New Microsoft Ad Campaign Targets Mac Prices

[CuriousMacster]

To me when it comes down to choosing between a Mac or a PC is all about which OS you prefer. Yes Apple's costs are higher due to more expensive hardware but if you do get comparable hardware in a PC you pay almost the same price. I've owned nice desktops and laptops (HP and Dell) and had a multitude of problems. I have friends that have Sony and Alienware computers that were the same price as my new Macbook Pro, and have still had problems. I didn't have any problems with my 15" Powerbook G4 what so ever and so far so good on my 17" Macbook Pro.

I will admit that the main reason I moved to Apple computers several years ago was not because of there cool designs or even the OS. It's because my last PC was a Dell that was nothing but a nightmare and their customer service was subpar and the HP desktop I had lasted long enough for the warranty to run out. At that point I was annoyed and decide to give Apple a shot and so how it goes. I've now been a customer to Apple for 6 years now and haven't once thought about going back to a PC.

So from my personal and my friends experiences it shows to me that Apple makes a better, more reliable product. But that is only my opinion and I'm sure there are plenty of people the beg to differ.

 

[awmazz]

That's the only place they can attack Mac, considering the economy I think it might actually be effective.

Mac has taken the green road while MS has now taken the price road. Long-term, which is better? The economy *may* recover, but global warming isn't going away.

 

[skaertus]

I never understand why Mac haters come to a site like this.

I'm not a Mac hater. Not a Windows hater too. And not a fanboy. I just try to see things as they are. Plain and simple. I use a Mac, that's why I come to a site like this.

I am quite impressed by those fanboys and haters. Why do they love and/or hate so much these companies? Steve Ballmer certainly wouldn't look like crazy for Microsoft if Microsoft was not responsible for his billion-dollar fortune.

 

[NT1440]

Mac has taken the green road while MS has now taken the price road. Long-term, which is better? The economy *may* recover, but global warming isn't going away.

Everyone knows only them queer lovin, elitist, tree huggin hippies beleive in global warming!

*rocks in chair while cleaning shotgun*

 

[skaertus]

To me when it comes down to choosing between a Mac or a PC is all about which OS you prefer. Yes Apple's costs are higher due to more expensive hardware but if you do get comparable hardware in a PC you pay almost the same price. I've owned nice desktops and laptops (HP and Dell) and had a multitude of problems. I have friends that have Sony and Alienware computers that were the same price as my new Macbook Pro, and have still had problems. I didn't have any problems with my 15" Powerbook G4 what so ever and so far so good on my 17" Macbook Pro.

I will admit that the main reason I moved to Apple computers several years ago was not because of there cool designs or even the OS. It's because my last PC was a Dell that was nothing but a nightmare and their customer service was subpar and the HP desktop I had lasted long enough for the warranty to run out. At that point I was annoyed and decide to give Apple a shot and so how it goes. I've now been a customer to Apple for 6 years now and haven't once thought about going back to a PC.

So from my personal and my friends experiences it shows to me that Apple makes a better, more reliable product. But that is only my opinion and I'm sure there are plenty of people the beg to differ.

I've moved to a MacBook last year because the price was right. It was a better deal than a Sony, an HP, an Acer or a Dell. Faster processor for a better price. However, the new generation of MacBooks is just more expensive, and, even the MacOS being better than Windows, I don't see so much value in the package anymore.

 

[skaertus]

Mac has taken the green road while MS has now taken the price road. Long-term, which is better? The economy *may* recover, but global warming isn't going away.

OK, but most consumers are worried about price, and not about the environment...

 

[cristianl]

Then why don't you list some differences?...of course in reference to the use cases I listed which do in fact REFLECT the average computer user. Please don't list items like superior digital video editing using FCP as an extremely small percentage of the universe needs to do such video editing. Please don't list vague points like "it's easier to set up" or "it's cooler" or "it's easier to use" or "Macs never have problems".

BTW, I have a Mini and I have multiple pcs...and my first PERSONAL COMPUTER was an Apple //e.

-Eric

The average user is a either a fabrication or a secret SI unit. Seriously, users are not equal.
Something every user (from the mythical average user to the marketingspeak Power User) comes by:
Windows default font (Segoe) is a bad choice. It is too thin for the UI and gets even worse because ClearType is lighter than OS X anti-aliasing. Because of this, every character seems to have a red halo around it.



Your "vague points":

Easier to set up
Each user has its own criteria for what's easier to set up. Safari is still better a default browser compared to Internet Explorer.

