Help me justify this to myself. (Macbook)

[Dybbuk]

I haven't owned a computer in about two years now (don't take this to mean I'm computer illiterate; I'm fairly well versed). I've wanted a Mac ever since I laid eyes on it. Now, it looks like I shall have the opportunity to get a computer quite soon.

Now, my eyes are squarely focused towards the Macbook. But Dell, here in Canada, has an incredible deal on this computer: http://configure.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=ca&CS=CABSDT1&l=en&oc=OCINSP6402_FSI_CB64FS1

I know that if I don't get the Mac, I will be disappointed, but I can't turn the logic off in my brain. So please, just help me convince myself getting a Macbook is the right thing?

 

[wako]

screw justification...


just grab some booze get on apple's website and then a few weeks you will suddenly find a macbook on your door step

 

[macdaddy121]

Turn this logic swith on.......Mac OSX or Windows......there.....It is worth every penny. And there is no dell that can make you as happy as a Macbook.

 

[Mitthrawnuruodo]

If you want a Dell. Get a Dell. Use Windows and/or Linux with all their faults (Windows, mainly) and quirks (Linux, mainly).

If you want a Mac. Get a MacBook. It can do anything a Dell can and run Mac OS X, too...

Personally, I wouldn't use a Dell or any other Windows driven PC even if I got it for free... but that's just me...

 

[wako]

I dunno, those 30'' Dell screens are tempting

 

[tektonnic]

The way my Dad taught me to justify was the following,

Do I need it? No. Do I want it? Yes. Can I afford it? Yes.

If your answer the above questions match then you buy.

 

[Chundles]

I haven't owned a computer in about two years now (don't take this to mean I'm computer illiterate; I'm fairly well versed). I've wanted a Mac ever since I laid eyes on it. Now, it looks like I shall soon have the opportunity to get a computer quite soon.

Now, my eyes are squarely focused towards the Macbook. But Dell, here in Canada, has an incredible deal on this computer: http://configure.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=ca&CS=CABSDT1&l=en&oc=OCINSP6402_FSI_CB64FS1

I know that if I don't get the Mac, I will be disappointed, but I can't turn the logic off in my brain. So please, just help me convince myself getting a Macbook is the right thing?

That's not a bad machine but let's look at what you're getting up close:

Initial Configuration:
* Windows XP Home - bad idea for laptops, you'd need to upgrade to Pro.
* 15.4" XGA screen - either 1280x768 or 1280x800 ie. no more space than a MacBook just the pixels are larger. I'd find such a screen blurry.
* More, but slower RAM.
* Good size HDD
* Better burner
* Lower battery life from dodgy cheap Dell battery
* You'd need to worry about Malware
* How heavy/thick is it?

Accessories:
* You only get basic sound with the Dell, MacBook has digital optical in/out.
* You need to buy an add-on to add Media Centre functionality to the Dell, not mention spring for the upgrade to MCE.
* You only get 10/100 ethernet, MacBook has Gigabit Ethernet
* No built-in web cam on the Dell

Software:
* You will spend more on Office functionality on the Dell
* The Dell has nothing that can compare to iLife - trust me, it's an amazing software suite.


I would say even the minor things that are better on the Dell don't make it a better buy than the Mac.

You have to look at total cost of ownership, yes you could get a box with great hardware inside it for less money if you bought the Dell but are you willing to pay just a little bit extra for having a fully integrated software/hardware package that allows you to use your computer rather than having to worry about all the malarkey that comes with running Windows. Think about it, in my opinion the slightly lower initial cost (although that evaporates when you add up all the software) isn't worth the hassle that working with Windows entails.

It's an amazing experience coming over to a Mac, you realise all the crap you put up with during years of Windows use really isn't necessary - it actually made me mad to see just how much of my time was wasted looking after Windows.

Do it, you really won't regret it. Of course, we will need to know what you plan on doing with it to make an accurate suggestion.

 

[crazycat]

Macs are more then a computer, if you just want a computer get a dell. The macs have iLife which is amazing for everyday use, its easy to use and you dont have to buy anti virus. You will spend less time finding out whats wrong with your laptop and more time doing the things you bought the laptop to do.

