How Microsoft put Apple owners on the defensive

Contrary to popular belief, Macs are NOT built well. A friend of mine has no harddrive. Mine has cracked due to an engineering flaw and frequently overheats-and has burned through FOUR adapters and as such needs to be underclocked. And the track pad sticks, so I can't use it. Apparently failure rates for Apple are over 10%. In my experience, they do more.

Apples just *DON'T* work. I'm never buying an apple again. I admit, I like the OS, but hey, OSX86 would work fine if I so wanted.

Oh, and Half Life runs like shit on my macbook, be it in wine or even natively in boot camp. And if I'm worried about spyware, thanks, I have Linux.

There's NO point in getting a mac aside from to brag that your overheating piece of junk looks better than mine.

I'll be too busy saving for my child's education or a decent car.

Two things. I have owned a pc for years and have had everything from major to minor problems, but I could always fix them or have them fixed for very little money. 2)Bought a iMac for $1800 (17 in)the stupid thing started going up after just 3 years. It would have cost me $900-$1000 to fix and almost a month without a computer. I like Macs for what they can do, but the software,hardware,etc., etc., is just to friggin' expensive.
Sony Vaio Laptop going on 6 years and the only hardware problem has been the battery. Cost $60. Can MAC top THAT!!

I am a Windows users for years and would like to try a mac once. So I visited a MAC vendor in my town, and almost buy a MAC notebook. But the sales person overthere just attacked PC too much to the point that I feel uncomfortable. Then I asked her about a modem port. She said that people are not using modem any more they use wireless broadband. So I told her that I am advance enough to use MAC because I still need a modem port. This is like a year ago. Any one can confirm, if there is a modem port for MAC or do I need to buy an adapter.

I never had a PC burst into flames on my desk.

My Vista 64 bit machine costs thousands less than the best Mac and can run circles around it and not even hit 40% utilization.

My "user experience" has been peachy, thank you. Funny how the only PC horror stories you hear come from the Mac fanboys.

I love the "You can't run Mac on Windows but can run Windows on Mac." Fact is when you have Windows or Umbuntu you don't need to run a Mac emulator, yet there is enough need for a Windows emulator for Mac users, hrmmmm?

I also do video and audio work on my PC and have NEVER had a crash. Indeed my Vista system is on 24/7 running dozens of applications including my home automation system. The only time it crashed was when I opened up iTunes which choked on my media library.

My buddies Mac took 4 hours to copy files from my portable drive to his Mac, copying the same files to my PC takes less than an hour (1.5TB)

I have yet to spend a single penny on repairs or tech support. I have never had a virus nor do I have to reinstall Windows every six months.

If Macs are supposedly so superior, then why are they now on a PC platform and processor running a proprietary version of Linux?

Apple has very slick hip marketing to be sure. I have two things to retort with. Windows 7 and Zune HD.

Be afraid Apple, be very afraid.

Quote from a comment:

"

These ads are totally desperate. I know Amerikans are stoopid

nowadays post Bush, but c'mon: does even the dumbest person in the

D"U"MB-SA think there is no reason people are paying "hundreds" of

dollars more for Mac systems and that are no better? Seriously–these ads

are the equivalent of GM/Ford running ads which show dudes walking

into BMW and Mercedes dealers and implying that somehow their POShite

Detriot car is somehow equivalent to a German-made vehicle because they both have tires and use gas. Even a

complete MORON knows the difference (while still resenting the fact

that they can't afford the better car, but still…).

Microsoft is dead–these ads prove it. I thought the Seinfeld ads

were pathetic…wow."
No. AMERICA is not STUPID. YOU ARE. You're the kind of people that make us look stupid.
"I know Amerikans are stoopid"
wow.

It's true. If you don't have thousands of dollars flowing out of your wallet, you're not cool enough for a Mac. I bought a 2008 MacBook for $999 with 1GB Ram, 2.0Ghz processor, and an 80GB hard drive with a 13" monitor. It broke 4 times on me, mostly not turning on, or the screen would shut off randomly (don't tell me it just went to sleep, because hitting every button wouldn't do a thing, and the Apple "genius" couldn't even figure it out)..Anyway, it broke 4 times, and that was my first mac, so I had enough of paying hundereds of dollars in repairs, on top of the almost $1,100 i spent on the peice of plastic. I sold it after it's 4th repair, and bought a dell (I've had 3 dell desktops (1995, 2002, 2009)and 3 dell laptops (2000, 2006, 2008) And I still have all of them, and they all work perfect. I just upgraded to newer computers to keep along with new technology. Anyway, I bought a dell laptop after I sold my Macbook. It was $799 for a Dell Studio 17" with 4GB Ram, 400GB hard drive, 2.4Ghz core 2 processor, and a 512 nVidia graphics processor. Have had that since January 2009 and not one problem. I love Vista more than OS X for sure. Theres soooo many 3rd party programs you can download, and you can tweak every single setting you could think of. Once you buy a Mac, YOU WILL GO BACK!

I've been using macs for the past 13 years and was convinced that I wouldn't use anything else. Now I'm in the market for a new computer I cant justify buying a mac pro for £2000 when I can get a better spec PC for £1000. Also I can easily upgrade and tinker with the machine over a longer period of time than a mac. If worst comes to worst I'll just hackintosh it.

What Microsoft did was find an attractive young lady who "looks" like the Apple demographic, and put her in an ad. The problem was, they found someone who was a little "too" good at being on TV; she's a professional actress. Companies have been setting their products against each other for years, and we've all gotten used to it. What happened here is the great hordes of nerds who actually care about what it says on the outside of their tower case got in an uproar. As they say, "no publicity is bad publicity." All the argument is keeping the ad in everyone's mind. Anyone who is serious about computers buys his machine custom-built online, or buys the components and assembles it himself. Ordinary people who buy off the shelf deserve what they get for under a thousand dollars.

I've read a lot of the comments to this article, and I find it interesting that this has become such a debate. I have a MacBook, and do not consider myself a fan boy. I use Macs because I've always felt more comfortable using OS X than Windows. For all the Mac people who are irritated over the commercial, what goes around comes around. It was only a matter of time before Microsoft struck back. I do like my MacBook, but since learning about Linux, I've started to see how expensive Macs really are. I paid $1, 500 for my computer, and I don't use half of the software that came with it!! Windows not coming with anything isn't as bad as people think. You can download Linux off of the internet for free, and it has every single one of the much-hyped advantages of OS X.

The next time I buy a computer, it will be a PC. Windows will be wiped off, and Linux will be put on.

clason stuhlreyer said quote: "one last note: try a mac for a month. i dare you. you will never go back to a pc again. (speaking from experience)"

Yeah, I did that for a short time in 2003 when the Windows machines were always taken in the University's computer labs but the Macs were always available. Very frustrating and I decided it was more worthwhile to wait 30 minutes to get a computer than to suffer through learning a new system.

Q: What's the most popular s/w on Mac (that people buy)?

Ans: Microsoft Office !!!!

Mac has 8% (PC) market share. If you write a virus or any s/w, which platform will you target ?

Once it(MAC) becomes more popular, more issues will come up and we will be able to compare them better.

XP ain't so bad. MS is catching up on Quality

However, it is simply great that we have a quality alternative in MACs.

the pompous jerk thing is getting a little old. there are two types of mac users, those that buy them because their profession calls for a mac, and then there are those who buy them because they are cool. i believe there is a term for such an individual; poser.

i used a pc for many years and when i made the switch to mac i realized what the hype was about. without going into details, the mac is a much more refined piece of equipment and as far as price… you can buy a mac mini for 600 bucks and the basic macbook is about a grand.

ive found this to be true with most purchases; you get what you pay for. sure a huffy will get you from point A to point B … but in the long run it's not going to last.

my parting words. use what you want and please stop assuming that all mac users are snobs. we are just as passionate about our choice of operating system as you are.

one last note: try a mac for a month. i dare you. you will never go back to a pc again. (speaking from experience)

cheers.

CS

“‘I’m not cool enough’ is so pejorative, says Topolsky. “This is the stigma of the Mac user as a pompous jerk.”

Its because its true. Go to any college, and the Apple kids are pompous jerks. Every one of them. They think they are so much cooler than everyone and they're far from it. Just because you're a trendster with an Apple laptop, iPod Touch that has every app on it, your wireless network transmitter that you use the network cable for and you drive a VW… Doesn't make you better than anyone. I've seen this over and over again, its always the same story with every one of them.

I own and iPod and would own a Mac as well if I was still doing video production, so I'm not completely discriminating but the quote from Josh is just too funny.

Titanic, the real vessel, hit an iceberg, and it has also been postulated that the steel was sub-par. The Windows machines that used the 64-bit DEC Alpha processors were quite stable.

Oh, by the way, a Mac can be crashed as well.

One more thing.

Don’t make me load all of these comments… and hire an editor:

“offered to give Lauren his old 17-inch Powerbook so she do a comparison”

should probably be “offered to give Lauren his old 17-inch Powerbook so she *can* do a comparison”

Might I suggest that the proper verbage be:

“offered to give Lauren his old 17-inch Powerbook so she *could* do a comparison”

You know, the comment about buying a used machine does hit home with me. I purchased a used Dell C640 for $200.00 (with 2GB of RAM) and loaded XP on it when I went to Europe a few years ago with my wife. Needed something to off-load all of those 128MG Memory Sticks my Sony DSC-F707 camera used on a nightly basis.

It was used, it was inexpensive, and it worked. And, I was also able to get on some wired and wireless netowrks in Europe with it. So yes, I agree with buying a used machine, when the need is appropriate and/or frugal.

And that old Dell still runs today. In fact, it runs the Windows 7 Beta, and fairly well at that, on one of the 3 hard drives I have for it. My second drive runs FreeBSD. And my third drive runs Ubuntu LINUX. As I just downloaded the Win7 RC, it will soon be upgraded yet again.

If Apple would release an open version of their OS that would run on it, I would load that on yet another drive, but alas, Apple does not seem to want to do so. If Apple wants people to use their OS more, and get Corporations to use their OS more, they need to open up the OS for more hardware platforms, and then Corporations will stand up and take notice, and test it on their existing leased machines for application compatibility.

Until that day, they are looking at corporations to perform a complete 'rip and replace' of all hardware; and for major corporations, and that is just plain not going to happen. Many corporations have tried replacing Windows with the Mac OS for years, and it always comes down to application that just camn't be ported to Macs. And, in a mission critical environment, you run what supports your needs.

I know many small firms that use Macs for Design work, but all of their day-to-day billing systems run on PCs. And that's not going to change anytime soon.

The average person who buys a more expensive Mac probably also took out an Alt-A mortgage. I have nothing against someone who prefers a Mac to a PC, but when all you do is browse the web, use a word processor, and upload photos, a $500 machine suffices. Take the other $500-$1000 and donate it to charity, or better yet buy another machine and give it to a needy kid.

I hope that someone in the PC world sees this.

I was at the Apple store this weekend to buy a gift card for a family member.

The staff member that helped us used a POCKET PC to check us out. HA!

Because Titanic faced the blue screen of death, too?

Don't make me load all of these comments… and hire an editor:

"offered to give Lauren his old 17-inch Powerbook so she do a comparison"

should probably be "offered to give Lauren his old 17-inch Powerbook so she *can* do a comparison"

Long story short: "No, you're not".

Look, if I wanted a computer that's really "feasible" I'd buy a nice refurbished laptop with scratch marks on the top but otherwise in good running condition. Maybe replace the hard drive and keyboard. That's a total expense of something around $250 for a perfectly functional machine (albeit a bit old looking, but I could claim it has sentimental value). And oh, put Linux on it.

Then, if I wanted something fancy I'd go for the best, and that's an Apple product.

Microsoft seems caught in the middle here, lacking a quality offer while being too expensive for the economy portion of the market.

The way I see it, it's evolution. I look forward to the future enterprises that will bring down Apple and Google with their superior products. This is a war, and the winners are us.

I made the following statement previously, and I believe that I need to amend it.

I had written:

So, which do I prefer? Neither, nor do I prefer Linux, even though I have built my share of those systems as well. In my world, it comes down to flexibility, power, cost, and the availability of applications. When judged by those criteria, I come back to Windows, every time. So, for me, Windows works; for others, the Mac OS works; and for others; Linux works. And then there is FreeBSD, upon which the current Mac OS is based.

My new edited response is:

So, which do I prefer? On an emotional basis, neither. Many of the responses in this forum have been purely emotional, yet there is more to it than that. A computer is a tool, and it is what we do with that tool, and how we interact with the tool, that proves its usefulness. In my world, it comes down to flexibility, power, the availability of applications, and the sum total of all of those costs. When judged by those criteria, I come back to Windows, almost always (especially for workstations). Sometimes Linux serves better, like my NAS Drives, or for an Apache Server. Sometimes UNIX works better (often because the security issues are well known, or the large corporate application absolutely requires it). Sometimes the Mac OS works better, and this is usually the case if the user is personally familiar with it and has years of time invested in using it, and is going to perform a task under contract. Sometimes FreeBSD is the best. Sometimes Solaris is the best choice. It all depends; on the user, on the firm requiring the product/service provided, on the standards that have been prescribed by the client firm, what applications it will be expected to support, and what is going to provide the path of least resistance to the end-user community that will be expected to use it…

This last item, the path of least resistance to the end-user community that will be expected to use it, will often point to Windows, and not to the Mac, simply because of the sheer size of the installed base of Windows systems, and the visual familiarity that most people have with Windows.

This bashing back and forth is absurd. Whether you have a Mac OS or Windows, the machine you are running it on is indeed a PC (Personal Computer). And both designs use Intel Processors.

As to that Turion-64 powered HP Laptop, it is an extremely fast machine, especially for the money. As for those who say she has RAM that she cannot use, please be aware that that specific laptop has Vista 64-bit, so 4 GB of RAM is nothing for it to deal with. To quote from Microsoft Support: “a 64-bit version of Windows Vista supports from 1 GB of RAM to more than 128 GB of RAM”. So I do not think she has anything to worry about with the amount of Memory installed on that laptop.

Just for the record, I just bought one of those at CostCo for my wife, and that DV7-series HP laptop is one very well-equipped machine. And the version I bought has dedicated Video RAM, so that is also not an issue. Sure, I ripped out a bunch of useless software, installed AVGFree, installed Microsoft Defender, and it has been completely secure behind my firewall ever since. And it is fast. Not as fast as my new Intel i7 920s Desktop I just constructed (SuperMicro motherboard, 12GB DDR3 RAM, 0.9 TB of RAID5 SATA II storage on 4 spindles, and an nVIDIA GTX260 Graphics Subsystem with 893MB of dedicated RAM), but easily faster than my two Corporate Laptops I have at home; an HP nw8440 and a Thinkpad T60P, both with 2GB of RAM. It is also faster than my old desktop machine, which, according to all of the Mac pundits here, should not even still be running.

That Intel 2.8GHz Hyper-threading system began as Windows 2000 RTM (was patched all the way to SP4), and then I loaded XP RTM on it, and patched it all the way to SP3; and it has had 4 different video cards in it, and multiple disk subsystem upgrades. But the core image was never blown away and reset. I built that system in 1999, and the only reason I retired it as a desktop is that I needed more raw processing power for Video Processing, hence my new i7 system. Oh yes, that old system is going to continue on as a Vista 32bit System with 3GB of Ram for my 8 year old grandson.

My daughter has a used PowerPC Mac that she bought from her Uncle, and it has had numerous power supply issues. In fact, the last time it was in, they bought an extra Power Supply for it because the guy at the Apple Store told her that the supply was no longer available. Now that's sad, as I can still go out and purchase power supplies that will work in even ancient x86 systems, new.

But I digress, as to which is better, that is indeed a good question; and I believe that neither is 'better'. While one may be more predisposed for certain tasks (according to many, but unproven to me), the bottom line is how productive the user is, versus how much it costs to buy and maintain. Just like a car.

So, which do I prefer? Neither, nor do I prefer Linux, even though I have built my share of those systems as well. In my world, it comes down to flexibility, power, cost, and the availability of applications. When judged by those criteria, I come back to Windows, every time. So, for me, Windows works; for others, the Mac OS works; and for others; Linux works. And then there is FreeBSD, upon which the current Mac OS is based.

I have never been infected by a virus, root kit, or any other form of malware. Microsoft’s unattended Security Patching has never let me down.

I can’t say the same of my daughter’s Mac.

Oh, I do not drive a Volkswagen. Does a Jag count as cool?

One last thing, if the Mac OS is so good at graphics and such, why was all of the rendering for Titanic done on DEC Alpha processors, running Windows?

The operating system aside, Mac hardware really can't be compared to Dell, HP or other value-priced vendors. That's like comparing a Hyundai to a Mercedes. The more apt comparison would be to Sony Vaio. My friends who own Dell & HP have nothing but hardware problems. I have had Mac laptops since the early 1990s and they all still work, including my Powerbook 180. And all have been used 24/7. Apple's hardware quality is on a par with Honda in the automobile world. But I do agree with the critics that Apple needs to offer a stripped computer and make it easier to add upgrades, e.g. web cam, wifi card, more RAM, a bigger hard drive, etc. I have alway faced the problem of not being able to afford their top-of-the-line systems, setting for the low-end model and making due or upgrading as I have more money. They really could sell more Macs with a more aggressive entry-level product, then make up their margins on the pricey upgrades.

I just use a four-year-old iMac G5, with a PowerPC processor so no Windows, and I am satisfied. This Mac cost several hundred dollars less than my previous Windows PC, and since it remains at home, I don't care whether anyone thinks I'm cool or not. It is my only computer.

Microsoft wouldn't have these problems if they had just stuck with XP!!!! XP's awesome, and I wouldn't have it any other way…but Vista truly sucks

Unless you want to use a computer for specific tasks like multimedia/photo editing and all, Mac is surely overprized.

Window is sub-par. So what the hell does one do..

Get a PC, run it on LINUX. You wont be disappointed.

Perhaps Mac'ers are frustrated that someone is putting a $ value to computer use. REAL people (not just acrtors) pay a Mac-tax to have a Mac. Not only the up-front $$ but have they ever tried to repair or add components? (Don't try this at home – at the office – at the kitchen table – or anywhere you live.) I have a PC & my wife has a PC. We're bothi in education AND we drive a VW beetle – bright red. We're real and not actors and I guess we're not COOL enough to buy a Mac – or wealthy enough.

PS – Most of the other people we know who have Macs turn right around & BUY & load Windows on the Mac so they can work with the students.

Passing up on the sub $1,000 13 inch macbook was the biggest mistake of this young woman's life. Unless of course there is a Zune in her purse.

the actress in this was given a computer that already had a virus on it. so she decided to buy a 17" macbook pro and sue for the cost of the mac.

Hey, if Mac users don't want to be seen as "pompous jerks", maybe they should stop actng like pompous jerks.

I live overseas. Just had a chance to see the commercial in YouTube. Yes, she is not cool enough. I agree. Extremely ordinary and cheap

This will probably sell a few more crappy HP laptops and I have little doubt of that. Will it take away a Mac Book sale? I wouldn't put my money on that.

There are some rotund and nerdy Mac users too but that's not the point is it? Both companies have shown some very obvious stereotype over the last months. It's no advertising genius though as the best thing that they can be credited with is "being willing to go there."

I've been a high end PC-Windows power user for many many years. Upgrading to a new PC every year for an extreme gaming setup. I must admit I was prejudiced against Mac users. A few months ago I bought my first iPhone which made me go "hmmmm?" That led to me buying my first MacBook 2 months ago. That led to me buying a 2009 Mac Pro just a few days ago. I still think some Mac users are elitists but it doesn't change the fact that they have a vastly superior product–and that does come with a premium as is the rule in these matters. If PC-Windows users had a reason to be elitist they would be too… it's human nature.

What a fun read this thread has been.

I find the 'we have more software argument' used by the PC crowd to be absolutely ridiculous. I have a Mac that runs both OSX and Windows through Parallels. So I can run any software made for a PC or a Mac. That turns that argument completely on it's head! Mac users can run more software than anyone! Legally.

And the argument about buying a Ferrari or a Ford is such a hyperbole. A more accurate argument would be a buying Hyundai or a Honda. They're both accessible purchases, but one is obviously cheaper than the other.

Mac users are passionate about their computers. The PC people in this thread are passionate about their dislike of Mac users.

If you're comfortable and happy driving a Hyundai, go buy one… just stop being so angry at all those people driving Hondas.

You people are weird! This is the best commercial we have ever done!

http://fakesteveballmer.blogspot.com

to: "the king"

***********************************************************

your highness:

perhaps thou may grace us with thine true identity?

no matter as it is rather obvious you are somehow affiliated with CP+B as you posted your location as Boulder, CO. most likely you are on the CB+P account team that has been assigned to microsoft and that you may in fact be the art director or copywriter that developed this concept.

first of all… the intent of my response has nothing to do with agency responsible for producing this commercial, in fact i have a lot of respect for CB+P, they do some great work. also, microsoft is a tough brand to market right now as they have had issues with their latest release of windows. this communication does a great job of pointing the focus away from the issues surrounding the brand and highlighting a scenario in which the brand appears superior to said competition; aka "apple".

the desired result of any communication is to evoke a response from the intended recipient of the message; positive or negative, as they allow for the dialog to continue and a non response is a failure to communicate as the loop is never closed. a negative response is in most cases more welcomed then a positive response as it exposes the most crucial portion of the target audience as the message has moved them enough that they felt obligated to relay their opinion back to the sender and in doing so revealing their position on the topic giving you the ability to address their objections and sway them to partake in the desired action, behavior, or habit initially prescribed by the vehicle. (but what do i know about advertising or brand communication strategy?)

your spot, like my response to it are both examples of successful communication loops as they each have motivated the recipient(s) to respond to the message. unfortunately in this case, your majesty's head is so far up their royal arse that they have failed to recognize that the vehicle they have created was successful.

i play in your sandbox every day & i too have built my share of sand castles but you wont find me hiding behind erroneously arrogant screen names insulting strangers on blogs concerning my work as they contain some great insight as to how it has been received (good & bad). in this business there are two things that remain true regardless of the client, agency or medium and that is you never learn a damn thing from doing it right and the ability to listen to & accept criticism in a mature, professional fashion is a crucial part of the job.

so "king" … how about those apples?

(no pun intended)

TO "clason stuhlreyer":

You obviously have no idea how advertising works. Essentially your post just said that CP+B, who won AD AGENCY OF THE YEAR, doesn't know how to do advertising because they aren't featuring any MS product. If this ad is causing such a huge stir in the MAC community, they did their job DAMN good, without a need to clutter up the ad campaign with MS features.

Please, don't write about a profession you don't understand.

Topolsky is right, though. I've found many Mac users to be elitist pompous jerks, too.

This commercial is on the same vein as the Mac-PC commercials by Apple with the fat, uncool guy being the PC. It's just funny how it strikes the nerve of a bunch of pompous jerks.

Hm. Writing this on my HP Pavilion laptop, in a different room from my Earth-shaking home-built Windows machine. Macs are pretty, but the arguments about antivirus and other problems are spurious. I use open-source antivirus that isn't available for Mac; open-source office software that costs $0. The primary driver? Three to five times the available software, at 4/5 the cost. If you like to play games or use consumer level software, buy a Windows-based machine. If you do magazine layout or like the cloud of smug that hangs over you, pay the extra $600-1000 for a comparable Apple product. BTW, I'm an iPod junkie, so don't think I'm just an Apple hater. There's a reason, however, that Apple continues to own less than 20% of the market share.

well… please allow me to retort.

if this is an ad for microsoft then they seem to have forgotten a rather important detail as it spoke nothing about their product … not one single detail was mentioned. the focal point and story line of the ENTIRE spot was about a piece of hardware that just happens to have microsoft's OS preloaded on it by default. what sucks for HP is that it doesn't matter how good their product is. even if it were superior to a mac; which it's not, they are limited by an achilies heel that they are basically forced to deal with as it is illegal to load OS x on a PC. (although it is being done more and more every day.)

so what happens if/when apple releases OS x for PCs in the third quarter this year? That same computer that she bought could very well come with leopard preloaded on it rather then microsoft's virus of an operating system they call vista.

I really hope they don't release OS x for pc… but if they do i would imagine the tag for the campaign might read something like …

"hasta la vista, baby!"

MMmmm. Now that was a tasty burger.

"Steve Ballmer" If life has taught me ANYTHING, it's that 90% of the people are always wrong.

Actresses need laptops too!

http://fakesteveballmer.blogspot.com

But if on average PC users replace after 3 years and Mac users replace after 6. Which is more economical ? Plus there just simply isn't the frustration level you have with a PC. I switched to Macs 18 months ago and I will NEVER go back to a PC. I simply couldn't stand it !

can the following claims be substantiated? "…Macs will sell to folks who appreciate the higher quality of construction, greater ease of use, longer relevancy to current software needs, and better intergration of features…"

in the present economic scenario, would the two laptops (comparing features)be considered as discretionary or necessary featured purchases…

I love this commercial!!! And that so many of the Mac users are so defensive. I've had my PC 4 years and counting. It still works for what I need it to do and I'm satisfied. Sure maybe you feel a Mac works better but everyone doesn't have that kind of money laying around. Some people are really struggling and only need something basic. Why spend $1000+ when you probably wouldn't use all of the fancy features anyway. Just a thought. And most people that can't afford a Lamborghini wouldn't walk into the dealership. Which is why some people don't even worry themselves with a Mac. I don't think there's anything wrong with that. And I can't understand why so many Mac users do have a problem with that.

lol, damn right your not cool enough for an apple. She's like the person that walks into a Lamborghini dealer and asks if it comes in an automatic.

90% of the population CAN'T be wrong!

http://fakesteveballmer.blogspot.com/

There's a computer out there for everyone. If you've only got $1000 bucks, than you shouldn't get Apple. They are not for you.

However, keep in mind you'll have to spend several hundreds more dollars getting your anti-virus software and your Word package, etc.

Not to speak of the time required doing maintenance on these low-end machines.

No wonder that people who've got a bit more cash go for the Macs. BTW, not THAT much more…

It seems some of the apple camp have a hard time dealing with better PCs.

For one,Macs are very limited in what they can do. Even with Boot Camp your still dont get the advantages of a PC because Mac drivers are never up to date and you cant use standard video drivers, you have to use modified.

Then comes performance. Most applications that can run on a Mac are optimized for the limited hardware variations that Mac has. Take a Mac, then take a similarly "priced" PC, the PC would run circles around the Mac. For the $2000+ you would have to spend on a decent macbook, you can buy a PC Laptop that has specs well above the macbook and performs all applications better.

Every time Apple compares performance of a PC and a Macbook, they always compare systems with similar specs using applications that are on both, usually photoshop and the line of apple products. However, the Macbook will end up costing double the cost of the similarly priced PC.

Also, Mac fans can no longer use virusus/malware as an excuse anymore. Its been obvious as more and more people buy macs, more and more exploits and malware have been created. While its normal for windows to gave articles about exploits, for the past year, there have been bi weekly articles about exploits in the OS X software.

For the people who factor in the cost of anti-virus and anti-spyware software, there are plenty of better free programs than what Norton or Mcafee.

There is a reason why 90+% of the worlds use a PC. Better software compatibility, better hardware, and cost. I would use Vista any day over OSX, its too simple, it doesnt have everything I want and I can customize Vista with features that OSX will never get. I use Win7 now and it blows away OSX.

People who use Apple will always use apple to make themselves feel better. There has yet to be a single mac user I have encountered who could justify using an apple over a PC. I went to college and saw tons of mac users get frustrated because of the fact that OSX just doesn't integrate well within a windows environment.

The TRUTH is easy to come by people!

http://fakesteveballmer.blogspot.com

As a Mac user of many years, I weep at the knee-jerk reponse provided by other Mac users to provocation like the "Lauren" ad.

More significant, though, is that the dig at Macs really isn't the issue for Microsoft. Microsoft is not being victimized by Macs, but by netbooks, which are canibalizing sales from what would otherwise be purchases of Windows Vista laptops. Even assuming the netbook is loaded with XP (and not linux), Microsoft clears about 1/3 the royalty for the XP than for Vista. The most recent earnings reports confirm that revenues from OS licenses have taken a big hit in the past year, as the sales of netbooks have exploded.

Note that Lauren is shopping for a 17" laptop, the very opposite end of the spectrum from the 8" and 10" netbooks. The real message here is that Windows laptops aren't expensive compared to netbooks.

Remember as well that Microsoft doesn't care a bit whether the sale goes to HP, Dell or any other company–all it cares is one more Vista license is sold, instead of an XP license.

So everyone needs to stand down, crack open a cold one, and relax. Macs will sell to folks who appreciate the higher quality of construction, greater ease of use, longer relevancy to current software needs, and better intergration of features. Windows computers will continue to find fans with gamers, legacy system users and those who just need to buy a new computer every few years because the software requirements are starting to outstrip their "bargain".

There is plenty of room for everyone. Just do keep in mind that Microsoft is stalking a much different beast at the moment.

I'm still using a 6 year old 17" eMac, and all I've ever had to do in that time is add ram and a larger hard drive. It still works GREAT for everything I need to do, including running Photoshop and Illustrator. I have no need or plans to upgrade. Macs end up being cheaper because they are better quality and therefore are usable for a much longer period of time. Compared to my friend's 3 year old el-cheapo PC it's a JOKE.

Mac is far less expensive: My Macs are always sold for about 50% of what I paid for them after 2 or 3 years so the next one I buy is less than an equivalent PC (if there were such a thing!). Someone needs to point out to PC buyers their machines are worthless in two years. Residual value is a massive strength with Apple equipment. Now start calculating cost of time wasted with Windows issues! Now add in cost many pay to geeks to get Windows working, again and again. Now add in Anti-Virus software … Hello!

both PC and Mac is good as long as theres no windows installed on it …

Do you really want the truth?

http://fakesteveballmer.blogspot.com

Darn! My pc just crashed again!

her self-confidence is lacking, so it's true

that she' simply not cool enough for a mac.

a pity, too, because she's _sexy_ enough…

oh wait. "lauren" is just a paid actress.

i bet in real life she _is_ cool enough

(and sexy enough) to own a mac, and

probably _does_.

investigate, reporters!

-bowerbird

20 bucks says that the post-prodcution for this commercial was edited using a Mac.

I can't wait until Mac controls a higher percentage of computer market, because in turn Macs will get more and more vulnerable. The only reason Macs seem more secure now is simply because not that many people own one compared to PCs. When the percentage of people owning a Mac increases, an increase in security issues will most likely be present. Just think, all the Mac users that switched due to the security vulnerabilities on a PC will be right back where they started.

@PED if that was really PED posting the 17 inch laptop comparison article:

That article pits computers designed for different reasons. That is a totally WRONG comparison. The fact that the PC's come standard with Quadro FX workstation graphics cards destroys that whole argument of cost. How in the world do you compare a Quadro FX with a 9600M/9400M? You can't. They're not even designed to do the same thing. Quadro FX and Fire GL cards are pure horsepower cards designed for hardcore 3D rendering like AutoCad. The 9600M/9400M is not designed for that. Even Apple's website says the 9600M is "gaming." Quadro FX and FireGL cards have ALWAYS cost an arm and leg which adds HUGE cost to laptops for mobile versions.

Giving a point to Apple for firewire? Firewire is a dying fad.

RAM speeds mean nothing with DDR2 and DDR3 with current C2D, C2Q and Phenom/Phenom II CPUs as proven over and over again. Only the Core i7 can really use DDR3 to it's potential.

And he gives sound quality because Apple has optical in and out? Please…plug your headphones in and listen to the MP3s. you won't see a difference in any laptop sound.

Bundles productivity software is a worthless thing to rate as you can get all the productivity software you need for free. OpenOffice is a good start.

Points for enviornmental impact and design? Come on…you've gotta be kidding. Can you say trying to justify your Apple Tax?

Comparing support? That varies from person to person. Some people have never had an issue with Dell or HP. Some have never had an issue with Apple. But others have had issues with all of them. That shouldn't even be part of the equation.

Basically it was a worthless article written by an iCult member that is trying to justify the cost of their Mac.

ex ped: I'm not going to defend McCracken's work, but that strikes me a pretty biased review of his article.

Hahahaha! Just look at all the outraged Mac users in this thread… That in itself is very telling. We don't even need the commercial anymore.

Re: Ford vs. Ferrari "argument": There is only an argument if you actually have the money to buy the Ferrari. Of course the Ford would have less features, but it's within people's budgets. Now Apple is more than welcome to lower the features to… *GASP* LOWER THE BUYING PRICE!

For readers serious about pursuing the cost/performance question, I highly recommend Harry McCracken's piece today in Technologizer. He pits a 17-inch MacBook Pro against a similarly configured Dell, HP, Lenovo and Sony and then compares them feature by feature before revealing the price. You may be surprised by what he finds. Here's the link:

http://technologizer.com/2009/03/31/hey-lauren-is-apples-17-inch-macbook-pro-expensive/

Just to be fair, the cost difference is substantial but so is the cost between a 1992 Ford Escort and a brand new Ferrari. Which one would you rather drive?

I was a "PC" for many years. My first Packard Bell computer ran Win 3.1 and I have used all the Windows OS versions since. I'm a computer programmer and I have always have this notion that Macs were for hippy, artsy people. I "needed" option to customize my hardware, I "needed" to have MS office, etc. I was a wiz at Windows, and knew everything there is to know about it, so I was reluctant for years to even try a Mac. Well I'm proud to say that it has been year one now since I bought my first Mac and I couldn't be happier. The machine is beautiful inside and out. The performance is simply awesome and I was surprised to find out how incredibly easy it is to use, far more friendly than Windows. The only negative aspect of owning my Mac is the fact that I now realize just how much my work PC sucks.

I’m a PC.

And I use Ubuntu.

It's nice to see the Mac fanboys freaking out. M$ finally releases a clever commerical to counter the dozens of annoying ads that Apple puts out. Are Apple owners that insecure about people questioning their products? Get a clue, buy a PC.

There is a reason Microsoft created this ad: Over the last 10 years or so, a reinvented and resurgent Apple has enjoyed tremendous success – and much of it of late has come at Microsoft's expense. The problem with this ad is it won't change the reality that Apple products offer better value and a far better user experience than Microsoft products. People can argue otherwise, but the facts do not support you. Look at Apple's sales percentages and growth over the last few years. Look at Consumer reports ratings of Apple products for reliability, technical support, and customer satisfaction over the last 8 years or so. Of course Microsoft did not help themselves with the Vista flop.

To anyone who says Mac's aren't for technical users, you have obviously never used Terminal.app to access Mac OS X's FreeBSD underpinnings. You obviously don't know that X11 runs perfectly on Mac's. You have obviously never used any of the superb virtualization tools for Mac, or even Apple's own BootCamp. This is a big part of why Mac's offer such an excellent value. You can run Windows on them ,legally, as in "not violating intellectual property laws".

And to whoever said, that Mac OS X Leopard isn't available as a fully-functional, non-upgrade, standalone product is wrong. In fact, go to the Apple Store Online and take a look at the Mac Box Set. Mac OS X Leopard, iWork '09, and iLife '09 for US$169.00. Again, outstanding value from Apple.

No need to get into a tizzy. Just get yourself a Macintosh. You'll be glad you did.

Let the little twit own a PC! Software full of more holes than swiss cheese, hardware that's third rate. The PC machines are the target of vicious viruses and worms on a constant basis.

Then there's the fact that she'll be spending LOTS of money on software and hardware. She is right; stupid and cheap. She doesn't deserve to own a Mac!

Looks like someone took a bite out of Apple, how can you argue with a good looking girl like that?

…she is right, an Apple will run you more than a foreclosed home these days !

I just wanted to add, that, as you all must realize to some extent, that if Apple/Mac dies, these right brain people are all totally screwed, and the computer user community will be much the worse without them. Who would we have these totally stupid factional arguments over, about, and with?

Lauren is cutie, BTW.

Clearly these results point to the probability that Lauren is a total hottie.

In other news: Based on the responses, it's clear that PC users may be more left brain dominant, and Mac users more right brain dominant.

The conflict occurs when right brain dominant people, lacking in awareness of the technical demands of Windows, or lacking in income, inadvertently choose

the incompatible type of platform (Windows PC), or can't afford the platform they know they can manage (OSX Mac). As a result these right brain dominant

people confront a frustrating conundrum of poor fit for capability. They get burned by Windows technicalities and obfuscations and grow bitter; they also

become indignant and conceal this hurt behind a facade of elitist preference. "I choose Mac because they are the best". Actually, it might be more accurate to

say "I choose Mac because it is the best for my capabilities, because I am artistically gifted and not logically/technically gifted."

Thus, Macs require very little technical problem solving, little upgrade or updating processing, and relatively shallow technical troubleshooting. This is very

attractive to right brain people. This constitutes "The Best" type of computer for right brain people.

Windows/Vista for PC, on the other hand, has been composited by left brain people for left brain people. The best type of computer for a left brain person would

be the winner of a "build your monster PC" competition – probably not a single brand, but a certain category that could be modded so that it totally rips, Dude.

So that even when Windows fails to be intuitive, or PC hardware for a certain category fails or becomes outmodded, left brain people will be able to problem

solve the situation using typical left brain tendencies — write their own coding into the operating system — add their own module — install a different component.

This route may be difficult or impossible or just a total bore for right brain people. So, when confronted with setting up a router using XP, it may be that the

agent is not technically skilled enough as a rule due to lack of education, or the agent may have a high level of skill and education but does not have the left

brain reasoning process skills and also doesn't care, or the agent is left brain enabled and will set up the router by using left brain troubleshooting in logical

process totally ignoring what the operating system instructions improperly advise – because the process itself may be completely non-intuitive, having been

constructed by left brain programmers without a right brain interface, or the instructions, which require right brain skills to commit to comprehensible format in

"big picture" scope, were written by left brain dominant people who are too retarded in "righting" [pun intended] instructions that are good enough to be

understood by anyone other than the writer or perhaps only the programmers.

It seems to make sense that people who initially used computation devices tended heavily towards left brain dominant activity (mathematics, symbolic logic,

linguistic construction, engineering, scientific processing). This category of cognitive processors still remains dominant, but as computing becomes more

personal and accessible, and more useful and approachable to right brain dominant processors, the market share of Macs will increase, at least for the right

brainers who can afford the cost, or understand the close compatibility of the Mac platform with their brain processing skill set.

