Mac's - are they overpriced?


Recommended Posts

Don't forget you also get Leopard. I know you can run Leopard on non-Apple hardware but it's simply not the same. Also the iLife suite of apps - there is nothing on Windows that even comes close to the iLife apps.

I agree that you do pay a slight premium for buying into the Apple brand. But, at the end of the day, Apple don't make cheap computers out of ****ty plastic. Your paying for the Apple brand, the whole 'package' so to speak. No other computer manufacturer makes computers like Apple do. The only PC manufacturer that comes close is Alienware - and we all now how expensive they are. I know some are higher spec but its still horrible plastic and not very environmentally friendly. Despite Apple stuff costing a bit more (even iPods cost more than the equivalent) I will never buy a 'generic' PC again.

Dell = Ford

Apple = Ferrari Fully loaded Ford with additional coat of paint.

Fixed that for you. :p

The Dell is a nice looking notebook I admit. Apple's notebooks feature multiple trackpad buttons - you just configure them how you want in software. I never understood the point of fingerprint readers - is it security? Surely that is better suited to a business notebook not a consumer model. In any case, iris recognition via the built-in camera would be better (and much more secure) then there is no need for something extra on the palm rest.

I admit I was a bit gutted that Apple didn't include Blu-ray support. However, thinking about it, why would I need it? Unless the Blu-ray drive is also a writer then I don't see the point. Why would I want to watch a Blu-ray movie at 1080p on a 15-inch screen? It's silly. You only get the benefit of 1080p HD when viewed on a 40-inch HD + screen anyway. Not to mention watching a movie will suck the life out of that battery.

Fingerprint readers...some can say the same for magsafe, backlit keyboard etc. etc. I would scratch all those reasons and just say one thing. Apple has far better build quality than Dell. If it's worth the price premium or not, is subjective.

I dont think it is, no one is arguing or flaming just someone offering a differing viewpoint.

Don't forget you also get Leopard. I know you can run Leopard on non-Apple hardware but it's simply not the same. Also the iLife suite of apps - there is nothing on Windows that even comes close to the iLife apps.

How is it "not the same" its exactly the same with the right specs, but i dont want to turn this into an OSX86 debate.

I agree the main reason for buying a Mac is the operating system. As for iLife im sure there are other products on Windows PCs that are not bundled together but cost the same.

Fingerprint readers...some can say the same for magsafe, backlit keyboard etc. etc. I would scratch all those reasons and just say one thing. Apple has far better build quality than Dell. If it's worth the price premium or not, is subjective.

Well, I think the magnetic power cord (MagSafe) is a great idea and often wondered why it has never been done before. The backlit keyboard is a godsend to me as I often use my MBP in low-light. Now I just wish my TV and PS3 remotes were backlit.

How is it "not the same" its exactly the same with the right specs, but i dont want to turn this into an OSX86 debate.

I guess it just doesn't feel right. You can flame me for that if your want but it's like doing graphic design or photographic work in Windows. The same goes for using Windows on a Mac. That doesn't feel right either. Hard to explain I guess.

Yes, is many ways they are. That does not change the fact that as an MCSE, CCNA and MCDBA, I have bought Macs for use in my home for years. It does not change the fact that many, many of my colleagues also own Macs at home. We often see the cost of the units as secondary to the perceived ease of use, tool integration and out-of-the-box experience. I am pretty sure we are not stupid people, we just prioritize differently than some others.

I guess it just doesn't feel right. You can flame me for that if your want but it's like doing graphic design or photographic work in Windows. The same goes for using Windows on a Mac. That doesn't feel right either. Hard to explain I guess.

No i dont want to flame anyone i just wondered why it was different considering Macs used intel chipsets and cpus.

Well, they are a bit.

But the new MacBook is where the game is at.

For one time, Apple closed a lot more the gap between the normal and the Pro.

The All alluminium case and black parts make it gorgeous and finally go over the damn white "Apple-ish" look.

But don't compare Apple MacBook to Dells, It's the Sony Vaio SR that look the mush to Apple and it's the best way to show that Apple are still *slightly* overpriced.

Well, I think the magnetic power cord (MagSafe) is a great idea and often wondered why it has never been done before. The backlit keyboard is a godsend to me as I often use my MBP in low-light. Now I just wish my TV and PS3 remotes were backlit.

MagSafe is indeed a great idea...

However, I can't see a reason why some people would need a backlit keyboard? I touch type, I don't look at keyboard whilst doing so, hence the lack of requirement for backlighting.

As for game console controllers and remote controls, once I have it physically in my hand, I know where the buttons are...

Please note the above is just my personal opinion.

Where is the cheapest place to get a MacBook in the UK? I had a look and a 15" MBP with an SSD is just over ?2000 - can they be found cheaper?

By the SSD somewhere else might save some cash and don't by RAM from Apple either.

ah ya ofcourse. i know the hardware part is kindof used in many other laptops pcs and thats why how OSx86 project is possible , what i asked you is , you saying "Its still not Mac", apart from that 4-5% of hardware incompatibility (which you will hardly notice) , its darn close to Mac and its is totally a Mac as far i can say, cause i am using Leopard on my almost 2 yr old HP 6114tx pavilion using it as my Main work hackintop.

Why don't you update to 10.5.5? It's been out for a while now on Software Update.

They are overpriced and these new ones are taking it too far. Still, the quality and finish in unmatched. I really don't know how PC makers can't do something similar. It can't be that hard surely.

For the Windows crowd what compares to a Macbook in looks and finish ?

