There is this talk of cost. Yes, if Apple bumps up the specs and start charging iMac Pro pricing, it really would be out of reach for many. But, the reality is, if you are looking at the cost of the machine versus the ROI, then, you really have no use for it in the first place. If you are a freelance video editor, graphic designer, contractor or work for a media company then, you are likely to recoup the money you spent on the machine from your business.
For instance, a videographer doing a month of weddings in June can charge anywhere between $900 to 1200. Take into account, gas, transportation, if you do an average of 2 to 3 weddings per month, you are likely to make back that $5,000 in less than 3 months. Lets not forget to, you might also dabble in photography too in addition to video, so that's another maybe 1,200's.
So, for a professional, the initial cost versus the ROI would be negligible. Persons working for a company with a graphics design department, your organization is likely paying for it.
An enthusiast lusting to have the latest and best for bragging rights or just admire and say you have one, then you are not in Apple's target market. Take for instance the upcoming iMac Pro. Apple used industry professionals to demo the machine, these were folks from Lucas Arts; a company that makes hundreds of millions in revenue from licensing and rendering animation. An individual working there is not gonna buy an iMac Pro for themselves neither a speced out MBP, but their employer will gladly spend the $17,000 because it achieves what they want.
I think what has probably confused a lot of folks is the YouTubers who probably have made so much money from their unboxings, they are part of the niche crowd who can actually afford to splurge on such a machine. Also, some of them get reviewers units or use the 14 day return policy or resell it at a small lost. For the average everyday user, a base model is more realistic. Another way some users can afford these expensive models is using Apple leasing, which lets you finance the purchase of say a $5,000 MBP over 18 months:
No interest if paid in full within the promo period.
Special financing on purchases made at Apple within the first 30 days of account opening. Promo period based on purchase amount:
- 6 months: less than $499
- 12 months: $499 to less than $999
- 18 months: $999 and over
Paying $2,500 initially for a $5000 computer over a certain period of time is more palatable. While you are making money off your new MacBook Pro with whatever business you run, you are paying for your MacBook Pro.
Some can afford it outright, but this is not a realistic norm for everybody. I live outside the US, so I had no other choice but to pay in full when I bought 2015 MacBook Pro. Not gonna lie, living in a developing country, it wasn't easy making back the money either considering I really had no practical use for it, but I always wanted a MacBook Pro. I was able to make back the money, while at the same time managing my living expenses: food, Internet, telephone, electricity and I am able to enjoy my MacBook Pro. Even local electronics stores out here give you the option to pay over time with not interest.