Mac people want a tool they can create stuff with. PC-MS people want that too, but sometimes they are more interesting in just messing around with the

hardware construction and software construction, and actually attaining the objective of the tool used is just secondary. It would be the difference between

hiring Lauren to do a commercial because you want to get the commercial made, versus hiring Lauren to do the commercial because you find petite red-haired

women utterly fascinating and deserving of closer scrutiny and contemplation.

I'm also not saying that left brain dominant people won't gravitate towards Macs, more that right brain dominant people are more likely to be unable to use

Windows-type PCs.

Just as left brain dominant people would have difficulty using a Mac to draw a fine portrait of a lovely red-haired woman with sanguine nail polish. A left brain

dominant person may find less interest in a Mac (unless it could be modded to become a robot with caterpillar treads) because it lacks the technical challenge.

Myself, I primarily use MS-PCs because I like to take them apart and see how they work. It's nice that they also do word processing or whatever.

Something for everyone. So don't hate. You wouldn't install a VPU in a CPU socket if you didn't have to, would you? And vice versa.

And so, in conclusion, Lauren is very fine indeed.

A cute, geeky red head .. almost as rare as a quality $699 Vista based PC. Of course "quality Vista" is an oxymoron.

A cute, geeky red head .. almost as rare as a quality $699 Vista based PC. Of course "quality Vista" is an oxymoron.

I don't know but it seems that an "actress" seems pretty normal here is Southern California. After all there are 70,000 actors, both male and female in the US. They make between minimum wage up to around $51/hour on average, with a lot of unemployment.

Macs are good PC's (pun), however they don't have the extensive library of software that a Windows based PC has. In addition, companies (95%) use Windows based PC's. They are both decent computing platforms. Mac users are more fananatic and more loyal to their brand.

Mac users should stop whining.

The economy is terrible and you can buy 2 PCs for the price of 1 Mac and do more than just listen to music, browse the web, and edit pictures. I also love those "green" apple commercials that state battery lasts for 8 hours. There was an recent article that tested this – 4.5 hours idle max, and 3 hours when the user is active. Lame.

Sure, Linux is free, but 90% of the world doesn't want to waste their time writing/modifying drivers to make a device work, or tweak something else to run an application. If something breaks or doesn't work, then what…

If you think PCs have a huge security issue, take a look at www(dot)securemac(dot)com.

Wow, talk about sensitive Mac-fans. Don't tell them they aren't superior. Mac is too proprietary, and they make you pay thru the nose for even minor upgrades. They have a core of fans who will pay for anything. My brother is one. He bought a iTouch, the first iPhone, and then a second iPhone. All so he could have the latest from Apple. It is like a cult. I've been using Vista for years with little to no problems.

400 posts and counting. This ad did hit a nerve.

If Lauren had not spent $400. on the purse she was carrying she could have had the trouble free mac!

Just checking back on this article. Wow, the MS fanbois are really freaking out. Yeah, we have seen windows, this is why we like Mac. If we wanted to run Windows, we could–faster than you can in fact, on your BIOS hobbled hardware. You should try checking out the other side–everyone else is.

@cynik

You think asking for proof of FUD from an iCult member makes me a fanboi? Give me a break.

If somebody claimed Linux or FreeBSD took 40 minutes to boot I'd still be asking for proof because I don't believe it for a minute.

I don't care if you use a Mac just don't spread FUD just to make yourself feel better about your overly expensive machine.

I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.

Joannah

http://myscones.com

ex ped: Welcome, Joannah. Nice looking scones.

Joy of Tech has posted a cartoon reaction to the ad here:

http://www.geekculture.com/joyoftech/joyarchives/1227.html

I am a tech that works on both Macs, and PCs. You can get good products from both sides. HP however…not a good place to start. Go with IBM, or Acer and you are getting closer. Acer is especially good for both price and reliability. In fact….Acer and IBM are both rated as more reliable than Mac.

Doesn't really matter though. Choose what you want to choose, and stick with it. Check out the other side so you know what you are talking about..and maybe learn a bit about computers before buying one.

Oh, and don't get all worked up by what an ad says. I mean pc users had to listen to years and years of Apple telling them that they were workaholic, tweed wearing, dorks….how can you watch Apple put out ads like that then get defensive about this.

You are not Apple…you are not PC…you are a consumer….stop being sheep!

@cynik

You can call me a fanboi all you want. I love my iPhone 3G but I'm not part of the iCult and I will never own a Macbook due to the price.

Bottom line is the virus/malware you claim is such a problem is not nearly the problem you make it out to be. I've never had a virus. I've never had malware. Neither has any of my family or friends. My family isn't very computer literate but they listen when I say use these 4-5 programs to keep yourself safe.

Simple things like antimalware programs, Firefox with Adblock Plus and NoScript and Vista with UAC enabled will stop anything from installing without the USER allowing it to. Takes a total of 10 minutes to get all that set up.

You can keep believing that Macs are more secure all you want. Bottom line is security through obscurity won't keep you safe forever.

@Peter -

Wrong on both counts.

You can ONLY buy an upgrade version of Leopard (unless you buy a new Mac). There is no standalone version you can buy. You can absolutely, positively not buy a Leopard disc at the Apple Store and install it on anything that did not already come with OS X. Not legally, anyway. That is the very definition of an "upgrade disc."

On the other point:

OS X is the equivalent of Vista Home Premium. You are incorrect to say that the Windows Professional/Business functionality is included in the OS X package. That is why Apple sells "Apple Remote Desktop" which includes the group policy and remote management equivalents for OS X.

I don't see how you failed to understand that from my original post, so I'll just chalk it up to the reality distortion field.

I'm so sorry.. I am very sorry..

MAC users, you have no idea what you are talking about. Mac laptops are not better. I'm sorry but 2.5 ghz cpu, 2 gb ram, 100 gb hdd, and like 2 usb ports for $1,400?? Are you kidding me?

I can buy a much better HP laptop with specs that put a macbook to shame.. Then all i need to do is buy the Mac OS and install it.

The argument that PCs crash, get viruses, and slow down, is not valid. My PCs have always performed at the same speed when I bought them. For virus problems? get a free antivirus program and that's solved. PCs slow down right after buying it? please, I've seen a Mac slow down, heck I've even seen a Mac crash before.

If you don't know what you are doing, of course you're going to mess up your computer. For the record, the Mac OS is much harder to use. I mean it took me 20 minutes to figure out how to format a usb drive, where in PC you just need to right-click the usb drive and select format.

Windows is easier to use and for crying out loud PCs are cheaper and you can get the same specs for a cheaper price!

Boy Lauren is an idiot. Right at the front of the Apple store they have Macbooks starting at $999. Maybe I'm being a pompous jerk, but at least I don't have to lie to make my point.

Dude if Macs are too expensive, and Vista sucks, buy the HP and stick Ubuntu on it. For FREE! It's more bulletproof than mac by far. You think you're missing out on eye candy? Don't even go there, any candy that mac can do, Linux can do. Better. @brian have you ever used any OS besides for Mac?

"The campaign goes directly at what may be Apple’ biggest vulnerability: the growing differential between Macs, which have largely held their prices throughout the recession…"

If you read that in the context of supply/demand economics, being able to hold its price as demand falls is an indicator of just how successful Apple have been with the Macintosh. The people that do buy them appreciate their value. The upfront cost of the machine indicates its strength, not any vulnerability.

The people who choose to buy on price alone will get what they set out to get – a cheap computer. In every sense of the phrase.

Funny Ad. As someone that has run the PC Workstation program for a major DOD agency, I have seen and evaluated all the laptop solutions. I also own a 17" MacBook Pro and multiple PC based laptops.

The Apple product is all about the marketing. Love the MAC vs. PC ads. But their product is targeted for the consumer and a limited business focus on the "Artistic and publishing crowd". Since Apple converted to INTEL chips, their marketing has transitioned and followed the PC marketing approach…this thing is newer, faster and better than the one you bought yesterday, buy more of this new thing that you won’t really know how to use any better. The Apple approach used to be it didn’t matter about the hardware, it was about the user experience on the MAC.

Secondly, for a true business user the Apple product is 2nd rate choice as outlined below.

Apple Experience:

Docking Station: Apple doesn’t even make one. Also, they don’t design their product toward the thought of a mobile user wanting to use a docking station on a daily basis. Any business user wants the option of a docking station.

Integrated Broadband Wireless: Not even an option. Apple’s assumption that regular wireless capability will be available everywhere you go is a joke. Try traveling around the country without broadband access and you will be completely frustrated.

CAC Card (Cryptographic Logon Card): 54mm PCMCIA card slot is not available to support this. 34 mm option only.

Multiple Monitor Setups: Limited on the MacBook Pro due to the lack of a docking station or expansion opportunities with one.

Screens: The MacBook is nice, but the "Glossy Screen" will give you headaches by the end of the day due to the eyestrain from the glare. No option for a Matte Screen for the professional workers, Glossy Only for the “flashiness” for the consumer. Secondly, the screen will have scratches from the keyboard after about 3 months if you use the laptop as a laptop and carry it in a bag anywhere. Try discussing this poor design with Apple while under warranty, no they won’t replace the screen for their bad design when an integrated small metal extension on the case would prevent the keyboard and the screen from meeting (Duh…).

Powercords: The magnetic function is neat, but the durability of the powercord is very suspect. Went through two in less than 2 years. Lack of extended battery setups as an alternative.

Yes, OS X wins hands down for simplicity of use and a general user understanding what they are attempting to do with it. Software only installing based on you agreeing and authenticating it.

The MAC O/S supports most of the above items (very well in fact), but you have to do it “outside” of the laptop unit itself. Plug in this, (Oops, I meant BUY this adapter for this, BUY another adapter for that), then plug them in an external connection or expansion slot, plug in the external monitor at your desk, etc. Unplug everything and place it in your laptop bag to go to a meeting, plug all the external connections in at the meeting to be able to access email over broadband. Finish the meeting, unplug everything to go to next meeting or desk. (Repeat this process N# of times based on meetings and trips to desk per day. Pain in the A$$…

PC Experience:

The best all-around laptops made are in the IBM Thinkpad line. Hands down the best keyboards made for a laptop. The ability to use either the trackpad or TrackPointer and not be forced to remove your hands from the keyboard to use the trackpad only. Docking stations that support extra drives, multiple monitor set-ups, etc. Integrated Broadband Wireless, Integrated CAC card capability, Integrated fingerprint reader for authentication, Extended battery options (Multiple options). Extremely durable platform.

Ultimate Laptop:

Thinkpad with the above options running MAC O/S that is supported by Apple as a configuration.

It depends on your needs. When I need a high-end computer with a standard configuration, I buy a Mac. When I need a high-end computer with a custom configuration, I build a PC. They cost about the same. Keep your low-end trash, I do not want.

@Ted:

Apple's "Mac & PC" ads were not about the people that use them. They were about the products themselves. The products were personified by actors that could talk to each other. Go ahead and watch the ads…try to find one in which either of them is described ad being the actual user/customer. Apple loves computer users and doesn't insult PC users as being not cool. It's Apple's products that are cooler and better.

If you google "I'm a pc", you get a dedicated website that says:

"If you’re a PC, you belong to a community of more than a billion individuals, working, playing, and connecting."

So these low budget freaks are a "community" now. Sheesh.

They are working on their OS to try to fix it, they are playing around with their printer drivers to try and that to work, and they are connected to the IT guy from the shop to try and find out what to do next.

Henry writes :

"We would all love to know what you did to your PC to make it take 40 minutes to get it to boot. Personally, I’m claiming FUD."

He probably just turned it on, henry. See, as a PC guy, you don't trust a person unless they can nerd speak about the intricate workings of their machine. If they are not someone with years worth of experience fixing Microsoft problems, so much that they speak the language of computer failings, you think they're an idiot.

Guess what? Most people don't WANT to speak nerd. They just want to go online, and talk to their friends about sex, smoking crack and…. sex whilst smoking crack. Stuff. NOT how to fix freaking computers.

"Once again we have an iCult member say something negative with no proof to back it up.

I’m not fanboi but…"

You demand proof when someone complains about a PC not working.

That makes you a microsoft fanboi, henry. Flat out. Other people just accept that windblows often crashes and gets viruses and so on. we just live with it, or get macs.

scott writes:

"but as a builder of computers (and able to afford the computer of my choice)"

Scott… buddy… if you build computers…. how come you would choose to buy one instead of building one?

So maybe the reason you don't want to buy a mac is because…. you prefer to build your unit out of parts?

Whatever. You build computers. Meh. You don't build computers, scott. Apple build computers.

You stick asian made parts together in random configurations and say "Wow, innit interesting?" when various thing then don't work. Then you think this makes you an expert in IT matters.

Be real, Scott. You're angry because nobody wants to buy your frankenstein monsters no more, and then ask you how to fix them.

@Marc

We would all love to know what you did to your PC to make it take 40 minutes to get it to boot. Personally, I'm claiming FUD.

Once again we have an iCult member say something negative with no proof to back it up.

I'm not fanboi but I am getting a huge kick out of watching the forums and all the irate iCult members try to justify their expense.

Wow. When Apple started with the "PC vs Apple", any outright attacks on the 'type' of person who ran a Windows OS was okay.

Now, one line in a commercial makes fun of Mac 'types' and there are many who cry fowl. That fact alone validates the commercial.

Ditch the MS Vista and replace it with Linux. Now, you have a low cost PC + quality software.

If Lauren is so hip why is she shopping at Best Buy? Shouldn't she be shopping at an independent PC dealer? I suspect she'll be spending her $1000 at the Geek Squad when they rip her off by selling her their hard drive backup services after her cheap PC's fan breaks, overheats, and fries her hard drive.

Prior to OSX, "Macintosh" as an acronym rang so true:

.

Most

Applications

Crash

If

Not

The

Operating

System

Hangs

The OS has been drastically upgraded since then, but as a builder of computers (and able to afford the computer of my choice), I don't see anything that makes me want to buy a Mac, especially for the outrageous sums they ask.

.

However, I do like Apple stock, for just this reason. The sheeple of the world and the iCult do a nice job of making me money. Thanks, sheeple.

I blogged about this a few days ago on Admonkey.org. My take is that Microsoft is smart to go for the value message at a time when many people can't even afford to buy groceries.

On the other hand, Lauren is now the proud owner of a laptop that's running an OS that Microsoft is scrambling to replace because it's so universally despised. I had to spend 40 minutes getting my PC laptop to boot the other day. My Mac just keeps working…

You could do the same ad for food.

McDonald's ad agency gives her $10 for dinner and follows her into Ruth's Chris Steakhouse with a camera.

She looks at the menu and exclaims, "I guess I'm not cool enough for Ruth's Chris. I can't afford $50 for dinner."

Next she goes to McDonalds. What a bargain I'm getting even more calories. The same french fries. And none of the snobbery (eg: no white table cloths, no waiters, etc.).

This is just an all-purpose commercial that works equally well for any low-end cheap product.

This cracks me up.

Clearly the ad is doing exactly what it was meant to do or people wouldn't be up in arms. And anyone who thinks there is not an elitist MAC culture is sadly mistaken.

Also, MAC ads have been poking fun at PC users for ages. What's wring with a little turn-about?

I love an apple, Make one I can afford….

Great article, great ad.

As far as the red head "wanting to be cool enough" to own a MAC. with all the talk about MAC vs. PC. of course she is going to go there first. I must admit, I too went there first. and I too ended up with a PC. I got a great deal on the PC im typing on now. for $1000 less then the MAC with similar specs. I'm not going to pay $1000 for "easy" if I have to, I'll tinker with my new toy. but I dont see any reason why I would have too. It have everything I wanted, and I didnt have to buy all the extras. Go to the apple site, and configure your MAC right now, then go to the hp site, and configure the same thing. with a pc, you just get more, for less.

I have yet to meet a MAC person that could justify WHY its so much better then my PC… seriously?! why? Something about drives? who cares?

Wait Wait Wait!

Was this an HP ad or MS ad? Well, I guess MS has finally realized that their problem is not totally Vista, it is also the HW. What do you do when you OS, Vista, sucks? You market a PC. Finally, MS is paying attention.

But, lets wait and see the Apple response. Can't wait!!!!!!

Shelley: Apple Does have a Laptop for $999. Runs Illustrator and Photoshop at 1.5x faster rate than the "17 Inch HP Laptop". Let us know how this "definitely Buy One" works out!

What the commercial doesn't tell you is that Lauren will spend the next year of her life trouble shooting that computer! She will be removing spyware, viruses, trouble shooting her internet connection, defraging the hard drive & trying to figure out why the machine runs slow even though it has 4 gigs of ram. You can make more money but you can't get your time back. Good luck Lauren I am sticking with my hassle free mac.

Wow, this really hit a nerve with all of you mac lovers!

What they should've shown was a guy, with pale skin, shaggy hair, unshaven, thick rimmed glasses, holding a starbucks coffee in one hand, holding a NY Times (or LA Times) paper in the other hand.

Macs are great but for most people are overpriced email and internet surfing machines. PCs are king when it comes to robust accounting and spreadsheet programs. Period. Macs own it when it comes to media. Sorry, your itunes library doesn't count. I'm talking about video editing, etc.

So with that in mind, why do you insist on a Mac? The virus issue is over played. In 20 some years, I've only had a couple and they were easily removed.

I own an imac, it is two years old now. When I walk into my computer room it is quiet. When I start up my imac, it is quiet.

When the temperature in the summer goes over 80 in the computer room before my imac is turned on it is quiet. After a few hours of using my imac, it is still quiet.

Linux on my netbook, or my old, slow (1ghz) desktop with a new fan is a comparable to the quiet of my imac.

Software aside, I never enjoyed a few hundred (or more) watts heating the air blowing out of any computer through a noisy fan.

With [some] new PC's it sounds like I am sitting in the back of an airplane next to the engine.

I guess she's also not cool enough for system stability, system security, and a machine that will last 4 or 5 years.

She's plenty cool enough for a Mac. Apparently she isn't smart enough for one.

You pay for what you get….

This is one big endorsement that Apple has it right.

Why is Microsoft even running these ads? They are the leader….right???

What makes the "not cool enough" message bite isn't just the undeserved stereotype of Apple owners being snobs. The central theme of the spot is that the PC gives you choices. If Apple doesn't offer the features at the price point you can afford, you're out of luck. You don't belong in the Apple clique. But there's a whole world of PC manufacturers out there that are all itching to be your best friend.

Is it fair and balanced, covering all the pros and cons of Macs and PCs? Get real! It's a PC advertisement! Whatever happened to the stereotype of Mac owners having a sense of humor?

I bought a Mac (desktop) a few years ago after buying into all the hype about them. I paid a premium for it and got frustrated nearly every time I used it. It came with virtually no instructions and was loaded with every gimmic that could be imagined. When I called Apple for help they wanted to charge me $50/hour. When Apple finally offered software that I wanted, I had to buy an operating system upgrade as well as change the hardware! I finally realized that Apple is a monopoly that will charge you through the nose once you buy their computers. Yes….they run well if you can figure them out….but be ready to watch your system get obsoleted within 12 months and guess who you have to buy from when you need to upgrade?? You guessed it…..APPLE ($$$$$)!

Viruses, crashing, replacing PC's every two years?

My six year old PC works great, the only thing it can't do is playback high definition H.264 files. My last crash was years ago, and my last virus problem was in 2003.

I replaced it with a new machine for $500 that is more powerful than the $1799 Apple counterpart (more memory, more hard drive space, etc.). Yeah I know Apple is good quality but that just isn't worth it.

I would love to have a Mac laptop that I could run Illustrator and Photoshop on, but can't justify spending another $2000. after what I've spent for my MacPro. If Apple came out with a laptop under $1000. I would definitely buy one -

OK, yeah, I'm a Mac person (developer, actually), but the thing that I think isn't going to pass the sniff test with the general public is the way they've cherry-picked something that Apple doesn't make: a cheap laptop with a huge screen. It would be like McDonald's slamming Burger King for not having a two-patty cheeseburger under 99c… it's just such a specific thing to target, it smells of opportunism and calculation.

Why isn't there a sub-$1000 Mac with a huge screen? Probably because anyone who needs a huge screen is going to have high-end demands across the board: faster CPU, more memory and HDD, etc.

And come to think of it, I thought the pundits told us that Apple was doomed because it wasn't making silly little 7" netbooks. Why do we now care about ginormous screens again?

Last year a friend of mine who is a recently retired school teacher and had worked on PC's for the last 15 years called me and needed help with her new PC. Being a Mac user I had no idea why she couldn't use her email, connect to the internet, etc. I suggested she call a "phone a nerd" service. I thought she was technically challenged since I bought my Mac and started using it immediately with no help at all. After reading all these comments I realize it was not her, but her PC that was the problem!

Brian,

You sound like the fanboy that sits right behind me, Mac could take a crap in a box slap an apple sticker on it and people like you and him would buy it.

I am a web developer and have been using the same PC for the last 4 years, I've formatted it once in that time. It runs more then fast enough to handle , Photoshop CS3, Imageready CS3, DreamWeaver CS3 as well as 3 browser windows with a crap load of tabs open, and FTP client my IM client and a few other odd and end programs. I have never in my life gotten a virus ( even tho I have never owned anti-virus software) I am not a moron who clicks on everything.

My Fanboy co-worker who has had his G5 for 3 year ( one year less then mine ) has been crying for the company to buy him another Mac. They have refused as the cost is closer to 4 times the price for my new pc ( new computer after 4 years YAA!! )

All in all, I just don't see the value in buying a MAC, in the economical troubles that everyone is in, mac needs to stop being greedy and lower there prices.

P.S. My co-worker would rather stick with his slow mac that he cries about everyday then get a new PC, you can't get more fanboy then that… Sad really.

I like so much this blabla thread of mail. The subject is dinosaur just like some others …are you Beatles or Rolling Stones, is the Ford pick up better that the GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado, etc. When it comes to laptop the choice is personal and reasons for selecting PC or Mac are too. Depending on multi-reasons (good or bad) and the use of it. Guess what? I ve been working for Microsoft 8 years and I am now using a MBP (Mac Book Pro) …not because PC are bad, just because I think I have better value with Mac and OSX at the moment. And this may change the next time I have to upgrade. Now back to the USD value which seems to be the only argument for this add. why do you want to argue? Yes it is true you can't get a Mac for 700usd. And guess what? That s for the better because it means diversty on the market place. It is all about your choice, your own philosophy and the way you rank what you are going to buy.

And don't take me wrong this is not only a question of money. This add has a prerequisite which is "buying a brand new pc"… life is a little bit different and you can get second hands or refurb mac or pc.

First time I got a Ducati motorcycle, my friends were just talking about the money I spent on it. By chance at that time one of them just bought a brand new Suzuki 650 cc (supposed to be an affordable moto) and I asked him the prize…guess what? I pay same price (even a little bit lower) for a superb second hand Mostro 600cc Ducati. Guess what again after 4 years… he has already changed one time for a Yamaha R6 and he is nowdays talking about a new one ; I am still driving that superb Mostro. Am I better or clever that he is… not at all! Our philosophies are just different. Japan bikes are products, Ducati (I could have choose Harley) are more than products…

Well, I have to admit that that was the best come-back ad PC has in a long time. Here is a better solution…buy a cheap PC then strip off Windows and all the junk software. Install Ubuntu and start to enjoy life. I am…

Even computer nerd Mark Cuban wrote on his blog maverick

a few years ago that he had worked on PCs his entire life and then a few years ago got a mac laptop, loved it, would never return to PCs because the Mac was so easy and trouble free to use.

I'm a designer and have worked on two imacs during the past nine years and have had no problems with them — they are so easy to use. You just bring them home and plug them in and they work! They are expensive though and I can't justify buying another expensive mac laptop even though I would love to have one. Don't want a PC because of the problems my friends and family have had with them.

If Apple came up with a laptop under $1000. that I could run CS3 on I would definitely buy one.

What she wanted was the $1000. That was what made her scream. She'll be screaming with remorse if she ever tries to compare this to a Mac. Why didn't they give her the money up front? Then what would she have bought?

Using a Mac doesn't make you cool, though it is far better designed. What's with all the ugliness on the PC, it even comes with ad stickers on it. And you get an extra USB port (as if that really matters when hubs are $10.

Macs are just far better machines because of the software, services, and community. If you think not, then you simply haven't used one, or are a very odd person, period. They aren't the cheapest, but they offer the best value for a well equipped notebook (or desktop) and value is what people are looking for, not cut-rate, generic, garbage that you get with the PC.

When you use Windows, don't you wish it worked properly? If not, then you probably haven't used anything better. Maybe you shouldn't ever try using a Mac, because once you do, you definitely won't want a PC anymore.

Come on , a sharp looking redhead not "cool" enough to buy a Mac? She just knows she can buy the cheapest pc out there and every Geek within 100 miles will fix it for her for free every time it crashes.

That is a great example that Dave posted, you have the BMW fanboy buying his status symbol car, for the tune of 80k

Then you have the VW with the same warranty, same reliability and a whole lot less to buy and repair..

Your right that is a Mac and Pc

<>

Actually, that would fit perfect, being that BMW caters to the same crowd of image-obsessed snobs who enjoy nothing more than sneering down their noses at those less 'cool' then they are.

Oh the irony!

I love how mac users seems to have it in there mind that somehow my pc just get slower?? Sure it does thanks to all the software I can buy/download for it.

One quick format and it's as fast as the day I bought it..

I guess if I had only 4 or 5 software choices for my pc like they do with mac then I would need to format it..

Interesting fact: the company that produced the ad also does the VW ads… nice product placement, folks! Also, if Lauren is not an actress, then why is she a member of the Actors Guild? I work behind the scenes in movies, & I can tell you that it takes WORK to be in that little club… & a lot of time acting!

Another note: the advertising company found out what Lauren wanted *before* she was given her budget. Is that not a little skewed?

Advertising as usual, just like politics, all BS.

Whatever– Lauren might be cool enough, or not, to be a "Mac person," but she was lucky enough to score a bright shiny box that will work for a whole year before it dies, for FREE!! Way to go, Lauren!!!

Follow the money not the girl!

Did anyone else notice that Lauren WANTED to be a Mac person? She went there first, right?

I like a 17 inch screen for gaming/movies so I bought a fairly high end laptop for $1600 (4gb ddr3, 1gb 9800M GTS). According to this article the cheapest 17 inch Mac I could have gotten would be $2700, an $1100 difference.

Now lets look at the arguments against PCs I keep hearing over and over again that supposedly make the Mac worth an extra $1100:

Bloatware – Easily removed with a neat little function called add/remove programs. If you're determined to remove every last trace get HijackThis and a registry cleaner OR simply reinstall windows immediately. Approximate time: 60 minutes

Viruses – There are a multitude of free virus scanners with automatic daily updates that will protect your computer. AVG and Avast to name a few. In addition, simply switching to a different web browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome will solve 90% of your virus problems. Approximate time: 30 minutes

Instability – Downloading the latest Windows Update and making sure your drivers are up to date will solve the majority of your instability issues. Approximate time: 30 minutes

So I'm coming up with about 2 hours of work to solve the $1100 worth of "problems" with PCs. Since I'm not worth $550 an hour, it's some time I'm gladly willing to spend.

The bottom line is if you know what you're doing and how to perform the general upkeep of a computer you're going to get a lot more bang for your buck out of a PC. If you want something super user friendly that doesn't require much computer knowledge or upkeep get a Mac.

A few years ago my employer bought us a suite of 6 Dell laptops to "improve our productivity." About 3 months later, all within a month, 3 of the hard drives failed catastrophically. It took an average of 2 1/2 WEEKS plus several HOURS on the phone each to get our computers to Dell and back with new hard drives because Dell did not allow local service.

Here's the difference for Macs. One year later, I bought a new MacBook laptop. The hard drive failed and needed to be replaced. I had a 5 MINUTE phone call to Apple Support with a native English speaker and they gave me a case number. I took my laptop to the local Mac repair shop and had my laptop back in 2 DAYS.

That, along with the ease of use, is why I will always buy a Mac.

Scene: The late 1950s.

Reporter (some say Edward R. Murrow):

"What does it mean to be "cool"?"

Dizzy Gillespie:

If you have to ask, you ain't.

They could run the same commercial with automobiles.

First have her visit a BMW dealership and then walk out complaining that they're over her budget.

Next have her go to the VW dealership and compare to a Beatle. Same number of wheels, same number of passengers, Both provide transportation. Then have her say, "I guess I'm just not cool enough for a BMW."

PC comes out with a commercial poking fun…errr…telling the truth…about the price of macs and mac ppl are mad? The only ppl that have windows issues are retarded ppl that don't know how to work a computer and need a computer like a mac so they won't make stupid mistakes, so what is that saying about mac ppl…

Regardless of how I feel about the relative worth of hardware and OS’s that come and go, it's as if this ad was written by my daughter, age 18. Clearly, these folks are onto something. They have tapped into the spirit of the times: folks that are in the demographic of my daughter, or they are good enough to fool me into thinking that they have…

"I'm just not cool enough to own a Mac." Frickin' priceless. In an environment where frugality is a virtue (again), this is money. No corporate jets, no big bonuses and no Macs. Pure, unadulterated money.

The company that put this together are a collection of bright folks or are really, really lucky. I’m betting on the former.

I don't think many of you mac fanboys have ever used a windows PC. Constant crashes? Viruses? Hassles? I have used windows since win 95 and I have never had any problems. I got a virus exactly once and that was due to an idiot relative trying to run cracked games on it and not due to any OS related problems. Windows may not be perfect but it's far better than what you morons give it credit for.

Don't try to pretend that mac os is problem free either. I did tech support for a while in college. The most unsolved problems we encountered were always with a mac pc. At least in windows you can eventually fix the issue. With mac you would have to wait until it decided to start working again.

I ordered a MacBook Pro the day that they were first announced at Mac World. That's been a good 4 years ago. I have a cousin who has been through two PC in the same amount of time. Yep I paid around two grand for it but I got a hell of a machine that's still truckin four years later. My bi-annual Windows reinstall stopped as soon a I bought the Mac. It just works. But if you still want to pay $700 for a PC that you'll be wanting to get rid of in two years go right ahead!!

I have owned both PC's and Mac's. I started on a Mac and then switched to PC's in 90's because PC's had more software. I went through 3 desktops and two laptops. At work were we use PC's I had had 3 laptops, all of them the motherboards fried after one year. PC's are beyond frusterating and over time they are much more expensive to fix and repair or replace. I used a iMac for 5 years without any problems and now use a 2 year old MacBook now at home because I want to check my email, listen to music, download pictures from my camera, and surf the net without downloading anti virus software all day long and rebooting my machine endlessly for frozen apps.

There is no way they can convince me to buy another PC. Call me a jerk, who cares, my stuff works.

Hey guys, I want to be cool. Will buying a certain type of computer make me cool? I want to sneer and make fun of people who aren't as cool as me because they own an 'uncool' computer. What computer should I get that lets me do that?

(on another note, LOL at this entire debate)

Am I the only one tired of non stop apple articles on CNN money? Just one day last week every headline under "technology" on the main page had something to do with apple. Is Apple really the only tech company worth writing about?

The cash register says "BALANCE DUE: $699.99". Is there no sales tax on computers where she is, or was the price something like $658 to start with?

I agree with the fact that Apple is a better system. But I really dislike that a 17-inch laptop from Apple costs over $2,000. I like having a portable computer and I like watching movies. If Apple doesn't want to serve this type of consumer than that's their bad.

I like PCs because they are easy to customize and I can get a 16,17 inch laptop for under $1,000.

And don't try to say that Apple is too good to make cheaper laptops in 17-inch. That's crap and Apple is losing customers by doing that.

Amazing how the apple fanboys jump all over this.

I own 5 working macs, and have another 5 going back to '92 that have died. I love apple machines, and will continue to do so.

However anyone who thinks you CANT get a very well (even better) equipped PC for less than half of a mac is deluding themselves.

Similarly equipped PC's are MUCH CHEAPER, get over it.

I fo tech support for a living and love that my mac runs OSX and windows and linux all at once… i can do just about anything with it, and that makes it very much worthwhile to me. But to Joe consumer, the sticker shock is significant, and not to be derided.

Apple's profit margins are huge, and their business practices are often consumer UN-friendly.

Do you know why your macbook pro has only 2 USB ports? or why the new macbook has no firewire? not because its forward thinking, and certainly not because you didnt pay enough for it… but because it saves apple a couple bucks per machine and they figure there arent enough users who use more than 2 USB or firewire to make it worth it… despite the 1300$ + price tag.

Your 1300$ macbook doesnt have a mic port (not line in), PCMCIA, express card, or SD card slot, despite every almost every other laptop at HALF the cost having these as standard features… because apple is saving money at the consumers expense.

Any other company and everyone would be throwing bricks. You could (technicly) build a hackintosh with the same (or better) specs at half the price of an apple, and it would run OSX just like the full fledged apple branded product, if that doesnt lay things out for you, i dont know what will.

I still love my macbook pros, and wouldnt give them up easily, and while not "happy" to have paid as much as i did for them, i feel they were quite worth it.

But you just cant say MS doesnt have a point. PC's are very capable machines at a significantly lower cost.

It all depends on how you value your time. Want to spend it mucking around with viruses, crashes, nonsensical windows error messages, etc.? Or do you want to get the damn job done so you can go out and play? Computers are appliances and they should act like them. I can get my aggravation elsewhere.

PCs are a headache! I am in film and sound and can't trust my business to Windows. Yes we MAC users are a small culture, although we are never thumb our noses up at PC users. 4 years ago, I went all MAC. I have no viruses and my MAC run extremely well with all my software. I will say my productivity has increase because of significant downtime. I have spent more time fixing a PC with Pro Tools and Adobe Production Suites than I care to imagine. Last night I was home for a birthday and was asked to help fix 3 PCs. One completely lost a wireless card running win ME. Another, while trying to configure itunes and an external DVD reader/burner kept locking up and throwing up all kinds "you may need to configure your drivers" windows. They third just stopped working a few times and I had to restart. At work, we have a PC with Adobe production suite and it has finally gone down. Premier won't even open anymore and this computer is running lean. On the same computer we were running Camtasia Studio..we only had a PC version, and while I was recording long training videos to compress for the web, Norton kept popping up windows, asking stupid questions, destroying 4 hour tutorials. The originals were flashed based and I could only start them in full modules, so needless to say I lost about 30 hours of recording. Now the MAC side. I run Adobe Creative Suite, and Office. The run flawlessly. Pro Tools runs flawlessly. The only time I have locked up a MAC is using older versions of Final Cut while trying to convert and edit HD video. It may be another 500 to 1000 bucks, but I will gladly pay it for the uptime and no frustration. A PC can turn an pacifist into a expletive screaming, even physically violent person. I once licked a PC so hard, I cracked the case.

I must be a very cool 61 year old stay at home wife… I use a MAC and love it.

I've been using computer since CM/P, IBM DOS, through MS-DOS, and the various incarnations of Windows; I've also used Linux (since kernel 0.99) and Free86BSD. About three years ago I got my first MacBook, and I must say it is the best of all of them. I hated Mac prior to Mac OS X, but since Mac OS X is based on the Mach/BSD kernel, I really like it. MS Windows has several problems, most of them cause by their desire to rush to market before resolving very fundamental issues (i.e. Vista). I'm no Apple fanboi, I just like having a system that works, period, and MS isn't it. Buy what you are comfortable with, but remember, you get what you pay for.

Hmmm… When Apple (continually) bashes the PC world (aka Vista ads) you barely hear about it. When the PC world takes a very minor swipe at the Apple empire (more like small but vocal village) they scream "bloody murder – not fair! not fair!"

They seem pretty defensive about their "superior" product.

I see all kinds of computers and gadgets in my profession, and so far the only Apple product I've been remotely impressed with is the iPhone. And that will probably be surpassed in short order by other more affordable alternatives.

All you members of the iCult always talk about PC "problems" or "a patchwork of software" but you don't try to offer up any proof of any of those claims.

Try listing legitmate problems. Not something due to loser users either. Those who just click through anything and everything that wants to install aren't worth talking about. I'm talking legitimate problems.

And as for the comments about cost to get Office and other productivity software…you don't have to pay for any software anymore. There are so many free variants of everything its scary.

OpenOffice

Avira Antivir or any other free Anti-virus

Spybot

Spywareblaster

Malwarebytes

I could go on but I've proven my point. $700 for a laptop. Few minutes of downloading, updating and installing programs that protect you and don't run resident other then a slim Avira AV and you have a complete system that will allow you to do all the work you want.

Ok… the real question is… did they let her keep the rest of the money for repairs and virus cleanings? I'm not sure I understand this? I think it really comes down to what it's being used for and how long you want to keep the product. Let the girl check her email for the next 8 months. Geezzz people!

Interesting that many PC bashers are so fixated on the malware, adware or viruses. I guess some of you Mac people just don't have half an hour to spare in your busy lives. After all, half hour is all you need to download/install AVG anti-virus, Spybot S&D teatimer and Lavasoft Adaware to your laptop/computer for *gasp* free. My laptop and PCs have been running virus, malware, trojan-backdoor free for as long as I've had them. I write 1 check a month for mortgage and everything other bill is paid online. Yet I've never had any of my online information stolen by hackers and never had my identity stolen. I guess the trick for us PC users is just not to be lazy huh?

Mark from LA, I agree. Who gives a crap? How can either be cool? It's all consumerist junk. Get a life.

"yes, and for another couple of hundred pounds (or dollars, whatever) you have to buy all the useless shit that Windows dont seem to incorporate, like Office, a decent antivirus etc etc"

Huh? Open Office – free, tons of good free antivirus programs out there too, plus Fry's or others have rebates all the time that make the big A/V software vendor programs or suites from free to maybe $10 or so.

It really boils down to, if you feel that 'conforming' to the Windows masses somehow makes you not special or different then go ahead and spend double on your Mac for no good reason. I personally would rather save the cash and donate it to a good charity.

Hackintosh.

I bought a Mac in 1985 and thought it was a huge improvement over the PCs we were introduced to in engineering school. But as I entered the working world, I found that everyone at the time used PC's. So, to avoid having different machines at work and at home my next computer and the one after that and the one after that were reluctantly PCs. But every PC has been nothing but a headache – - a patchwork of software and hardware that crashes or otherwise raises problems at every opportunity.

A few months ago I bought an iPhone and immediately was reminded how Apple has its act together. I'm thinking my next computer will be a Mac once again.

