Ahh.. I've been often asked why I like Apple so much. The simplest answer is design. I mean this in both the form and function. No other computer really comes close to imitating Apple's gorgeous displays and simple packaging. Notice how similar Vista is in aesthetics to OS 10.5 (Mac's Operating Software). Do you think this was a mistake? No, Microsoft recognizes that your product needs to be beautiful to sell- too bad people prefer OS 10.5 more than Vista!
So instead of beating you to death with Apple versus Microsoft statistics, I thought I might give you a quick look at the basic product line and my impressions of them. This way you can become an informed reader who might just have a new appreciation for this wonderful company.
Macintosh Computers (AKA Mac)
Mac MiniThis tiny little computer has a little secret. You know that computer you're using right now to read this post? Yeah- it's probably more powerful than that. This super compact (6.5"x6.5"x2") case contains a full fledged Mac inside, complete with OS 10.5. Unfortunately, it's BYODKM. What's BYODKM? You'll have to Bring Your Own Display, Keyboard, and Mouse. (Starting at $599)
MacBook Air
"The world's thinnest computer", or damn near it. This super light weight computer will weigh you down with the price but you'll be stunned that Apple has somehow created a laptop so light you have to check to see if it's on your lap or not. This happens to be the only one in the Mac line of computer to offer a SSD option (Solid State Drive- instead of using a little disk that spins REALLY fast like nearly all computers and bigger iPods, it uses flash memory -like the kind of memory your USB stick uses- which is quieter, quicker, and more efficient). However, you will notice the lack of a disk drive (the CD drive). Instead you can purchase a USB attachment one or use a snazzy piece of included software that allows you to wirelessly "piggy-back" on your other PC or Mac's disk drive. Pretty nifty. (Starting at $1799)
MacBook
This lightweight laptop isn't one to disappoint. Though it's not as powerful as some of the computers further down, it's an economical balance between cost and performance. This is a common choice for college bound students due to it's power and portability. If you're considering one of these, may I suggest the Black MacBook ($1499). It has the most "bang for the buck", if you will. (Starting at $1099)
iMac
The iMac is Apple's quintessential Mac. You might remember working with an iMac in elementary school (those big dome shaped monitors with a handle on top). Well what you probably didn't notice is the iMac's greatest weapon- the entire computer (except keyboard and mouse) is all combined into one unit. Since our elementary school days, you'll notice the iMac when on a bit of a diet and is a sleek as ever, but don't mistake that for a lack of power! The iMac is a full fledged desktop that you'd love to try. If interested, I suggest the 2.66GHz 20" model ($1499), again- it's the most "bang for the buck". (Starting at $1199)
MacBook Pro
If you like editing movies, running big computer games, or an edge-of-your-seat experience, there is no better laptop. This powerhouse is a monster! The (15", 17") display won't hesitate to display anything- there's no slowing down here! The Core 2 Duo processor from Intel in this sucker means that one processor is dedicated to running your computer smoothly while the other is rendering your graphics at breakneck speeds without breaking a sweat. This is truly the only portable solution for the movie editor, animator, or avid power freak. (Starting at $1999)
Mac Pro
Remember those dual core processors I mentioned above? Yeah, well this has two Quad core processors. That's 8, count 'em. It's so fast you might have to wear knee and elbow pads. This mega power house will outstrip any computer you throw at it, and I wouldn't be surprised if it gave Deep Blue (nerd reference, don't ask) a run for its money. This computer is simply just that- you'll have to buy a display if you want to see what's going on. (Starting at $2799)
"The world's thinnest computer", or damn near it. This super light weight computer will weigh you down with the price but you'll be stunned that Apple has somehow created a laptop so light you have to check to see if it's on your lap or not. This happens to be the only one in the Mac line of computer to offer a SSD option (Solid State Drive- instead of using a little disk that spins REALLY fast like nearly all computers and bigger iPods, it uses flash memory -like the kind of memory your USB stick uses- which is quieter, quicker, and more efficient). However, you will notice the lack of a disk drive (the CD drive). Instead you can purchase a USB attachment one or use a snazzy piece of included software that allows you to wirelessly "piggy-back" on your other PC or Mac's disk drive. Pretty nifty. (Starting at $1799)
MacBookThis lightweight laptop isn't one to disappoint. Though it's not as powerful as some of the computers further down, it's an economical balance between cost and performance. This is a common choice for college bound students due to it's power and portability. If you're considering one of these, may I suggest the Black MacBook ($1499). It has the most "bang for the buck", if you will. (Starting at $1099)
iMacThe iMac is Apple's quintessential Mac. You might remember working with an iMac in elementary school (those big dome shaped monitors with a handle on top). Well what you probably didn't notice is the iMac's greatest weapon- the entire computer (except keyboard and mouse) is all combined into one unit. Since our elementary school days, you'll notice the iMac when on a bit of a diet and is a sleek as ever, but don't mistake that for a lack of power! The iMac is a full fledged desktop that you'd love to try. If interested, I suggest the 2.66GHz 20" model ($1499), again- it's the most "bang for the buck". (Starting at $1199)