 

[NATO]

I don't know if this helps, but try to think of it this way - You're looking for a new car, and you're seriously tempted by a BMW. Everything about it feels right, but you notice that you can get a Ford Mondeo much cheaper which appears to have the same equipment (2.0 Litre Engine, Air-Conditioning, Sat-Nav etc). You *KNOW* that logically the Ford is the more cost-effective option, but clearly the winner here is the BMW.

Similarly with computers: Dell can manufacture and pump out thousands of well specced computers at a price which is hard to ignore. The problem is, Dell builds these systems down to a cost whereas Apple have spent a considerable amount of money in research and design to produce a system which is still top notch, but uses much higher quality materials to a much higher build quality.

Don't forget Apple's trump card though: Mac OS X. You won't get that on the Dell and sometimes it pays to spend a bit extra now for a more enjoyable ownership experience. Remember that you also get a suite of fully functional software in the form of iLife which Windows just can't compete with. And also bear in mind that Apple's software tends to be fairly reasonably priced (think how much an upgrade version of Windows will cost vs the cost of a full copy of Mac OS X)

If you have a think about what you want from your computer in cost vs quality vs Unique Benefits (ie Mac OS X, iLife etc) and still decide that the Dell is too hard to ignore, then maybe the Dell is better suited to you. Otherwise, enjoy your new Mac

 

[ZoomZoomZoom]

If you get the Macbook, you can spend long sleepless nights pining for updates like the rest of us.

That should be reason enough

--edited, original post didn't make sense at all--

 

[Lobos]

I don't know if this helps, but try to think of it this way - You're looking for a new car, and you're seriously tempted by a BMW. Everything about it feels right, but you notice that you can get a Ford Mondeo much cheaper which appears to have the same equipment (2.0 Litre Engine, Air-Conditioning, Sat-Nav etc). You *KNOW* that logically the Ford is the more cost-effective option, but clearly the winner here is the BMW.

I use this same example all the time. My PB was with AppleCare for the past several days and I had been using my sister's Dell while it was gone. It didn't seem so bad after using it for a few days, but the moment I had a chance to see the Apple again and use it even for a minute there was no comparison. My sister got offended when I told her the Apple is like a BMW and her Dell was like a cheap Ford. Sometimes the truth hurts, no?

 

[shadowmoses]

All that has been said above is so true, Mac's and OS X are such a joy to use that it is justification enough to get the MacBook..

As well as this the MacBook is a far better investment than the dell if you decide you need to sell in a while it will have held a far better value than the Dell....

Get the MacBook you won't regret it!!

ShadoW

 

[RottenSpam]

Buy one because that is what Steve would want you to do.

Seriously, I've owned several laptops over the years, and it really boils down to what you want. If you want a cheap computer dell is pretty much top dog when it comes to that. There will be some compromises with the Dell such as......

It will be heavier then a macbook, shorter battery life (I recommend you upgrade the dell battery), and poorer constuction quality particulairly with the display hinges. Dell's have a nasty habbit of loosing their ability to keep the display in place....... BTW you can do better then that for the price, shop around for some coupons. I've seen the same laptop going for $699 US.

The advantages of the dell, upgradeable video if you don't by the integrated video. Easier to upgrade, PCcard slots, etc.


The macbook will be lighter, thinner, and have better battery life in the default config. IT also has a built in isight camera, and has a high reliablity rating at least in consumer reports.

Also did I mention apple has better customer service? Dell's is aweful, and its been outsourced entirely, so you'll endure long hold times, and people with little actual knoweldge of their product.

 

[MacManTexas56]

I use this same example all the time. My PB was with AppleCare for the past several days and I had been using my sister's Dell while it was gone. It didn't seem so bad after using it for a few days, but the moment I had a chance to see the Apple again and use it even for a minute there was no comparison. My sister got offended when I told her the Apple is like a BMW and her Dell was like a cheap Ford. Sometimes the truth hurts, no?

haha that's why your fancy BMW was at the shop? Just needed routine maintenance right?

 

[Dybbuk]

If you get the Macbook, you can spend long sleepless nights pining for updates like the rest of us.

That should be reason enough

--edited, original post didn't make sense at all--

I have been for the past year and a half, hoping that someday I shall be able to join you.

 

[Porscheboy16]

I use this same example all the time. My PB was with AppleCare for the past several days and I had been using my sister's Dell while it was gone. It didn't seem so bad after using it for a few days, but the moment I had a chance to see the Apple again and use it even for a minute there was no comparison. My sister got offended when I told her the Apple is like a BMW and her Dell was like a cheap Ford. Sometimes the truth hurts, no?

