In answer to the first question, this drive Is compatible with Mac. In answer to the second question, it really depends on what you are using it for. As a time machine backup, or USB attached backup drive, it is great. I had some issues trying to hook it up to my airport base station, but that may have been because it did not come automatically formatted for mac. I didn't try the drive after I formatted it, since I already had a mybook drive attached to the airport already. If I remember correctly, I had the same issue with the my book today start with as well, so there should be no real difference in the drives.
I hope this helps.