MacBook ProIf you like editing movies, running big computer games, or an edge-of-your-seat experience, there is no better laptop. This powerhouse is a monster! The (15", 17") display won't hesitate to display anything- there's no slowing down here! The Core 2 Duo processor from Intel in this sucker means that one processor is dedicated to running your computer smoothly while the other is rendering your graphics at breakneck speeds without breaking a sweat. This is truly the only portable solution for the movie editor, animator, or avid power freak. (Starting at $1999)
Mac ProRemember those dual core processors I mentioned above? Yeah, well this has two Quad core processors. That's 8, count 'em. It's so fast you might have to wear knee and elbow pads. This mega power house will outstrip any computer you throw at it, and I wouldn't be surprised if it gave Deep Blue (nerd reference, don't ask) a run for its money. This computer is simply just that- you'll have to buy a display if you want to see what's going on. (Starting at $2799)
iPod Personal Media Players
iPod Shuffle
The ultimate in ease and simplicity, this lightweight (1GB, 2GB) mp3 player won't let you pick and choose your songs (sort of a bummer, if you ask me) but instead shuffles them around. It comes in assorted colors. (Starting at $49)
iPod Nano
Don't let the name fool you- the video enabled mp3 player kicks some serious butt! The ability to play games on it begins on this model and on up. It's a good price for either the 4GB or 8GB version. Assorted colors too! (Starting at $149)
iPod Classic
Basically the iPod Nano on steroids, this badboy will hold more songs than you know what to do with (80GB, 160GB). All of the same features as the Nano except it only comes in silver and black. (Starting at $249)
iPod Touch
Sort of the diamond in the rough (loosely speaking, of course) this iPod isn't really an iPod- it's so much more! Not only does it do all of the simple tricks of music and video, but it also combines apps (applications) to the bunch. Apps include the iTunes Store that you can purchase songs straight from your iPod or Safari, a full fledged internet browser. This is quite simply the best iPod on the market. If you have the money for it- get it. If you don't, save up and get it. It's worth it. Trust me. (Starting at $299)
iPod ShuffleThe ultimate in ease and simplicity, this lightweight (1GB, 2GB) mp3 player won't let you pick and choose your songs (sort of a bummer, if you ask me) but instead shuffles them around. It comes in assorted colors. (Starting at $49)
iPod NanoDon't let the name fool you- the video enabled mp3 player kicks some serious butt! The ability to play games on it begins on this model and on up. It's a good price for either the 4GB or 8GB version. Assorted colors too! (Starting at $149)
iPod ClassicBasically the iPod Nano on steroids, this badboy will hold more songs than you know what to do with (80GB, 160GB). All of the same features as the Nano except it only comes in silver and black. (Starting at $249)
iPod TouchSort of the diamond in the rough (loosely speaking, of course) this iPod isn't really an iPod- it's so much more! Not only does it do all of the simple tricks of music and video, but it also combines apps (applications) to the bunch. Apps include the iTunes Store that you can purchase songs straight from your iPod or Safari, a full fledged internet browser. This is quite simply the best iPod on the market. If you have the money for it- get it. If you don't, save up and get it. It's worth it. Trust me. (Starting at $299)
iPhone
iPhone 3G
Like an iPod Touch on steroids, this beast of a device will undoubtedly blow your mind. Imagine, if you will, an iPod Touch, as perfect as it is, except with a camera, microphone, speaker, GPS, the EDGE and 3G Network (provided by the all-too-crappy AT&T), and the ability to text and call (AT&T as well). If that's not convincing enough, maybe you should move to an island deny the existence of the perfect phone, because it's here folks, and it's here to stay! (Starting at $199)
iPhone 3GLike an iPod Touch on steroids, this beast of a device will undoubtedly blow your mind. Imagine, if you will, an iPod Touch, as perfect as it is, except with a camera, microphone, speaker, GPS, the EDGE and 3G Network (provided by the all-too-crappy AT&T), and the ability to text and call (AT&T as well). If that's not convincing enough, maybe you should move to an island deny the existence of the perfect phone, because it's here folks, and it's here to stay! (Starting at $199)
So there you have it. It's the design and the ingenuity behind all of Apple's products that I love. I have a confession though. I didn't show you the pieste-de-resistance that I find so alluring. Why? Because it's too hard to explain- you'll have to see for yourself. Click here to find out. Enjoy.
-Jonathan
-Jonathan
3 comments:
sure apple is great...ok more than great but their prices suck
True- you pay a premium, but do what I intend to do- buy refurbished- it's the same quality, only cheaper.
There are dozens of other factors that you have to take into account when figuring out the price gap between PC and Mac. For example- security. It is far easier and cheaper to protect a Mac. Also- you have to take into the sheer volume of stunning programs written for the Mac (like TimeMachine!). But most of all, we must remember that a Mac isn't just a Mac, you can put Windows (though god forbid) on it too.
are they paying u to make an ad? =)
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