I work on a Mac and I can't tell you how many people ask me to help them fix their computers or help them figure out how to get their computer to do a certain task — sometimes as simple as email or printing or connecting to the internet. Their computers are always PC's. Hope that redhead has a boyfriend who is a geek — she's going to need him….

"The Mac folks got their feelings hurt…"

We did?? I hadn't heard.

Having done software development for 30 years and using PCs from Windows 3.1 onward, I finally broke down and got a used MacBook Pro two weeks ago.

Imagine my joy at:

1. Power on and start working within 15 seconds!

2. Force Kill things that run away (even though they don't hog the system).

3. Focus on doing my work instead of keeping the machine and OS running.

I've worked for many decades on high-end systems (you know, fire it up, start processing, and move trillions of bits–or dollars–each day) and they don't misbehave anywhere near as much as my PCs running Windows have.

Maybe I'm not cool enough for a Mac, but I have one and I'm not going to be a Windows guinea pig any more.

Troll, indeed 8^) I'm sittin' here laughing. This ad campaign is so Windows (which is microscopically referred to in the commercial).

OK, well fine for her — I use a Mac because I'm a designer and I need a computer that WORKS while I am running

Illustrator and Photoshop CS4. I don't have time for PC junk

when I'm trying to meet a deadline and make a living. Sure my Mac cost more, but I've tried working on PC's and there is no comparison. I've even had friends tell me that the keys on their PC's have fallen off — they ditched it, got a Mac and and have never gone back. My brother who is an IT guy hates PC's — says their junk! Enough said.

I just recently purchased a mac and for the price i think it cannot be beat. I don't think I will ever own a PC again. I've gone through Dell's, HP's and every other possible PC available and every one of them has ended up going to the dump in the span of 3 years. I'm a lifelong fan of Apple from now on.

As I read these comments I realize how pathetic many of my fellow Americans are. You are not your computer. Who the hell cares! Ego is destroying this planet.

Three things keep me away from the mac world. 1) price 2) my company uses windows 3) form over function.

My experience with Apple is iPod Nano. I find it lacks the customization I desire which I think is true of Apple products in general. The click wheel looks cool but does not serve me as well as would a seperate volume control and up/down menu buttons. I wish Apple would sell mac software to run on a PC so I could try it out – something like the reverse of running Windows on macs which so many people do.

I hate Windows, but I'm "forced" to use it at work. But I think the add is funny. It goes to Apple's insistance on using proprietary hardware.

PC users aren't cool enough to run Macs. And Mac users aren't smart enough to run Linux (which Apple stole and built a shell for the least common denominator user anyway). Mac users, go enjoy your overpriced coffee and attempts to purchase your self-righteousness and leave the rest of us to run the world's IT infrastructure.

Love the Volkswagen!

donot compare a $600 laptop to a mac. It will definitely lose. take a lenovo think pad (Not the Ideapad) with decent memory and it can definitely compete with mac.

Why do you need a 2 GB of ram to run a linux/unix based OS(x) ? Apple is packaging its macs with more than the needed specifications just to show of that theirs are much faster than PCs.

Try using a windows XP/Vista on a 4GB PC and you can see its equally good.

why does apple charge $150 for a 2 to 4GB ram upgrade ? Does it really cost that much when you buy it yourself online ? Think about it.

bottom line, I accept that Windows is a monster. But this monster is very versatile in running a variety of apps unlike macs.

yes, and for another couple of hundred pounds (or dollars, whatever) you have to buy all the useless shit that Windows dont seem to incorporate, like Office, a decent antivirus etc etc

The ads are right on the money i would like to buy a Mac but they are several hundred dollars more then a PC. Pricey hardware and software has always been Macs problem, more people would purchase they if they were around $650-$850 for a laptop.

She is HOT!

And the next commercial from Apple will be about how those guys from Crispin used Macs to create this ad for PC.

Not cool enough to be a Mac says the writer using a Mac.

Now we have a dozen more posters using the "Apple cult" and "pretentious" claims, without any backing evidence. So let's ask the question again: Why are Apple defenders given such demeaning monikers but Windows defenders aren't? Why the double standard? Is this a case of "might makes right", in that because Windows has 90% market share, they're "normal" and anyone else is a "cult"? Heaven forbid some people choose to be different. If they want to spend more money for a higher quality computer, why do Windows users find that so threatening? Perhaps some introspection is in order.

People that have software problems with PCs spend all day on MySpace or surfing porn. In at least 12+ years of using a Windows based PC, i've maybe had two crashes, of which at least one was just a bad hard drive.

And my favorite, is "Jetta Gal" calling a Beetle owner uncool. You both drive overpriced German cars. Get over it.

Disclosure: I have always used PC's but I do own an iPod.

I always thought the Apple ads (I'm a Mac..) were a fantastice marketing stroke of genius. I also always wondered why MS never struck back. Now that they finally have, I also appreciate the marketing genius of their ads.

Mac fan boys need to get past it. I really doubt anyone is swayed by these ads, but they are entertaining. I have had a few run ins with the fan boys trying to put down my Dell/Vista computer, but my Vista Pro software has not left me wanting; and I use AutoCAD professionally and you can't do that on a Mac. I too am not cool enough for a Mac.

why do the so called Mac crazy ppl talk about installing windows on their macs ? This is enough to say that Mac lovers dont want to miss Windows.

Are you not content with just the COOL stuff that Apple gave you ?

I am a PC user with XP running on a IBM think pad. It never crashed in the last 3 yrs of my rough use. I keep my antivirus upto date and never had a problem with my machine on the internet.

With blazing speeds of internet connectivity at home now-a-days, I dont think its a pain to download software updates of any size. why are you bothered about manual updates when you can automate them.

Ha, this article is so true. Too bad the comparison was some adware Windows laptop off the shelf. You can buy $350-500 laptops all day long from Dell's website that are clean, fast and free of adware. 3-4G RAM, 250-500G HDD, Dual Core/Core 2 Duo processors, whatever you want. I've owned and purchased for family many desktops and laptops from Dell and am very pleased with every purchase I've made.

Microsoft has quite a big problem: If price matters, wise user goes to Linux (cheaper/free operating system and cheaper computer). If it doesn't then Apple. Actually Microsoft ads Linux!

She should upgrade the PC to use up the rest of the 1000$ credit.

This is just too funny!

The less than truthful I’m a Mac commercials were fine for the Mac folks but Hey Wait a minute.. Turnaround is not fair play!!

Suck it up. You were dealt what you dished out. Hurts? Yeah. Deal with it.

I’m not cool enough to be a Mac person either.. I’m too busy getting work done on my PC (which does not crash and cost very little).

Long live the Apple cult. Keep drinking the Coolaid. Hahaha..

This ad is soooooo funny. The Mac folks got their feelings hurt because someone held up a mirror and showed them how pretentious they look.

It's hard to have much respect for someone who treats ownership of a particular brand of machine as if it's a friggin' lifestyle choice.

I'm a fairly experienced PC user. Built 3 mid-range PCs. Two with XP, one Vista.

My sister's have 3 Macs (2xiMac, 1 MacBook,+ two iPod Touch). I've used them a bit.

I do my best to screw Windows up. I usually have it messed up enough that I format and reinstall about every 6-12 months. I hate XP sometimes, and Vista drove me nuts out of the box. But I can customize, overclock and game.

With my amazing ability to mess all OS's up, I had a un-deleteable file stuck on my sister's iMac desktop after an hour messing around with it.

Like many of the comments, Macs don't come in a "low end" model. They are all made to work well out of the box. Many low-end PCs are just junk. Some mid/high-end PCs are great. I REALLY liked my ThinkPad. I think low-end PCs ruin the reputation.

Apple kills with inovation. Has anyone used the touchpad on the new MacBook? There are so many ways you can manipulate things with finger combos! Use two, three, four…pinch, twist, and more.

And what's wrong with being cool?

I'm a fairly experienced PC user. Built 3 mid-range PCs. Two with XP, one Vista.

My sister's have 3 Macs (2xiMac, 1 MacBook,+ two iPod Touch). I've used them a bit.

I do my best to screw Windows up. I usually have it messed up enough that I format and reinstall about every 6-12 months. I hate XP sometimes, and Vista drove me nuts out of the box. But I can customize, overclock and game.

With my amazing ability to mess all OS's up, I had a un-deleteable file stuck on my sister's iMac desktop after an hour messing around with it.

Like many of the comments, Macs don't come in a "low end" model. They are all made to work well out of the box. Many low-end PCs are just junk. Some mid/high-end PCs are great. I REALLY liked my ThinkPad. I think low-end PCs ruin the reputation.

Apple kills with inovation. Has anyone used the touchpad on the new MacBook? There are so many ways you can manipulate things with finger combos! Use two, three, four…pinch, twist, and more.

And what's wrong with being cool?

@G. Schmidt

Like a typical iCult member you compare a Workstation based Dell Precision against the Macbook Pro in order to try to justify your expensive purchase.

That Dell Precision is not designed to compete with Macbook Pro as it is a Workstation laptop. It comes with a Quadro FX video card not the crappy little NV 9600M in the Macbook Pro. That adds a ton of cost right off the bat. Not to mention that the Precision can also make use of multiple hard drives and can run a faster processor (Up to the 3.06 C2D) then the Macbook Pro can.

How about checking the pricing on the Dell Studio 17 which is far more in line with the Macbook Pro? For $1600 you can get a Studio 17 laptop with comparable or better specs then the Macbook Pro. And that's before finding one of the ususal Dell deals that can knock off anywhere from 10%-25% of the cost.

$1100 for OS X and people say Windows is overpriced…LOL

@G. Schmidt

Like a typical iCult member you compare a Workstation based Dell Precision against the Macbook Pro in order to try to justify your expensive purchase.

That Dell Precision is not designed to compete with Macbook Pro as it is a Workstation laptop. It comes with a Quadro FX video card not the crappy little NV 9600M in the Macbook Pro. That adds a ton of cost right off the bat. Not to mention that the Precision can also make use of multiple hard drives and can run a faster processor (Up to the 3.06 C2D) then the Macbook Pro can.

How about checking the pricing on the Dell Studio 17 which is far more in line with the Macbook Pro? For $1600 you can get a Studio 17 laptop with comparable or better specs then the Macbook Pro. And that's before finding one of the ususal Dell deals that can knock off anywhere from 10%-25% of the cost.

$1100 for OS X and people say Windows is overpriced…LOL

I have been in the computer software/hardware industry for 30+ years and have used a number of proprietary and commercially available operating systems on various hardware platforms. I began using Microsoft when only DOS was available; long before Windows…

I began dabbling with Linux in the mid 90's and slowly became a fan of it over the years. I basically gave up on Windows during the transition from 2000 to XP. Today, I only use Microsoft when I am forced to, and this is primarily with websites that only work with IE.

Linux is nothing like it was, and today it is arguably superior for the average home user that is interested in browsing the Internet, e-mail, and other such uses. It includes OpenOffice that provides capabilities found in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as Adobe Photoshop.

Personally, I run an older Dell laptop with Fedora 10 Linux. It provides satisfactory performance and would probably be even snappier if I had higher bandwidth over my cable modem.

My wife uses Microsoft at the office, but she uses Linux at home and has no problem with it at all.

I have been in the computer software/hardware industry for 30+ years and have used a number of proprietary and commercially available operating systems on various hardware platforms. I began using Microsoft when only DOS was available; long before Windows…

I began dabbling with Linux in the mid 90's and slowly became a fan of it over the years. I basically gave up on Windows during the transition from 2000 to XP. Today, I only use Microsoft when I am forced to, and this is primarily with websites that only work with IE.

Linux is nothing like it was, and today it is arguably superior for the average home user that is interested in browsing the Internet, e-mail, and other such uses. It includes OpenOffice that provides capabilities found in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as Adobe Photoshop.

Personally, I run an older Dell laptop with Fedora 10 Linux. It provides satisfactory performance and would probably be even snappier if I had higher bandwidth over my cable modem.

My wife uses Microsoft at the office, but she uses Linux at home and has no problem with it at all.

I use linux on a PC. Mac users are pompous and windows is broken. Take the $700 PC and install Ubuntu(FREE!). Then you have your inexpensive laptop and worry-free computing experience. The only reason the OS on a mac isn't a laughing stock these days is because they threw away MacOS and turned to the paradigm that UNIX and Linux have been using for decades.

I use linux on a PC. Mac users are pompous and windows is broken. Take the $700 PC and install Ubuntu(FREE!). Then you have your inexpensive laptop and worry-free computing experience. The only reason the OS on a mac isn't a laughing stock these days is because they threw away MacOS and turned to the paradigm that UNIX and Linux have been using for decades.

Depends on what one is looking for. If you are looking for long-term performance, consistent operations, and a good long-tern notebook that is reliable, the Mac is better than most other laptops. If you are looking for a cheaper solution (i.e) notebook) then the PC is for you. Doesn't mean that you are not cool. Just means you are smart and thrifty.

Depends on what one is looking for. If you are looking for long-term performance, consistent operations, and a good long-tern notebook that is reliable, the Mac is better than most other laptops. If you are looking for a cheaper solution (i.e) notebook) then the PC is for you. Doesn't mean that you are not cool. Just means you are smart and thrifty.

It’s nice to see a commercial that finally gives the Mac fanboys a taste of what they’ve been dishing out for years. I’m glad it’s caused the Apple fanatics to go on the defensive for once. I’m tired of seeing an Apple ad on what seems to be every commercial break with the same old and false message that mac users are cool and relaxed and PC users are uptight anti-social geeks. This strategy has undoubtedly worked well for Apple, as they’ve brainwashed millions of users into buying their products Most of these users don’t even understand the technology and can’t make a rational comparison between vendors. Their only motivations are peer pressure and the fact that the TV told them to do it. It’s a sad day for America and the intellectual prowess of her citizens.

I say turn-about is fair play. Apple, don’t dish it out if you can’t take it.

It’s nice to see a commercial that finally gives the Mac fanboys a taste of what they’ve been dishing out for years. I’m glad it’s caused the Apple fanatics to go on the defensive for once. I’m tired of seeing an Apple ad on what seems to be every commercial break with the same old and false message that mac users are cool and relaxed and PC users are uptight anti-social geeks. This strategy has undoubtedly worked well for Apple, as they’ve brainwashed millions of users into buying their products Most of these users don’t even understand the technology and can’t make a rational comparison between vendors. Their only motivations are peer pressure and the fact that the TV told them to do it. It’s a sad day for America and the intellectual prowess of her citizens.

I say turn-about is fair play. Apple, don’t dish it out if you can’t take it.

@Jeremiah: Use hyperbole much? I see little difference between the Mac users pointing out the deficiencies in this commercial and the Windows users pointing out the deficiencies in Apple's anti-Vista ads. But somehow the Apple defenders get slammed for being a "cult" and "worshipping Steve" while the Microsoft defenders don't. Does anyone care to explain that?

@Jeremiah: Use hyperbole much? I see little difference between the Mac users pointing out the deficiencies in this commercial and the Windows users pointing out the deficiencies in Apple's anti-Vista ads. But somehow the Apple defenders get slammed for being a "cult" and "worshipping Steve" while the Microsoft defenders don't. Does anyone care to explain that?

I can say this quite simply, Apple users are for the most part arrogant. Apple makes great products and prices them accordingly – which is totally fair. However, as a power business user for a decade now I can say I still prefer a PC. For one everything works on it (for better or for worse) and after you purge all that bloatware, the system is just as fast and more productive. Again, I have and do use both systems and still prefer the windows based PC. Oh, and did I mention I paid less than half what the Mac would have cost. If you are willing to pay that much of a premium for an Apple, more power to you. For me, my productivity says it is not worth it overall.

I can say this quite simply, Apple users are for the most part arrogant. Apple makes great products and prices them accordingly – which is totally fair. However, as a power business user for a decade now I can say I still prefer a PC. For one everything works on it (for better or for worse) and after you purge all that bloatware, the system is just as fast and more productive. Again, I have and do use both systems and still prefer the windows based PC. Oh, and did I mention I paid less than half what the Mac would have cost. If you are willing to pay that much of a premium for an Apple, more power to you. For me, my productivity says it is not worth it overall.

Apple's failure is that they don't have a "low-power", large-screen notebook. It's an important niche (especially in these days of streaming video) and they didn't fill it – and left themselves open to attack as a result.

Apple's failure is that they don't have a "low-power", large-screen notebook. It's an important niche (especially in these days of streaming video) and they didn't fill it – and left themselves open to attack as a result.

The end of this article does the whole justice, she bought a piece of junk.

Regardless, wake up people! There is no real life pop culture Mac vs. PC idiosyncrasy, besides that which is out of the mind of the personal consumer on every level of the communication gamut. The advertising just fuels the fire like clockwork. The only real mixed feelings concerning Apple and Macintosh exists between Jobs, Gates, and a few others, and that bridge is shortening for possible future business plans?

Macintosh is better than Windows = DUH Fact.

Apple computers are better than PC's = Subjective, but the catalog of PC computers really ruins any good statistics here. Apple dominates easily.

Apple computers are more EXPENSIVE than PC's: Do you really want to buy an operating system that was created by a software oriented company? No. That should shorten the price gap by a few hundred considering; much needed additional software, repairs, and good tech support. The rest of the price difference could account for the superior components that are consistent in every Apple product.

Wrap your head around this one:

Don't all of you (P.C. and Mac alike) have Ipods?

WHAAAAAT????? mind blowing right?

Ask yourself why.

The end of this article does the whole justice, she bought a piece of junk.

Regardless, wake up people! There is no real life pop culture Mac vs. PC idiosyncrasy, besides that which is out of the mind of the personal consumer on every level of the communication gamut. The advertising just fuels the fire like clockwork. The only real mixed feelings concerning Apple and Macintosh exists between Jobs, Gates, and a few others, and that bridge is shortening for possible future business plans?

Macintosh is better than Windows = DUH Fact.

Apple computers are better than PC's = Subjective, but the catalog of PC computers really ruins any good statistics here. Apple dominates easily.

Apple computers are more EXPENSIVE than PC's: Do you really want to buy an operating system that was created by a software oriented company? No. That should shorten the price gap by a few hundred considering; much needed additional software, repairs, and good tech support. The rest of the price difference could account for the superior components that are consistent in every Apple product.

Wrap your head around this one:

Don't all of you (P.C. and Mac alike) have Ipods?

WHAAAAAT????? mind blowing right?

Ask yourself why.

This is the "Blair Witch" of commercials. But after you realize you have been duped, you are out a whole lot more than the $20 you spent on the ticket and popcorn.

This is the "Blair Witch" of commercials. But after you realize you have been duped, you are out a whole lot more than the $20 you spent on the ticket and popcorn.

The mac cult showed up to protest here didn't they.

I am a video production engineer of 10 years. I have used mac and pc. I like macs well enough, I do. But, I can get more power for a lot cheaper with a pc, then I ever could with a mac.

The mac following is in all truthfulness about being cool and who has the prettier, neater computer.

The cult of mac is sad. If you speak out against the holy mac or against Jobs(God), these sycophants attack like pack of hyena's out for blood.

They worship Jobs like he is the second coming of Christ.

Do you remember Woz, these people use to worship him almost as much as Jobs, but once he started speaking out against the business practices of the great and powerful Jobs, he became an evil demon for the disciples of Apple to turn against.

Beware all those would challenge the mighty Apple.

The mac cult showed up to protest here didn't they.

I am a video production engineer of 10 years. I have used mac and pc. I like macs well enough, I do. But, I can get more power for a lot cheaper with a pc, then I ever could with a mac.

The mac following is in all truthfulness about being cool and who has the prettier, neater computer.

The cult of mac is sad. If you speak out against the holy mac or against Jobs(God), these sycophants attack like pack of hyena's out for blood.

They worship Jobs like he is the second coming of Christ.

Do you remember Woz, these people use to worship him almost as much as Jobs, but once he started speaking out against the business practices of the great and powerful Jobs, he became an evil demon for the disciples of Apple to turn against.

Beware all those would challenge the mighty Apple.

I've never "owned" anything but Apples, starting with a IIe. But at work I'm forced onto PC's. I can't tell you how many times I say, "This is so much easier on a Mac." There is nothing that I can't do on my MacBook. And talk about pompous jerks, PC users can't stop bashing Macs. So when a presentation won't run, wifi won't connect or crashes wipe out hours of work, I piss them off royally with, "Shoulda bought a Mac." It's almost come to blows.

I've never "owned" anything but Apples, starting with a IIe. But at work I'm forced onto PC's. I can't tell you how many times I say, "This is so much easier on a Mac." There is nothing that I can't do on my MacBook. And talk about pompous jerks, PC users can't stop bashing Macs. So when a presentation won't run, wifi won't connect or crashes wipe out hours of work, I piss them off royally with, "Shoulda bought a Mac." It's almost come to blows.

I am a PC user, but I am seriously considering my next computer shall be a MAC. I think Apple and Microsoft are not really in the same business.. They target different markets. Apple users want a very solid, integrated and easy to use machine. PC users are more price conscious and want more freedom in hardware choice. With MAC allowing Windows OSs one can use a MAC as a PC, but -at least not legally- the other way around. So my choice would be MAC.

I am a PC user, but I am seriously considering my next computer shall be a MAC. I think Apple and Microsoft are not really in the same business.. They target different markets. Apple users want a very solid, integrated and easy to use machine. PC users are more price conscious and want more freedom in hardware choice. With MAC allowing Windows OSs one can use a MAC as a PC, but -at least not legally- the other way around. So my choice would be MAC.

The question is….what do actually use your computer for and how long before you buy a new one. Frankly, for email, internet, basic photo stuff, music, and word processing, you don't need a mac. If your editing photos and video as a business or you are a graphic designer, a mac is prolly a must purchase. I think it is hysterical to see all of the I-clones who don't even know how to use the tools that they have purchased. It's the equivalent of buying a $2000 dollar snowboard every year when you only get to the hill three times a season. It's stupid. Also stupid is the shelf-life argument. All computers are disposable and out of date at two years (doesn't matter what operating system).

The question is….what do actually use your computer for and how long before you buy a new one. Frankly, for email, internet, basic photo stuff, music, and word processing, you don't need a mac. If your editing photos and video as a business or you are a graphic designer, a mac is prolly a must purchase. I think it is hysterical to see all of the I-clones who don't even know how to use the tools that they have purchased. It's the equivalent of buying a $2000 dollar snowboard every year when you only get to the hill three times a season. It's stupid. Also stupid is the shelf-life argument. All computers are disposable and out of date at two years (doesn't matter what operating system).

Andy B.

For your use, I don't know why you forked over that kind of cash for a Macbook Pro…a regular MacBook would have been more than enough and you could have gotten a 24" Cinema display to hook up the MacBook on your desk for about the same cost.

Andy B.

For your use, I don't know why you forked over that kind of cash for a Macbook Pro…a regular MacBook would have been more than enough and you could have gotten a 24" Cinema display to hook up the MacBook on your desk for about the same cost.

It is ironic that now when Macs are more afordable and price competative than ever, that µ$ would try this now.

They probably didn’t try this angle before because they didn’t perceive Apple to be a threat!

It is ironic that now when Macs are more afordable and price competative than ever, that µ$ would try this now.

They probably didn’t try this angle before because they didn’t perceive Apple to be a threat!

One thing people don't seem to "get" is that prices are actually equivalent among Mac and "PC" equipment when you look at what's under the hood. Apple simply doesn't have a low entry point. Buying a Macbook (2.4GHz core 2 duo, 4G RAM, 250G HD, backlit keyboard, wireless b/g/n, BT, webcam) costs $1699 list. Building an equivalent Dell (Precision M2400 with as close to identical parts as possible) costs $1698 list, Lenovo (san backlit keyboard) is $1653, Toshiba (sans backlit keyboard, wireless n, lesser graphics) is $1549… when you compare the Macbook Pro (starts at $2799) with comparable hardware from these other vendors, list is actually cheaper (building a "Macbook Pro" from Dell will set you back $3600 list, for example.)

Am I advocating going with an Apple? Not necessarily. However, if we're gonna attack Apple, this isn't a valid area to go after. Take on the dearth of native games / the need to run VMWare/Parallels/use bootcamp with an additional purchase of Windows to use a lot of software, and so on.

One thing people don't seem to "get" is that prices are actually equivalent among Mac and "PC" equipment when you look at what's under the hood. Apple simply doesn't have a low entry point. Buying a Macbook (2.4GHz core 2 duo, 4G RAM, 250G HD, backlit keyboard, wireless b/g/n, BT, webcam) costs $1699 list. Building an equivalent Dell (Precision M2400 with as close to identical parts as possible) costs $1698 list, Lenovo (san backlit keyboard) is $1653, Toshiba (sans backlit keyboard, wireless n, lesser graphics) is $1549… when you compare the Macbook Pro (starts at $2799) with comparable hardware from these other vendors, list is actually cheaper (building a "Macbook Pro" from Dell will set you back $3600 list, for example.)

Am I advocating going with an Apple? Not necessarily. However, if we're gonna attack Apple, this isn't a valid area to go after. Take on the dearth of native games / the need to run VMWare/Parallels/use bootcamp with an additional purchase of Windows to use a lot of software, and so on.

Yes, Mac users are snobs. I always get the 'Oh, you poor thing, when will you get a Mac?'

I hear them quote about how vulnerable PC's are to virus infection. About how they do not run higher end graphic programs & the OS is a resource hog.

From my end, I just don't see it.

And further, if you dare suggest to them that their bad experience with Windows might just have something to do with their lack of knowledge they refuse to even consider such a thing.

I have been running with PC's and windows since 1996 and make my living on the internet. In that time I have bought 6 PC & laptops. The older PC's are sitting in my closet right now and if needed will boot up. My PC is connected online 24/7. I am constantly browsing. I am constantly runnnig utilities including ftp clients, adobe photoshop, adobe golive and other resource hogs.

I've yet to encounter any type of the level of problems that I have heard Mac users citing for why they changed from PC platform to Mac. Minimal viruses, the machine hums along fine and if I do want to upgrade it I can usually get it done inexpensively.

Bang on Windows all you want but from my experience it has been a reliable workhorse that gets the job done.

Yes, Mac users are snobs. I always get the 'Oh, you poor thing, when will you get a Mac?'

I hear them quote about how vulnerable PC's are to virus infection. About how they do not run higher end graphic programs & the OS is a resource hog.

From my end, I just don't see it.

And further, if you dare suggest to them that their bad experience with Windows might just have something to do with their lack of knowledge they refuse to even consider such a thing.

I have been running with PC's and windows since 1996 and make my living on the internet. In that time I have bought 6 PC & laptops. The older PC's are sitting in my closet right now and if needed will boot up. My PC is connected online 24/7. I am constantly browsing. I am constantly runnnig utilities including ftp clients, adobe photoshop, adobe golive and other resource hogs.

I've yet to encounter any type of the level of problems that I have heard Mac users citing for why they changed from PC platform to Mac. Minimal viruses, the machine hums along fine and if I do want to upgrade it I can usually get it done inexpensively.

Bang on Windows all you want but from my experience it has been a reliable workhorse that gets the job done.

I hate the ad, But ya know what?.

You can the best of Both worlds.

I bought an HP DV9000 for $499 with the 17" WXGA screen, 250 gig HD, 2 Gig Ram, DVD burner.

It came with Vista(POS) I immediately wiped out the HD and installed Suse Linux 10.1. I have now a Unix OS on an inexpensive laptop…LOL.

I have yet to have a Crash or have any virus crap that you would get on a Windoze PC

I hate the ad, But ya know what?.

You can the best of Both worlds.

I bought an HP DV9000 for $499 with the 17" WXGA screen, 250 gig HD, 2 Gig Ram, DVD burner.

It came with Vista(POS) I immediately wiped out the HD and installed Suse Linux 10.1. I have now a Unix OS on an inexpensive laptop…LOL.

I have yet to have a Crash or have any virus crap that you would get on a Windoze PC

The actors in the imamac adds were not putting themselves out to represent real people. They were artistic manifestations of the "putergeist"; the spirit that lives within the machine.

Now this lauren tramp, she is supposedly a PC user manifestation. She is cheap, wears big glasses and has red hair. In short, she has all the characteristics of a born loser, and is probably a criminal. Could even be a terrorist. We don't know.

However, I am curious that Microsoft are going to war on the battlefield of HARDWARE. Last time I checked, they were a SOFTWARE company.

I wonder, is the real reason they focus their adds on hardware because they know how badly they will get smoked if they talk software?

I think one of the big stories of the past year has been the way the iphone has demonstrated the huge superiority of the mac OS. The iphone has allowed huge numbers of new developers to make great looking software, and distribute it. …… AND IT WORKS! And everyone can see that. Like the iphone, it is out in public.

Macs used to like that school girls uniform you keep in your closet and only wear on special occasions. Most folks don;t know you have one, so they don;t see how pretty it is. By with the iphone, the mac OS has been on display.

I think this is the reason so much public opinion is moving over to Apple, and why Microsoft are increasingly concerned.

And frankly, I am not surprised. In this PC vs Mac debate, it is time to put up or shut up.

Show my how good microsoft are, by showing me the equivalent of the iphone. You can't because there isn;t one, because underneath the cheap chinese hardware…the SOFTWARE SUCKS.

The actors in the imamac adds were not putting themselves out to represent real people. They were artistic manifestations of the "putergeist"; the spirit that lives within the machine.

Now this lauren tramp, she is supposedly a PC user manifestation. She is cheap, wears big glasses and has red hair. In short, she has all the characteristics of a born loser, and is probably a criminal. Could even be a terrorist. We don't know.

However, I am curious that Microsoft are going to war on the battlefield of HARDWARE. Last time I checked, they were a SOFTWARE company.

I wonder, is the real reason they focus their adds on hardware because they know how badly they will get smoked if they talk software?

I think one of the big stories of the past year has been the way the iphone has demonstrated the huge superiority of the mac OS. The iphone has allowed huge numbers of new developers to make great looking software, and distribute it. …… AND IT WORKS! And everyone can see that. Like the iphone, it is out in public.

Macs used to like that school girls uniform you keep in your closet and only wear on special occasions. Most folks don;t know you have one, so they don;t see how pretty it is. By with the iphone, the mac OS has been on display.

I think this is the reason so much public opinion is moving over to Apple, and why Microsoft are increasingly concerned.

And frankly, I am not surprised. In this PC vs Mac debate, it is time to put up or shut up.

Show my how good microsoft are, by showing me the equivalent of the iphone. You can't because there isn;t one, because underneath the cheap chinese hardware…the SOFTWARE SUCKS.

Isn't it nice that all you people with all your opinions were able to respond to this article? Funny thing, after reading through all the comments, I could not tell which ones were written on a Mac, PC runnning Vista, PC running XP, PC running Linux, etc…

Isn't it nice that all you people with all your opinions were able to respond to this article? Funny thing, after reading through all the comments, I could not tell which ones were written on a Mac, PC runnning Vista, PC running XP, PC running Linux, etc…

You drive a late-model convertible Beetle, but you're "not cool enough" for a Mac because they're "too expensive?" Maybe if you hadn't bought a car that's all style and doesn't run any better than the rest you could afford to buy a computer that's all style and [i]does[/i] run better than the rest.

~Mark, posting from a 5 year-old iMac that runs faster than the day I bought it, about to drive to work in an 11-year-old Toyota that runs exactly like it did when the original owner bought it.

Lauren's car + computer = minimum of $17,000

Mark's car + computer = $5800

You drive a late-model convertible Beetle, but you're "not cool enough" for a Mac because they're "too expensive?" Maybe if you hadn't bought a car that's all style and doesn't run any better than the rest you could afford to buy a computer that's all style and [i]does[/i] run better than the rest.

~Mark, posting from a 5 year-old iMac that runs faster than the day I bought it, about to drive to work in an 11-year-old Toyota that runs exactly like it did when the original owner bought it.

Lauren's car + computer = minimum of $17,000

Mark's car + computer = $5800

And another thing, if Lauren is driving a Beetle, how cool can she really be.

And another thing, if Lauren is driving a Beetle, how cool can she really be.

Before I retired I was into my 3rd PC at work in about a year – all due to equipment or software failures. At home, I still use my 1994 MAC Performa, which seems to be bullet proof. When looking to buy a new computer, I did look at an hp and then I read and heard about all the problems with the Vista operating system and people who were erasing it and downloading the old system and how the sellers were giving huge discounts to unload the dogs and how a new system was being prepared as quickly as possible to minimize the damage – SO, I bought a new flat screen monitor and a Mac Mini (that interfaced perfectly with my old hp printer). The Leopard operating system blows the PC away, and the new version of Safari is so good, I haven't used firefox since I got the computer. Macs cost more, but so does a Lexus compared to a golf cart. You get what you pay for. The Mac is the most user friendly computer on the market – period. The PC people are either the geeks who love to fiddle with their electronic stuff or are people who just buy cheap and keep trying to convince themselves they made a good purchase. And the Mac mini I have sits ON my desktop buried in that useless space under the monitor, and all connections are right there instead of playing Houdini climbing around and under the table to get at everything.

Before I retired I was into my 3rd PC at work in about a year – all due to equipment or software failures. At home, I still use my 1994 MAC Performa, which seems to be bullet proof. When looking to buy a new computer, I did look at an hp and then I read and heard about all the problems with the Vista operating system and people who were erasing it and downloading the old system and how the sellers were giving huge discounts to unload the dogs and how a new system was being prepared as quickly as possible to minimize the damage – SO, I bought a new flat screen monitor and a Mac Mini (that interfaced perfectly with my old hp printer). The Leopard operating system blows the PC away, and the new version of Safari is so good, I haven't used firefox since I got the computer. Macs cost more, but so does a Lexus compared to a golf cart. You get what you pay for. The Mac is the most user friendly computer on the market – period. The PC people are either the geeks who love to fiddle with their electronic stuff or are people who just buy cheap and keep trying to convince themselves they made a good purchase. And the Mac mini I have sits ON my desktop buried in that useless space under the monitor, and all connections are right there instead of playing Houdini climbing around and under the table to get at everything.

Great Move Microsoft and HP. And Apple should surely respond. Did Apple respond well? I think no. Complaining and suing will put show its weakness of getting to defence. Apple should counter-attack.

For example, take some conversations with HP service centers and put them on radio. Find out failure statistics. And say "are you cool and rich enough to lose and spend on downtimes and repairs of these HP PCs"?

Great Move Microsoft and HP. And Apple should surely respond. Did Apple respond well? I think no. Complaining and suing will put show its weakness of getting to defence. Apple should counter-attack.

For example, take some conversations with HP service centers and put them on radio. Find out failure statistics. And say "are you cool and rich enough to lose and spend on downtimes and repairs of these HP PCs"?

I've always been a MAC person and my husband has always been a PC person, claiming my computer was just a toy. The other day my husband came home after seeing his boss' new 17" MAC, and said we should be buying MACs…all I said was "really?".

I've always been a MAC person and my husband has always been a PC person, claiming my computer was just a toy. The other day my husband came home after seeing his boss' new 17" MAC, and said we should be buying MACs…all I said was "really?".

Further to my previous comment.

The refurbs seem to be great so far, can't even tell the product has been refurb., Apple appears to have an excellent process and I saved a couple hundred bucks. I do think their products are slightly overpriced depending on what you are looking at. Some upgrades from Apple are so not worth it, cheaper to do it yourself. I do have to agree from researching and reading comments, some Mac users behave like snobs and well there are PC users that reply and well behave in the same manner. But I think some Mac people are pretentious. I hope Apple drops some prices later this year if their sales continue to suffer.

Further to my previous comment.

The refurbs seem to be great so far, can't even tell the product has been refurb., Apple appears to have an excellent process and I saved a couple hundred bucks. I do think their products are slightly overpriced depending on what you are looking at. Some upgrades from Apple are so not worth it, cheaper to do it yourself. I do have to agree from researching and reading comments, some Mac users behave like snobs and well there are PC users that reply and well behave in the same manner. But I think some Mac people are pretentious. I hope Apple drops some prices later this year if their sales continue to suffer.

I had such bad experiences with PC's, I switched to Mac in 2005 and to be honest, I haven't looked back, better reliability and functionality,than any of the PC's I have used including current ones. just my two cents…

That being said, is it the hardware or the O/S? Not wishing to start a war of words here, but, lets be honest, vista is not everything we were expecting. Perhaps the new microsoft O/S will be better. for the record, I have NEVER had a problem with MacOS, or the hardware it was on, whether Intel or the old chipset. I like the Mac's and would not switch back to PC's. Just my personal point of view.

I had such bad experiences with PC's, I switched to Mac in 2005 and to be honest, I haven't looked back, better reliability and functionality,than any of the PC's I have used including current ones. just my two cents…

That being said, is it the hardware or the O/S? Not wishing to start a war of words here, but, lets be honest, vista is not everything we were expecting. Perhaps the new microsoft O/S will be better. for the record, I have NEVER had a problem with MacOS, or the hardware it was on, whether Intel or the old chipset. I like the Mac's and would not switch back to PC's. Just my personal point of view.

I went from my Dell desktop to an MacBookPro about 18 months ago. Fortunately I purchased an extended 3 year warranty b/c within the past 30 days I've made two trips to the Apple store, first for a battery replacemet and then a HARD DRIVE replacement. I am just a simple home user (email, photos, pay the bills, etc.), I accept the battery going (18 months?) but the hard drive? While my experience at the store was positive I will say some of the employees were a tad snarky, must have been transplants from CA to Lancaster, PA b/c we don't grow em that way here. I was an early iPod user and am on my 3rd one, a iPod Touch, so I wanted to try their computer, and I had the extra thousand bucks, I got the MB-Pro. Not sure I am sold on the excellent hardware argument and only half of the bells and whistles work unless you pay Apple $99/annually, so I sit here today wondering if I really got anything better and if I will do it again? I've had hardware problems with 2 of 3 iPods and 1 of 1 MB-Pro. When my MB-Pro was being repaired I trotted out the old Dell tower so I could keep in touch and pay my bills. It is much slower but after 5 years is still on the original hard drive. peace.

I went from my Dell desktop to an MacBookPro about 18 months ago. Fortunately I purchased an extended 3 year warranty b/c within the past 30 days I've made two trips to the Apple store, first for a battery replacemet and then a HARD DRIVE replacement. I am just a simple home user (email, photos, pay the bills, etc.), I accept the battery going (18 months?) but the hard drive? While my experience at the store was positive I will say some of the employees were a tad snarky, must have been transplants from CA to Lancaster, PA b/c we don't grow em that way here. I was an early iPod user and am on my 3rd one, a iPod Touch, so I wanted to try their computer, and I had the extra thousand bucks, I got the MB-Pro. Not sure I am sold on the excellent hardware argument and only half of the bells and whistles work unless you pay Apple $99/annually, so I sit here today wondering if I really got anything better and if I will do it again? I've had hardware problems with 2 of 3 iPods and 1 of 1 MB-Pro. When my MB-Pro was being repaired I trotted out the old Dell tower so I could keep in touch and pay my bills. It is much slower but after 5 years is still on the original hard drive. peace.

I have built my own PCs and more recently bought Dell's. However I've been in search of a notebook for the past month and have bought a Macbook 13.3" 2.4Ghz refurb. Fantastic notebook, I haven't used it to its potential yet since its been a few days, but there are so many functions that make usability that much easier. It is a joy to use so far, not to mention the design element of the product. I may have to switch my desktop to Mac end of this year, time will tell.

I have built my own PCs and more recently bought Dell's. However I've been in search of a notebook for the past month and have bought a Macbook 13.3" 2.4Ghz refurb. Fantastic notebook, I haven't used it to its potential yet since its been a few days, but there are so many functions that make usability that much easier. It is a joy to use so far, not to mention the design element of the product. I may have to switch my desktop to Mac end of this year, time will tell.

I've been a software developer for 30 years. In the early '80s I worked on the original IBM PC before released and had a Apple Lisa on my desk before anyone had ever seen a Mac.

I'm no big fan if PCs (and a staunch critic of Vista) but it's been my observation that Mac users ARE pompous and smug. Apple seems to promote this image.

Truthfully they are all crap. They are throw away appliances that have to be replaced every few years. Obselete systems (both mac and pc0 will choke our landfills. (I saw a working iMac at a thrift store the other day for $25) And insipid Mac vs PC debates are just not productive.

BTW I have NEVER had any of my PCs hijacked by a virus and never had to wipe a PC clean. The ONLY reason these other systems are not hit with viruses is that they are simply not a worthwhile target. However that's changing.

while the Microsoft ad is an appropriate response to Apples campaign, we have to keep in mind these things are tools and this whole argument is like arguing over different brands of hammers.

I've been a software developer for 30 years. In the early '80s I worked on the original IBM PC before released and had a Apple Lisa on my desk before anyone had ever seen a Mac.

I'm no big fan if PCs (and a staunch critic of Vista) but it's been my observation that Mac users ARE pompous and smug. Apple seems to promote this image.

Truthfully they are all crap. They are throw away appliances that have to be replaced every few years. Obselete systems (both mac and pc0 will choke our landfills. (I saw a working iMac at a thrift store the other day for $25) And insipid Mac vs PC debates are just not productive.

BTW I have NEVER had any of my PCs hijacked by a virus and never had to wipe a PC clean. The ONLY reason these other systems are not hit with viruses is that they are simply not a worthwhile target. However that's changing.

while the Microsoft ad is an appropriate response to Apples campaign, we have to keep in mind these things are tools and this whole argument is like arguing over different brands of hammers.

As a VW driving 45 year old college student and Mac user, I am cool enough. But most important to me is the fact that after 3 yrs of owning my MacBook, I have never had a virus, never had connection issues, never had delayed downloads, work in Microsoft Office which is compatible and allows me full adaptability for homework and other items. All while working within an operating system that has never failed me. Now THAT is cool.

As a VW driving 45 year old college student and Mac user, I am cool enough. But most important to me is the fact that after 3 yrs of owning my MacBook, I have never had a virus, never had connection issues, never had delayed downloads, work in Microsoft Office which is compatible and allows me full adaptability for homework and other items. All while working within an operating system that has never failed me. Now THAT is cool.

You're right, PCs and Macs are really no different (he says in his best Obi Wan Kenobe "These aren't the droids you're looking for" voice) don't switch to a Mac, just restart your PC every hour when it crashes and I will keep watching TV WHILE I download updates, check email, browse the internet and have no reason to run antivirus software on my five year old iMac.

You're right, PCs and Macs are really no different (he says in his best Obi Wan Kenobe "These aren't the droids you're looking for" voice) don't switch to a Mac, just restart your PC every hour when it crashes and I will keep watching TV WHILE I download updates, check email, browse the internet and have no reason to run antivirus software on my five year old iMac.

No wonder the world's in such an economic mess. Businesses and financial institutions are about 90 percent PCs. Now, if they had been smarter and based their business' computing infrastructure on Macs, well . . . :>)

Been buying and running PCs for mowell more than 20 years and see no reason to spend twice the money on a Mac.

No wonder the world's in such an economic mess. Businesses and financial institutions are about 90 percent PCs. Now, if they had been smarter and based their business' computing infrastructure on Macs, well . . . :>)

Been buying and running PCs for mowell more than 20 years and see no reason to spend twice the money on a Mac.

Ready to abandon PCs: I've had many PCs since 1985(when I was 12.) After spending around 30 hours de-virusing and fixing 4 PCs (for relatives and friends) in the last six months I think I am ready to condemn Windows PCs and endorse Macs to the 4-5 people I help buy computers every year. All of the computers had AV software. Incidentally, I bought my first Mac in October. When my own PC was hijacked by a virus last week, I was using my Mac to search on the internet for information to fix my PC. Good commercial material?

PS. Had to wipe the PC clean and start over. At least it runs much faster now.

Ready to abandon PCs: I've had many PCs since 1985(when I was 12.) After spending around 30 hours de-virusing and fixing 4 PCs (for relatives and friends) in the last six months I think I am ready to condemn Windows PCs and endorse Macs to the 4-5 people I help buy computers every year. All of the computers had AV software. Incidentally, I bought my first Mac in October. When my own PC was hijacked by a virus last week, I was using my Mac to search on the internet for information to fix my PC. Good commercial material?

PS. Had to wipe the PC clean and start over. At least it runs much faster now.

I have purchased the hp pavilion d7 last year and it's great, everything about it is perfect screen size, image resolution, sound quality everything is awesome. Just because Mac is the new hip cool brand that actually is over priced and can't not be compared with Microsoft who has been in the business way before Mac even existed!! In regards to viruses, well it won't be long before there is some new virus that will hit Mac users by a storm and then they will end up having to install an anti virus just like everyone else! As for i-tunes it's not the only software that can transfer MP3's on to i-pod, media player just does that… So then nothing special!!

I have purchased the hp pavilion d7 last year and it's great, everything about it is perfect screen size, image resolution, sound quality everything is awesome. Just because Mac is the new hip cool brand that actually is over priced and can't not be compared with Microsoft who has been in the business way before Mac even existed!! In regards to viruses, well it won't be long before there is some new virus that will hit Mac users by a storm and then they will end up having to install an anti virus just like everyone else! As for i-tunes it's not the only software that can transfer MP3's on to i-pod, media player just does that… So then nothing special!!

This is a great comment board, everyone seems to have an opinion. To all those who ask why Microsoft is fighting this battle, I do think Apple started bashing PC users first with the simple two person commercials. Glad to see a PC company willing to join the Marketing fight. However, it is a losing battle. In this down economy PC companies stand to make-up some ground, but the innovation at Apple is always refereshing. Good thing we live in America and have the right to choose. Cheers!

This is a great comment board, everyone seems to have an opinion. To all those who ask why Microsoft is fighting this battle, I do think Apple started bashing PC users first with the simple two person commercials. Glad to see a PC company willing to join the Marketing fight. However, it is a losing battle. In this down economy PC companies stand to make-up some ground, but the innovation at Apple is always refereshing. Good thing we live in America and have the right to choose. Cheers!

The days are long gone when Macs actually had superior hardware to PCs. That was true, about 18-20 years ago, but now the components are virtually interchangeable.

My first three computers were Apples. These days, Apple is more of a fad than a legitimately higher quality product. Would I own one if money weren't an issue? Sure.

I will give Apple kudos though… the way power adapters connect to the Macbooks is pretty slick. I wish Dell would do the same.

The days are long gone when Macs actually had superior hardware to PCs. That was true, about 18-20 years ago, but now the components are virtually interchangeable.

My first three computers were Apples. These days, Apple is more of a fad than a legitimately higher quality product. Would I own one if money weren't an issue? Sure.

I will give Apple kudos though… the way power adapters connect to the Macbooks is pretty slick. I wish Dell would do the same.

It's amazing that one ad can fire up so many Mac fanatics. Apple is what it is because of the nature of its market. If Apple had to produce what Microsoft does–an operating system that's capable of dealing with nearly any hardware device or software available–it likely would have had the same growing pains Microsoft has had with its operating systems.

That said, I've used every consumer version of Windows since 3.0. Sure, Microsoft has made some mistakes along the way (Windows ME comes to mind). However, I have several computers running all three versions of XP (Home, Pro, & Media Center), and all of them have been completely reliable. I have two laptops with Vista (which, incidentally, I bought for less than the purchase price of a basic Macbook)) that often go for weeks without a restart. They're usually only restarted because the batteries discharge.

Modern Macs are what Macs have always been: niche machines. They're great for a number of things, and if you like them and care to purchase one, that's fine by me. That doesn't mean that PCs are inferior (they're not) or people who buy them don't know enough about computers to buy a quality product (LOTS of people who know nothing about computers buy Macs). Modern PCs and modern Macs are constructed of the same components and Macs of recent years have had their share of hardware problems, as well.

Bottom line: neither Apple nor Microsoft is going anywhere anytime soon. Calm down, people!

It's amazing that one ad can fire up so many Mac fanatics. Apple is what it is because of the nature of its market. If Apple had to produce what Microsoft does–an operating system that's capable of dealing with nearly any hardware device or software available–it likely would have had the same growing pains Microsoft has had with its operating systems.

That said, I've used every consumer version of Windows since 3.0. Sure, Microsoft has made some mistakes along the way (Windows ME comes to mind). However, I have several computers running all three versions of XP (Home, Pro, & Media Center), and all of them have been completely reliable. I have two laptops with Vista (which, incidentally, I bought for less than the purchase price of a basic Macbook)) that often go for weeks without a restart. They're usually only restarted because the batteries discharge.

Modern Macs are what Macs have always been: niche machines. They're great for a number of things, and if you like them and care to purchase one, that's fine by me. That doesn't mean that PCs are inferior (they're not) or people who buy them don't know enough about computers to buy a quality product (LOTS of people who know nothing about computers buy Macs). Modern PCs and modern Macs are constructed of the same components and Macs of recent years have had their share of hardware problems, as well.

Bottom line: neither Apple nor Microsoft is going anywhere anytime soon. Calm down, people!

I have an HP with Vista and I don't like it very well. The hardware is fine but the OS sucks. It replaced a HP that died after a 2 years. I have 3 Macs that vary in age from 4 to 7 years and they are as solid as a rock. OSX is actually pleasant to use, unlike Vista which is not. I buy my Macs on the cheap, reconditioned or clearanced, when I actually do have to buy one. For me it's not about being cool but rather what allows me to get the most work done with the least amount of aggravation. In life better is usually not cheaper, cool or not.

I have an HP with Vista and I don't like it very well. The hardware is fine but the OS sucks. It replaced a HP that died after a 2 years. I have 3 Macs that vary in age from 4 to 7 years and they are as solid as a rock. OSX is actually pleasant to use, unlike Vista which is not. I buy my Macs on the cheap, reconditioned or clearanced, when I actually do have to buy one. For me it's not about being cool but rather what allows me to get the most work done with the least amount of aggravation. In life better is usually not cheaper, cool or not.

yeah well lets just face it: she is NOT cool enough for a mac. Case closed. Let her have fun with her pc, it will not last long.

What is the need to push mac to everyone? Why would she need a mac? just for the sake of it? Let pc-people be happy in their own world, there is no need for mac-evangelism.

yeah well lets just face it: she is NOT cool enough for a mac. Case closed. Let her have fun with her pc, it will not last long.

What is the need to push mac to everyone? Why would she need a mac? just for the sake of it? Let pc-people be happy in their own world, there is no need for mac-evangelism.

The members of the Apple Cult complain that "Lauren" is an actress? LOL! This is an ad, for Christ sake!

Oh, no, wait… The guys in the I'm a Mac/I'm a PC were not actors? Wow… Talk about a double standard here, uh…

The members of the Apple Cult complain that "Lauren" is an actress? LOL! This is an ad, for Christ sake!

Oh, no, wait… The guys in the I'm a Mac/I'm a PC were not actors? Wow… Talk about a double standard here, uh…

Why are Macs so expensive??? They are not disposable!!!

Why are Macs so expensive??? They are not disposable!!!

I was a faithful "PC" person for years… Until I discoverd Mac. Enough said.

I was a faithful "PC" person for years… Until I discoverd Mac. Enough said.

I like how the mac fanatics on this site seem to equate everything with the decision to buy HP vs Mac. Here's a newsflash the hardware in PCs and MACs is the same!!! Whether the laptop breaks down in 2 years or a dozen doesn't depend on the brand.

I also like how some idiot claims that she'll be an alcoholic and flunking out of college all because she made an economical decision to buy the windows laptop.

Not everyone lives in a world where they can spend thousands of dollars on a laptop. You could buy a much better laptop for at hundreds less and then if you don't like windows you at least have the choice of installing a different OS.

I like how the mac fanatics on this site seem to equate everything with the decision to buy HP vs Mac. Here's a newsflash the hardware in PCs and MACs is the same!!! Whether the laptop breaks down in 2 years or a dozen doesn't depend on the brand.

I also like how some idiot claims that she'll be an alcoholic and flunking out of college all because she made an economical decision to buy the windows laptop.

Not everyone lives in a world where they can spend thousands of dollars on a laptop. You could buy a much better laptop for at hundreds less and then if you don't like windows you at least have the choice of installing a different OS.

Macs are fine-tuned machines? Who ARE you trying to kid, here?

Why limit the comparison to HP-Mac? That's like comparing tv dinnners to chinese takeout in a conversation about fine dining.

My fine-tuned machine is a brand new Lenovo ThinkPad (may not be 17", but 15.4" is more than large enough) that came prepackaged with XP at my choice for less than $1000. As a web developer and graphic designer (who loves to game) I have high standards for any computer I use. If it's more than enough for what I need, it's a great deal, ESPECIALLY at that price.

I'm much happier with it than I would ever be with a crapple "computer." And my pockets aren't empty either.

In fact, my roommate has a Toshiba laptop (with a 17" screen) that she's had for over two years. She bought it brand new for WELL under $1000, is running Vista, and uses it almost all day, every day. Her computer has never crashed and it works just as well as the day she bought it. She also does a fair amount of gaming on it. For a two year old computer, it's pretty damn difficult to tell it apart from newer models, both in appearance and performance.

There is no reason that a laptop should START at a price of $2500.

Macs are fine-tuned machines? Who ARE you trying to kid, here?

Why limit the comparison to HP-Mac? That's like comparing tv dinnners to chinese takeout in a conversation about fine dining.

My fine-tuned machine is a brand new Lenovo ThinkPad (may not be 17", but 15.4" is more than large enough) that came prepackaged with XP at my choice for less than $1000. As a web developer and graphic designer (who loves to game) I have high standards for any computer I use. If it's more than enough for what I need, it's a great deal, ESPECIALLY at that price.

I'm much happier with it than I would ever be with a crapple "computer." And my pockets aren't empty either.

In fact, my roommate has a Toshiba laptop (with a 17" screen) that she's had for over two years. She bought it brand new for WELL under $1000, is running Vista, and uses it almost all day, every day. Her computer has never crashed and it works just as well as the day she bought it. She also does a fair amount of gaming on it. For a two year old computer, it's pretty damn difficult to tell it apart from newer models, both in appearance and performance.

There is no reason that a laptop should START at a price of $2500.

why bother? why is Microsoft wasting their time. First, Microsoft sucks as any hardware.. but that doesn't mean it is trash. it works, people buy and be happy with it.. stop chasing Apple cause it is just a different company, culture and different altogether. Microsoft does what it does well if not compared to Apple. Simple Fact.

why bother? why is Microsoft wasting their time. First, Microsoft sucks as any hardware.. but that doesn't mean it is trash. it works, people buy and be happy with it.. stop chasing Apple cause it is just a different company, culture and different altogether. Microsoft does what it does well if not compared to Apple. Simple Fact.

You all are missing one important point – Apple is just a drop in the ocean of the computer market, which is an ocean that's filled with companies that compete over every single penny of the price of their products, so any "price war" would be lost by Apple.

No matter how cheap Apple can go, there'll always be some Taiwan manufacturer that will be cheaper. So why fight this war?

Apple can fight for its market share on two levels only – the OS and the marketing.

About the first one, you can do a hell of a job in providing a stable, usable and fast OS, but that alone isn't enough – there are and there have been lots of alternative to Microsoft OS'es, and they've been all forgotten or relegated to niches.

So the key here is marketing. Give your products a cool appearance and market them to rich people, possibly brainwashing them in the process so that they'll stick to the brand. That's the only way to survive.

If Apple ever steps in the mass market arena, they're doomed to fail. By targeting their own user base, by creating fans that love their sleek white cases and are ready to spend thousands of dollars for them, they can survive and even grow.

On a side note, M$ seems to be missing the point too. They shouldn't market PCs as "the machine for everyone". They should show what kind of PC you can buy for the same price of a Mac, which usually is a beast that can eat any Mac alive even when slowed down with tons of crapware.

You all are missing one important point – Apple is just a drop in the ocean of the computer market, which is an ocean that's filled with companies that compete over every single penny of the price of their products, so any "price war" would be lost by Apple.

No matter how cheap Apple can go, there'll always be some Taiwan manufacturer that will be cheaper. So why fight this war?

Apple can fight for its market share on two levels only – the OS and the marketing.

About the first one, you can do a hell of a job in providing a stable, usable and fast OS, but that alone isn't enough – there are and there have been lots of alternative to Microsoft OS'es, and they've been all forgotten or relegated to niches.

So the key here is marketing. Give your products a cool appearance and market them to rich people, possibly brainwashing them in the process so that they'll stick to the brand. That's the only way to survive.

If Apple ever steps in the mass market arena, they're doomed to fail. By targeting their own user base, by creating fans that love their sleek white cases and are ready to spend thousands of dollars for them, they can survive and even grow.

On a side note, M$ seems to be missing the point too. They shouldn't market PCs as "the machine for everyone". They should show what kind of PC you can buy for the same price of a Mac, which usually is a beast that can eat any Mac alive even when slowed down with tons of crapware.

@Mac Heaven: If it takes you a month to download and install 2-4 programs, I can see why Macs coming bundled with iLife is so important to you.

Most of us don't find that process quite so challenging. But in your case, I'd have to agree that the extra money you laid out to avoid hurting yourself was probably very well spent.

@Mac Heaven: If it takes you a month to download and install 2-4 programs, I can see why Macs coming bundled with iLife is so important to you.

Most of us don't find that process quite so challenging. But in your case, I'd have to agree that the extra money you laid out to avoid hurting yourself was probably very well spent.

I say, get the computer that will meet your needs. I own both a Mac and a PC laptop and I'm happy with both. Cost will pay a big part in my next purchase and seriously, a Macbook is rather expensive these days. Don't get me wrong, I'm a Mac Fanboy for about 5yrs now but I simply just can't justify paying $1500 for a laptop nowadays.

I say, get the computer that will meet your needs. I own both a Mac and a PC laptop and I'm happy with both. Cost will pay a big part in my next purchase and seriously, a Macbook is rather expensive these days. Don't get me wrong, I'm a Mac Fanboy for about 5yrs now but I simply just can't justify paying $1500 for a laptop nowadays.

Why Lauren bought a VW ($18,290 starting MSRP) instead of a H. Accent ($9,970 starting MSRP)???

Why Lauren bought a VW ($18,290 starting MSRP) instead of a H. Accent ($9,970 starting MSRP)???

All the nitpicking on the machine they used in the ad is clear evidence that the Mac people are losing it. It's a COMMERCIAL people. Microsft is making a point – that PC's are generally more affordable and, for most people, meet thier needs nicely. They're also tweaking Apple on the holier than thou image that they've spent hundreds of millions of dollars cultivating. The black turtleneck wearing cool kids are fine. Love 'em. But most people aren't like that and are happy to spend a little (or a lot) less to get a machien that does the job.

All the nitpicking on the machine they used in the ad is clear evidence that the Mac people are losing it. It's a COMMERCIAL people. Microsft is making a point – that PC's are generally more affordable and, for most people, meet thier needs nicely. They're also tweaking Apple on the holier than thou image that they've spent hundreds of millions of dollars cultivating. The black turtleneck wearing cool kids are fine. Love 'em. But most people aren't like that and are happy to spend a little (or a lot) less to get a machien that does the job.

All I have to say is I took my $1,000 laptop to Iraq, and it still works. My friend bought a Macbook when he was on R&R and it died 4 months later. Granted there are some hardware stuff that doesn't work, but after being tossed around, dropped, and getting infested with dust it works just fine for me.

All I have to say is I took my $1,000 laptop to Iraq, and it still works. My friend bought a Macbook when he was on R&R and it died 4 months later. Granted there are some hardware stuff that doesn't work, but after being tossed around, dropped, and getting infested with dust it works just fine for me.

Lauren takes that HP home, her extremely intelligent, great looking boyfriend loads Ubuntu on it, and within 30 minutes she has the hottest computing combination possible.

Lauren, you are sooooo cool!

Lauren takes that HP home, her extremely intelligent, great looking boyfriend loads Ubuntu on it, and within 30 minutes she has the hottest computing combination possible.

Lauren, you are sooooo cool!

BTW , Microsoft will soon offer systems with FREE antivirus and antispyware software …… for life.

So, Microsoft is basically saying: "Okay! We give up! We know we will always be getting attacked and can no longer try to make our OS more secure. And we've heard from our customers that it's not them, but us that should be asorbing the burden, sooo…what the heck? Everything to keep your computer safe will now be free.."

Sort of like US auto companies offering longer, and longer warranties because of the frequency of repairs.

I've bought 3 mac's over the past 2 years–for my daughter, wife and myself. Not once in any of those purchases did the salesperson utter the words virus or spyware.

BTW , Microsoft will soon offer systems with FREE antivirus and antispyware software …… for life.

So, Microsoft is basically saying: "Okay! We give up! We know we will always be getting attacked and can no longer try to make our OS more secure. And we've heard from our customers that it's not them, but us that should be asorbing the burden, sooo…what the heck? Everything to keep your computer safe will now be free.."

Sort of like US auto companies offering longer, and longer warranties because of the frequency of repairs.

I've bought 3 mac's over the past 2 years–for my daughter, wife and myself. Not once in any of those purchases did the salesperson utter the words virus or spyware.

Yay Microsoft. I love how mac owners can find problems with Vista and Windows that I have never run across. The HP laptop I am on right now has never had a single problem and has not crashed.. Oh, and it runs Vista Home. My desktop runs Vista Premium, also has never had a single problem. Bought both of them brand new (and for under 1000 each) and would do it again. I wouldn't buy a mac even if it was cheaper. They are trendy and lame.

Yay Microsoft. I love how mac owners can find problems with Vista and Windows that I have never run across. The HP laptop I am on right now has never had a single problem and has not crashed.. Oh, and it runs Vista Home. My desktop runs Vista Premium, also has never had a single problem. Bought both of them brand new (and for under 1000 each) and would do it again. I wouldn't buy a mac even if it was cheaper. They are trendy and lame.

MAC’s OS platforms are not even supported by many financial trading platforms.

Hey! How 'bout that!. These ads aren't targeting corporate customers. I'm sure Apple would easily concede the enterprise space to MS and the Wintel platforms. These ads are targeting airheads like the one portrayed by "Lauren". What's the ratio of finger-pointing that goes on when somehting goes wrong with a PC vs the rare occurence something goes wrong with a Mac? Hardware issue? Software issue? If so, whose? Microsoft's? PC mfg? Crapware vendor?

MAC’s OS platforms are not even supported by many financial trading platforms.

Hey! How 'bout that!. These ads aren't targeting corporate customers. I'm sure Apple would easily concede the enterprise space to MS and the Wintel platforms. These ads are targeting airheads like the one portrayed by "Lauren". What's the ratio of finger-pointing that goes on when somehting goes wrong with a PC vs the rare occurence something goes wrong with a Mac? Hardware issue? Software issue? If so, whose? Microsoft's? PC mfg? Crapware vendor?

The response ad (suggested by Activated Marketing) is simple: Windows Computer, $799 dollars. Photo Software: $99, DVD Software: $99, Movie Software worth using: $79, Music Training, playing and loop software: $59 – Works the way you think it should – Priceless.

For everyone who likes to reboot their pc, there is Microsoft Vista. For everyone else, there is the always on, never infected, works like you think it should operating system, OS-X. The last Operating system you'll ever need.

This is an easy target for the marketing guys at Apple. Add all the stuff you don't get with Vista that you will need to have as a result of having vista (Malware, Spyware, Virusware, performanceware) and the difference in the core apps, and it is even easier to tell the Apple Story. BTW – I was a PC only, MAC's are for sissys Windows fan for 20 years. Then I got a MAC.

The response ad (suggested by Activated Marketing) is simple: Windows Computer, $799 dollars. Photo Software: $99, DVD Software: $99, Movie Software worth using: $79, Music Training, playing and loop software: $59 – Works the way you think it should – Priceless.

For everyone who likes to reboot their pc, there is Microsoft Vista. For everyone else, there is the always on, never infected, works like you think it should operating system, OS-X. The last Operating system you'll ever need.

This is an easy target for the marketing guys at Apple. Add all the stuff you don't get with Vista that you will need to have as a result of having vista (Malware, Spyware, Virusware, performanceware) and the difference in the core apps, and it is even easier to tell the Apple Story. BTW – I was a PC only, MAC's are for sissys Windows fan for 20 years. Then I got a MAC.

@ pc for one Apple…What about LINUX…

@ pc for one Apple…What about LINUX…

I agree with Mac Heaven. Once Lauren register gets fragmented. She will need to reinstall her Vista for the first of many times to get any performance out of her already obsolete OS Vista. by microsofts own admission. When is system seven due.

I agree with Mac Heaven. Once Lauren register gets fragmented. She will need to reinstall her Vista for the first of many times to get any performance out of her already obsolete OS Vista. by microsofts own admission. When is system seven due.

Hmm, buy with your pocket book add. I hope frugal people are a little smarter with their money than that. I would compare buying a cheap windows PC to buying a cheap TV. It looks good on paper but when you use it it looks bad, works worse and than dies. The reason Apple owners like the product is because it works well. Throw in the poor software code of the windows OS, the need for regular IT support to keep it sort of working, and that cheap PC starts to be a costly headache. Most of the people I know that went a bought a bargin PC had problems with it in 6 months and they just stuck it in a closet. I don't know any Apple owners who are not regularly using their Mac for web access, chat rooms and music management. Its true most of the time, like a GE refrigerator, Apple Macs just work!

Hmm, buy with your pocket book add. I hope frugal people are a little smarter with their money than that. I would compare buying a cheap windows PC to buying a cheap TV. It looks good on paper but when you use it it looks bad, works worse and than dies. The reason Apple owners like the product is because it works well. Throw in the poor software code of the windows OS, the need for regular IT support to keep it sort of working, and that cheap PC starts to be a costly headache. Most of the people I know that went a bought a bargin PC had problems with it in 6 months and they just stuck it in a closet. I don't know any Apple owners who are not regularly using their Mac for web access, chat rooms and music management. Its true most of the time, like a GE refrigerator, Apple Macs just work!

MAC's OS platforms are not even supported by many financial trading platforms. I trade stocks, options and futures on 3 different HP's using 4 monitors. I have 1 XP & 2 Vista platforms, with which I have no problems. I use a Firefox browser and Open Office, since they are free. For many consumers, MACs are just too expensive, and cost is an issue in today's economy.

MAC's OS platforms are not even supported by many financial trading platforms. I trade stocks, options and futures on 3 different HP's using 4 monitors. I have 1 XP & 2 Vista platforms, with which I have no problems. I use a Firefox browser and Open Office, since they are free. For many consumers, MACs are just too expensive, and cost is an issue in today's economy.

That Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet can't have been cheap.

That Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet can't have been cheap.

Nice Choice!! you just threw your money away on a computer that after about a month of downloading and installing 2-4 programs wont run anymore and in two years will be obsolete.. have fun with it!

Nice Choice!! you just threw your money away on a computer that after about a month of downloading and installing 2-4 programs wont run anymore and in two years will be obsolete.. have fun with it!

Really, the only reason the majority of casual computer users prefer the Windows OpSys is because it is what they interfaced with first.

Kinda like a first language, it always is the go to for quick-precise communication; however, in this case, the majority of casual computer users "got comfortable" with a pig in a poke.

Microsoft knows "youth culture" views them as basically an evil monolith.

Apple for the win.

Really, the only reason the majority of casual computer users prefer the Windows OpSys is because it is what they interfaced with first.

Kinda like a first language, it always is the go to for quick-precise communication; however, in this case, the majority of casual computer users "got comfortable" with a pig in a poke.

Microsoft knows "youth culture" views them as basically an evil monolith.

Apple for the win.

HP HDX18 and Linux. Now THAT's the hottest combo on the face of the Earth.

Clueless little Mac fanbois have no idea about anything regarding computers.

HP HDX18 and Linux. Now THAT's the hottest combo on the face of the Earth.

Clueless little Mac fanbois have no idea about anything regarding computers.

Macs are the most insecure computer on the face of the Earth. All of the clueless fools that don't want to understand computing are fueling the fire.

Own a Mac? Then you are PWN2OWN!! Clueless little kids, aren't you?

Macs are the most insecure computer on the face of the Earth. All of the clueless fools that don't want to understand computing are fueling the fire.

Own a Mac? Then you are PWN2OWN!! Clueless little kids, aren't you?

The new Mac worm is quite a hoot. I can't wait to see the headlines about how many clueless losers have lost all of their data because they don't run any security apps on their Macs.

If they a clue, they would be running Linux instead of the toy OS called OSX.

The new Mac worm is quite a hoot. I can't wait to see the headlines about how many clueless losers have lost all of their data because they don't run any security apps on their Macs.

If they a clue, they would be running Linux instead of the toy OS called OSX.

After purchasing my first PC, and my kid grow-up and I got them PC's. Then I got a PC for my mother inlaw. The I got a virus on one PC, then another, and another, and soon I was only cleaning virus, spy ware, and addware from there PC's. A friend said get a mac. I got my mother a mac mini, and then I got my daughter a mac mini, Then I replaced my son's PC's with an IMAC and MAC Book. Then I got my other daughter a mac book. Now I have only one PC, mine. I have time now to clean virus, and adware, and spy ware from it. All are other PC's are gone. I have replace them while being under employed. On the seventh day I will replace my PC, and then I will be able to rest, and on Monday I'll start doing some work. You get what you pay for.

After purchasing my first PC, and my kid grow-up and I got them PC's. Then I got a PC for my mother inlaw. The I got a virus on one PC, then another, and another, and soon I was only cleaning virus, spy ware, and addware from there PC's. A friend said get a mac. I got my mother a mac mini, and then I got my daughter a mac mini, Then I replaced my son's PC's with an IMAC and MAC Book. Then I got my other daughter a mac book. Now I have only one PC, mine. I have time now to clean virus, and adware, and spy ware from it. All are other PC's are gone. I have replace them while being under employed. On the seventh day I will replace my PC, and then I will be able to rest, and on Monday I'll start doing some work. You get what you pay for.

Macs are like porches? Really? They fill their niche and have their strong suits but how many people that you know with Macbooks bought them for their performance capabilities. Maybe they considered it but how much more did they think about that case and logo?

Macs are like porches? Really? They fill their niche and have their strong suits but how many people that you know with Macbooks bought them for their performance capabilities. Maybe they considered it but how much more did they think about that case and logo?

Well, I guess Windows just proved their point about the Apple World. After reading several of these post I guess it is true what the Picture Paints.

It was just a commercial! Don't twist your hard drives in WAD. You Window bashers are the reason Apple has the reputation it does. Think Outside the Core for Once!

Well, I guess Windows just proved their point about the Apple World. After reading several of these post I guess it is true what the Picture Paints.

It was just a commercial! Don't twist your hard drives in WAD. You Window bashers are the reason Apple has the reputation it does. Think Outside the Core for Once!

@mossyblo-

hehe Microsoft scored well here. It’s clear Apple are pissed and focused on a character attack vs facing the reality that it’s brand is fast becoming an elitist brand. whilst this may make some happy and proud, it will never win 2/3rd majority if it approaches it from that angle.

Where do you see this? Apple is pissed? Funny… everytime Crispin drops one of these lame ads, Chiat/Day responds with a concise, pointed, and simple ad that blows their useless arguments out of the water.

You've fallen for a headline from a blog that is one man's opinion. In face, many of the posters here have, as well as digging up ten year old myths that have long been discredited. Hilarious. There's nothing funnier than watching people justify their status in the human-monkey chain…

@mossyblo-

hehe Microsoft scored well here. It’s clear Apple are pissed and focused on a character attack vs facing the reality that it’s brand is fast becoming an elitist brand. whilst this may make some happy and proud, it will never win 2/3rd majority if it approaches it from that angle.

Where do you see this? Apple is pissed? Funny… everytime Crispin drops one of these lame ads, Chiat/Day responds with a concise, pointed, and simple ad that blows their useless arguments out of the water.

You've fallen for a headline from a blog that is one man's opinion. In face, many of the posters here have, as well as digging up ten year old myths that have long been discredited. Hilarious. There's nothing funnier than watching people justify their status in the human-monkey chain…

@Lucky in Brandon MS-

"I personally need two buttons on my mouse.

Macs have supported two+ button mice since OS 8, wayyyy back in 1998. The rest of your post also dredges up otehr myths that were spread by the PC FUD-meisters, and long ago put to bed. Funny how they still continue to try and perpetuate these blatant lies…

@Lucky in Brandon MS-

"I personally need two buttons on my mouse.

Macs have supported two+ button mice since OS 8, wayyyy back in 1998. The rest of your post also dredges up otehr myths that were spread by the PC FUD-meisters, and long ago put to bed. Funny how they still continue to try and perpetuate these blatant lies…

haha. these apple fanboys who think their macs are so secure are so ignorant. i bet they think safari is the most secure browser.

haha. these apple fanboys who think their macs are so secure are so ignorant. i bet they think safari is the most secure browser.

Do we really need to compare the two campaigns (Apple's and Microsoft's) and figure out which is more fair / better /accurate? I say no. Here's my argument:

http://bobcaswell.com/2009/03/29/mac-vs-pc-some-can-dish-it-out-take-it-others-not-so-much/

Do we really need to compare the two campaigns (Apple's and Microsoft's) and figure out which is more fair / better /accurate? I say no. Here's my argument:

http://bobcaswell.com/2009/03/29/mac-vs-pc-some-can-dish-it-out-take-it-others-not-so-much/

I don't make my buying decisions based on television commercials, so my main criticism of this one is that it is not entertaining! The actress was good, though, she seems like a real person to me.

But… speaking of getting real… When a deal seems too good to be true, usually it is. A 17 inch screen on a notebook for $699 definitely falls into that category.

I don't make my buying decisions based on television commercials, so my main criticism of this one is that it is not entertaining! The actress was good, though, she seems like a real person to me.

But… speaking of getting real… When a deal seems too good to be true, usually it is. A 17 inch screen on a notebook for $699 definitely falls into that category.

As a Mac user this ad means nothing to me. I already knew you could buy really lousy Windows laptops cheap.

Microsoft doesn't sell laptops. This ad shows their desperation more than anything else.

"Lauren" is annoying. Her red hair comes from a bottle. She drives a VW which is trendy, expensive, and stylistic but buys a hunk o plastic laptop? Right.

The ad agency who made this spot uses Macs and brag about it when they are not making Microsoft commercials. Yeah.

She did not actually go into the Apple Store as you can see if you watch the ad.

So we have yet another tone deaf Microsoft ad. Amazing how bad they are at this.

Fortune is down to CNet levels of page view desperation.

As a Mac user this ad means nothing to me. I already knew you could buy really lousy Windows laptops cheap.

Microsoft doesn't sell laptops. This ad shows their desperation more than anything else.

"Lauren" is annoying. Her red hair comes from a bottle. She drives a VW which is trendy, expensive, and stylistic but buys a hunk o plastic laptop? Right.

The ad agency who made this spot uses Macs and brag about it when they are not making Microsoft commercials. Yeah.

She did not actually go into the Apple Store as you can see if you watch the ad.

So we have yet another tone deaf Microsoft ad. Amazing how bad they are at this.

Fortune is down to CNet levels of page view desperation.

She thought out everything, and is so brilliant, and came to the conclusion of an HP with Vista, right? What a giant "sub-$1,000" decision!

Meanwhile, she drives a Volkswagen.

Yeah… miss thrifty!

She thought out everything, and is so brilliant, and came to the conclusion of an HP with Vista, right? What a giant "sub-$1,000" decision!

Meanwhile, she drives a Volkswagen.

Yeah… miss thrifty!

LOL. Basically it's a dog fight. For sure Apple won't return a cheap shot.

Good job, Ballmer! Next, make a case of Linux vs. Windows and Open Office vs. MS Office.

LOL. Basically it's a dog fight. For sure Apple won't return a cheap shot.

Good job, Ballmer! Next, make a case of Linux vs. Windows and Open Office vs. MS Office.

hehe Microsoft scored well here. It's clear Apple are pissed and focused on a character attack vs facing the reality that it's brand is fast becoming an elitist brand. whilst this may make some happy and proud, it will never win 2/3rd majority if it approaches it from that angle.

Just ask why Ford/Toyota outsell Porsche/Ferrari etc.

They could fork and setup a "LEXUS" style brand (which under the hood is Toyota) but in reality that would be a costly experiment.

As for some of the long winded arguments in the comments, fact is i own 4 Apple machines right now and all run Windows Vista / Windows 7 and I can honestly say both OSX and Windows share the same stream of exploits / updates that occur. Splitting the two is somewhat ignorant and weak.

hehe Microsoft scored well here. It's clear Apple are pissed and focused on a character attack vs facing the reality that it's brand is fast becoming an elitist brand. whilst this may make some happy and proud, it will never win 2/3rd majority if it approaches it from that angle.

Just ask why Ford/Toyota outsell Porsche/Ferrari etc.

They could fork and setup a "LEXUS" style brand (which under the hood is Toyota) but in reality that would be a costly experiment.

As for some of the long winded arguments in the comments, fact is i own 4 Apple machines right now and all run Windows Vista / Windows 7 and I can honestly say both OSX and Windows share the same stream of exploits / updates that occur. Splitting the two is somewhat ignorant and weak.

Yeah, their cheaper…

But I can run any version of Windows inside a virtual machine. So I get both OS's in the same box it really freaked out my supervisor the first time he saw me with OS X and Windows XP running at the same time on the same machine.

Yeah, their cheaper…

But I can run any version of Windows inside a virtual machine. So I get both OS's in the same box it really freaked out my supervisor the first time he saw me with OS X and Windows XP running at the same time on the same machine.

Brandon wrote:

"The price of the Leopard Upgrade disc ($129) is more than the price of the Vista Home Premium Upgrade disc at Amazon ($115)."

Amazon sells the full Leopard disc for $109.

"If you want the Pro equivalent of OS X, you have to buy Apple Remote Desktop (which gives the group policy + RDP equivalents), which itself costs $300."

Not true. The Remote Desktop functionality comes included with every Mac. The tool you are referring to is for IT managers and is not a "Pro equivalent".

"(Remember, Apple only sells Upgrade versions of OS X so that’s all you can compare to – you can’t buy a version that installs on a machine that didn’t come with OS X)"

Not true. When you buy a Mac OS X disc it is the full version. It installs on any Mac. Apple does not sell "upgrade versions".

Brandon wrote:

"The price of the Leopard Upgrade disc ($129) is more than the price of the Vista Home Premium Upgrade disc at Amazon ($115)."

Amazon sells the full Leopard disc for $109.

"If you want the Pro equivalent of OS X, you have to buy Apple Remote Desktop (which gives the group policy + RDP equivalents), which itself costs $300."

Not true. The Remote Desktop functionality comes included with every Mac. The tool you are referring to is for IT managers and is not a "Pro equivalent".

"(Remember, Apple only sells Upgrade versions of OS X so that’s all you can compare to – you can’t buy a version that installs on a machine that didn’t come with OS X)"

Not true. When you buy a Mac OS X disc it is the full version. It installs on any Mac. Apple does not sell "upgrade versions".

"Look, 'Lauren' also drives a VW. Doesn’t that tell something about how stupid she is?"

If you judge a person's intelligence by the car he/she drives, you're not saying wonderful things about your mental faculty either…

"Look, 'Lauren' also drives a VW. Doesn’t that tell something about how stupid she is?"

If you judge a person's intelligence by the car he/she drives, you're not saying wonderful things about your mental faculty either…

Apple should simply continue the same commercial and show Lauren after she gets home with the new HP PC home and spends the next few days dealing with the continuing stream of software updates. Then a few weeks later after she notices that the PC is getting slower and slower. Then 6 months later when the boot time is over 3 minutes and the operating system won't shut down when you ask it to.

Apple should simply continue the same commercial and show Lauren after she gets home with the new HP PC home and spends the next few days dealing with the continuing stream of software updates. Then a few weeks later after she notices that the PC is getting slower and slower. Then 6 months later when the boot time is over 3 minutes and the operating system won't shut down when you ask it to.

The problem with Apple pricing is that we're not talking about the cost of a Mac being 20% or 30% higher than a PC. The price difference is astronomical. You could buy 2 desktop PCs and a laptop for the cost of one Mac. It's the same reason she is driving a VW. She'd love to drive a BMW, but Beetles start at $18k, not $40k like BMWs.

Most families don't have the $10k it would cost to outfit Mom, Dad and both kids with Macs, period.

The problem with Apple pricing is that we're not talking about the cost of a Mac being 20% or 30% higher than a PC. The price difference is astronomical. You could buy 2 desktop PCs and a laptop for the cost of one Mac. It's the same reason she is driving a VW. She'd love to drive a BMW, but Beetles start at $18k, not $40k like BMWs.

Most families don't have the $10k it would cost to outfit Mom, Dad and both kids with Macs, period.

I think the important point here is that Apple doesn't really care about people who can't spend $1K on a laptop. That isn't their market, and they don't need it to be.

This is just another step toward the 'gentrification' of personal computing, just like the iPhone. Apple is a premium product, and will primarily market the 'haves'. Microsoft's problem isn't Apple, it's the other OSs that will let the 'have-nots' run that < $1K laptop without all the MS hassle.

I think the important point here is that Apple doesn't really care about people who can't spend $1K on a laptop. That isn't their market, and they don't need it to be.

This is just another step toward the 'gentrification' of personal computing, just like the iPhone. Apple is a premium product, and will primarily market the 'haves'. Microsoft's problem isn't Apple, it's the other OSs that will let the 'have-nots' run that < $1K laptop without all the MS hassle.

Look, "Lauren" also drives a VW. Doesn't that tell something about how stupid she is?

Look, "Lauren" also drives a VW. Doesn't that tell something about how stupid she is?

Get real guys. I own both. I bought my 24" iMac so I could avoid Vista. Truth is, Windows does *some* things better than the Mac and makes *some* things easier than the Mac. Not everything, though. I like my iMac. It runs as fast today as it did 8 months ago, when it was brand new. And when I absolutely must, I run Windows XP on My Mac through Fusion. Question is, will I plunk down 3x the price for the Mac laptop I want? Still wavering there. I like my Mac better, but do I like it 3 times as much? (Word processing in the Mac is comparatively hobbled in many ways. Don't think so? Try creating a macro in word and making a table in Mail.)

Get real guys. I own both. I bought my 24" iMac so I could avoid Vista. Truth is, Windows does *some* things better than the Mac and makes *some* things easier than the Mac. Not everything, though. I like my iMac. It runs as fast today as it did 8 months ago, when it was brand new. And when I absolutely must, I run Windows XP on My Mac through Fusion. Question is, will I plunk down 3x the price for the Mac laptop I want? Still wavering there. I like my Mac better, but do I like it 3 times as much? (Word processing in the Mac is comparatively hobbled in many ways. Don't think so? Try creating a macro in word and making a table in Mail.)

I agree, PCs gives more BANG for your buck, but I'm not sure everyone enjoys being banged that way.

To be fair, I use both Mac and PC; I won't give up my Mac and can't give up my PC; so I own a Mac and dual boot. Mac do both, nicely, side by side; and both run native on Intel. Best of both worlds. Two for the price of one. Only on a Mac, though. No one has to choose.

Still, PCs is so harsh. I avoid that side whenever I can.

I can hardly wait for Apple's reply. This is going to be good!

I agree, PCs gives more BANG for your buck, but I'm not sure everyone enjoys being banged that way.

To be fair, I use both Mac and PC; I won't give up my Mac and can't give up my PC; so I own a Mac and dual boot. Mac do both, nicely, side by side; and both run native on Intel. Best of both worlds. Two for the price of one. Only on a Mac, though. No one has to choose.

Still, PCs is so harsh. I avoid that side whenever I can.

I can hardly wait for Apple's reply. This is going to be good!

Anonymous to Anonymous

Is Microsoft writing the antivirus/antispyware code? If so then that is also funny. First they give the disease and then they give you the cure…

Anonymous to Anonymous

Is Microsoft writing the antivirus/antispyware code? If so then that is also funny. First they give the disease and then they give you the cure…

I work within a technological job and industry and prefer to use Macs mostly. It's funny how may friends or even just people I barely know, will ask me what's wrong with, or how to fix their computer. It's always something different, and it's always a PC.

Despite them knowing I'm more of a Mac person, they ask me how to fix their PC, which I USED to do, but now I I just tell them to buy a Mac.

You get what you pay for. This 20/30something girl IS a a lot like the people I know in my same age range. They buy or their parents buy them, the low cost PC because it's just a bit cheaper. Then they have all sorts of issues with it and complain. Usually they tell me "I wish I had bought a Mac, but my parents paid for it" .. or something similar.

I work within a technological job and industry and prefer to use Macs mostly. It's funny how may friends or even just people I barely know, will ask me what's wrong with, or how to fix their computer. It's always something different, and it's always a PC.

Despite them knowing I'm more of a Mac person, they ask me how to fix their PC, which I USED to do, but now I I just tell them to buy a Mac.

You get what you pay for. This 20/30something girl IS a a lot like the people I know in my same age range. They buy or their parents buy them, the low cost PC because it's just a bit cheaper. Then they have all sorts of issues with it and complain. Usually they tell me "I wish I had bought a Mac, but my parents paid for it" .. or something similar.

Thanks! Ad or + or whatever, lol! You forgot to criteak "it's" at the end, lol!

My favorite comment is the guy who recommends buying a new PC, taking it home and reformating and reinstalling the OS. Good as new – you're ready to go and you saved a buck in the process.

NOW THIS IS AN AD BIG SOFTY SHOULD RUN! Or they could just extend their commercial. "Lauren" could just walk her brand new HP Laptop over to the Geek Squad counter and ask them to reformat and reinstall her Vista operating system.

Thanks! Ad or + or whatever, lol! You forgot to criteak "it's" at the end, lol!

My favorite comment is the guy who recommends buying a new PC, taking it home and reformating and reinstalling the OS. Good as new – you're ready to go and you saved a buck in the process.

NOW THIS IS AN AD BIG SOFTY SHOULD RUN! Or they could just extend their commercial. "Lauren" could just walk her brand new HP Laptop over to the Geek Squad counter and ask them to reformat and reinstall her Vista operating system.

PC's give most bang for the buck. Period.

PC's give most bang for the buck. Period.

DeWitt,

As usual you miss the big picture: It's an Ad for PCs! M-Soft doesn't sell PCs, now do they? No.

MS is so desperate that they've given up on promoting their own product vs. Mac — this ad is an admission that that battle is lost– so instead they want you to know that crappy PCs are cheaper than superior Macs.

Money well spent.

DeWitt,

As usual you miss the big picture: It's an Ad for PCs! M-Soft doesn't sell PCs, now do they? No.

MS is so desperate that they've given up on promoting their own product vs. Mac — this ad is an admission that that battle is lost– so instead they want you to know that crappy PCs are cheaper than superior Macs.

Money well spent.

I find the whole situation very amusing. For one, it makes my day when users of what's a glorified version of Unix get stumped. (Steve & Woz, you know what I'm talking about) But as for people making negative comments about Vista, AMD, and 17" inch screens? I laugh every time one of those comments are made. My Vista Home Premium-equipped AMD dual core running Norton 360 takes 1m 35s to fully-boot from completely shutdown, which is pretty fast for laptops, regardless of OS. Yes, 3GB of RAM and staying maintained has a lot to do with it. While no OS is perfect, I'll stay with Windows until Unix pricing, err, I mean Apple pricing gets a little closer to earth.

I find the whole situation very amusing. For one, it makes my day when users of what's a glorified version of Unix get stumped. (Steve & Woz, you know what I'm talking about) But as for people making negative comments about Vista, AMD, and 17" inch screens? I laugh every time one of those comments are made. My Vista Home Premium-equipped AMD dual core running Norton 360 takes 1m 35s to fully-boot from completely shutdown, which is pretty fast for laptops, regardless of OS. Yes, 3GB of RAM and staying maintained has a lot to do with it. While no OS is perfect, I'll stay with Windows until Unix pricing, err, I mean Apple pricing gets a little closer to earth.

'Laruen's first choice was a Mac. Her PC was a consolation prize. Great marketing, MS.

'Laruen's first choice was a Mac. Her PC was a consolation prize. Great marketing, MS.

Why should I listen to an idiot like Kevin – he can't even abbreviate advertisement correctly. Dude you need the blue squiggly.

Why should I listen to an idiot like Kevin – he can't even abbreviate advertisement correctly. Dude you need the blue squiggly.

What a laugh.

It is a beautiful day in the Bay Area. I'm going out to have some fun with life. Perhaps, you should, too?

Jobs (apple) and Gates (microsoft) will be rich no matter what. So – what we write here is not even worth the $0.02.

Go out, have fun.

What a laugh.

It is a beautiful day in the Bay Area. I'm going out to have some fun with life. Perhaps, you should, too?

Jobs (apple) and Gates (microsoft) will be rich no matter what. So – what we write here is not even worth the $0.02.

Go out, have fun.

You get what you pay for. If she wanted a 17" laptop for under $1,000, then she succeeded in her quest. To me, it's just another $1,000 + ad campaign costs not going into product development at Microsoft.

You get what you pay for. If she wanted a 17" laptop for under $1,000, then she succeeded in her quest. To me, it's just another $1,000 + ad campaign costs not going into product development at Microsoft.

I have used both a pc and a mac , which one would I rather use ? a mac but do I ? no , why ? because the price is stroniomical compared to a pc .

I can by a pc laptop or desktop for far less than a mac , take it home reformat and reinstall the os without all the crapware , install antivirus AND anitspyware and any other software needed to keep me running smoothly and STILL have spent less than I would have on a Mac .

Yes Mac people ARE arrogant and snobbish about thier Macs so ……I guess I am not cool enough to own a Mac so I will stuck with my pc .

BTW , Microsoft will soon offer systems with FREE antivirus and antispyware software …… for life.

I have used both a pc and a mac , which one would I rather use ? a mac but do I ? no , why ? because the price is stroniomical compared to a pc .

I can by a pc laptop or desktop for far less than a mac , take it home reformat and reinstall the os without all the crapware , install antivirus AND anitspyware and any other software needed to keep me running smoothly and STILL have spent less than I would have on a Mac .

Yes Mac people ARE arrogant and snobbish about thier Macs so ……I guess I am not cool enough to own a Mac so I will stuck with my pc .

BTW , Microsoft will soon offer systems with FREE antivirus and antispyware software …… for life.

Kevin's comment, below, it right on. The strategy behind that campaign is destined to backfire on Miicrosoft. They made a bone-headed mistake by responding to Apple in the first place, and the more they try to fight it, the more milage Apple gets.

Nine minutes of coverage on Fox News! Steve Jobs & company is laughing all the way to the bank.

Kevin's comment, below, it right on. The strategy behind that campaign is destined to backfire on Miicrosoft. They made a bone-headed mistake by responding to Apple in the first place, and the more they try to fight it, the more milage Apple gets.

Nine minutes of coverage on Fox News! Steve Jobs & company is laughing all the way to the bank.

Most Mac users are clueless on how to really operate their computers.Yeah anybody can turn it on and open photoshop. I can't tell you how many times a Mac user would call into tech support and not even know the simplest technical task. Old ladies on Windows were easier to deal with.

Most Mac users are clueless on how to really operate their computers.Yeah anybody can turn it on and open photoshop. I can't tell you how many times a Mac user would call into tech support and not even know the simplest technical task. Old ladies on Windows were easier to deal with.

I'm a Mac and PC user. After being a PC user for years… a frustrating experience with all the Windows bugs… I made the move to a Mac last year. I ditched my PC a few months ago and now run Windows using VMWare's Fusion when needed but that isn't very often.

Macs work. Windows is clunky. If that makes me a snob, then I am a snob.

I'm a Mac and PC user. After being a PC user for years… a frustrating experience with all the Windows bugs… I made the move to a Mac last year. I ditched my PC a few months ago and now run Windows using VMWare's Fusion when needed but that isn't very often.

Macs work. Windows is clunky. If that makes me a snob, then I am a snob.

I suppose if it's money that we are all out to save, how about buying the (same?) HP laptop without the windows, and installing ubuntu?

That would cost much less, wouldn't it?

I suppose if it's money that we are all out to save, how about buying the (same?) HP laptop without the windows, and installing ubuntu?

That would cost much less, wouldn't it?

I'M AN APPLE SHAREHOLDER AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS ADD. THANK YOU MICROSOFT! I have more of a contrarian view on the add.

This add will drive consumers to visit an Apple store or compare a PC to a Mac at your local Best Buy which is all that Apple can ask for. It's saying go out and test drive both and if this happens Apple wins big time. I've done it. You just can't go out and compare a Mac to a PC and not want a Mac. Bottom line, the more people that visit an Apple store and try their products the better.

In addition we all know that Apple buyers are snobs and IMO this add will just make those people that want an Apple want one that much more.

We've all owned a cheap laptop in our day and lived through that nightmare. Most people walk away from the experience saying never again, next time I'm buying a Mac. Why? Because it works! Beauty and simplicity is what sells Macs and a memory hungry slow Vista OS has been driving people to the Mac since it's release.

I'M AN APPLE SHAREHOLDER AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS ADD. THANK YOU MICROSOFT! I have more of a contrarian view on the add.

This add will drive consumers to visit an Apple store or compare a PC to a Mac at your local Best Buy which is all that Apple can ask for. It's saying go out and test drive both and if this happens Apple wins big time. I've done it. You just can't go out and compare a Mac to a PC and not want a Mac. Bottom line, the more people that visit an Apple store and try their products the better.

In addition we all know that Apple buyers are snobs and IMO this add will just make those people that want an Apple want one that much more.

We've all owned a cheap laptop in our day and lived through that nightmare. Most people walk away from the experience saying never again, next time I'm buying a Mac. Why? Because it works! Beauty and simplicity is what sells Macs and a memory hungry slow Vista OS has been driving people to the Mac since it's release.

This chick is totally going to get caught on her Macbook and finally admit, hey, they paid me to say I wanted a PC, but I really love me some OS X.

This chick is totally going to get caught on her Macbook and finally admit, hey, they paid me to say I wanted a PC, but I really love me some OS X.

Lol.. who watches commercial's anymore?

Lol.. who watches commercial's anymore?

Hi my name is Lauren, I'm an actress chosen by Microsoft marketing to choose the laptop that best demonstrates the price differential between a Mac and a PC.

Of course if I didn't choose 17" screen then it would demonstrate the huge difference.

Of course after I've spent my $699 I then have to buy a big trolley bag to carry this monster round in, plus I'll have to buy Vista Ultimate Edition upgrade, anti-virus software and spyware to make sure my Vista machines doesn't get riddled with Viruses.

Of course I find it quite sad that with 90%+ Marketshare Microsoft finds it necessary to bash it's nearest competitor.

Why not spend the hundreds of millions of dollars they wasted on this actually investing in the areas they are getting their butts kicked, search, Zune, Mobile the list goes on…

How about we do a check in with Lauren in 3 months time to find out how she is getting on…

Hi my name is Lauren, I'm an actress chosen by Microsoft marketing to choose the laptop that best demonstrates the price differential between a Mac and a PC.

Of course if I didn't choose 17" screen then it would demonstrate the huge difference.

Of course after I've spent my $699 I then have to buy a big trolley bag to carry this monster round in, plus I'll have to buy Vista Ultimate Edition upgrade, anti-virus software and spyware to make sure my Vista machines doesn't get riddled with Viruses.

Of course I find it quite sad that with 90%+ Marketshare Microsoft finds it necessary to bash it's nearest competitor.

Why not spend the hundreds of millions of dollars they wasted on this actually investing in the areas they are getting their butts kicked, search, Zune, Mobile the list goes on…

How about we do a check in with Lauren in 3 months time to find out how she is getting on…

I use both a PC and a Mac, and yes, my PC does cost less. There are things I like to do with my Mac, that I cannot seem to do on my PC and vice versa. I think everyone should have both.

I use both a PC and a Mac, and yes, my PC does cost less. There are things I like to do with my Mac, that I cannot seem to do on my PC and vice versa. I think everyone should have both.

What strikes me about the last criticism leveled in the article is that most people do in fact buy these types of laptops, as have I many times, and they are fine for what they will be used for. It's basically a swipe at the type of laptops most people have in their homes now, or that they buy new. And the fact they they are loaded with crapware doesn't really matter to the average consumer. This type of stuff only matters to the most hardened computer geeks. I personally delete everything I don't like on a new laptop, but most people don't care. Most people are fine with Vista Home and whatever processor. The criticism completely reinforces the point of the ad.

What strikes me about the last criticism leveled in the article is that most people do in fact buy these types of laptops, as have I many times, and they are fine for what they will be used for. It's basically a swipe at the type of laptops most people have in their homes now, or that they buy new. And the fact they they are loaded with crapware doesn't really matter to the average consumer. This type of stuff only matters to the most hardened computer geeks. I personally delete everything I don't like on a new laptop, but most people don't care. Most people are fine with Vista Home and whatever processor. The criticism completely reinforces the point of the ad.

@bruce smith: if it's only 6 mos old and a speaker is blown, your warranty should cover replacing the speaker..

@bruce smith: if it's only 6 mos old and a speaker is blown, your warranty should cover replacing the speaker..

You know, It's ridiculous to see you people constantly bash apple, I myself use both Macs and PC's and honestly at the end of the day which computer do I like better ? hmm tough call here but I'm going to stick with a mac.

Why ? simple really The laptop that I'm currently typing this on is a HP and after 6 months of use, one of the speakers is blown, the DVD writer won't even read and on a absolutely great day I get a hour and a half on battery life. with a 17 inch macbook pro, you get at least 4 hours a charge, your speakers don't blow if you listen to your music too loudly, your OS doesn't slow down after a year of use, and ummm oh yeah, you don't really run the risk of viruses, I mean there are what ? 10 at the most viruses for os x ? and there are hmmmm 100,000+ viruses for windows ? Having said that, yeah tere are some advantages to PCs. Though I'll be damned trying to think of any. Plus I honestly gave up on tech support to replace hardware with PC manufacturers watching some indian guy dink around via VNC for two hours to say that they won't replace my speakers is absolute BS. With a mac you drive maybe a hour or two where I live to the local apple store and you get your hardware repaired (assuming you are in warranty.)

You know, It's ridiculous to see you people constantly bash apple, I myself use both Macs and PC's and honestly at the end of the day which computer do I like better ? hmm tough call here but I'm going to stick with a mac.

Why ? simple really The laptop that I'm currently typing this on is a HP and after 6 months of use, one of the speakers is blown, the DVD writer won't even read and on a absolutely great day I get a hour and a half on battery life. with a 17 inch macbook pro, you get at least 4 hours a charge, your speakers don't blow if you listen to your music too loudly, your OS doesn't slow down after a year of use, and ummm oh yeah, you don't really run the risk of viruses, I mean there are what ? 10 at the most viruses for os x ? and there are hmmmm 100,000+ viruses for windows ? Having said that, yeah tere are some advantages to PCs. Though I'll be damned trying to think of any. Plus I honestly gave up on tech support to replace hardware with PC manufacturers watching some indian guy dink around via VNC for two hours to say that they won't replace my speakers is absolute BS. With a mac you drive maybe a hour or two where I live to the local apple store and you get your hardware repaired (assuming you are in warranty.)

Great Ad, the agency just hit the spot "Im not cool enough to be a Mac", Mac people are so proud, so arrogant. Now… stop being sentimental, its not cool.

Great Ad, the agency just hit the spot "Im not cool enough to be a Mac", Mac people are so proud, so arrogant. Now… stop being sentimental, its not cool.

I've used PC's for over 15 years. Personally have owned 6 or 7 of them over that time span. Yes Windows can be buggy. I use to reinstall Win 98 probably every 2 or 3 months. XP has been a stable OS, esp with the service pack 2. Vista is an ok OS, I have had no real problems with it, only reinstalled it two or three times since it came out. I bought it on the day it was released, plus I ran the beta version before it came out. The one reinstall was my fault cause I was trying to get a webcam to work and I was forcing different drivers to install, and I was playing with the code on the driver to get it to work. My hardware on that was a AMD X2 64bit, and Vista was very stable. Now I have it installed on a quad core Intel with 8gb ram and it flys. I also dual boot that machine with Windows 7, which is a fine OS. I havent had a problem with either machine. My wife on the other hand coverted to Apple a few years ago. I have to say the hardware is junk. Her macbook pro has been serviced twice, the battery died, the power adapter broke. She is on her 3rd 3G iPhone, and this one has a problem with dropping calls like a hot potato. She says the Apple Care is the best that they take care of the products. Hmmm. . funny thing is I have dropped my Blackberry 8800 a number of time and use the hell outta it, I have worn the finish off of most the keys, and it still works like the day I got it. Can't say that about the Apple product. We have two networks setup in the house, I have hardwired ethernet connections for my computers, and she uses her Apple router/wifi and has problems with it connecting to her macbook, mac mini, and apple tv. It a pain in the a$$ when watching a movie on the apple tv and the whole thing stops and you have to restart everything to work. (I do admit, the Apple Tv is cool, and do enjoy using them, when they work, and we do own 3 of them.)

Honestly there is no difference between a pc and a mac hardware wise. Both use Intel CPU's now, Intel or nVidia video cpu's and the rest of the hardware is all based on Intel specs.

My wife uses Windows on her macbook pro than OSX cause some of the software isnt on the mac. She has Vista installed on there. And quite often, she uses her Sony Vaio over the mac.(She bought the Vaio cause she travels a lot overseas and it better to lose an $800 over a $2500 one if something was to happen to it). She still swears by mac, applecare, etc. She needs the insurance on them since they tend to break a lot. And no, she is not a dummy or computer illerate. She has her masters in computer science.

I build my own computers and for under $1000, I can build a computer that blows the Apple out of the water. Dollar for dollar, a PC will always be better, esp. if you build them yourself. By quality hardware, and you wont have a problem with it. Spec wise the mac mini, is like a $350 barebones computer that you can get from Fry's.

I find OSX to be clumbsy at times, and find Windows can be to. Ease of use, for me the PC wins hand down. I think Windows 7 will be a winner, but don't install it on older hardware, make sure your computer has at least a dual core cpu. The same thing goes for installing Vista, When vista came out, you have people trying to install vista on a 5 year old computer. No kidding, its not really going to work. Microsoft, really shouldn't have put those mininum system requiremts on the box, it hurts the product.

People complain that Windows is buggy, etc. But when you stop and think about it, I can install Windows onto 1000's of different hardware combinations, and for the most part it will always work. OSX on the other hand only has to support a handfull of different hardware. The new OSX release will only support the Intel cpus now, and not support the IBM/Motorola PowerPC CPU's.

Microsoft really needs to dump the legacy code that is still in Windows, I don't give a rats a$$ if you can't run a program from 10 years ago. Rewrite the OS from the ground up, dump the 32bit program support, only support 64bit programs, and a Windows computer will be just good as a mac or better!!!

I've used PC's for over 15 years. Personally have owned 6 or 7 of them over that time span. Yes Windows can be buggy. I use to reinstall Win 98 probably every 2 or 3 months. XP has been a stable OS, esp with the service pack 2. Vista is an ok OS, I have had no real problems with it, only reinstalled it two or three times since it came out. I bought it on the day it was released, plus I ran the beta version before it came out. The one reinstall was my fault cause I was trying to get a webcam to work and I was forcing different drivers to install, and I was playing with the code on the driver to get it to work. My hardware on that was a AMD X2 64bit, and Vista was very stable. Now I have it installed on a quad core Intel with 8gb ram and it flys. I also dual boot that machine with Windows 7, which is a fine OS. I havent had a problem with either machine. My wife on the other hand coverted to Apple a few years ago. I have to say the hardware is junk. Her macbook pro has been serviced twice, the battery died, the power adapter broke. She is on her 3rd 3G iPhone, and this one has a problem with dropping calls like a hot potato. She says the Apple Care is the best that they take care of the products. Hmmm. . funny thing is I have dropped my Blackberry 8800 a number of time and use the hell outta it, I have worn the finish off of most the keys, and it still works like the day I got it. Can't say that about the Apple product. We have two networks setup in the house, I have hardwired ethernet connections for my computers, and she uses her Apple router/wifi and has problems with it connecting to her macbook, mac mini, and apple tv. It a pain in the a$$ when watching a movie on the apple tv and the whole thing stops and you have to restart everything to work. (I do admit, the Apple Tv is cool, and do enjoy using them, when they work, and we do own 3 of them.)

Honestly there is no difference between a pc and a mac hardware wise. Both use Intel CPU's now, Intel or nVidia video cpu's and the rest of the hardware is all based on Intel specs.

My wife uses Windows on her macbook pro than OSX cause some of the software isnt on the mac. She has Vista installed on there. And quite often, she uses her Sony Vaio over the mac.(She bought the Vaio cause she travels a lot overseas and it better to lose an $800 over a $2500 one if something was to happen to it). She still swears by mac, applecare, etc. She needs the insurance on them since they tend to break a lot. And no, she is not a dummy or computer illerate. She has her masters in computer science.

I build my own computers and for under $1000, I can build a computer that blows the Apple out of the water. Dollar for dollar, a PC will always be better, esp. if you build them yourself. By quality hardware, and you wont have a problem with it. Spec wise the mac mini, is like a $350 barebones computer that you can get from Fry's.

I find OSX to be clumbsy at times, and find Windows can be to. Ease of use, for me the PC wins hand down. I think Windows 7 will be a winner, but don't install it on older hardware, make sure your computer has at least a dual core cpu. The same thing goes for installing Vista, When vista came out, you have people trying to install vista on a 5 year old computer. No kidding, its not really going to work. Microsoft, really shouldn't have put those mininum system requiremts on the box, it hurts the product.

People complain that Windows is buggy, etc. But when you stop and think about it, I can install Windows onto 1000's of different hardware combinations, and for the most part it will always work. OSX on the other hand only has to support a handfull of different hardware. The new OSX release will only support the Intel cpus now, and not support the IBM/Motorola PowerPC CPU's.

Microsoft really needs to dump the legacy code that is still in Windows, I don't give a rats a$$ if you can't run a program from 10 years ago. Rewrite the OS from the ground up, dump the 32bit program support, only support 64bit programs, and a Windows computer will be just good as a mac or better!!!

If she bought the macbook – in two years it would be neatly sitting inside its case on the back seat of her gls beetle greatly used and totally functional. However since she bought the HP its going to be sitting on her beer stained upholstery – nearly nonfunctional due over downloading – or on the floor where the pop cans, receipts, pen caps, and other assortment of nuts, spilled coffee and dried cola stuck to the carpeted floor are of her scratched and dinged up beetle after almost flunking out or flunked out of college after two years of hard socializing.

If she bought the macbook – in two years it would be neatly sitting inside its case on the back seat of her gls beetle greatly used and totally functional. However since she bought the HP its going to be sitting on her beer stained upholstery – nearly nonfunctional due over downloading – or on the floor where the pop cans, receipts, pen caps, and other assortment of nuts, spilled coffee and dried cola stuck to the carpeted floor are of her scratched and dinged up beetle after almost flunking out or flunked out of college after two years of hard socializing.

Wow, I love this ad, Apple fanboys, love to point out how cool they are and say "You get what you pay for." The character (because Apple ALWAYS uses real people LoL, right) wanted a computer under $1000, she didn't want Photoshop, she didn't want Itunes, the criteria was simple. Under $1000, stop whining, It's amazing how Apple lovers can't have a reasonable discussion without bashing Windows, as a matter of fact the only snipe in the commercial is the character wasn't "cool" enough to be an Apple person, they're right. The character wasn't cool (see:Rich) enough to be an Apple person. Most average to low income people have one criteria, price. Apple can't compete on price, they never can and probably never will. Let's just all agree on that, I don't care if you cut the thing from a single block of gold, I want something affordable, so calm down, get a latte, then go to Panera and write something pretentious. Flame on.

Wow, I love this ad, Apple fanboys, love to point out how cool they are and say "You get what you pay for." The character (because Apple ALWAYS uses real people LoL, right) wanted a computer under $1000, she didn't want Photoshop, she didn't want Itunes, the criteria was simple. Under $1000, stop whining, It's amazing how Apple lovers can't have a reasonable discussion without bashing Windows, as a matter of fact the only snipe in the commercial is the character wasn't "cool" enough to be an Apple person, they're right. The character wasn't cool (see:Rich) enough to be an Apple person. Most average to low income people have one criteria, price. Apple can't compete on price, they never can and probably never will. Let's just all agree on that, I don't care if you cut the thing from a single block of gold, I want something affordable, so calm down, get a latte, then go to Panera and write something pretentious. Flame on.

Let me chime in with this too…

So "she" went to the "mac store" first. Yes these are WalMart times, but MS is validating that Apple is the aspirational brand.

It makes sense for MS–marketing works better when it is based in reality. But I don't think Lexus and BMW tremble when Kia sells against them.

MOREOVER, I finally got my iPhone a week ago. What I have come to realize is that, once again, MS is fighting the last war. The next war is Apple vs. RIMM (and yes it is possible that Android, Palm, etc could gain traction.)

Let me chime in with this too…

So "she" went to the "mac store" first. Yes these are WalMart times, but MS is validating that Apple is the aspirational brand.

It makes sense for MS–marketing works better when it is based in reality. But I don't think Lexus and BMW tremble when Kia sells against them.

MOREOVER, I finally got my iPhone a week ago. What I have come to realize is that, once again, MS is fighting the last war. The next war is Apple vs. RIMM (and yes it is possible that Android, Palm, etc could gain traction.)

Umm, did I miss the memo? This is advertising – it has always been dishonest.

And this ad is no more or less dishonest than the Apple mac v pc ones.

Umm, did I miss the memo? This is advertising – it has always been dishonest.

And this ad is no more or less dishonest than the Apple mac v pc ones.

but the majority of mac users I've come across to in life are kind of snobbish. as soon as I drop the line that I use a pc, I get barraged with often rude comments of how my pc is obsolete and that my life is incomplete without a mac.

I have nothing wrong with mac's. I even think that mac's beat pc's in some qualities, and vice versa. However, I do reprimand the folks who think that, as this ad states, that being a mac user makes you any "cooler" than a pc user.

but the majority of mac users I've come across to in life are kind of snobbish. as soon as I drop the line that I use a pc, I get barraged with often rude comments of how my pc is obsolete and that my life is incomplete without a mac.

I have nothing wrong with mac's. I even think that mac's beat pc's in some qualities, and vice versa. However, I do reprimand the folks who think that, as this ad states, that being a mac user makes you any "cooler" than a pc user.

Interesting – I just checked one of the "Big Box" store web sites for 17 inch laptops & found that there actually is a $1000+ premium for the Apple laptop (at least at this store). I understand that many people prefer Mac OS but doesn't that seem excessive?

Interesting – I just checked one of the "Big Box" store web sites for 17 inch laptops & found that there actually is a $1000+ premium for the Apple laptop (at least at this store). I understand that many people prefer Mac OS but doesn't that seem excessive?

@Chris -

Microsoft wins on that comparison too.

The price of the Leopard Upgrade disc ($129) is more than the price of the Vista Home Premium Upgrade disc at Amazon ($115).

If you want the Pro equivalent of OS X, you have to buy Apple Remote Desktop (which gives the group policy + RDP equivalents), which itself costs $300.

(Remember, Apple only sells Upgrade versions of OS X so that's all you can compare to – you can't buy a version that installs on a machine that didn't come with OS X)

@Chris -

Microsoft wins on that comparison too.

The price of the Leopard Upgrade disc ($129) is more than the price of the Vista Home Premium Upgrade disc at Amazon ($115).

If you want the Pro equivalent of OS X, you have to buy Apple Remote Desktop (which gives the group policy + RDP equivalents), which itself costs $300.

(Remember, Apple only sells Upgrade versions of OS X so that's all you can compare to – you can't buy a version that installs on a machine that didn't come with OS X)

Wow….I have to agree with the guy who said that it's a "kia vs. kia with a BMW logo." I use windows and kubuntu. I like both. I have nothing against apple or OSX. I just don't think that it's the fan boys who are butt hurt by this commercial, and they are the number one reason I don't use anything apple. It's decent software, but I'm not going to pay that much for the "privilege" to use it.

Wow….I have to agree with the guy who said that it's a "kia vs. kia with a BMW logo." I use windows and kubuntu. I like both. I have nothing against apple or OSX. I just don't think that it's the fan boys who are butt hurt by this commercial, and they are the number one reason I don't use anything apple. It's decent software, but I'm not going to pay that much for the "privilege" to use it.

Yeah sure its easy to bash Microsoft for what it doesn't do well. The fact is that any Microsoft product can be secured very easily, the out of the box settings is where the problem arises. Another fact is that a lot of things just work in os 10 because of the fact that there is only one program for chat, and that's apples. If Microsoft could include everything they wanted microsoft branded then they would be the same. Pc is about choice, apple is about beeing locked down.

Yeah sure its easy to bash Microsoft for what it doesn't do well. The fact is that any Microsoft product can be secured very easily, the out of the box settings is where the problem arises. Another fact is that a lot of things just work in os 10 because of the fact that there is only one program for chat, and that's apples. If Microsoft could include everything they wanted microsoft branded then they would be the same. Pc is about choice, apple is about beeing locked down.

Your 2-year-old Macbook pro will "run rings around" any Windows laptop? The Apple OS is that much better at utilizing the same basic hardware? Sure. Right.

Your 2-year-old Macbook pro will "run rings around" any Windows laptop? The Apple OS is that much better at utilizing the same basic hardware? Sure. Right.

I think it is hilarious to read the comments by the PC crowd. They all sound to me like they are cheering for the guy selling buggy whips while the consumers around the world are gaining appreciation for the automobile. The old gray mare just ain't what she used to be. Think different.

I think it is hilarious to read the comments by the PC crowd. They all sound to me like they are cheering for the guy selling buggy whips while the consumers around the world are gaining appreciation for the automobile. The old gray mare just ain't what she used to be. Think different.

The author of this article is clueless. This ad is infuriating because it is fake and relies on ridiculous premises. there is a strong case to make against apple's pricing strategy, but comparing a stripped down old chevy pickup to a cadillac escalade is not an effective argument. she's not cool enough for a mac? then why was it her first choice? the takeaway from this ad – windows is what you settle for when you can't afford what you really want.

poor concept. i thought the im a pc ad hit apple much harder than this.

The author of this article is clueless. This ad is infuriating because it is fake and relies on ridiculous premises. there is a strong case to make against apple's pricing strategy, but comparing a stripped down old chevy pickup to a cadillac escalade is not an effective argument. she's not cool enough for a mac? then why was it her first choice? the takeaway from this ad – windows is what you settle for when you can't afford what you really want.

poor concept. i thought the im a pc ad hit apple much harder than this.

The real winner here is Intel – who makes most of the processors for both machines running the Mac and Windows OS. If you choose a solution other than Mac you can get a great machine for a much lower cost. If you hate Vista so much then put something free like Ubuntu on it. Every computer user is getting exploited. Apple makes a killing off of the hardware they mark up just to put their operating software on and Microsoft makes a killing by providing software that is virus prone and full of problems because they don't want to put more money into fixing it correctly. Everyone is getting screwed so who cares. Don't think though just because you buy an Apple that you are getting some amazing Apple only hardware. You are getting just another setup with their OS and are paying more for it. Maybe Apple should open up the Mac OS to be installed on computers other than the ones they sell. They could do it but why – they are making a killing selling to the "cool Mac users" who are willing to pay whatever they have to in order to look cool at school and with their friends. Let's be real.

The real winner here is Intel – who makes most of the processors for both machines running the Mac and Windows OS. If you choose a solution other than Mac you can get a great machine for a much lower cost. If you hate Vista so much then put something free like Ubuntu on it. Every computer user is getting exploited. Apple makes a killing off of the hardware they mark up just to put their operating software on and Microsoft makes a killing by providing software that is virus prone and full of problems because they don't want to put more money into fixing it correctly. Everyone is getting screwed so who cares. Don't think though just because you buy an Apple that you are getting some amazing Apple only hardware. You are getting just another setup with their OS and are paying more for it. Maybe Apple should open up the Mac OS to be installed on computers other than the ones they sell. They could do it but why – they are making a killing selling to the "cool Mac users" who are willing to pay whatever they have to in order to look cool at school and with their friends. Let's be real.

Ok…macs are fine….pcs are fine….they are both fine for different things. If your a person who likes simple software with not much too it. Get a mac…its simple and virus free…why? When virus programmers make a virus..they are targeting the most popular platform…Duh…if apple was on top..it would get nailed just like windows. There is nothing special about macs and nothing super special about pcs. They take you to the same internet….I personally need two buttons on my mouse. Its faster for editing. Look Mac owners..quit bitching…if your platform is really that good…you would not be defending it so hard. I have had both pc and mac…I sold the mac…To simple…it was like working on a computer for beginners.

Ok…macs are fine….pcs are fine….they are both fine for different things. If your a person who likes simple software with not much too it. Get a mac…its simple and virus free…why? When virus programmers make a virus..they are targeting the most popular platform…Duh…if apple was on top..it would get nailed just like windows. There is nothing special about macs and nothing super special about pcs. They take you to the same internet….I personally need two buttons on my mouse. Its faster for editing. Look Mac owners..quit bitching…if your platform is really that good…you would not be defending it so hard. I have had both pc and mac…I sold the mac…To simple…it was like working on a computer for beginners.

First of all, HW wise they are all the say. Just open them up.

Apple should just start selling MAC OS for PC… and then it becomes interesting.

I just bought 2 HP Pavilion with a core2 process for under 500$…don't get me wrong, I love Apple product, I own 1, but they keep the cost very high.

First of all, HW wise they are all the say. Just open them up.

Apple should just start selling MAC OS for PC… and then it becomes interesting.

I just bought 2 HP Pavilion with a core2 process for under 500$…don't get me wrong, I love Apple product, I own 1, but they keep the cost very high.

I haven't had the time to read all the comments, but the way to counteract this ad is deceptively simple.

Namely, when you buy a MAC, you are actually getting TWO computers in one. Why is this? Because with the simple addition of VMWare or Parallels, your MAC will run as a PC. In fact it will run BETTER than a PC. Plus of course you still have all your MAC functionality as well.

End of problem.

I haven't had the time to read all the comments, but the way to counteract this ad is deceptively simple.

Namely, when you buy a MAC, you are actually getting TWO computers in one. Why is this? Because with the simple addition of VMWare or Parallels, your MAC will run as a PC. In fact it will run BETTER than a PC. Plus of course you still have all your MAC functionality as well.

End of problem.

I recently bought my first MacBook after being a lifetime PC user. I've had no problems at all. Everything runs super smooth. I take it to class to type notes, use LightRoom, Photoshop & Garage Band and surf the web. I've had two Gateway PCs that have crashed. My last HP laptop was slow and I became frustrated with the applications constantly running in the background that would pop up for inquiries. When I use my Mac, I don't worry about prompts coming up for multiple programs that I don't want to deal with and I don't have to drop $100 (or whatever it is now) for anti-virus software that I constantly have to update.

That being said, I do not understand the culture war that people are engaged in when it comes to what computer they use.

Why would PC users worry about Mac users thinking that they're too cool? 90% of sales are PC, right? That's a pretty huge majority. Are all of the PC users also stock holders in Microsoft or is there some high school memory that is causing someone to lash out as what they see as "the cool computer user"?

I don't understand why Mac users would think that they are cool because of a tool that they bought and use for random tasks. Everyone has different preferences and not everyone has a big wallet. When's the last time you've taken someone seriously who thinks that they're cool because of the cell phone they use? Hopefully never, because that's ridiculous.

There's a documentary called "Macheads" that explores the obsession that some people have with their Apple products. I haven't watched it yet, but it sounds like a lot of you responding to this post might get a kick out of it.

I recently bought my first MacBook after being a lifetime PC user. I've had no problems at all. Everything runs super smooth. I take it to class to type notes, use LightRoom, Photoshop & Garage Band and surf the web. I've had two Gateway PCs that have crashed. My last HP laptop was slow and I became frustrated with the applications constantly running in the background that would pop up for inquiries. When I use my Mac, I don't worry about prompts coming up for multiple programs that I don't want to deal with and I don't have to drop $100 (or whatever it is now) for anti-virus software that I constantly have to update.

That being said, I do not understand the culture war that people are engaged in when it comes to what computer they use.

Why would PC users worry about Mac users thinking that they're too cool? 90% of sales are PC, right? That's a pretty huge majority. Are all of the PC users also stock holders in Microsoft or is there some high school memory that is causing someone to lash out as what they see as "the cool computer user"?

I don't understand why Mac users would think that they are cool because of a tool that they bought and use for random tasks. Everyone has different preferences and not everyone has a big wallet. When's the last time you've taken someone seriously who thinks that they're cool because of the cell phone they use? Hopefully never, because that's ridiculous.

There's a documentary called "Macheads" that explores the obsession that some people have with their Apple products. I haven't watched it yet, but it sounds like a lot of you responding to this post might get a kick out of it.

Apple users always talk about how safe their computers are…the only reason why Windows has the amount of viruses that is does is because the writers of the viruses actually want to reach an audience (close to 90% of the market is Windows)

Apple users always talk about how safe their computers are…the only reason why Windows has the amount of viruses that is does is because the writers of the viruses actually want to reach an audience (close to 90% of the market is Windows)

So your beef is that MS came out with an ad that finally hits back at the "I'm a PC and I'm a Mac" ads in a constructive manner?You all sound like the PC users when those other ads came out. Should I feel irate that Apple called all PC users clueless nerds?I think not. This is a Coke or Pepsi argument that can't be solved. Why you ask? Because they both have reason then suck.

So your beef is that MS came out with an ad that finally hits back at the "I'm a PC and I'm a Mac" ads in a constructive manner?You all sound like the PC users when those other ads came out. Should I feel irate that Apple called all PC users clueless nerds?I think not. This is a Coke or Pepsi argument that can't be solved. Why you ask? Because they both have reason then suck.

Just because an ad elicits a response doesn’t necessarily mean it has placed anyone on the defensive. A good ad agency is going to generate attention – that’s their job. The question is, attention for whom? The amount of buzz this creates for Apple is unprecedented. Think about it: nine minutes of airtime on Fox dedicated to a discussion about Apple? Steve Jobs is ripping out his IV’s right now, he’s laughing so hard. Folks have been portraying Apple customers as “pompous jerks” for years – nothing new, no sweat. But there are those (hard to believe) that did not know Apple, who were completely unaware that they even had a choice, who are now wondering why a Mac costs so much more, and who now may be willing to investigate in order to satisfy their Microsoft-induced curiosity. The apparent objective is to take advantage of the current economic malaise to halt Apple’s momentum. But can the PC world risk helping Apple extend its brand awareness to a new generation of the uninitiated? That they are willing to do so only indicates that the high water mark of desperation has reached eye-level in Redmond.

What Microsoft and their ad agency don't seem to get is that we're dealing with different markets here. The person who has less than $1000 to spend 1) isn't even looking for a Mac, 2) is lusting after a Mac and is willing to forgo their purchase until they've saved up enough to get one, or 3) is a PC zealot who would not buy a Mac if they had five times the money. No amount of advertising aimed at that market will change this (well, I take that back – if they keep this up, they may begin changing the 1’s into 2’s). Who they should be targeting is the person who does have the level of discretionary income necessary to make a choice based on factors beside initial price, because that’s where the profits lie (especially since, the lower the price, the harder it is to camouflage the cost of that Windows license). Problem is, they know they cannot compete in that arena, so this is what they are left with – rooting around the swine pen for truffles. Very sad.

Just because an ad elicits a response doesn’t necessarily mean it has placed anyone on the defensive. A good ad agency is going to generate attention – that’s their job. The question is, attention for whom? The amount of buzz this creates for Apple is unprecedented. Think about it: nine minutes of airtime on Fox dedicated to a discussion about Apple? Steve Jobs is ripping out his IV’s right now, he’s laughing so hard. Folks have been portraying Apple customers as “pompous jerks” for years – nothing new, no sweat. But there are those (hard to believe) that did not know Apple, who were completely unaware that they even had a choice, who are now wondering why a Mac costs so much more, and who now may be willing to investigate in order to satisfy their Microsoft-induced curiosity. The apparent objective is to take advantage of the current economic malaise to halt Apple’s momentum. But can the PC world risk helping Apple extend its brand awareness to a new generation of the uninitiated? That they are willing to do so only indicates that the high water mark of desperation has reached eye-level in Redmond.

What Microsoft and their ad agency don't seem to get is that we're dealing with different markets here. The person who has less than $1000 to spend 1) isn't even looking for a Mac, 2) is lusting after a Mac and is willing to forgo their purchase until they've saved up enough to get one, or 3) is a PC zealot who would not buy a Mac if they had five times the money. No amount of advertising aimed at that market will change this (well, I take that back – if they keep this up, they may begin changing the 1’s into 2’s). Who they should be targeting is the person who does have the level of discretionary income necessary to make a choice based on factors beside initial price, because that’s where the profits lie (especially since, the lower the price, the harder it is to camouflage the cost of that Windows license). Problem is, they know they cannot compete in that arena, so this is what they are left with – rooting around the swine pen for truffles. Very sad.

Every time I buy a computer, I take a look at Macs, thinking about switching, and then wind up with a PC. My current computer is a Lenovo Thinkpad that I got for $600, new. I put in a solid state disk and turn off all the terrible eye candy in Vista, and love the system …

The screen has about twice as many pixels as an equivalent Mac, isn't glossy, and it has the trackpoint device (little red joystick in the keyboard) which I prefer by a huge margin to touchpad. Oh, and I can do things like take out the DVD drive and put in either nothing (much lighter), or another battery. Or a hard disk. And run all the software I need to, without installing TWO operating systems (what a pain!).

Microsoft has been slipping (particularly with Vista), but they basically brought personal computing into existence. Macs have always been expensive, and not always ahead of PC's (this is a recent development). The preliminary info from Windows 7 – much faster than XP, and stable and clean – make me think that MS still has plenty of life left.

Also, the open architecture of the PCs (part of the reason for viruses and driver issues) are a big part of the reason for the success of the computer. We use PC's in the lab to run experiments because there are devices (data acquisition cards, for instance), that don't and can't run on a Mac. Apple computers run what Apple say you can run, certainly in terms of hardware.

Sure, Apple caught up to PCs a lot with OSX (although early versions were not all that great), and by switching to the hardware that PC's had been using for years. I remember when Mac went to Intel chips, the ad (on their website) read "Now, 4x faster." Four times, eh? Twice because the new Intel chips were dual core, and twice again because – ready for this? – Intel chips are much, much faster than the chips Apple had dishonestly said were the "fastest" for years. (And by the way, when the G5 computer came out, the UK wouldn't let Apple run the ad that say they were the world's fastest desktop because, uh, it simply wasn't true. Just more Apple marketing, which the best in the world.)

Apple being perfect? Yeah, right. I once plugged in a memory stick into an Mac, and it just deleted the contents. Same thing with a USB hard drive happened, on a different machine! BTW, I used to work as a programer, it's wasn't some idotic mistake, Apple just royally screwed up. And have you tried typing on the keyboards on one of their new laptops? It's hurts my fingers just to think about it.

Look, Apple and PCs can and should co-exist. If there were only one system, and no competition, it would almost undoubtedly suck. And the OSX is pretty sweet, no doubt, but I think Windows 7 will end the Vista debacle decidedly. But seriously, Apple systems – although they have plenty of advantages – have some incredible flaws.

Every time I buy a computer, I take a look at Macs, thinking about switching, and then wind up with a PC. My current computer is a Lenovo Thinkpad that I got for $600, new. I put in a solid state disk and turn off all the terrible eye candy in Vista, and love the system …

The screen has about twice as many pixels as an equivalent Mac, isn't glossy, and it has the trackpoint device (little red joystick in the keyboard) which I prefer by a huge margin to touchpad. Oh, and I can do things like take out the DVD drive and put in either nothing (much lighter), or another battery. Or a hard disk. And run all the software I need to, without installing TWO operating systems (what a pain!).

Microsoft has been slipping (particularly with Vista), but they basically brought personal computing into existence. Macs have always been expensive, and not always ahead of PC's (this is a recent development). The preliminary info from Windows 7 – much faster than XP, and stable and clean – make me think that MS still has plenty of life left.

Also, the open architecture of the PCs (part of the reason for viruses and driver issues) are a big part of the reason for the success of the computer. We use PC's in the lab to run experiments because there are devices (data acquisition cards, for instance), that don't and can't run on a Mac. Apple computers run what Apple say you can run, certainly in terms of hardware.

Sure, Apple caught up to PCs a lot with OSX (although early versions were not all that great), and by switching to the hardware that PC's had been using for years. I remember when Mac went to Intel chips, the ad (on their website) read "Now, 4x faster." Four times, eh? Twice because the new Intel chips were dual core, and twice again because – ready for this? – Intel chips are much, much faster than the chips Apple had dishonestly said were the "fastest" for years. (And by the way, when the G5 computer came out, the UK wouldn't let Apple run the ad that say they were the world's fastest desktop because, uh, it simply wasn't true. Just more Apple marketing, which the best in the world.)

Apple being perfect? Yeah, right. I once plugged in a memory stick into an Mac, and it just deleted the contents. Same thing with a USB hard drive happened, on a different machine! BTW, I used to work as a programer, it's wasn't some idotic mistake, Apple just royally screwed up. And have you tried typing on the keyboards on one of their new laptops? It's hurts my fingers just to think about it.

Look, Apple and PCs can and should co-exist. If there were only one system, and no competition, it would almost undoubtedly suck. And the OSX is pretty sweet, no doubt, but I think Windows 7 will end the Vista debacle decidedly. But seriously, Apple systems – although they have plenty of advantages – have some incredible flaws.

I can't remember the last time an ad was dissected and debated as much as this one.

Who cares? Really.

I can't remember the last time an ad was dissected and debated as much as this one.

Who cares? Really.

I like Microsoft. It keeps me employed, because it never works, and the U.S. didn't make Wal-Mart popular over quality.

I like Microsoft. It keeps me employed, because it never works, and the U.S. didn't make Wal-Mart popular over quality.

I bought a Dell Studio 15 a few months ago for a mere $1400. Speccing out a similar macbook pro wound up being $1k more. No thank you. And to Jeff who claims the virus argument, well I don't know what you do, but I've never gotten a virus on my Windows PC's, ever. And yes, my laptop runs Vista, and I love it. I've used Vista on my home PC for over a year. Those that bash it obviously just go by other losers that are intent on bashing it rather than trying it out themselves for any extended period of time. I don't care if "Lauren" is an actor, the ad still rings true, and is a hell of a lot more accurate than those stupid Mac vs. PC ads.

I bought a Dell Studio 15 a few months ago for a mere $1400. Speccing out a similar macbook pro wound up being $1k more. No thank you. And to Jeff who claims the virus argument, well I don't know what you do, but I've never gotten a virus on my Windows PC's, ever. And yes, my laptop runs Vista, and I love it. I've used Vista on my home PC for over a year. Those that bash it obviously just go by other losers that are intent on bashing it rather than trying it out themselves for any extended period of time. I don't care if "Lauren" is an actor, the ad still rings true, and is a hell of a lot more accurate than those stupid Mac vs. PC ads.

Who cares? Buy what you want and go on with your lives. Maybe take some of this partisan energy and go volunteer at a soup kitchen.

Who cares? Buy what you want and go on with your lives. Maybe take some of this partisan energy and go volunteer at a soup kitchen.

Apple U.S. Retail Revenue Share Declines

http://blogs.eweek.com/applewatch/content/channel/apples_us_retail_revenue_share_declines.html

Apple U.S. Retail Revenue Share Declines

http://blogs.eweek.com/applewatch/content/channel/apples_us_retail_revenue_share_declines.html

face it windows is more scared of the newer and rapidly spawning future linux disperbutions than Mac. Unless drops its prices macs are gonna seem like an expensive linux computer before the decade is over.

face it windows is more scared of the newer and rapidly spawning future linux disperbutions than Mac. Unless drops its prices macs are gonna seem like an expensive linux computer before the decade is over.

If the ad is trying to go for price points, why wouldn't Lauren just pick up Ubuntu, which is free?

If the ad is trying to go for price points, why wouldn't Lauren just pick up Ubuntu, which is free?

The agency CP+B used Macs to make that commercial. HA.

The agency CP+B used Macs to make that commercial. HA.

This did not put Apple on the defensive. Follow some of the links provided. View the Fox discussion. It becomes very pro-Apple.

Some observations.

Microsoft is trying to sell cheap PCs. Except that they don't make PCs, they sell software that is much more expensive than Apple software. If you want cheap, I guess Microsoft is advocating buying a machine running Linux.

Observation that she's supposedly so cheap she has to buy a Windows PC, yet she can afford a VW. Should be a KIA.

This did not put Apple on the defensive. Follow some of the links provided. View the Fox discussion. It becomes very pro-Apple.

Some observations.

Microsoft is trying to sell cheap PCs. Except that they don't make PCs, they sell software that is much more expensive than Apple software. If you want cheap, I guess Microsoft is advocating buying a machine running Linux.

Observation that she's supposedly so cheap she has to buy a Windows PC, yet she can afford a VW. Should be a KIA.

Dell Netbook Display Better Than MacBook Pro

http://blog.wired.com/gadgets/2009/01/dell-netbook-di.html

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-9320-9876

Dell Netbook Display Better Than MacBook Pro

http://blog.wired.com/gadgets/2009/01/dell-netbook-di.html

http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-9320-9876

One more comment-

I have to laugh when I read these disingenuous article titles: "How Microsoft Put Apple on The Defensive." That immediately turns the article into a parody of journalism, and I totally skipped it because of this.

But I'll bite. I see ZERO proof of this anywhere. The only defensive posture I see is by Microsoft. $300 million bucks worth of defensive posture, in fact. And the following is where you see it in ALL of their recent Crispin-puked ads:

The first rule of advertising: When you are number 1, NEVER MENTION your closest competitor. All you're doing is giving them free advertising. Plus, the line that "I'm not cool enough for a Mac" just gave Apple another few million in sales by actually making them LOOK cool in the eyes of the drooling, brand-brainwashed public. Good job, MS!

A total failure. But hey… MS has the money to blow, I guess.

I can't wait to see Apple's ad response to this one. Every response thus far has been simple, succinct, and shuts their message down in one 30 second Chiat/Day masterpiece.

One more comment-

I have to laugh when I read these disingenuous article titles: "How Microsoft Put Apple on The Defensive." That immediately turns the article into a parody of journalism, and I totally skipped it because of this.

But I'll bite. I see ZERO proof of this anywhere. The only defensive posture I see is by Microsoft. $300 million bucks worth of defensive posture, in fact. And the following is where you see it in ALL of their recent Crispin-puked ads:

The first rule of advertising: When you are number 1, NEVER MENTION your closest competitor. All you're doing is giving them free advertising. Plus, the line that "I'm not cool enough for a Mac" just gave Apple another few million in sales by actually making them LOOK cool in the eyes of the drooling, brand-brainwashed public. Good job, MS!

A total failure. But hey… MS has the money to blow, I guess.

I can't wait to see Apple's ad response to this one. Every response thus far has been simple, succinct, and shuts their message down in one 30 second Chiat/Day masterpiece.

I am a power user and my company bought me a 3300 dollars top of the line Dell laptop two years ago. It weights 9.2 pounds (still got bruises from my last trip to Germany) and the battery used to last just over 1 hr when new. Now it lasts 30 minutes! The reason they payed so much was that I needed 4Gigs of Ram for some specialized engineering app. After they bought it they found out that the Windows XP OS can not allocate more than 2Gigs to a single app, LOL! So I have 4Gigs but I have never been able to use them. Last week I ran out of HD because it only has 60Gigs and of course it does not have bluetooth. Also the antivirus scan is always on around 10AM in the morning. This computer has saved my company tons of money, NOT!

http://www.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/precn_m90

Posted By Javier, Ohio : March 28, 2009 4:40 pm

You're probably not a power user because you are using a 3 year old computer? You need a Mac because you didn't know how to:

*upgrade your battery

*upgrade your hard drive

*install a bluetooth card

much less

*change the virus scan schedule on your virus program???

*or have someone in IT do those easy fixes for you?

And you're supposedly using an engineering application?

GMAFB

I am a power user and my company bought me a 3300 dollars top of the line Dell laptop two years ago. It weights 9.2 pounds (still got bruises from my last trip to Germany) and the battery used to last just over 1 hr when new. Now it lasts 30 minutes! The reason they payed so much was that I needed 4Gigs of Ram for some specialized engineering app. After they bought it they found out that the Windows XP OS can not allocate more than 2Gigs to a single app, LOL! So I have 4Gigs but I have never been able to use them. Last week I ran out of HD because it only has 60Gigs and of course it does not have bluetooth. Also the antivirus scan is always on around 10AM in the morning. This computer has saved my company tons of money, NOT!

http://www.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/precn_m90

Posted By Javier, Ohio : March 28, 2009 4:40 pm

You're probably not a power user because you are using a 3 year old computer? You need a Mac because you didn't know how to:

*upgrade your battery

*upgrade your hard drive

*install a bluetooth card

much less

*change the virus scan schedule on your virus program???

*or have someone in IT do those easy fixes for you?

And you're supposedly using an engineering application?

GMAFB

Not sure why any Apple users would be offended – it's basically saying MS/Windows Pc's are only worth buying if it's $699. That MS PC's have only one criteria – it's under $700 … of course, any PC maker selling a machine for more than $700 might be a little upset with MS. It also reflects that for PC buyers, you definitely want to buy a Mac but you can't afford to when your computer needs and budget are only $700.

Not sure why any Apple users would be offended – it's basically saying MS/Windows Pc's are only worth buying if it's $699. That MS PC's have only one criteria – it's under $700 … of course, any PC maker selling a machine for more than $700 might be a little upset with MS. It also reflects that for PC buyers, you definitely want to buy a Mac but you can't afford to when your computer needs and budget are only $700.

The HP laptop she bought has a 2 and a half hour battery, compared to the 8 hour battery in the MacBook Pro. I mean, COME ON.

The HP laptop also weighs 8 pounds, compared to the 6 pound MacBook Pro. This girl is going to get a serious work out with this thing, if it doesn't run out of power first.

Anyway, the specs on that thing are just terrible and the fact that it runs Vista doesn't say much about her choice. I doubt she's really using this piece of crap, but if she is, it would be interesting to see how long if takes before she chucks it out a window, no pun intended.

The HP laptop she bought has a 2 and a half hour battery, compared to the 8 hour battery in the MacBook Pro. I mean, COME ON.

The HP laptop also weighs 8 pounds, compared to the 6 pound MacBook Pro. This girl is going to get a serious work out with this thing, if it doesn't run out of power first.

Anyway, the specs on that thing are just terrible and the fact that it runs Vista doesn't say much about her choice. I doubt she's really using this piece of crap, but if she is, it would be interesting to see how long if takes before she chucks it out a window, no pun intended.

I was actually in this position in October. I had $1000 to spend on a laptop. I checked around and went with the prior version Macbook Pro. I have Parallels running two operating systems – Linux and occasionally Windows XP (only if I'm desparate) and the native OSX.

The fact that most, if not everything has moved to the cloud has made buying a PC for a suite of software almost non-essential.

I chose the Mac because of its versatility. The ability to program for the iPhone, run 3 OS'es at the same time if needed and incredible speeds at startup and shut down made me spend an additional $300 (after rebates) of my own personal money and 1,000 of my company's for this device over a 600-800 dollar Windows machine.

The fact that I live in Seattle should tell you something. The Macbook Pro is worth the money!

Rick

I was actually in this position in October. I had $1000 to spend on a laptop. I checked around and went with the prior version Macbook Pro. I have Parallels running two operating systems – Linux and occasionally Windows XP (only if I'm desparate) and the native OSX.

The fact that most, if not everything has moved to the cloud has made buying a PC for a suite of software almost non-essential.

I chose the Mac because of its versatility. The ability to program for the iPhone, run 3 OS'es at the same time if needed and incredible speeds at startup and shut down made me spend an additional $300 (after rebates) of my own personal money and 1,000 of my company's for this device over a 600-800 dollar Windows machine.

The fact that I live in Seattle should tell you something. The Macbook Pro is worth the money!

Rick

My 2 year old Macbook pro will run rings around ANY windows laptop. What I paid was worth it, and I have NEVER had a virus (unless you count those running on Windows in my virtual machine, which ALSO runs on my Mac. I have two Windows Laptops that now NEVER need to be turned on: Yes, Apple cured the blue screen of death!

My 2 year old Macbook pro will run rings around ANY windows laptop. What I paid was worth it, and I have NEVER had a virus (unless you count those running on Windows in my virtual machine, which ALSO runs on my Mac. I have two Windows Laptops that now NEVER need to be turned on: Yes, Apple cured the blue screen of death!

Yeah… a "normal" girl named Lauren, who just happens to be a member of the Screen Actors Guild.

I'm glad they put this ad out. It didn't put Apple owners on the offensive. On the contrary, it showed the contempt Microsoft has for its customers by making them look like penny-pinching cheapskates. Apple couldn't ask for better free advertising. That $300 million that MS spent on Crispin was a colossal waste of money. EVERY ad has been a total failure.

A world without walls, indeed. What is the use for Windows then?

Yeah… a "normal" girl named Lauren, who just happens to be a member of the Screen Actors Guild.

I'm glad they put this ad out. It didn't put Apple owners on the offensive. On the contrary, it showed the contempt Microsoft has for its customers by making them look like penny-pinching cheapskates. Apple couldn't ask for better free advertising. That $300 million that MS spent on Crispin was a colossal waste of money. EVERY ad has been a total failure.

A world without walls, indeed. What is the use for Windows then?

Oops… should have removed that "Read More" since I already posted this to Facebook, and just pasted it here…

Oops… should have removed that "Read More" since I already posted this to Facebook, and just pasted it here…

You don't need a commercial to tell me Apple users are pompous dicks, they do a great job of that on their own.

You don't need a commercial to tell me Apple users are pompous dicks, they do a great job of that on their own.

I got the same laptop brand new for 375 (After a sale and Microsoft Cash back . To the guy who wrote that "it is everything people hate about PCs", and to all the people who are writing "you get what you pay for" all i have to say is L4D, CSS, BF2, COD4, WOW, TF2, HL, HF2, SC, SC:BW, GTA3, and FC2 all on medium to high settings with out breaking the bank,

I got the same laptop brand new for 375 (After a sale and Microsoft Cash back . To the guy who wrote that "it is everything people hate about PCs", and to all the people who are writing "you get what you pay for" all i have to say is L4D, CSS, BF2, COD4, WOW, TF2, HL, HF2, SC, SC:BW, GTA3, and FC2 all on medium to high settings with out breaking the bank,

Did she really choose Microsoft? No, actually she choose the cheapest computer that had the screen size she wanted. The company put that Windows on the computer.

She went to Apple first, then to the PC's that just happened to have Microsoft. Even Microsoft admits they are second to Apple.

The question for Lauren is- If you had a choice of the same computer, would you want Vista or OSX!

Lauren went to Apple first- I guess that seals her choice.

Did she really choose Microsoft? No, actually she choose the cheapest computer that had the screen size she wanted. The company put that Windows on the computer.

She went to Apple first, then to the PC's that just happened to have Microsoft. Even Microsoft admits they are second to Apple.

The question for Lauren is- If you had a choice of the same computer, would you want Vista or OSX!

Lauren went to Apple first- I guess that seals her choice.

No Mac user I know is squirming from this ad – squealing with laughter is more like it! A misleading ad that states the only real benefit that a PC has over a Mac is the initial cost – it's funny 'cause it's true! The "sweet lemons" and "sour grapes" fallacy that I hear from PC users is wearing thin, and the cognoscenti must continue to stay patient with them in the educational process. Accurate information may seem to make some smug, but it doesn't make them wrong.

No Mac user I know is squirming from this ad – squealing with laughter is more like it! A misleading ad that states the only real benefit that a PC has over a Mac is the initial cost – it's funny 'cause it's true! The "sweet lemons" and "sour grapes" fallacy that I hear from PC users is wearing thin, and the cognoscenti must continue to stay patient with them in the educational process. Accurate information may seem to make some smug, but it doesn't make them wrong.

I think Microsoft hit the mark, it shows the difference, and how people view computers.

1. Lauren drives a VW- not the cheapest car. VW is known to be the German and gives it the hip euro feel. Many cheaper cars out there with lower stickers, more options, and better reliability. She decided she was hip enough for the car-damn those options. Would she be jumping for joy to have a purchased a KIA?

2. When it comes to computers, they pick the cheapest one possible, not build, software, or even the fact that mac runs Windows- so all programs runs on it. Nope, just the cheapest thing and damn the problems. This is why people buy computers out of the lack of information and knowledge- because it is cheap.

3. The market share thing, why do people choose the company that sells the least? Say Sony for example. Why would someone by Sony and not HP or Dell. Much bigger share and therefore better. Yet, they do. Why not purchase a mass market car and not the Lexus, BMW, or for the sporty sort-Lotus. Hey, smaller market shares than the others. Yet, for some strange reason they do and for various reasons. Well, the market share thing is played out for those that fail to see that everyone does not want what joe or lauren has.

4. Apple rates at the best in reliability quite often. Yet, the reliability folks quickly ditch that when it comes to a computer. They have different standards and it is not based on knowledge, rather on the marketing.

5. Oh, why is Microsoft at less than 90 percent when it had 98 plus market share? Could it be that people are no longer getting the vision of MS. Mac once had only 2 percent or less. Apple is growing so fast that MS is targeting little Apple as the big bad monster. Hey, if it works.

6. Ex windows user to the year 2003, never again until MS can offer the ease of use, reliability, innovation, and the service or support that Apple has brought to the table. Never has a tenth of the problems with 6 Mac machines as I had with any one of my PC's.

7. Think you Microsoft for stating the known, cheap people choose cheap products. Microsoft builds nothing but software, and Lauren did not choose Microsoft- she choose the cheapest company out there. They loaded it Microsoft and if it had be loaded with Mac then she would have gotten OSX.

8. Microsoft keep it up, we know your not cool, just loaded as any virus would be. You are losing market share quickly-better copy Apple fast. But not the TV ads, you failed as normal- really bad copy of those funny Mac ads.

9. Microsoft, Please turn of your copier, it is not working well and should be serviced!

I think Microsoft hit the mark, it shows the difference, and how people view computers.

1. Lauren drives a VW- not the cheapest car. VW is known to be the German and gives it the hip euro feel. Many cheaper cars out there with lower stickers, more options, and better reliability. She decided she was hip enough for the car-damn those options. Would she be jumping for joy to have a purchased a KIA?

2. When it comes to computers, they pick the cheapest one possible, not build, software, or even the fact that mac runs Windows- so all programs runs on it. Nope, just the cheapest thing and damn the problems. This is why people buy computers out of the lack of information and knowledge- because it is cheap.

3. The market share thing, why do people choose the company that sells the least? Say Sony for example. Why would someone by Sony and not HP or Dell. Much bigger share and therefore better. Yet, they do. Why not purchase a mass market car and not the Lexus, BMW, or for the sporty sort-Lotus. Hey, smaller market shares than the others. Yet, for some strange reason they do and for various reasons. Well, the market share thing is played out for those that fail to see that everyone does not want what joe or lauren has.

4. Apple rates at the best in reliability quite often. Yet, the reliability folks quickly ditch that when it comes to a computer. They have different standards and it is not based on knowledge, rather on the marketing.

5. Oh, why is Microsoft at less than 90 percent when it had 98 plus market share? Could it be that people are no longer getting the vision of MS. Mac once had only 2 percent or less. Apple is growing so fast that MS is targeting little Apple as the big bad monster. Hey, if it works.

6. Ex windows user to the year 2003, never again until MS can offer the ease of use, reliability, innovation, and the service or support that Apple has brought to the table. Never has a tenth of the problems with 6 Mac machines as I had with any one of my PC's.

7. Think you Microsoft for stating the known, cheap people choose cheap products. Microsoft builds nothing but software, and Lauren did not choose Microsoft- she choose the cheapest company out there. They loaded it Microsoft and if it had be loaded with Mac then she would have gotten OSX.

8. Microsoft keep it up, we know your not cool, just loaded as any virus would be. You are losing market share quickly-better copy Apple fast. But not the TV ads, you failed as normal- really bad copy of those funny Mac ads.

9. Microsoft, Please turn of your copier, it is not working well and should be serviced!

Macs are for ninnies. The Ipod rocks as does the iPhone, but the Mac – it is specially built for gifted imbeciles.

Macs are for ninnies. The Ipod rocks as does the iPhone, but the Mac – it is specially built for gifted imbeciles.

BS article . . . surely this author can find something more factual and relevant to write about . . .

Never even seen the MSFT commercial. MSFT is only a background player now . . . having little frontline relevance to 21st C. technology . . .

BS article . . . surely this author can find something more factual and relevant to write about . . .

Never even seen the MSFT commercial. MSFT is only a background player now . . . having little frontline relevance to 21st C. technology . . .

Nice! This just wamrs my heart to see mac people squirm. I loathe the smug attitude that most mac users have. I have been using PC's for work now for 10 years. They have their ups and downs but they are by and large a pretty solid.

Nice! This just wamrs my heart to see mac people squirm. I loathe the smug attitude that most mac users have. I have been using PC's for work now for 10 years. They have their ups and downs but they are by and large a pretty solid.

I'm a programmer who works on both Windows and Macs so I have an HP laptop, a MacBook and an Intel iMac (dual booted to run Vista). Sorry PC users but except for the time spent compiling, my Windows laptop and iMac boot gather dust. In fact, I don't even hook up the PCs to the internet any more because of all the virus protection you need to have any premise of safety.

I'm a programmer who works on both Windows and Macs so I have an HP laptop, a MacBook and an Intel iMac (dual booted to run Vista). Sorry PC users but except for the time spent compiling, my Windows laptop and iMac boot gather dust. In fact, I don't even hook up the PCs to the internet any more because of all the virus protection you need to have any premise of safety.

Lauren says she wants something with 'Speed'. Well, what speed? Tortoises have speed, but just not as much speed as Tigers or leopards! My peddle bike has speed but not as much a Porche! Speed means nothing if it's not defined! If speed was a true issue for her, spending $699 did not get her the best option! I think Price was her main issue (as briefed by the PC people and just remember what they say about price…YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!

Lauren says she wants something with 'Speed'. Well, what speed? Tortoises have speed, but just not as much speed as Tigers or leopards! My peddle bike has speed but not as much a Porche! Speed means nothing if it's not defined! If speed was a true issue for her, spending $699 did not get her the best option! I think Price was her main issue (as briefed by the PC people and just remember what they say about price…YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!

Hmmmm, a little dishonesty here??? She claims she needs a 17 inch laptop but the box says 'notebook' and the price was $699. A check of HP's site shows the 17" Pavilion at $799.99 and has 2 GB ram. The 16" version has 2 GB and is $649.99 and HP's recommended configuration is $798.99. A simple fact check shows Microsoft is stretching the truth and investigative reporters are not doing their investigations.

Hmmm, shades of Jim Cramer and John Stewart.

Hmmmm, a little dishonesty here??? She claims she needs a 17 inch laptop but the box says 'notebook' and the price was $699. A check of HP's site shows the 17" Pavilion at $799.99 and has 2 GB ram. The 16" version has 2 GB and is $649.99 and HP's recommended configuration is $798.99. A simple fact check shows Microsoft is stretching the truth and investigative reporters are not doing their investigations.

Hmmm, shades of Jim Cramer and John Stewart.

Amen!!!

I am soooo sick of the "Holy than Though" Apple sect. Dig in Microsoft and hit them hard. It should have NEVER taken you this long to get them good.

Michael

Amen!!!

I am soooo sick of the "Holy than Though" Apple sect. Dig in Microsoft and hit them hard. It should have NEVER taken you this long to get them good.

Michael

@Kyle: some folks buy Mac's because of the operating system. I couldn't care less about what hardware I'm running OS X on, so I have a core solo mac mini. I will admit that HP has some fine servers. If I ever decide to get a Windows computer, the DL380 G5 is quite a fine machine.

@Kyle: some folks buy Mac's because of the operating system. I couldn't care less about what hardware I'm running OS X on, so I have a core solo mac mini. I will admit that HP has some fine servers. If I ever decide to get a Windows computer, the DL380 G5 is quite a fine machine.

Wow, looking at the length of this string it's obvious Microsoft has their guerilla marketing team PC fanboys hard at work.

Wow, looking at the length of this string it's obvious Microsoft has their guerilla marketing team PC fanboys hard at work.

When yoou take out the screwdriver set and have to change a disk drive on a laptop or reconnect a power jack that has been broken you begin to appreciate real value. I use a ubuntu clone but When some thing goes wrong give me a Mac. Saying that I just bought a Samsung net book.

When yoou take out the screwdriver set and have to change a disk drive on a laptop or reconnect a power jack that has been broken you begin to appreciate real value. I use a ubuntu clone but When some thing goes wrong give me a Mac. Saying that I just bought a Samsung net book.

Over the past 12 years I've owned two PC's. My PCs have NEVER had a virus (I have anti-virus software, and exercise common sense). Right now I'm working on a Dell Dimension 4550 that I bought new in 2003 for under $1,000. That included all the hardware and software I needed (Pentium-4 2.53 GHz processor, 500 MB memory, 100 GB hard disk, 2 DVD drives, MS Office, anti-virus, etc.), all fully installed, plug and play. I play movies and music, surf the net, use email, write fiction, edit and share photos from my digital camera, all quickly and conveniently. I've NEVER had to reinstall an operating system, NEVER needed new drivers, and never had any of the other PC nightmares Mac users claim we PC users are subjected to. When I acquire new PC software (which is cheap, often even free), it takes a few minutes to install, and works fine. I have test-driven a Mac, and found it clumsy, slow, and limited. I love my PC.

Over the past 12 years I've owned two PC's. My PCs have NEVER had a virus (I have anti-virus software, and exercise common sense). Right now I'm working on a Dell Dimension 4550 that I bought new in 2003 for under $1,000. That included all the hardware and software I needed (Pentium-4 2.53 GHz processor, 500 MB memory, 100 GB hard disk, 2 DVD drives, MS Office, anti-virus, etc.), all fully installed, plug and play. I play movies and music, surf the net, use email, write fiction, edit and share photos from my digital camera, all quickly and conveniently. I've NEVER had to reinstall an operating system, NEVER needed new drivers, and never had any of the other PC nightmares Mac users claim we PC users are subjected to. When I acquire new PC software (which is cheap, often even free), it takes a few minutes to install, and works fine. I have test-driven a Mac, and found it clumsy, slow, and limited. I love my PC.

I recently worked with some of the ad people from Crispin Porter on a photo shoot – location, and job will remain anonymous. Let me tell you, all of them, and I mean all of them had Macs. Not your little 13" MacBooks. No, all of these guys had the big, heavy, high-gloss 17" screen versions.

I laugh! That's all.

oh btw, I'm typing this on a 17" MacBookPro connected to a 30" Cinema Display.

Sincerely,

Pompous Jerk

I recently worked with some of the ad people from Crispin Porter on a photo shoot – location, and job will remain anonymous. Let me tell you, all of them, and I mean all of them had Macs. Not your little 13" MacBooks. No, all of these guys had the big, heavy, high-gloss 17" screen versions.

I laugh! That's all.

oh btw, I'm typing this on a 17" MacBookPro connected to a 30" Cinema Display.

Sincerely,

Pompous Jerk

AUSTRALIANS KNOW WHATS BEST, AND THE BEST IS APPLE. If you want the most unreliable computer on the market get a PC. I have WINDOWS 7 running on my mac and its quicker than running it on my supercharged PC.

AUSTRALIANS KNOW WHATS BEST, AND THE BEST IS APPLE. If you want the most unreliable computer on the market get a PC. I have WINDOWS 7 running on my mac and its quicker than running it on my supercharged PC.

Well, you get what you pay for, and sometimes get stuck with what you can afford. I am tired of my kids always complaining about our pc's freezing and a list of other problems. One day soon I wil be buying mac's. I am more than willing to pay the price when I feel I am getting my value.

I can also get a dish towel at the dollar store, but because it is cheaper does it make the towel just as good as the one from JC Penny. Not…..

BMW does not lower their prices just so everyone can afford them do they? So why should apple.

I want a BMW but I am stuck with a Chrysler. Working on increasing my income for that BMW though. With that said, you buy what you can afford. A BMW is not for everyone and neither is a mac.

Well, you get what you pay for, and sometimes get stuck with what you can afford. I am tired of my kids always complaining about our pc's freezing and a list of other problems. One day soon I wil be buying mac's. I am more than willing to pay the price when I feel I am getting my value.

I can also get a dish towel at the dollar store, but because it is cheaper does it make the towel just as good as the one from JC Penny. Not…..

BMW does not lower their prices just so everyone can afford them do they? So why should apple.

I want a BMW but I am stuck with a Chrysler. Working on increasing my income for that BMW though. With that said, you buy what you can afford. A BMW is not for everyone and neither is a mac.

-Running Windows XP

-No anti-virus software used ever

-Use Mozilla FireFox

-Use Webmail only for emailing

-Do not download and execute any unknown files.

Simple rules to follow. Cheaper price.

Mac has always been known as the "Artist computer".

Remember when the apple logo sticker was rainbow colors? And all the gays would put the sticker on their cars.

-Running Windows XP

-No anti-virus software used ever

-Use Mozilla FireFox

-Use Webmail only for emailing

-Do not download and execute any unknown files.

Simple rules to follow. Cheaper price.

Mac has always been known as the "Artist computer".

Remember when the apple logo sticker was rainbow colors? And all the gays would put the sticker on their cars.

Best value, no argument – Ubuntu on a great PC with a hot CPU. My best machines have been HP for the past four years.

Ubuntu, Ubuntu, Ubuntu!

BTW, what's a Mac? Aren't they some old machine from the Eighties?

Best value, no argument – Ubuntu on a great PC with a hot CPU. My best machines have been HP for the past four years.

Ubuntu, Ubuntu, Ubuntu!

BTW, what's a Mac? Aren't they some old machine from the Eighties?

Yea, all that smugness really drives the price of Macs up! I’m just not cool enough to be a Mac person

Yea, all that smugness really drives the price of Macs up! I’m just not cool enough to be a Mac person

funny. pc vs. mac; funny both pc, since running on intel cpu, so funny.

there is no difference in hardware, just a software, still fighting.

there is two ways to sell stuff:

1 to sell cheap and 2 to sell high.

You mac croud taken for a ride by marketing people at Apple. No viruses on mac and linux, because people, who write a virus, want hit masses and windows use billions. It is not KIA vs BMW. It is KIA vs KIA with BMW logo.

funny. pc vs. mac; funny both pc, since running on intel cpu, so funny.

there is no difference in hardware, just a software, still fighting.

there is two ways to sell stuff:

1 to sell cheap and 2 to sell high.

You mac croud taken for a ride by marketing people at Apple. No viruses on mac and linux, because people, who write a virus, want hit masses and windows use billions. It is not KIA vs BMW. It is KIA vs KIA with BMW logo.

From a company's point of view, there are good financial reasons for standardizing on one type of computer. Years ago when the Apple/Microsoft thing was still fairly new, we asked employees what kind of computer they'd prefer using. Most of the scientists and engineers preferred Apple while almost everybody else didn't. So we held a meeting thinking that if we laid out the pros and cons, a decision could be made on merit. Were we wrong. Although we found we could get agreement on technical issues, the main argument people used for going to Microsoft was "Apple products look funny." As a result the company never standardized and wound up with a large and expensive bureaucracy devoted to the purchase and repair of two types of personal computers.

From a company's point of view, there are good financial reasons for standardizing on one type of computer. Years ago when the Apple/Microsoft thing was still fairly new, we asked employees what kind of computer they'd prefer using. Most of the scientists and engineers preferred Apple while almost everybody else didn't. So we held a meeting thinking that if we laid out the pros and cons, a decision could be made on merit. Were we wrong. Although we found we could get agreement on technical issues, the main argument people used for going to Microsoft was "Apple products look funny." As a result the company never standardized and wound up with a large and expensive bureaucracy devoted to the purchase and repair of two types of personal computers.

Not a valid comparison.

It creates false categories, and then attempts misdirection.

One: Windows is not a computer. It is a glitchy operating system, with market share dominance due, not to superiority but, to marketing vagaries from 18 years ago.

Beta was a better format, but VHS caught on with consumers, for no good reason.

Same deal.

If you compare the hardware of typical machine that runs Windows, to the hardware of a Mac, there is no real comparison.

The majority of Windows machines, on the inside, look like one of those 39 dollar DVD players. Bent tin for adjustment settings, and little plastic bits where brass would best be used.

Do they work? Mostly.

But, this commercial is about Microsoft going down the tubes, and attempting to cash in on a weak economy; it is not about the superiority of Apple products.

If you cant afford a Mac, sure, use a machine with Windows loaded.

But, we would suggest saving for a real machine, not a Ford Pinto.

Not a valid comparison.

It creates false categories, and then attempts misdirection.

One: Windows is not a computer. It is a glitchy operating system, with market share dominance due, not to superiority but, to marketing vagaries from 18 years ago.

Beta was a better format, but VHS caught on with consumers, for no good reason.

Same deal.

If you compare the hardware of typical machine that runs Windows, to the hardware of a Mac, there is no real comparison.

The majority of Windows machines, on the inside, look like one of those 39 dollar DVD players. Bent tin for adjustment settings, and little plastic bits where brass would best be used.

Do they work? Mostly.

But, this commercial is about Microsoft going down the tubes, and attempting to cash in on a weak economy; it is not about the superiority of Apple products.

If you cant afford a Mac, sure, use a machine with Windows loaded.

But, we would suggest saving for a real machine, not a Ford Pinto.

Wow! What a heated discusion!

Seriously, I’m sure that both, MAC and PC do their job well for different users. However, since the world is driven by economy and PC is soo bad, why is that there is only 10% of MAC-s out there vs. 90% of PC?

Wow! What a heated discusion!

Seriously, I’m sure that both, MAC and PC do their job well for different users. However, since the world is driven by economy and PC is soo bad, why is that there is only 10% of MAC-s out there vs. 90% of PC?

I'd like to know whether all these folks who are so convinced that Lauren will spend hours removing virus, lose all her work, and throw the computer from the top of a building have ever even used Vista or XP. I have never lost any work, never been infected with a virus (yes, I would know if I were), and I can change hardware settings down to the tiniest detail. My room mate tried installing a USB/Midi cable on his Mac a few days ago and it DID TAKE HOURS. In fact, there was actually nothing he could do because he couldn't get into the hardware settings (just try this on a mac, any mac, and you will see what I mean), and it just magically started working without him ever knowing what caused this. On my PC, the same cable worked within a few seconds. You say Macs are for people who want a BMW instead of a Ford. I say people want Macs because they don't ever want to know how their computer works, they want it to be a black box that just does things. Just go to HP or Dell and price a dual quad-core Xeon-based machine and compare it with the same quality Mac. You will be surprised to find that the price (BASE PRICE) of the Mac will be somewhere between $7000 and $10,000 and the PC will come in around $3000-$4000. Oh, also, the PC would run ANY Mac OS better than the Mac would. This whole debate is completely off base in any case. Macs cost more because people will pay it, not because they are better or made of gold. Apple could easily lower its prices to PC-levels and still make a profit.

I'd like to know whether all these folks who are so convinced that Lauren will spend hours removing virus, lose all her work, and throw the computer from the top of a building have ever even used Vista or XP. I have never lost any work, never been infected with a virus (yes, I would know if I were), and I can change hardware settings down to the tiniest detail. My room mate tried installing a USB/Midi cable on his Mac a few days ago and it DID TAKE HOURS. In fact, there was actually nothing he could do because he couldn't get into the hardware settings (just try this on a mac, any mac, and you will see what I mean), and it just magically started working without him ever knowing what caused this. On my PC, the same cable worked within a few seconds. You say Macs are for people who want a BMW instead of a Ford. I say people want Macs because they don't ever want to know how their computer works, they want it to be a black box that just does things. Just go to HP or Dell and price a dual quad-core Xeon-based machine and compare it with the same quality Mac. You will be surprised to find that the price (BASE PRICE) of the Mac will be somewhere between $7000 and $10,000 and the PC will come in around $3000-$4000. Oh, also, the PC would run ANY Mac OS better than the Mac would. This whole debate is completely off base in any case. Macs cost more because people will pay it, not because they are better or made of gold. Apple could easily lower its prices to PC-levels and still make a profit.

I am a power user and my company bought me a 3300 dollars top of the line Dell laptop two years ago. It weights 9.2 pounds (still got bruises from my last trip to Germany) and the battery used to last just over 1 hr when new. Now it lasts 30 minutes! The reason they payed so much was that I needed 4Gigs of Ram for some specialized engineering app. After they bought it they found out that the Windows XP OS can not allocate more than 2Gigs to a single app, LOL! So I have 4Gigs but I have never been able to use them. Last week I ran out of HD because it only has 60Gigs and of course it does not have bluetooth. Also the antivirus scan is always on around 10AM in the morning. This computer has saved my company tons of money, NOT!

http://www.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/precn_m90

I am a power user and my company bought me a 3300 dollars top of the line Dell laptop two years ago. It weights 9.2 pounds (still got bruises from my last trip to Germany) and the battery used to last just over 1 hr when new. Now it lasts 30 minutes! The reason they payed so much was that I needed 4Gigs of Ram for some specialized engineering app. After they bought it they found out that the Windows XP OS can not allocate more than 2Gigs to a single app, LOL! So I have 4Gigs but I have never been able to use them. Last week I ran out of HD because it only has 60Gigs and of course it does not have bluetooth. Also the antivirus scan is always on around 10AM in the morning. This computer has saved my company tons of money, NOT!

http://www.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/precn_m90

It isn't how much you pay that matters most, but what the return on your investment is… The whole premise of this advertisement is faulty because of that. I'm a software developer and have used Windows, Linux, and Mac OS's. I think you get more bang for your buck with a Mac than with Windows (by that measure you get the most bang for your buck with Linux). For ease-of-use you get the most value from a Mac (I know a Microsoft usability engineer that agrees with me). And those people that say they have been using Windows for x number of years with never an issue are on crack. A computer is a complex machine that intimidates the average person and Windows doesn't magically make that better. Sometimes Windows makes it worse… I've seen issues with Windows that make dealing with Linux technicalities look like a walk in the park.

It isn't how much you pay that matters most, but what the return on your investment is… The whole premise of this advertisement is faulty because of that. I'm a software developer and have used Windows, Linux, and Mac OS's. I think you get more bang for your buck with a Mac than with Windows (by that measure you get the most bang for your buck with Linux). For ease-of-use you get the most value from a Mac (I know a Microsoft usability engineer that agrees with me). And those people that say they have been using Windows for x number of years with never an issue are on crack. A computer is a complex machine that intimidates the average person and Windows doesn't magically make that better. Sometimes Windows makes it worse… I've seen issues with Windows that make dealing with Linux technicalities look like a walk in the park.

I am a retired Graphic Designer and have used both, Windows and Macs. I truly can't tell any difference between the two. I now have two Windows Vista computers in my home and I am extremely happy with both. Yes, there is a bit of a learning curve but once acclimated they're a pleasure to use. Sorry Mac, After starting out with a Commodore Computer and using almost everything offered in an average studio, I'd rather use the companies money on new furniture than waste it on the Mac name.

I am a retired Graphic Designer and have used both, Windows and Macs. I truly can't tell any difference between the two. I now have two Windows Vista computers in my home and I am extremely happy with both. Yes, there is a bit of a learning curve but once acclimated they're a pleasure to use. Sorry Mac, After starting out with a Commodore Computer and using almost everything offered in an average studio, I'd rather use the companies money on new furniture than waste it on the Mac name.

Excepting the high-end graphics workstation market, Apple has a problem in the form of the netbook. The netbook platform is cheap, the form factor is light, and the efficiency with the Atom processor and SSD is very good running off basic XP. Finally, the cost is very low compared to any Apple. If the economy continues to tank, people having trouble paying the mortgage much less the food bill will not likely help Apple expand market share or profit by purchasing any netbook – something that apparently can do the same thing at 1/4 to 1/12 the cost of a Mac. An easily replenished low cost computer also lets the consumer upgrade more frequently – something Macs have never been good with because the user has to wait for the next R&D upgrade, and of course, the big price tag that comes with the upgrade.

Excepting the high-end graphics workstation market, Apple has a problem in the form of the netbook. The netbook platform is cheap, the form factor is light, and the efficiency with the Atom processor and SSD is very good running off basic XP. Finally, the cost is very low compared to any Apple. If the economy continues to tank, people having trouble paying the mortgage much less the food bill will not likely help Apple expand market share or profit by purchasing any netbook – something that apparently can do the same thing at 1/4 to 1/12 the cost of a Mac. An easily replenished low cost computer also lets the consumer upgrade more frequently – something Macs have never been good with because the user has to wait for the next R&D upgrade, and of course, the big price tag that comes with the upgrade.

The "Diamond Dave" era of Van Halen is far superior to the "Van Hagar" era.

so NYAH!

The "Diamond Dave" era of Van Halen is far superior to the "Van Hagar" era.

so NYAH!

Hi guys! I'd like to add my comment too! I don't know much about laptop computers but I'm going to get either a Dell or something similiar to that one. I will also be getting a broadband card so I can get the wireless signal anywhere! That's what I care about. I'm not going to sit in a coffee shop to use their wi-fi signal… yuck! I'm also going to write a screenplay so I'll be using software for that. I think if you take care of the laptop it will work fine… right? Yeah!

Hi guys! I'd like to add my comment too! I don't know much about laptop computers but I'm going to get either a Dell or something similiar to that one. I will also be getting a broadband card so I can get the wireless signal anywhere! That's what I care about. I'm not going to sit in a coffee shop to use their wi-fi signal… yuck! I'm also going to write a screenplay so I'll be using software for that. I think if you take care of the laptop it will work fine… right? Yeah!

I am making living using my Mac, and I am wasting my time playing on my PC. And if I can have that game for a Mac, I will probably use Mac. I do play WoW on my Mac and it's much smoother and faster. Also you can install Windows on Mac using boot camp that come with latest OSX. So for a price you pay you can have both systems. As always, you get what you pay for. If you looking to buy computer to surf the net, you probably don't even need one. You can use your phone, iPod, and probably refrigerator very soon (last one was a joke). I am not even going to talk about customer service. Knowledge of the people who works for Apple customer service is way superior than people who works for Dell, HP, etc.. And they do speak English.

I am making living using my Mac, and I am wasting my time playing on my PC. And if I can have that game for a Mac, I will probably use Mac. I do play WoW on my Mac and it's much smoother and faster. Also you can install Windows on Mac using boot camp that come with latest OSX. So for a price you pay you can have both systems. As always, you get what you pay for. If you looking to buy computer to surf the net, you probably don't even need one. You can use your phone, iPod, and probably refrigerator very soon (last one was a joke). I am not even going to talk about customer service. Knowledge of the people who works for Apple customer service is way superior than people who works for Dell, HP, etc.. And they do speak English.

I have a computer that was built for me in 2003 and runs Microsoft XP Professional. It has never crashed. It has never frozen. It does everything I need it to do and I'm sure it could do much more. It cost me $800 in 2003 and it still runs beautifully. Unless you have very specific computing needs that only a Mac can fulfill I just don't understand the point of shelling out that much money.

I have a computer that was built for me in 2003 and runs Microsoft XP Professional. It has never crashed. It has never frozen. It does everything I need it to do and I'm sure it could do much more. It cost me $800 in 2003 and it still runs beautifully. Unless you have very specific computing needs that only a Mac can fulfill I just don't understand the point of shelling out that much money.

eric it appears your not bright enough to install windows on your mac. you should give your mac to someone who is. stick with your dell POS

eric it appears your not bright enough to install windows on your mac. you should give your mac to someone who is. stick with your dell POS

I think this is a great add for Microsoft. I am sure they will be successful with it. I do not agree with the premise of only looking at price but that is where we are today with the economy where it is.

The real question is: Does Lauren have an iPod and if so which one…….

I think this is a great add for Microsoft. I am sure they will be successful with it. I do not agree with the premise of only looking at price but that is where we are today with the economy where it is.

The real question is: Does Lauren have an iPod and if so which one…….

Generally speaking, Macs are better computers, have a better OS, and are easier to use. There is a premium for that. Case closed.

The ad is a good one though. Finally, the PC world has something to cheer about.

Generally speaking, Macs are better computers, have a better OS, and are easier to use. There is a premium for that. Case closed.

The ad is a good one though. Finally, the PC world has something to cheer about.

I sell both PCs and MACs. I find when a customer gets a good demo of OSX and the iLife apps people open thier wallets and say sign me up this is cool. In the same place where u could buy a 699 17" hp. The customers go into it with eyes wide open. I've sold to people who said "macs are too expensive or I don't like macs" then they get a demo and it all changes.

Apples are not perfect u could get a bad one and if u are unwilling to learn u will have poor experance but since apple has the highest user rating u r more likely going to love a mac.

Who sends money better a person who couldn't care less about thier windows box or a person who loves thier MAC?

I sell both PCs and MACs. I find when a customer gets a good demo of OSX and the iLife apps people open thier wallets and say sign me up this is cool. In the same place where u could buy a 699 17" hp. The customers go into it with eyes wide open. I've sold to people who said "macs are too expensive or I don't like macs" then they get a demo and it all changes.

Apples are not perfect u could get a bad one and if u are unwilling to learn u will have poor experance but since apple has the highest user rating u r more likely going to love a mac.

Who sends money better a person who couldn't care less about thier windows box or a person who loves thier MAC?

This has always been a topic that I don't see the point in being on either side of the fence. I have a macbook pro and I have a 3.2Ghz 8GBram 1.5TB PC with a 30" display. They both serve me very well. But alas I know how to use computers.

The Apple Mac vs. PC ads were actually funny. That is why they were so popular, not because they brought some new hidden knowledge to us.

Here is the crux of the situation. Almost everyone commenting on the PC side is an avid advanced user. The people the ads are targeted at are not. I know that my PC smokes my macbook, but I also know how to fix it when it doesn't. These ads are trying to convince people who don't know about computers what to choose, not skilled pros. In that regard I consistently recommend macs to just about anyone who feels that they are not informed enough to make the decision on their own.

Why? because they don't call me to fix their 'new' computer 2 weeks after they buy it! I occasionally recommend PC's to people that I think can handle the extra maintenance.

The point about comparing Kia's to BMW's is very relevant. I admit that at least (and I stress at least) 50% of the reason I chose my macbook pro for my mobile solution was because its so god damn sexy! Apple has one of the best design teams in the world in terms of elegance usability.

Thanks for your time in reading this. Fanboys/girls from both camps need to just relax. You're like the person who spends $30,000 on a car and then keeps the dealership's license plate frame thus advertising for them at your expense.

This has always been a topic that I don't see the point in being on either side of the fence. I have a macbook pro and I have a 3.2Ghz 8GBram 1.5TB PC with a 30" display. They both serve me very well. But alas I know how to use computers.

The Apple Mac vs. PC ads were actually funny. That is why they were so popular, not because they brought some new hidden knowledge to us.

Here is the crux of the situation. Almost everyone commenting on the PC side is an avid advanced user. The people the ads are targeted at are not. I know that my PC smokes my macbook, but I also know how to fix it when it doesn't. These ads are trying to convince people who don't know about computers what to choose, not skilled pros. In that regard I consistently recommend macs to just about anyone who feels that they are not informed enough to make the decision on their own.

Why? because they don't call me to fix their 'new' computer 2 weeks after they buy it! I occasionally recommend PC's to people that I think can handle the extra maintenance.

The point about comparing Kia's to BMW's is very relevant. I admit that at least (and I stress at least) 50% of the reason I chose my macbook pro for my mobile solution was because its so god damn sexy! Apple has one of the best design teams in the world in terms of elegance usability.

Thanks for your time in reading this. Fanboys/girls from both camps need to just relax. You're like the person who spends $30,000 on a car and then keeps the dealership's license plate frame thus advertising for them at your expense.

I have a macbook. It's pretty nice…dual core and all. I also have a dell laptop that's 3+ years old, cost 1/2 of what the macbook did, has only a single core and is running Vista. The macbook is collecting dust. I like to get things done. Sorry Mac lovers, you need windows for that.

I have a macbook. It's pretty nice…dual core and all. I also have a dell laptop that's 3+ years old, cost 1/2 of what the macbook did, has only a single core and is running Vista. The macbook is collecting dust. I like to get things done. Sorry Mac lovers, you need windows for that.

Agreed, you can not compare a luxury brand car to an economy brand. Apple computers have high resale value just as a luxury car, factor that in cost of ownership.

I had a Dell laptop, nothing fancy, with all the "free" antivirus/spy/adware as well. Guess what? It brought my already slow computer to a screeching halt.

As for the Linux users, anyone who can build their own system will usually beat both crowds, but not everyone wants to invest the time to learn and research all that.

And don't make fun of Mac users if all you can do is be a name caller, grow up. Oh calling me a "pompous fanboi" really hurts my feelings… oh I see what you did, you put the "i" instead of "y" in "fanboy", how original…

Agreed, you can not compare a luxury brand car to an economy brand. Apple computers have high resale value just as a luxury car, factor that in cost of ownership.

I had a Dell laptop, nothing fancy, with all the "free" antivirus/spy/adware as well. Guess what? It brought my already slow computer to a screeching halt.

As for the Linux users, anyone who can build their own system will usually beat both crowds, but not everyone wants to invest the time to learn and research all that.

And don't make fun of Mac users if all you can do is be a name caller, grow up. Oh calling me a "pompous fanboi" really hurts my feelings… oh I see what you did, you put the "i" instead of "y" in "fanboy", how original…

Godi Gutierrez: Macs and PCs are in fact directly comparable. Under the hood, they are the same components capable of doing the same kind of computing. The only real difference is style and marketing.

Godi Gutierrez: Macs and PCs are in fact directly comparable. Under the hood, they are the same components capable of doing the same kind of computing. The only real difference is style and marketing.

As someone who's been using Linux and Windows since Windows was launched by typing "win" at a DOS prompt, I can tell you that OS X Leopard is far ahead of anything that's come out of the Gates of Gates for the past many years. Where's the built-in PDF viewing in XP? Where's the journalling filesystem in XP? Where's the performance in Vista while doing graphically heavy tasks, like Photoshop or processor heavy tasks like iMovie or Garageband– Oh wait, Windows doesn't *HAVE* anything like iMovie or GarageBand. My bad. Guess I'm just too interested in being able to actually *USE* my computer to be a Windows user.

As someone who's been using Linux and Windows since Windows was launched by typing "win" at a DOS prompt, I can tell you that OS X Leopard is far ahead of anything that's come out of the Gates of Gates for the past many years. Where's the built-in PDF viewing in XP? Where's the journalling filesystem in XP? Where's the performance in Vista while doing graphically heavy tasks, like Photoshop or processor heavy tasks like iMovie or Garageband– Oh wait, Windows doesn't *HAVE* anything like iMovie or GarageBand. My bad. Guess I'm just too interested in being able to actually *USE* my computer to be a Windows user.

Oh, boring. The PC / Mac debate. I bought the first personal computer in a major business I think back in the mid '80's. It was a Mac, because Mac had graphics capabilities that PC did not. That changed rapidly, and the business world went with PC's. Macko's kept claiming they were ahead of PC's, and the graphics people kept crying for them. So sad.

Mac's are cute toys. But I have 8 PC's in my house, all running Vista. I do not spend hours on tech support. You load them and they run. Some of the machines are a half decade old. Some a couple years old. They all run just fine at far less than the cost of Macs. Not to mention my kids learn to use the machines they will use at work when they grow up.

Sorry Mac fans, but with you it's all about looking kuell. Actually, you just look ignorant. But that glowy apple on the notebook covers looks so neato on TV.

Oh, boring. The PC / Mac debate. I bought the first personal computer in a major business I think back in the mid '80's. It was a Mac, because Mac had graphics capabilities that PC did not. That changed rapidly, and the business world went with PC's. Macko's kept claiming they were ahead of PC's, and the graphics people kept crying for them. So sad.

Mac's are cute toys. But I have 8 PC's in my house, all running Vista. I do not spend hours on tech support. You load them and they run. Some of the machines are a half decade old. Some a couple years old. They all run just fine at far less than the cost of Macs. Not to mention my kids learn to use the machines they will use at work when they grow up.

Sorry Mac fans, but with you it's all about looking kuell. Actually, you just look ignorant. But that glowy apple on the notebook covers looks so neato on TV.

I work in an office that is multi-platform; we have IBM ThinkPads, MacBook Pros, MacBooks for laptops. We have MacMinis, and HPs for desktops. After two years of experience with both, I can tell you with the utmost confidence, that in a business setting, PCs are way more cost-efficient. We just had to shell out over $2000 to replace a MacBook Pro, and it wasn't the first one to die on us (after the warranty expired, of course). We have yet to replace any of the ThinkPads, which have the same amount of power and are half the price. To be fair, we have had to remove malware from two of the ThinkPads, but that was due to end-users who failed to follow basic protocols. Additionally, we're not running Vista, which definitely shipped before it was ready for prime time. Mac users – back up your claims with evidence. I can honestly say that most of the people buying Macs are doing so because it's a shortcut to actual thinking.

I work in an office that is multi-platform; we have IBM ThinkPads, MacBook Pros, MacBooks for laptops. We have MacMinis, and HPs for desktops. After two years of experience with both, I can tell you with the utmost confidence, that in a business setting, PCs are way more cost-efficient. We just had to shell out over $2000 to replace a MacBook Pro, and it wasn't the first one to die on us (after the warranty expired, of course). We have yet to replace any of the ThinkPads, which have the same amount of power and are half the price. To be fair, we have had to remove malware from two of the ThinkPads, but that was due to end-users who failed to follow basic protocols. Additionally, we're not running Vista, which definitely shipped before it was ready for prime time. Mac users – back up your claims with evidence. I can honestly say that most of the people buying Macs are doing so because it's a shortcut to actual thinking.

Mac's are obnoxiously over-priced. However, $700 bones for a 17" PC laptop is just about as silly. They should have put Little Red Riding Hood's budget at $1300 and every intention of their add would have been dead on topic.

Mac's are obnoxiously over-priced. However, $700 bones for a 17" PC laptop is just about as silly. They should have put Little Red Riding Hood's budget at $1300 and every intention of their add would have been dead on topic.

The only reason Macs don't need virus a lot of virus protection is that there are so few Mac users the hackers know it's a waste of time to infect them.

As for the comments about the lack of dependability and longevity of PCs; I've owned PCs for more than 20 years and have never had a problem with one failing. My Toshiba Qozmio is more than 4 years old and still running at top speed ~ and, with a 12 cell battery, I get more than 7 hours battery life. I'm glad I'm not "cool" enough to have been stupid enough to fork over big bucks for a piece of recycled junk nobody wants…

The only reason Macs don't need virus a lot of virus protection is that there are so few Mac users the hackers know it's a waste of time to infect them.

As for the comments about the lack of dependability and longevity of PCs; I've owned PCs for more than 20 years and have never had a problem with one failing. My Toshiba Qozmio is more than 4 years old and still running at top speed ~ and, with a 12 cell battery, I get more than 7 hours battery life. I'm glad I'm not "cool" enough to have been stupid enough to fork over big bucks for a piece of recycled junk nobody wants…

I AGREE WE NEED A MAC FOR GAMERS

I AGREE WE NEED A MAC FOR GAMERS

I am an absolute apple nerd and I will take it to my grave. But let's face it, Microsoft is slow, a huge crappy copy of Mac OS 10 Juguar and freezes and crashes all the time.

And Apple is great, but it's just a fancy Linux, It runs well, but the machines aren't worth the smoke and water it takes to make those keynote. Bottom line,

Go Ubuntu!

I am an absolute apple nerd and I will take it to my grave. But let's face it, Microsoft is slow, a huge crappy copy of Mac OS 10 Juguar and freezes and crashes all the time.

And Apple is great, but it's just a fancy Linux, It runs well, but the machines aren't worth the smoke and water it takes to make those keynote. Bottom line,

Go Ubuntu!

I use both windows and mac. My desktop is a Sony Vaio that I use as a DVR and I play a few games with it. I have a Macbook Air, which I use for everything else. Vista is terrible, but everyone already knows this. My Sony uses XP MCE. However, the Xbox 360 is awesome. Microsoft makes the 360. Microsoft does not make computers. I think if they did make computers, they would not be in this mess.

Bottom line: Apple makes a better product than most other computer companies. I think Sony makes awesome computers, but they are also expensive. I think their netbook is starting around $900 (possibly more). I have never been a fan of HP. Their computers are ugly. Dell seems to have fallen behind the times. If I was forced to buy a new laptop that runs windows, I would buy a Sony, which costs comparable to Apple. Let's not forget you can buy an Apple desktop for $600. I bought a Mac Mini when it first came out, and I loved it. If Apple ever makes a product that I can use as a DVR, I will buy it and be rid of my Sony. I know you can buy third party stuff, but it won't be the same. My Sony Vaio was one of the best purchases I made. Also, owning a mac isn't cool. Either you are cool, or you are not cool. If you think owning a mac makes you cool, you are more of a crowd pleasing moron.

I use both windows and mac. My desktop is a Sony Vaio that I use as a DVR and I play a few games with it. I have a Macbook Air, which I use for everything else. Vista is terrible, but everyone already knows this. My Sony uses XP MCE. However, the Xbox 360 is awesome. Microsoft makes the 360. Microsoft does not make computers. I think if they did make computers, they would not be in this mess.

Bottom line: Apple makes a better product than most other computer companies. I think Sony makes awesome computers, but they are also expensive. I think their netbook is starting around $900 (possibly more). I have never been a fan of HP. Their computers are ugly. Dell seems to have fallen behind the times. If I was forced to buy a new laptop that runs windows, I would buy a Sony, which costs comparable to Apple. Let's not forget you can buy an Apple desktop for $600. I bought a Mac Mini when it first came out, and I loved it. If Apple ever makes a product that I can use as a DVR, I will buy it and be rid of my Sony. I know you can buy third party stuff, but it won't be the same. My Sony Vaio was one of the best purchases I made. Also, owning a mac isn't cool. Either you are cool, or you are not cool. If you think owning a mac makes you cool, you are more of a crowd pleasing moron.

I guess if your budget is tight, you can get a decent Windows machine for less. I have worked on both platforms, but find that my time is too valuable to deal with Windows viruses, corrupt registries or missing DLL files. Most people don't even know what these are, let alone how to fix them.

My gaming PC, set me back quite a bit, but for actual work, I make more money using a Mac. I don't really care for the platform wars. As a consumer, I just buy the tool that will help me be the most productive. Price has nothing to do with it. If you want to be successful, you buy the best, and unfortunately, you have to deal with the fact that that equates with more expensive. Plus, you can't beat iMovie or iPhoto for ease of use, and my iPod seems quite happy with iTunes.

I guess if your budget is tight, you can get a decent Windows machine for less. I have worked on both platforms, but find that my time is too valuable to deal with Windows viruses, corrupt registries or missing DLL files. Most people don't even know what these are, let alone how to fix them.

My gaming PC, set me back quite a bit, but for actual work, I make more money using a Mac. I don't really care for the platform wars. As a consumer, I just buy the tool that will help me be the most productive. Price has nothing to do with it. If you want to be successful, you buy the best, and unfortunately, you have to deal with the fact that that equates with more expensive. Plus, you can't beat iMovie or iPhoto for ease of use, and my iPod seems quite happy with iTunes.

"life without walls" is homelessness.

"life without walls" is homelessness.

Without question the largest defense of Apple advocates is its "lack of viruses and crapware." Hmm, my Ubuntu has neither, runs like lightning, and is completely configurable to my tastes. A beautiful OS – for FREE and on a PC!!!

Without question the largest defense of Apple advocates is its "lack of viruses and crapware." Hmm, my Ubuntu has neither, runs like lightning, and is completely configurable to my tastes. A beautiful OS – for FREE and on a PC!!!

Apple needs to produce a Mac for gamers. My Mac can do everything my PC can do faster and more reliably. Only problem is, even with dual boot, Macs just aren't designed for gaming.

Apple needs to produce a Mac for gamers. My Mac can do everything my PC can do faster and more reliably. Only problem is, even with dual boot, Macs just aren't designed for gaming.

The problem with Macs is, and I say this currently using a MacBook Pro, they ARE overpriced. The markup that Apple puts on their current line of products is unbelievably high, and understandably so. If they feel they have you over a barrel, they will keep you there. There is no competition in the Mac market and therefore Apple can choose to charge whatever you want because you can't run OSX on anything else. That said, Apple uses cheap hardware. The Wireless cards they put in their laptop lines is inferior quality, as is their RAM. They are counting on you to get hooked on OSX so they can sell you their cheap pre-loaded machines as the only legal way to get their software.

The problem with Macs is, and I say this currently using a MacBook Pro, they ARE overpriced. The markup that Apple puts on their current line of products is unbelievably high, and understandably so. If they feel they have you over a barrel, they will keep you there. There is no competition in the Mac market and therefore Apple can choose to charge whatever you want because you can't run OSX on anything else. That said, Apple uses cheap hardware. The Wireless cards they put in their laptop lines is inferior quality, as is their RAM. They are counting on you to get hooked on OSX so they can sell you their cheap pre-loaded machines as the only legal way to get their software.

Oh, and for all of you who discuss viruses, if Apple ever captures a respectable market share then they will be targeted by viruses just as much as Windows currently is.

Oh, and for all of you who discuss viruses, if Apple ever captures a respectable market share then they will be targeted by viruses just as much as Windows currently is.

You're right. You can't compare Apple and Windows….Windows has the 90% market share and the ability to upgrade without overpaying for hardware.

I use MAC for work and PC at home. The amount of over-hype in regards to Apple is ridiculous.

None of your overpriced white boxes will ever outperform a quad-core AMP or Intel machine.

You're right. You can't compare Apple and Windows….Windows has the 90% market share and the ability to upgrade without overpaying for hardware.

I use MAC for work and PC at home. The amount of over-hype in regards to Apple is ridiculous.

None of your overpriced white boxes will ever outperform a quad-core AMP or Intel machine.

I am a graphic designer and love Mac – but I have owned both (PC and Mac) and they both have their advantages and disadvantages. We won't solve who's better because it depends on what you use to measure it with: budget, speed, user-friendlieness, etc. I will say, however, that I am disappointed that Mac has taken such offense to the ad and acted a bit like tattling toddlers because Microsoft used an actress and inadvertently called Mac users "jerks". I thought Apple had more confidence in themselves since they've been pioneering new technologies (or at least how to mass produce and distribute something through marketing). Hey, Mac, just call it like it is: A good shot on Microsoft's part.

I am a graphic designer and love Mac – but I have owned both (PC and Mac) and they both have their advantages and disadvantages. We won't solve who's better because it depends on what you use to measure it with: budget, speed, user-friendlieness, etc. I will say, however, that I am disappointed that Mac has taken such offense to the ad and acted a bit like tattling toddlers because Microsoft used an actress and inadvertently called Mac users "jerks". I thought Apple had more confidence in themselves since they've been pioneering new technologies (or at least how to mass produce and distribute something through marketing). Hey, Mac, just call it like it is: A good shot on Microsoft's part.

What makes an Apple user cool is they think before they buy!

Not to totally slam Windoze users, as it is very confusing with all the misinformation out there about the differences, but Macs are more stable, reliable and fun to use. They come with stuff you need and not junk trialware. They look and work better. Windoze had a much better marketing campaign to begin with, if Apple had had the better marketing, we'd all be using them and windoz would be history.

Written by someone who has used both systems for over 15 years!

What makes an Apple user cool is they think before they buy!

Not to totally slam Windoze users, as it is very confusing with all the misinformation out there about the differences, but Macs are more stable, reliable and fun to use. They come with stuff you need and not junk trialware. They look and work better. Windoze had a much better marketing campaign to begin with, if Apple had had the better marketing, we'd all be using them and windoz would be history.

Written by someone who has used both systems for over 15 years!

I have noticed that, when frustrated, an "Apple User" loses the ability to process spelling, grammar, and math.

The 17-inch Laptop Cost $699. Let's just call it $700. According to many posts, Anti-virus and other software on the PC side is supposed to cost $2100 (to meet the cost of the $2799 MacBook Pro).

Now, I have been using PC's for over 20 years, and been repairing Mac's for over 4, and I have yet to see what Windows software any of you are referring to that costs $2100 and MUST BE INSTALLED before you can use your computer.

Odd realization: Maybe after paying so much for your computer, you are used to paying extorting rates for software that shouldn't be that expensive.

Maybe you just don't think that you should have to "get to know" your OS. Supporting a MAC USER is by and far the MOST FRUSTRATING THING YOU CAN DO.

Real talks with the common Apple user always contain:

"Please click on the Apple in the upper left corner of your screen"

To which the reply is:

"What Apple?"

I have noticed that, when frustrated, an "Apple User" loses the ability to process spelling, grammar, and math.

The 17-inch Laptop Cost $699. Let's just call it $700. According to many posts, Anti-virus and other software on the PC side is supposed to cost $2100 (to meet the cost of the $2799 MacBook Pro).

Now, I have been using PC's for over 20 years, and been repairing Mac's for over 4, and I have yet to see what Windows software any of you are referring to that costs $2100 and MUST BE INSTALLED before you can use your computer.

Odd realization: Maybe after paying so much for your computer, you are used to paying extorting rates for software that shouldn't be that expensive.

Maybe you just don't think that you should have to "get to know" your OS. Supporting a MAC USER is by and far the MOST FRUSTRATING THING YOU CAN DO.

Real talks with the common Apple user always contain:

"Please click on the Apple in the upper left corner of your screen"

To which the reply is:

"What Apple?"

I have used both macs and pcs in the past and i have to say that ive never found anything on a mac that the pc cant do just as well at. it really just seems like the mac is a computer with training wheels, you really cant hurt yourself with one, but nor can you do anything really fun with one either

I have used both macs and pcs in the past and i have to say that ive never found anything on a mac that the pc cant do just as well at. it really just seems like the mac is a computer with training wheels, you really cant hurt yourself with one, but nor can you do anything really fun with one either

it's 1984 again, only in reverse.

how ironic.

it's 1984 again, only in reverse.

how ironic.

Lauren, is not that you are not cool enough to be a Mac person, you just don't have the funds for the model you want. If you were given 20k to buy a car, I doubt the people from BMW or MB will be surprised that you did not end with one of their cars. Not that I am comparing Apple to BMW or MB. Just that they do not make cars under 20K, the same way that Apple does not make 17 inch computers under 1k. Those are facts. Where is the surprise there?

This ad does absolutely nothing for me.

Lauren, is not that you are not cool enough to be a Mac person, you just don't have the funds for the model you want. If you were given 20k to buy a car, I doubt the people from BMW or MB will be surprised that you did not end with one of their cars. Not that I am comparing Apple to BMW or MB. Just that they do not make cars under 20K, the same way that Apple does not make 17 inch computers under 1k. Those are facts. Where is the surprise there?

This ad does absolutely nothing for me.

Where does Per get those figures? How can a Mac have twice the life span? It uses the same Intel architecture. What about the cost and availability of software compared to PC?

Where does Per get those figures? How can a Mac have twice the life span? It uses the same Intel architecture. What about the cost and availability of software compared to PC?

Don't know what people have against HP Pavillion's. I'm on my fourth in about eight years (two for me, two for my daughter). I'm a chemical engineer and use my own laptop at work, rather than live with all the IT restraints. I've probably run more spreadsheets than 99.8% of Office users, lots of Word and Access stuff, make DV movies of my daughter and SCUBA dives, and run lots and lots of minor apps. I could never find or afford the stuff I need with an Apple. I admire Jobs, and I admire Gates. But are great, but while Gates will be remembered as starting an industry that lets everyone have a computer and do virtually anything they want with it, ultimately Jobs will just be remembered as making a Rolex computer that belongs in the Museum of Modern Art. Rolex's are pretty, but my Casio has been with me all the way aroung the Pacific basin.

Don't know what people have against HP Pavillion's. I'm on my fourth in about eight years (two for me, two for my daughter). I'm a chemical engineer and use my own laptop at work, rather than live with all the IT restraints. I've probably run more spreadsheets than 99.8% of Office users, lots of Word and Access stuff, make DV movies of my daughter and SCUBA dives, and run lots and lots of minor apps. I could never find or afford the stuff I need with an Apple. I admire Jobs, and I admire Gates. But are great, but while Gates will be remembered as starting an industry that lets everyone have a computer and do virtually anything they want with it, ultimately Jobs will just be remembered as making a Rolex computer that belongs in the Museum of Modern Art. Rolex's are pretty, but my Casio has been with me all the way aroung the Pacific basin.

My niece wanted her mom to get her a MacBook for Christmas. After shopping the prices (and freaking out), she got a Sony laptop. I installed AVG anti-virus for free and she is totally happy and gets her work done at school. She may not be as "cool", but her mom can still afford to send her to school.

My niece wanted her mom to get her a MacBook for Christmas. After shopping the prices (and freaking out), she got a Sony laptop. I installed AVG anti-virus for free and she is totally happy and gets her work done at school. She may not be as "cool", but her mom can still afford to send her to school.

It's a good ad and it hits the nail on the head. The responses of mac owners in this thread alone depict why we have a bad rep. Add to the fact that it IS true Apple only sells one computer +/-1,000 $'s and it has a crappy 13" screen. You're also left with their singluar designs and approach, which many people like, but many people don't. That IS the strength of the PC, esp. when combined with cost, software availability and compatibility. Face it fellow MAC users, its a good and and it hurts because its true.

It's a good ad and it hits the nail on the head. The responses of mac owners in this thread alone depict why we have a bad rep. Add to the fact that it IS true Apple only sells one computer +/-1,000 $'s and it has a crappy 13" screen. You're also left with their singluar designs and approach, which many people like, but many people don't. That IS the strength of the PC, esp. when combined with cost, software availability and compatibility. Face it fellow MAC users, its a good and and it hurts because its true.

Godi, your post is refreshing to see.

I once complained to a bicycle racer that I had a crummy bike. He said its the motor, not the machine. In other words, how we use our brain is more important than which computer we use.

Godi, your post is refreshing to see.

I once complained to a bicycle racer that I had a crummy bike. He said its the motor, not the machine. In other words, how we use our brain is more important than which computer we use.

If people really understand the difference between PRICE and VALUE, it's Mac all the way. Game over.

If people really understand the difference between PRICE and VALUE, it's Mac all the way. Game over.

Apples ARE way too expensive for people with limited economy. And it seems to me that at this time it will be impossible for a lot of people to buy a mac.

Apples ARE way too expensive for people with limited economy. And it seems to me that at this time it will be impossible for a lot of people to buy a mac.

Why are people still comparing MACs and PCs — have you seen any article comparing KIAs to BMWs? No, because, they are not comparable. So, please people, no more of these MACs VS PCs debate. If you are a PC person and are satisfied with your PC, then, good for you; and if you are a MAC person and are happy with your MAC, then, continue to enjoy you blessed life.

Why are people still comparing MACs and PCs — have you seen any article comparing KIAs to BMWs? No, because, they are not comparable. So, please people, no more of these MACs VS PCs debate. If you are a PC person and are satisfied with your PC, then, good for you; and if you are a MAC person and are happy with your MAC, then, continue to enjoy you blessed life.

I've tried a Mac, and took it back. It simply wasn't worth the price. Yes, OSX is better than Vista, but honestly, the actual hardware inside a Mac can be found in any mid-range PC. You're paying 2-3 TIMES more for a Mac for simple design aesthetics and the operating system, and it's simply not worth it. Apple doesn't seem to sweat the fact they could sell to many more people though, so, more power to them – we have plenty of other choices out there for those of us not willing to mortgage the home for a home computer.

I've tried a Mac, and took it back. It simply wasn't worth the price. Yes, OSX is better than Vista, but honestly, the actual hardware inside a Mac can be found in any mid-range PC. You're paying 2-3 TIMES more for a Mac for simple design aesthetics and the operating system, and it's simply not worth it. Apple doesn't seem to sweat the fact they could sell to many more people though, so, more power to them – we have plenty of other choices out there for those of us not willing to mortgage the home for a home computer.

Also i would just like to add that you people make me sick and need to find something better to argue over. Go outside and play with a basketball… Your laptop is not your world, and if it is I truely pitty you.

Also i would just like to add that you people make me sick and need to find something better to argue over. Go outside and play with a basketball… Your laptop is not your world, and if it is I truely pitty you.

Yes, Apples are cools machines but so are Lexus'. I drive an old Subaru because i can't afford a Lexus-even a stripped down version. There's nothing wrong with getting what you can afford as long as you're willing to do the homework to know what your'e getting. Windows needs security, that is true. But i also happen to know that if you're a PC user moving to Mac-the learning curve can be a bit extreme. In all cases, let the buyer beware.

Yes, Apples are cools machines but so are Lexus'. I drive an old Subaru because i can't afford a Lexus-even a stripped down version. There's nothing wrong with getting what you can afford as long as you're willing to do the homework to know what your'e getting. Windows needs security, that is true. But i also happen to know that if you're a PC user moving to Mac-the learning curve can be a bit extreme. In all cases, let the buyer beware.

CORRECTION

The individual who offered "Lauren" the 17" Mac was offering a PowerBook, not MacBook Pro.

That's a several year old PowerBook G4.

Which will still kick HP's butt, even on a bad day.

ex ped: Thanks for the correction. It's fixed now.

CORRECTION

The individual who offered "Lauren" the 17" Mac was offering a PowerBook, not MacBook Pro.

That's a several year old PowerBook G4.

Which will still kick HP's butt, even on a bad day.

ex ped: Thanks for the correction. It's fixed now.

Apple's PC's don't "just work"… or so my spinning beachball of slow death tells me every few days when I am surfing with Safari.

It's somewhat ironic that "Lauren" is encouraged to rely on the kindness of strangers and accept charity and cast offs from richer Macintosh owners to get a an old, slow 17-inch screen PC as if this is somehow a good thing. People should not have to rely on charity and subsidies to get a PC, but this is apparently what Apple Fanatics think is acceptable.

Apple's PC's don't "just work"… or so my spinning beachball of slow death tells me every few days when I am surfing with Safari.

It's somewhat ironic that "Lauren" is encouraged to rely on the kindness of strangers and accept charity and cast offs from richer Macintosh owners to get a an old, slow 17-inch screen PC as if this is somehow a good thing. People should not have to rely on charity and subsidies to get a PC, but this is apparently what Apple Fanatics think is acceptable.

APPLE USERS ARE POMPUS JERKS….SO SORRY I'M NOT COOL ENOUGH TO BE AN APPLE USER

APPLE USERS ARE POMPUS JERKS….SO SORRY I'M NOT COOL ENOUGH TO BE AN APPLE USER

Study after study has shown that the total cost of ownership for Macs is lower than for PCs. Consumer Reports agrees. People are less productive on PCs because it takes them so much longer to install software, remove viruses, and figure out where things are and what they are.

Study after study has shown that the total cost of ownership for Macs is lower than for PCs. Consumer Reports agrees. People are less productive on PCs because it takes them so much longer to install software, remove viruses, and figure out where things are and what they are.

All you mac lovers. Boy are you brain washed. I've owned both PCs and MACs. Really people that buy MACs are just not as smart and thus pay more for less. They need everything made simple and want to live under the myth that they'll be safe without security software. But I have this question to ask what makes you think you're so safe when you don't have Security software how will you ever know if you got a virus? Nothings there it notify you of it if you did get one.

All you mac lovers. Boy are you brain washed. I've owned both PCs and MACs. Really people that buy MACs are just not as smart and thus pay more for less. They need everything made simple and want to live under the myth that they'll be safe without security software. But I have this question to ask what makes you think you're so safe when you don't have Security software how will you ever know if you got a virus? Nothings there it notify you of it if you did get one.

I love flame wars. *grabs bag of popcorn to watch the show* You guys are very entertaining. I've owned both PC's and Mac's, and I like them both for different reasons. At this moment I'm typing this message on my Macbook, but later I'll be playing games on my rocked out, custom built, uber PC. Sorry Mac guys, but PC's are by and large MUCH better gaming platforms, and much more customizable, and I say that after years of experience. As far as gaming goes, you CANNOT argue that a PC is a better machine. Its just a fact. So there's one point at least on the scoreboard for the PC. As far as price, yeah, you'll spend less for a PC, but it probably won't be as good overall as a Mac in the same price range. That said, I say let people buy what they want and quit hating on each other. They're both good, it just depends on who's using it and what they want.

I love flame wars. *grabs bag of popcorn to watch the show* You guys are very entertaining. I've owned both PC's and Mac's, and I like them both for different reasons. At this moment I'm typing this message on my Macbook, but later I'll be playing games on my rocked out, custom built, uber PC. Sorry Mac guys, but PC's are by and large MUCH better gaming platforms, and much more customizable, and I say that after years of experience. As far as gaming goes, you CANNOT argue that a PC is a better machine. Its just a fact. So there's one point at least on the scoreboard for the PC. As far as price, yeah, you'll spend less for a PC, but it probably won't be as good overall as a Mac in the same price range. That said, I say let people buy what they want and quit hating on each other. They're both good, it just depends on who's using it and what they want.

You will notice that the 17" PC she ended up with was an old model, perhaps equivalent to a 17" G4 which would have been about the same money. I don't see the point, of course older technology will be cheaper. And to add insult to injury, she has to run Windows.

You will notice that the 17" PC she ended up with was an old model, perhaps equivalent to a 17" G4 which would have been about the same money. I don't see the point, of course older technology will be cheaper. And to add insult to injury, she has to run Windows.

I completely agree those who are faithful apple users do come off as pompous and if not that at the very least elitist. Just read the comments. As for value based on cost of programs and antivirus software. Sure your computer has some freeware when it comes out of the box, that is if you bought a pre assembled computer. However it is easily removed and as for the cost of antivirus, spam, etc software i have a personal pc which i have been using for probably about 6 years and have found free antivirus software to work just fine. AVG, bit deffender, ad-aware, zone alarm, the list goes on of quality products which offer free versions to any user who is willing to download them. As for actual trouble with viruses it only takes half a wit to know that downloading music off limewire, or bearshare or clicking on any random link could possibly compramise your system. Dont let me even begin with the issue of compatability for apple products. In summation if you have even a smidgin of common sense when it comes to computers get a pc. Macs are great for photo editing and music editing and for people who are prone to compromising their own systems by following each and every pop up that has bright flashing lights and the promise of a free hdtv stick with your macs. Just try to tone it down on the were so cool cause i have another apple product.

I completely agree those who are faithful apple users do come off as pompous and if not that at the very least elitist. Just read the comments. As for value based on cost of programs and antivirus software. Sure your computer has some freeware when it comes out of the box, that is if you bought a pre assembled computer. However it is easily removed and as for the cost of antivirus, spam, etc software i have a personal pc which i have been using for probably about 6 years and have found free antivirus software to work just fine. AVG, bit deffender, ad-aware, zone alarm, the list goes on of quality products which offer free versions to any user who is willing to download them. As for actual trouble with viruses it only takes half a wit to know that downloading music off limewire, or bearshare or clicking on any random link could possibly compramise your system. Dont let me even begin with the issue of compatability for apple products. In summation if you have even a smidgin of common sense when it comes to computers get a pc. Macs are great for photo editing and music editing and for people who are prone to compromising their own systems by following each and every pop up that has bright flashing lights and the promise of a free hdtv stick with your macs. Just try to tone it down on the were so cool cause i have another apple product.

she's right–she isn't cool enough to be a mac person. she got just what she wanted today. tomorrow she/s going to want a mac.

she's right–she isn't cool enough to be a mac person. she got just what she wanted today. tomorrow she/s going to want a mac.

The comments here provided me great comic relief this morning. The fact is that HP has superior Hardware, Linux has the superioir OS. Mac fan bois are clueless about computing, so they don't understand reality, preferring to live in their little toy world.

Written using Firefox on Ubuntu Jaunty Jackalope running on a dual core Intel fired HP.

The comments here provided me great comic relief this morning. The fact is that HP has superior Hardware, Linux has the superioir OS. Mac fan bois are clueless about computing, so they don't understand reality, preferring to live in their little toy world.

Written using Firefox on Ubuntu Jaunty Jackalope running on a dual core Intel fired HP.

I have never been a fan of MACs. I just think they are too expensive and I didn't want to deal with compatibility issues.

I finally gave in this year, after owning 3 craptastic PCs. Which after I paid for software, virus scans, repairs and warranties…I paid more enough to buy a 17" MAC.

So far I have had 0 problems with my MAC. I can run several programs at once on the same RAM and not lose my speed.

I still like PCs. I know PCs in and out, and there things that don't work on my MAC. I just think Windows Vista is so TERRIBLE. I just couldn't bring myself to buy it.

I think MACs cost so much because they come with a whole bunch of software that I don't need and will never use.

I have never been a fan of MACs. I just think they are too expensive and I didn't want to deal with compatibility issues.

I finally gave in this year, after owning 3 craptastic PCs. Which after I paid for software, virus scans, repairs and warranties…I paid more enough to buy a 17" MAC.

So far I have had 0 problems with my MAC. I can run several programs at once on the same RAM and not lose my speed.

I still like PCs. I know PCs in and out, and there things that don't work on my MAC. I just think Windows Vista is so TERRIBLE. I just couldn't bring myself to buy it.

I think MACs cost so much because they come with a whole bunch of software that I don't need and will never use.

Nobody really thinks about the brand of computer they are using while they are using Google Applications, salesforce.com, or other applications on the cloud.

Five years from now, my computer will be paper thin, disposable, biodegradable and probably made in China.

Web applications make the product differentiation issues posted here not relevant. Computers are becoming a commodity. Applications will stop tethering to local hard drives in the not-so-far future. Apple and Microsoft will be offering Software As A Service on the web. Nobody will care what "computer" they are using when they access the web.

Nobody really thinks about the brand of computer they are using while they are using Google Applications, salesforce.com, or other applications on the cloud.

Five years from now, my computer will be paper thin, disposable, biodegradable and probably made in China.

Web applications make the product differentiation issues posted here not relevant. Computers are becoming a commodity. Applications will stop tethering to local hard drives in the not-so-far future. Apple and Microsoft will be offering Software As A Service on the web. Nobody will care what "computer" they are using when they access the web.

Blah, blah, blah. Apple is great but I believe they could make their current products at a lower price. As long as I can buy 3 PC's for the price of one MAC, I'm buying PC. My crappiest PC still lasted 3 years. Most Mac users trade up by then.

Blah, blah, blah. Apple is great but I believe they could make their current products at a lower price. As long as I can buy 3 PC's for the price of one MAC, I'm buying PC. My crappiest PC still lasted 3 years. Most Mac users trade up by then.

i dont know… i thought the seinfeld ads were more to the point

i dont know… i thought the seinfeld ads were more to the point

I had no idea Macs cost more. This ad will stun millions. Next you'll be telling me BMW's cost more than Fords.

I had no idea Macs cost more. This ad will stun millions. Next you'll be telling me BMW's cost more than Fords.

Everything MAC makes costs more then double what it should, and to be honest there is almost no difference in quality between programming, and most macs run programs to be as functional as a non mac. i-Greedy, the MAC story.

Everything MAC makes costs more then double what it should, and to be honest there is almost no difference in quality between programming, and most macs run programs to be as functional as a non mac. i-Greedy, the MAC story.

Gee, so not so TRUE but I'll elaborate:

I bought A 17inch Sony Vaio recently paid 749 dollars for it.

Here's what I got:

Took about 2 minutes to boot but it was it's first time, got it.

Took about 2 minutes while no longer it's first time, REPEATEDLY! I know some of you are saying it may have been because of the fluff ware. TRUE!

So, after following instructions from SONY tech support

It booted in about a minute than the REAL problems began, Not enough space here to elaborate but Sony tech support knows who I am.

After 3 weeks of this I said goodbye to Sony and VISCRAP!

Walked into a NON APPLE store and saw, played with the MAC's. Since I was a long Windows user, started @ 3.1 and still own an XP and have several monitors, keyboards mice I bought a Mac Mini. End of story, I didn't know they were so much fun to use!

Gee, so not so TRUE but I'll elaborate:

I bought A 17inch Sony Vaio recently paid 749 dollars for it.

Here's what I got:

Took about 2 minutes to boot but it was it's first time, got it.

Took about 2 minutes while no longer it's first time, REPEATEDLY! I know some of you are saying it may have been because of the fluff ware. TRUE!

So, after following instructions from SONY tech support

It booted in about a minute than the REAL problems began, Not enough space here to elaborate but Sony tech support knows who I am.

After 3 weeks of this I said goodbye to Sony and VISCRAP!

Walked into a NON APPLE store and saw, played with the MAC's. Since I was a long Windows user, started @ 3.1 and still own an XP and have several monitors, keyboards mice I bought a Mac Mini. End of story, I didn't know they were so much fun to use!

Micro attack scores 'win….' over Mac attack.

Micro attack scores 'win….' over Mac attack.

I own a Macbook and am quite satisfied with it for all the reasons previously mentioned. That said, I find Apple's I'm a PC/I'm a Mac commercials patronizing and somewhat offensive. It's counterproductive to portray potential customers, current PC users, as overweight propeller heads and Mac users as uber-cool hipsters. Mac produces a great product but their ad campaign sucks. Microsoft is merely taking advantage of that fact.

I own a Macbook and am quite satisfied with it for all the reasons previously mentioned. That said, I find Apple's I'm a PC/I'm a Mac commercials patronizing and somewhat offensive. It's counterproductive to portray potential customers, current PC users, as overweight propeller heads and Mac users as uber-cool hipsters. Mac produces a great product but their ad campaign sucks. Microsoft is merely taking advantage of that fact.

It is a good ad but but as a former PC user I gotta tell you, the Mac is a superior product. Try the 13 inch Macbook.

It is a good ad but but as a former PC user I gotta tell you, the Mac is a superior product. Try the 13 inch Macbook.

This ad portrays a typical ignorant attitude of an American consumer, what will I need to spend TODAY !!! Long term consequences are not even considered. Just like, what is my mortgage payment this month (I don't care that I cannot afford the house), what is my car payment this month (I don't care that I cannot afford the car), who needs savings.

Oh yeah this is the MSFT discussion not the economy, parallels are uncanny though.

This ad portrays a typical ignorant attitude of an American consumer, what will I need to spend TODAY !!! Long term consequences are not even considered. Just like, what is my mortgage payment this month (I don't care that I cannot afford the house), what is my car payment this month (I don't care that I cannot afford the car), who needs savings.

Oh yeah this is the MSFT discussion not the economy, parallels are uncanny though.

Apple could care less. Seriously.

Apple could care less. Seriously.

I have used windows for many years, it's a good os becuase of the wide support. Though it does have it's flaws.

I have a mac pc at work and it's very frustrating to work with, though I blame it on me being so familiar with windows.

The OS I am using now is Ubuntu and I feel that it should be the standard – though not in it's current state. I like it because it's free and it is a lot easier to use than a Mac OS. The only problem I have with it, is the few headaches that pop every now and then.

In terms of appearance, I prefer the Mac – but my frustrations are elevated when using it.

In terms of comment regarding the commercial, I do feel it is a blow to the Apple – which has been a long time coming. Who will win? I could care less, because I'm using Ubuntu.

I have used windows for many years, it's a good os becuase of the wide support. Though it does have it's flaws.

I have a mac pc at work and it's very frustrating to work with, though I blame it on me being so familiar with windows.

The OS I am using now is Ubuntu and I feel that it should be the standard – though not in it's current state. I like it because it's free and it is a lot easier to use than a Mac OS. The only problem I have with it, is the few headaches that pop every now and then.

In terms of appearance, I prefer the Mac – but my frustrations are elevated when using it.

In terms of comment regarding the commercial, I do feel it is a blow to the Apple – which has been a long time coming. Who will win? I could care less, because I'm using Ubuntu.

LOL. Since 1998's Apple & Microsoft Agreement all Microsoft run computers utilize Apple technology in the MS operating system. One of these key technologies is drag and drop. Stop using Apple technology Microsoft if its so bad.

Now add in all the costs for your time spent dealing with problems with Windows such as viruses, looking for drivers, crashes that result in you having to install the entire operating system, and so on. the cost of a PC far exceeds Apple – or what you don't value your time?

Lets see a MS PC run Windows and Apple. Even a 9 year old Mac I have here can run Windows XP home, Mac OS X, and Mac Classic at the same time, not to mention how great newer Intel Macs can do this (except Classic).

LOL. Since 1998's Apple & Microsoft Agreement all Microsoft run computers utilize Apple technology in the MS operating system. One of these key technologies is drag and drop. Stop using Apple technology Microsoft if its so bad.

Now add in all the costs for your time spent dealing with problems with Windows such as viruses, looking for drivers, crashes that result in you having to install the entire operating system, and so on. the cost of a PC far exceeds Apple – or what you don't value your time?

Lets see a MS PC run Windows and Apple. Even a 9 year old Mac I have here can run Windows XP home, Mac OS X, and Mac Classic at the same time, not to mention how great newer Intel Macs can do this (except Classic).

I just have to say that Macs are rediculous. They are not usuer friendly at all. I absolutely hated using them when I was in highschool. I would never so much as go near an Apple store. PC's all the way!

I just have to say that Macs are rediculous. They are not usuer friendly at all. I absolutely hated using them when I was in highschool. I would never so much as go near an Apple store. PC's all the way!

The problem is the branding and licensing cost, imagine being able to just buy the hardware you want without paying for MS or MAC advertising budget.Buy whatever you want and run ubuntu/linux OS … problem solved.. it was for me.

The problem is the branding and licensing cost, imagine being able to just buy the hardware you want without paying for MS or MAC advertising budget.Buy whatever you want and run ubuntu/linux OS … problem solved.. it was for me.

Advertising will not fix what is wrong with Microsoft. The company has problems that will take it years to overcome. The notion that its about "developers, developers, developers" is overly simplistic. Its not about "developers" its about smart developers who factor in the dynamics of human behavior. And as for the latest ad, I hope someone at Microsoft knows something about strategy. I could be wrong, Microsoft knows its customers, maybe they are only looking for a comfortable keyboard and a low price.

Advertising will not fix what is wrong with Microsoft. The company has problems that will take it years to overcome. The notion that its about "developers, developers, developers" is overly simplistic. Its not about "developers" its about smart developers who factor in the dynamics of human behavior. And as for the latest ad, I hope someone at Microsoft knows something about strategy. I could be wrong, Microsoft knows its customers, maybe they are only looking for a comfortable keyboard and a low price.

I agree. I am a Mac user and I also use Windows. I have a gaming pc that was custom built and an office pc that both run Windows 7 Beta. But I also have a Mac laptop and I love it. I agree with what Apple people say. The laptop she bought is junk. Are Mac laptops more expensive: Yes. But most pc laptops are cheap in price and parts.

Ah, it's good to see that the pc/mac battle will never die. What's interesting is the blue/state red state comparison. I'm a moderate. Is that why I use PCs and Macs?

I agree. I am a Mac user and I also use Windows. I have a gaming pc that was custom built and an office pc that both run Windows 7 Beta. But I also have a Mac laptop and I love it. I agree with what Apple people say. The laptop she bought is junk. Are Mac laptops more expensive: Yes. But most pc laptops are cheap in price and parts.

Ah, it's good to see that the pc/mac battle will never die. What's interesting is the blue/state red state comparison. I'm a moderate. Is that why I use PCs and Macs?

These ads are totally desperate. I know Amerikans are stoopid

nowadays post Bush, but c'mon: does even the dumbest person in the

D"U"MB-SA think there is no reason people are paying "hundreds" of

dollars more for Mac systems and that are no better? Seriously–these ads

are the equivalent of GM/Ford running ads which show dudes walking

into BMW and Mercedes dealers and implying that somehow their POShite

Detriot car is somehow equivalent to a German-made vehicle because they both have tires and use gas. Even a

complete MORON knows the difference (while still resenting the fact

that they can't afford the better car, but still…).

Microsoft is dead–these ads prove it. I thought the Seinfeld ads

were pathetic…wow.

These ads are totally desperate. I know Amerikans are stoopid

nowadays post Bush, but c'mon: does even the dumbest person in the

D"U"MB-SA think there is no reason people are paying "hundreds" of

dollars more for Mac systems and that are no better? Seriously–these ads

are the equivalent of GM/Ford running ads which show dudes walking

into BMW and Mercedes dealers and implying that somehow their POShite

Detriot car is somehow equivalent to a German-made vehicle because they both have tires and use gas. Even a

complete MORON knows the difference (while still resenting the fact

that they can't afford the better car, but still…).

Microsoft is dead–these ads prove it. I thought the Seinfeld ads

were pathetic…wow.

Bummer, I just bought a Macbook Pro. No one told me that Microsoft would buy me a new computer. But I'm afraid I would have to pass on the 17 inch laptop. It is just to big and clunky. Friend of mine bought one and shortly returned it. She should have just got a iMac. I give her a month of lugging around that 17 in laptop and she'll be wishing she had that 13 in macbook.

Bummer, I just bought a Macbook Pro. No one told me that Microsoft would buy me a new computer. But I'm afraid I would have to pass on the 17 inch laptop. It is just to big and clunky. Friend of mine bought one and shortly returned it. She should have just got a iMac. I give her a month of lugging around that 17 in laptop and she'll be wishing she had that 13 in macbook.

A little competition is always good — for the consumer.

A little competition is always good — for the consumer.

He isn't a troll. Why does Microsoft that owns 80% of the market run ads against Apple. Attacking the only guy that decides to be different makes them look ridiculous. I use both platforms so I always wonder what Microsoft is thinking.

He isn't a troll. Why does Microsoft that owns 80% of the market run ads against Apple. Attacking the only guy that decides to be different makes them look ridiculous. I use both platforms so I always wonder what Microsoft is thinking.

The people who buy Macs do so because they are willing to pay for the experience of Mac, not because they are looking for the best price. Now, there is another twist to this story – useful life and 2d hand value.

Macs are on the average used twice as long as PCs before they are replaced and the 2d hand value is mind-boggling – two year old Macs are sold at 70-80% of the original price!

Furthermore, Mac don't need all the additional security software, and the time (and therefor cost) to maintain the Mac is a fraction of what you need for a PC.

All this leads to Macs having a much lower total cost of ownership then PCs.

The people who buy Macs do so because they are willing to pay for the experience of Mac, not because they are looking for the best price. Now, there is another twist to this story – useful life and 2d hand value.

Macs are on the average used twice as long as PCs before they are replaced and the 2d hand value is mind-boggling – two year old Macs are sold at 70-80% of the original price!

Furthermore, Mac don't need all the additional security software, and the time (and therefor cost) to maintain the Mac is a fraction of what you need for a PC.

All this leads to Macs having a much lower total cost of ownership then PCs.

Apple products just work. You get what you pay for. The reason Apple has such a "cool" factor is because, upon using an Apple product for the first time, one usually utters the word "cool!" upon discovery of such a great product.

Apple products just work. You get what you pay for. The reason Apple has such a "cool" factor is because, upon using an Apple product for the first time, one usually utters the word "cool!" upon discovery of such a great product.

Blah, blah, blah. Those of us that can afford to even consider a Mac will most certainly buy a Mac. Those that cannot will probably feel that a cheaper computer is a blessing in such times.

I am glad that there is computing for all budgets and tastes.

Blah, blah, blah. Those of us that can afford to even consider a Mac will most certainly buy a Mac. Those that cannot will probably feel that a cheaper computer is a blessing in such times.

I am glad that there is computing for all budgets and tastes.

I think it's a clever ad! Let's not forget that it was Apple who kicked off the PC/Apple class wars with their collection of I'm a Mac and I'm a frumpy looking PC series of ads. The reality is that both platforms work well enough for what most people use a personal computer for these days. Is one better than the other? It's up to the individual to decide. I happen to prefer Macs.

I think it's a clever ad! Let's not forget that it was Apple who kicked off the PC/Apple class wars with their collection of I'm a Mac and I'm a frumpy looking PC series of ads. The reality is that both platforms work well enough for what most people use a personal computer for these days. Is one better than the other? It's up to the individual to decide. I happen to prefer Macs.

No nerve here. She just wasted $900.00 bucks. By the time you add on tech costs and soft ware, the amount that is spent will surpass the cost of a Mac. After all the freeze-ups and frustrations, she'll be out buying a Mac before the end of the year.

No nerve here. She just wasted $900.00 bucks. By the time you add on tech costs and soft ware, the amount that is spent will surpass the cost of a Mac. After all the freeze-ups and frustrations, she'll be out buying a Mac before the end of the year.

But you are all missing the point. The average family does not have thousands of dollars to buy there sons and daughters a "MAC"… It is great that Mac's are so well built… but for the average family who just wants a computer for there sons and daughter, they would perfer a PC… I personally like Apple products, own two iPhones and 2 iPods, but dont think I will ever buy a Mac do to the high price tag… just my 2 cents…

But you are all missing the point. The average family does not have thousands of dollars to buy there sons and daughters a "MAC"… It is great that Mac's are so well built… but for the average family who just wants a computer for there sons and daughter, they would perfer a PC… I personally like Apple products, own two iPhones and 2 iPods, but dont think I will ever buy a Mac do to the high price tag… just my 2 cents…

If Mac can reduce their price by 30%, that's would be great. Looking at the hardware spec, their machine is not that special which can be bought for $400-500 from different vendor (compare with Mac's lowest model). Looking on the OS side, it's based on FreeBSD, add more visual stuff and it becomes OSX.

Don't get me wrong, I do like apple stuff, I just found it too expensive.

If Mac can reduce their price by 30%, that's would be great. Looking at the hardware spec, their machine is not that special which can be bought for $400-500 from different vendor (compare with Mac's lowest model). Looking on the OS side, it's based on FreeBSD, add more visual stuff and it becomes OSX.

Don't get me wrong, I do like apple stuff, I just found it too expensive.

Apple Fanboi Base is butthurt.

Apple Fanboi Base is butthurt.

she'll be sorry shortly after opening it up and finding out how much more she'll have to spend for security software.

can best buy be sued and forced to display and sell linux computers?

can hardware manufacturers be sued and forced to offer GNU/Linux on an equal basis? there seems to be a very dangerous conspiracy among hardware manufacturers, retail outlets, and microsoft. they all offer the excuse that GNU/Linux doesn't sell but i say they have failed to promote it properly.

she'll be sorry shortly after opening it up and finding out how much more she'll have to spend for security software.

can best buy be sued and forced to display and sell linux computers?

can hardware manufacturers be sued and forced to offer GNU/Linux on an equal basis? there seems to be a very dangerous conspiracy among hardware manufacturers, retail outlets, and microsoft. they all offer the excuse that GNU/Linux doesn't sell but i say they have failed to promote it properly.

I find it humorous that, after all the PC-bashing ads Apple has put out over the years, they act butthurt over this.

I find it humorous that, after all the PC-bashing ads Apple has put out over the years, they act butthurt over this.

See comment 1. "lowest common denominator ubiquity" Anymore proof needed about the "jerk" part?

See comment 1. "lowest common denominator ubiquity" Anymore proof needed about the "jerk" part?

Lauren, congratulations! You got a decent laptop with a nice big screen and I'm envious. My little Mac laptop cost $1000 with a decent 2GB of RAM and a reasonable 80GB hard drive, but the 13 inch diagonal screen can sometimes seem cramped. Fortunately I can connect it to an external monitor when I need more screen space – and both screens work side by side like one big desktop. I don't know if your HP has this, but you shouldn't need it with such a large screen.

Your main problem is just that you have to run Windows, which is really horrible in terms of user friendliness, and don't even get me started on viruses and how awful the bundled software usually is.

But Lauren, if you'd like I'd be more than happy to install Mac OS X on your laptop, along with VMWare so you can run Windows if you need it. I might even be able to set it up to dual-boot. This setup isn't supported by Apple, but it works very well, and you'd have a much more modern, solid, organized, friendly, and secure system. Just Google me, and I'm at your disposal.

Lauren, congratulations! You got a decent laptop with a nice big screen and I'm envious. My little Mac laptop cost $1000 with a decent 2GB of RAM and a reasonable 80GB hard drive, but the 13 inch diagonal screen can sometimes seem cramped. Fortunately I can connect it to an external monitor when I need more screen space – and both screens work side by side like one big desktop. I don't know if your HP has this, but you shouldn't need it with such a large screen.

Your main problem is just that you have to run Windows, which is really horrible in terms of user friendliness, and don't even get me started on viruses and how awful the bundled software usually is.

But Lauren, if you'd like I'd be more than happy to install Mac OS X on your laptop, along with VMWare so you can run Windows if you need it. I might even be able to set it up to dual-boot. This setup isn't supported by Apple, but it works very well, and you'd have a much more modern, solid, organized, friendly, and secure system. Just Google me, and I'm at your disposal.

So she bought a grossly inferior product that will last about a year, for less? And You think that was a good deal? The fact: In 1 year, she with have experienced: a 38% change her computers fails and requires service. Because of the 2 hr battery live, she will have changed the computer 500 time and now need a new battery. She would have contracted 107 viruses half of which are undetected by her, She will not be able to play the latest game, or do the latest photo process, due to low-end graphics. She would need a new computer.

If she had bought the Mac, she would have 3.5 years left on the battery (and only recharged 125 times). She would not know what a virus was, let alone had one. She would have had a 1 out of 9 chance of needing service. She would be running the New OpenCL and OpenGL based games / photo process SW. She would get getting free expert advise at her local Apple Store. AND she would part of the cool crowd.

She got what she paid for. She just doesn't realize yet how little that way and how much heart-ache she has coming in the next year.

So she bought a grossly inferior product that will last about a year, for less? And You think that was a good deal? The fact: In 1 year, she with have experienced: a 38% change her computers fails and requires service. