Its not difficult to get an NUC that you can plug in and run. There are retails that put packages together with OS and all.I don't think you got my point.
With a Mac you don't just pay for a bunch of hardware. OS X and iLife / iWork are part of the deal (and I use them all the time). A new Mac can be plugged in and ready to do things within a few minutes, in my experience (of two new Minis). You also have the option of running Windows if you have the need or the desire (I don't).
Does the cheaper alternative come with an OS and apps installed, ready to go, and offer such versatility?
Why bother with a Mac at all if you don't use OS X and associated apps?