That's why I got the MacBook

 

[MacManTexas56]

That's why I got the MacBook

so it can be in the shop and you can use your sisters dell? haha

 

[Dybbuk]

That's not a bad machine but let's look at what you're getting up close:

Initial Configuration:
* Windows XP Home - bad idea for laptops, you'd need to upgrade to Pro.
* 15.4" XGA screen - either 1280x768 or 1280x800 ie. no more space than a MacBook just the pixels are larger. I'd find such a screen blurry.
* More, but slower RAM.
* Good size HDD
* Better burner
* Lower battery life from dodgy cheap Dell battery
* You'd need to worry about Malware
* How heavy/thick is it?

Accessories:
* You only get basic sound with the Dell, MacBook has digital optical in/out.
* You need to buy an add-on to add Media Centre functionality to the Dell, not mention spring for the upgrade to MCE.
* You only get 10/100 ethernet, MacBook has Gigabit Ethernet
* No built-in web cam on the Dell

Software:
* You will spend more on Office functionality on the Dell
* The Dell has nothing that can compare to iLife - trust me, it's an amazing software suite.


I would say even the minor things that are better on the Dell don't make it a better buy than the Mac.

You have to look at total cost of ownership, yes you could get a box with great hardware inside it for less money if you bought the Dell but are you willing to pay just a little bit extra for having a fully integrated software/hardware package that allows you to use your computer rather than having to worry about all the malarkey that comes with running Windows. Think about it, in my opinion the slightly lower initial cost (although that evaporates when you add up all the software) isn't worth the hassle that working with Windows entails.

It's an amazing experience coming over to a Mac, you realise all the crap you put up with during years of Windows use really isn't necessary - it actually made me mad to see just how much of my time was wasted looking after Windows.

Do it, you really won't regret it. Of course, we will need to know what you plan on doing with it to make an accurate suggestion.

Thanks, this reply made me feel a whole lot better. You really seem to know your stuff!

I won't be doing much. I am focusing on writing as a career, and that's mainly what I want the machine for. The security is great, considering a virus could mean lost months of work.

I've never done anything incredibly intensive with my computers. I like mucking around in Photoshop and watching videos ... that's about as processor intensive as I get, and I can't see my needs changing very soon. I'll be getting the low-end Macbook.

The main thing that drew me to the Dell was the burner, HDD and RAM ... everything else about it I don't really care for. Thanks for debunking the RAM thing, and I suppose I can easily upgrade the HDD later and, with a little help, change the optical drive as well.

I've used Macs and even convinced some friends to buy them. I'm a huge Apple fan ... I just don't own any Apple stuff. I guess that's a little off, but I've never been in a situation where I could get one.

In the end, I suppose what matters is what I'll be happier getting up and using every day.

I think we all know the answer to that.

 

[stefan15]

That Dell isn't a bad deal and it won't run rediculously hot either.

In any case I would wait for the merom rollout, then start looking again. Dell can be good if you get a deal; check out http://www.redflagdeals.com/deals/main.php/coupons/coupons_all/C15/

They will occaisionally have really good coupons (I've seen some up to $300-400 off)...

Keep in mind, using those coupons on top of an existing sale, and getting a retardedly low price is the only real reason to get a Dell over any other computer. If you can't practically steal it, I wouldn't bother.

 

[Porscheboy16]

That Dell isn't a bad deal and it won't run rediculously hot either.

In any case I would wait for the merom rollout, then start looking again. Dell can be good if you get a deal; check out http://www.redflagdeals.com/deals/main.php/coupons/coupons_all/C15/

They will occaisionally have really good coupons (I've seen some up to $300-400 off)...

Keep in mind, using those coupons on top of an existing sale, and getting a retardedly low price is the only real reason to get a Dell over any other computer. If you can't practically steal it, I wouldn't bother.

Yeah, last week they had a $750 off coupon for an Inspiron notebook that was $2000+

 

[Dybbuk]

Yeah, last week they had a $750 off coupon for an Inspiron notebook that was $2000+

I personally feel that all those coupons are a trick to make people think they are getting a better deal than they actually are, considering they always have them and pretty much assume people will use them. I figure they just factor it into the price. But that's just me.