Cooler
Some users find OSX cooler, some find Windows cooler, some find Linux cooler and there's that OS/2 dude — don't talk to him, he's probably on a 10 mile restraint order from anyone. The idea that Mac users find themselves cooler/hip is partly true, partly a misinterpretation of the I'm a Mac ads, and partly a construction of snarky Microsoft fanboys.

Easier to use
Finder vs. Windows Explorer

Never have problems
Every device has problems. Clean installed, Windows is a great OS. Then it starts getting bloated and bloated as the user installs new software and drivers. This is mostly because Windows developers still carry the same mindset from Windows 95.

 

[Anuba]

To me when it comes down to choosing between a Mac or a PC is all about which OS you prefer. Yes Apple's costs are higher due to more expensive hardware but if you do get comparable hardware in a PC you pay almost the same price. I've owned nice desktops and laptops (HP and Dell) and had a multitude of problems. I have friends that have Sony and Alienware computers that were the same price as my new Macbook Pro, and have still had problems. I didn't have any problems with my 15" Powerbook G4 what so ever and so far so good on my 17" Macbook Pro.

I will admit that the main reason I moved to Apple computers several years ago was not because of there cool designs or even the OS. It's because my last PC was a Dell that was nothing but a nightmare and their customer service was subpar and the HP desktop I had lasted long enough for the warranty to run out. At that point I was annoyed and decide to give Apple a shot and so how it goes. I've now been a customer to Apple for 6 years now and haven't once thought about going back to a PC.

So from my personal and my friends experiences it shows to me that Apple makes a better, more reliable product. But that is only my opinion and I'm sure there are plenty of people the beg to differ.

Funny, my personal experience is almost the exact opposite of yours. I stuck with Dell because the first two Dells (laptop+desktop) I bought were 100% glitch-free, despite my relentless 24/7 torture, unlike other PCs I had used in the past. I replaced these with two other Dell machines, and when one of them did break down after 3 years the service was fantastic (they stopped by the next day with new parts, no questions asked). My iMac, on the other hand, died completely after only a year, and when I called AppleCare they were rude, aloof, found it hysterical that I even dreamed I would get it repaired on site, and forced me to go through a completely idiotic troubleshooting routine that couldn't possibly apply to a stone dead computer (as in dead power management where SMC reset or boot from DVD is out of the question). It was like the Monty Python sketch with the dead parrot. And don't get me started on the myriad of problems I've had with Leopard, the buggiest OS X release ever. Apple's worthless yet expensive AppleCare service paired with the shifty build quality of late is why I'm phasing out Macs.

 

[hagjohn]

You might want to do a bit of research before you criticize other people.

About all your points are no where close to home, but this one especially is so wrong, it's sad to see someone not even know what he's talking about.

OpenGL never was a dominant 3D technology for games. Never, ever. OpenGL was not first developped by SGI either, it's a design by committee (which SGI was a part of, but so was IBM, Sun and... Microsoft) and it's design was around for professionnal 3D applications first (CAD design, 3D animation, special effects).

OpenGL was first introduced in Windows as part of Windows NT 3.51. That's about as far from a gaming OS as you could have (back when NT had a proper security model).

Stop rewriting history, you sound like a Microsoft shill.

 

[cult hero]

Well, I couldn't find a cheap BMW sedan, but Hyundai fit the bill! Both cars had 4 doors and enough room to seat 5 people!

So, for under $1000 I get a ****** LCD panel, a heavier computer, slower CPU, no dedicated graphics, a cheap keyboard, the same ****** useless trackpad PC laptops have come with since they dawn of the trackpad and...? Oh yeah, it's not as sturdy (say what you like, but the unibody machines are very stiff), isn't as environmentally friendly and... to top it all off, runs a sluggish, poor performing, retarded operating system.

(On the flip side, I'll bet the wireless range on the HP isn't ass.)

 

[MacManTexas56]

Mac has taken the green road while MS has now taken the price road. Long-term, which is better? The economy *may* recover, but global warming isn't going away.

being green is nothing but a marketing ploy. Go look at all the people that went out and paid $30k for a Toyota Prius BC it was GREEN! Hmmm let's spend $30k on a car so i can save money at the pump? hmmm bc that makes a lot of sense! Let's spend $2800 on a laptop so i can save a tad on electricity....again...makes no sense. Most people aren't going to say hmmm i could spend $2800 on a MBP and be green OR i could spend $699 on an HP computer and use it less to be green. Being green is also about consumption and spending as well. So you're not technically being green either by spending $2800 on one single laptop.

