But are these fair comparisons? I decided to take a look, and you won't believe what I found: Microsoft isn't being honest (okay, maybe you do believe that).
They're often comparing Apples to oranges with this one. For example, on the iMacs portion, they're comparing the iMac to other all in one PCs. However, all of the PCs have much smaller screens, and much slower processors. In fact, they're often older models. The processors in the PCs are at least 2 years old. The iMacs are at least twice as fast as the PCs on the list, with better graphics and a larger screen.
How about portables? The MacBook Pro 15" versus the other PCs... with that screen size. Again, Microsoft compared the MacBooks with older, slower laptops. The Dell XPS, when upgraded to come close to the performance of the MacBook Pro, comes out to $2197.99, compared to the $1849 MacBook Pro. Dell offers a rebate that brings the XPS down to $1799.99, just $50 cheaper than the MacBook Pro, despite the fact that it comes with a much slower processor. And to get the Dell battery life up to the level of the MacBook Pro? You'll need to add a large 9 cell battery. Here's a picture of it:
Ouch. The laptop was bulky enough on it's own, let alone the huge battery. They also list the lowest figures for battery life for the Macs, while the max for the PCs. For example, I've used my MacBook Pro for an entire day on battery. At the end of my 8 hour work day, the MBP had 15% battery left. Yet they list the battery life for the MBP at 7 hours, the minimum. Not to mention the fact that the Dell is made out of cheap plastic parts, while the MacBook Pro is made out of a single block of aluminum, and features a glass HD screen.
Microsoft also says that the PCs have free security software, while you need to purchase Mac software. First, there are plenty of free AV software for Macs, and secondly, you'll almost never need it anyway, as Apple frequently updates Macs to enhance security, and there are very few security threats every year. Unlike the thousands that plague PCs.
But perhaps the biggest pile of *expletive deleted* is Microsoft's comparison of Netbooks to the MacBook Air. Netbooks, which are slow, unreliable, and outdated are being compared to the incredibly fast and light MacBook Air. The MacBook Air, with instant on technology, fast processors and graphics, is being compared to computers that struggle to use the latest operating systems and browsers.
So what should you take away from this? Microsoft is scared, and they're hoping you don't do your research. If you look into any of their claims, you'll find that they're full of it. What they also refuse to mention?
- Macs have the highest customer satisfaction.
- Apple has the best customer support.
- Macs have the highest resale value (so your next computer will be a lot cheaper).
- Mac OS upgrades are a lot cheaper. $29 for Snow Leopard, and over $100 for the cheapest versions of Windows
- Macs have awesome features, like multitouch trackpads, Thunderbolt ports, illuminated keyboards, hd webcams for Facetime, magsafe ports, great battery life, slim form factors, slot loaded disk drives, hard drives with shock protection, and many, many, more.
- And Macs last a lot longer, both the hardware and the ability to stay "clean" and run the latest software well.
Next time you're getting a computer, don't buy the cheapest thing you can find. It's going to be riddled with issues. Go with quality, features, reliability, and speed. Apple doesn't make computers that are as cheap as the PCs because they use new tech, not last year's junk. Go with a Mac, you'll be glad you did.
For more reasons on why you should switch to Mac, check out Apple's "Why Mac" page. And, if you're ready to make the switch, check out Apple's guide to using your Mac to it's full potential. Despite what you may have been told, Apple's prices are actually incredibly competitive, and you get a whole lot more for your dollar with a Mac.
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