It's a little overpriced, (10%-15%) but it's still worth it.

Look at the things an iMac includes for example :

- An airport-n card

- A good webcam

- A great keyboard that is a USB hub and a mouse (I hate this one, but it's still there)

- Awesome integrated speakers with subwoofer

- A bluetooth card

- A good range of ports (USB2, firewire, firewire2, firewire3, optical audio out, and whatnot...)

- A CD/DVD-burner

- The latest iLife

- The latest release of Mac OS

- A remote control (I think it's still included)

- An awesome display

- An awesome, highly recyclable conception/design.

- The rest of the price goes for the main hardware.

It's really an out-of-the-box thing, it has nearly everything you ever wanted. Sometimes they do some sacrifices on the hardware, I know, but all in all it's a winning product. Now I only talked about an iMac, but think about the rest the same way.

All of this costs a lot of RnD, you've got to think about it. Crazy designs like these are not made in one or two days, and you know they are always looking into innovations, and they're the leaders in that branch.

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • Zoom Workplace 7.1.0.41345 by Razvan Serea Zoom Workplace for Windows is a reliable video conferencing tool that makes it easy to connect and collaborate. With features like messaging, file sharing, and app integrations, it’s designed to streamline teamwork. You’ll get high-quality audio and video, strong security with end-to-end encryption, and an intuitive interface—all of which help remote teams and businesses stay productive and connected. Zoom Workplace key features: High-Definition Video & Audio: Provides clear, reliable communication for virtual meetings. End-to-End Encryption: Ensures secure communication with strong data protection. Multi-Factor Authentication: Adds an extra layer of security for user accounts. Integration with Productivity Apps: Supports seamless integration with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and more. File Sharing: Easily share files during meetings for efficient collaboration. Real-Time Messaging: Enables team chat for ongoing communication. Collaborative Whiteboarding: Allows teams to brainstorm and collaborate visually. Webinar Support: Host large webinars with interactive features. Administrative Controls: Manage user permissions, meeting settings, and security features. Cloud Storage: Automatically stores meetings and files in the cloud for easy access. Cross-Platform Support: Available on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices. Meeting features: Virtual Backgrounds: Customize your background for meetings to maintain privacy or enhance professionalism. Touch Up My Appearance: Automatically smoothens skin tone for a more polished video appearance. Breakout Rooms: Divide meetings into smaller sessions for group discussions or workshops. Live Transcription: Automatically generate real-time captions during meetings for accessibility. Zoom Apps: Integrate third-party applications directly into Zoom for enhanced functionality. Meeting Reactions: Participants can use emojis for quick, non-verbal feedback during meetings. Polling: Conduct live polls during meetings to gather instant feedback from participants. Attention Tracking: Monitors participant attention during meetings to ensure engagement. Closed Captioning: Enable manual or automatic captions for a more inclusive experience. Webinar Replay: Record and share webinars with analytics for audience engagement. Download: Zoom 64-bit | 145.0 MB (Free, paid upgrade available) Links: Zoom Website | Zoom ARM64 | Zoom Installers | Release Notes Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • UK funds £60M AI labs to challenge US tech dominance with open-source models by Paul Hill The UK government has awarded £60 million to Oxford University and University College London to help keep the country in the AI race by focusing on open-source, low-hardware alternatives. This is in stark contrast to the expensive, closed-source, and high-hardware-requirement models being created in the United States and elsewhere. The money will be shared among two new academic research labs over six years to help them redesign the fundamental mathematics and architectures of AI to help the UK reduce its reliance on a handful of US tech firms. Commenting on the development, AI Minister Kanishka Narayan said: Initially, the government planned to fund just one lab with a £40 million investment, but with this update, two labs will now get access to a larger pool of funds. The labs are expected to invest in the top AI researchers at every career stage, with £2 million per lab being set aside for hiring at least ten doctoral students. The government hopes that this will grow the UK’s talent in the field of AI. The labs are also expected to work closely with the leaders in British AI research, such as the Alan Turing Institute and UKRI’s AI research hubs. This will allow the various teams to collaborate and create new solutions faster than they could alone. This development is pretty interesting for a number of reasons, chiefly that it could create a long-term challenge for US tech firms if these labs successfully scale these open-source architectures that bypass the proprietary ecosystems. It could also give British businesses and public sector organizations access to AI features without paying high licensing fees to foreign providers or needing to invest in specialized server infrastructure.
    • If I were them, I'm gonna hold out until the prices of these semiconductor parts normalize. $1,049 for a ~5 year old hardware is DoA, more so for gamers. On a deeper note, if Steam Machine is priced like this, we are soo effed up for the next gen Xbox console and PS6. With great AAA titles releasing at the end of the year, this just creates more demand...and more tears for me. Lol.
    • I suspect one reason its hard to justify subsidising is that it's not a locked down device like a traditional console is. In this climate sadly if it was a "good deal" you'd get people hoarding them for anything but gaming. The Lenovo Legion Go 2 with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme is £1300 here ($1720) for some context on how other SteamOS like devices are now priced. I got the older Z1 Extreme model for £300 with a dock, just shows how insane prices have got recently.
  • Recent Achievements

    • One Month Later
      nates earned a badge
      One Month Later
    • Week One Done
      Almohandis earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Rookie
      dorf went up a rank
      Rookie
    • First Post
      mike_rumble earned a badge
      First Post
    • Dedicated
      tuben earned a badge
      Dedicated
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      450
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      180
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      93
    4. 4
      Michael Scrip
      87
    5. 5
      neufuse
      67
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!