.