 

[NT1440]

being green is nothing but a marketing ploy. Go look at all the people that went out and paid $30k for a Toyota Prius BC it was GREEN! Hmmm let's spend $30k on a car so i can save money at the pump? hmmm bc that makes a lot of sense! Let's spend $2800 on a laptop so i can save a tad on electricity....again...makes no sense. Most people aren't going to say hmmm i could spend $2800 on a MBP and be green OR i could spend $699 on an HP computer and use it less to be green. Being green is also about consumption and spending as well. So you're not technically being green either by spending $2800 on one single laptop.

Its still good marketing.....which was the point.

FYI the new Prius rocks.

 

[MacManTexas56]

OK, but most consumers are worried about price, and not about the environment...

exactly....and it's not really being "green" to spend $2800 on a laptop when a similar one can be had for $699. It's like all those Prius drivers that think they are saving the world by driving a hybrid car and paying $30k for it. How about just go by a $15k corolla and do stuff for the environment on your own.

Its still good marketing.....which was the point.

FYI the new Prius rocks.

good marketing if your dumb enough to believe it.

Its still good marketing.....which was the point.

FYI the new Prius rocks.

doesn't rock for the price....just like the 17inch MBP doesn't rock.

 

[APPLENEWBIE]

Wheeee! Isn't this fun!?

A few random thoughts:

I left windows world not because of hardware. Hardware was rarely an issue. I left because the windows OS (XP running modern machines) was a nightmare for me both at home and my business. One damn thing after another. By comparison, in my experience, OS X has been a hugely better experience.

Someone above said their Granny has Windows and does just fine. I believe it. Hopefully she will not stray from the Wal-Mart website or open a mail attachment.

If I need to go to aunt Tilly's funeral several hundred miles away, I can certainly take the Chevy Impala. It will get me there and back in one piece, more than likely. However, if I choose to spend more for a nice BMW of similar size, I think, all else being equal, I will have a nicer trip.

I would hate to be in a position to be promoting a "race to the bottom" like MS is apparently doing. Is that the best you've got?

If all the Windows users follow MS advice and go for the lowest cost, largest screen, computer they can find, like Lauren did, it won't take long for there to be a lot fewer Window machine manufacturers.

Steve (evil laughing in the wings): Look Igor! We've got them eating their young! Puuuurfect... Puuuufect. Fetch my cape, will you, Igor?

 

[NT1440]

exactly....and it's not really being "green" to spend $2800 on a laptop when a similar one can be had for $699. It's like all those Prius drivers that think they are saving the world by driving a hybrid car and paying $30k for it. How about just go by a $15k corolla and do stuff for the environment on your own.

I really don't get this grudge you have against Prius owners. I will have one simply because I like the Prius. Sure you can speak for others and throw words in their mouths, but it just makes you look like a jerk.

Apple's green ads are hitting the exact demographic Apple goes for anyway.

 

[specialbuddy]

Everyone knows only them queer lovin, elitist, tree huggin hippies beleive in global warming!

*rocks in chair while cleaning shotgun*

Didn't you get the memo? It's not global warming anymore it's climate change.

Mac has taken the green road while MS has now taken the price road. Long-term, which is better? The economy *may* recover, but global warming isn't going away.

Al Gore is saving the world by using three 30" Apple displays in his movie, "the "Inconceivable Truth". Good thing they were three "GREEN" 30" Apple displays otherwise my house would be under 20 ft. of water right now.

 

[seedster2]

It did! Because it's so crap!

LOL, seemed to effectively convey their desired message whether you agree or not.

Lucky you. My XP installation lasted 15 months before it was trashed.

Well, fortunately you're the minority. Millions have been running it with satisfaction. I cannot comment on Vista b/c I havent used it personally.

'POS'? Don't confuse us with the facts by telling us exactly how. Every Mac I've ever had and use have been well built. I'm sorry, but it's true.

Mac leads in customer satisfaction but reliability isn't up there like it used to be. Macbook uses a cheap screens and isnt constructed well. My employer doesnt even consider them anymore and all my friends know geniuses too well because of them.

Yes, so? I don't mind paying a bit more for something I want. I'm not buying a fridge freezer - I'm buying something fun.

Good for you. Many see the computer as a tool not a toy.

No idea what point you're attempting to make, but the car analogy is actually spot on.

It's not because apple doesnt make their own components like a ferrari or BMW. they are not boutique manufacturer. They are made in china along with all the others. Mass produced using PC parts.

The 'average' consumer doesn't buy Macs. If they want a 'computer', they'll buy something cheap and cheerful. Which is fine. But they're not necessarily Apple's target market.

When the economy was good people were willing to go above their means to be a member of this apple target market. MSFT and HP are encouraging people that there are viable options without breaking the bank. Simple, timely and relevant

Very nice for them. Some people like to try different things, some people stick to what they know.

agreed and that's why the ipod continues to be successful and windows continues to maintain its dominance. No need to bash the other because it doesnt fit your needs.

What's the point of changing? The recession will be over in 3 years and they'll tick along nicely in the meantime.

Glad you dont run a corporation who has to pay employees and answer to shareholders. you pretend as if Apple is a luxury brand. They are not LVMH

Fair enough if said customer just wants a cheap and cheerful computer. They'll always be a low end market. Apple just chooses not to play in it much.

Agreed but they may eventually have to consider it (e.g. Netbook)

True. Although I really wish they'd drop the prices down to where they were.
__________________

Ditto

 

[ZiggyPastorius]

good marketing if your dumb enough to believe it.

PLEASE use multi-quotes instead of consecutive posts. Thank you.

And I'm not sure most people even know what their dumb is. I sure don't. Or did you mean to say that they are dumb?

 

[NT1440]

good marketing if your dumb enough to believe it.

doesn't rock for the price....just like the 17inch MBP doesn't rock.

What dont you guys get? Some people will pay the prices because the happen to LIKE the product. I like the Prius, but I wont be buying it simply because "I'm trying to save the world" as you'd like to say I will.

 

[cult hero]

OK, but most consumers are worried about price, and not about the environment...

They'll pay for that eventually. (Someone will anyway.)

And who cares? Apple isn't trying to sell to everyone. That hasn't been their focus for a long time. Microsoft and the "PC" (whatever that even means anymore) continues to try to be all things to all people so they have to carpet bomb their messages out there.

Apple doesn't. They have their target groups and they continue to execute well. They're not interested in getting into the cut throat business of the cheapest hardware. They know they don't have to go there. Let HP and Dell fight that battle with it's tiny profit margins.

One of the primary reasons that *I* purchased the unibody MBP was because it is more environmentally friendly. I know Apple machines are more expensive, but I'd pay an extra $150 for any PC laptop I was getting for the trackpad functionality alone. That doesn't include having an OS I prefer, a machine that's more recyclable and a machine that just plain looks cool. That might not be a big deal for everyone, but dammit... I spend all day with my computer as a developer and I want it to look nice.

Few people seem to get Apple. There are people out there that think they want the same market share as MS. They don't. They don't care. Even with higher priced products they're doing well in the current economic climate.

 

[Anuba]

What dont you guys get? Some people will pay the prices because the happen to LIKE the product. I like the Prius, but I wont be buying it simply because "I'm trying to save the world" as you'd like to say I will.

I like the Prius because it's like driving a spaceship, with the weird little pin for a gearshift, the digital instrumentation and the general feeling of gliding, whether running on electricity-only or not. The green aspects are a plus but not the selling point.

 

[gnasher729]

I think that the "not cool enough to be a Mac person" line is precious.

It seems to be a dig against some of the arrogant, elitist attitudes that some Apple users have.

You've seen them, the posers in Starbucks with their Apple logos on display, willy-waving their MBPs while surfing.

Smacks of desperation when Microsoft starts with personal attacks against the customers of its competitors.

And what are you doing in a Starbucks anyway if you can't afford a Macintosh?

 

[MacManTexas56]

I really don't get this grudge you have against Prius owners. I will have one simply because I like the Prius. Sure you can speak for others and throw words in their mouths, but it just makes you look like a jerk.

Apple's green ads are hitting the exact demographic Apple goes for anyway.

bc every one of them i met think they are helping save the world by driving their overpriced marketing toy.

 

[NT1440]

I like the Prius because it's like driving a spaceship, with the weird little pin for a gearshift, the digital instrumentation and the general feeling of gliding, whether running on electricity-only or not. The green aspects are a plus but not the selling point.

Exactly, I just like the damn car, not for what the marketing says it is, but for what it actually is.

I sure as hell wouldnt mind not filling up as often either.

 

[ungraphic]

Apple's costs are higher due to more expensive hardware

This comment is such a failure.

Its the SAME hardware, and it does NOT cost more. Are you trying to fool readers by saying that a Core 2 Duo processor in a Macbook is more expensive than the EXACT SAME PROCESSOR in an HP, Sony, Toshiba, etc?

The only difference is Apple Tax. Youre not paying for the logo, your paying extra for basically OS X. Most of us who bought a mac bought for legit reasons, then there are those common idiots who know nothing about macs and buy them because they look pretty and even prettier when paired with a latte at starbucks. I know Macs are overpriced, the same hardware configuration can be had for much less in a non-apple branded computer, but thats not enough to have me go back to windows as I absolutely loathe windows.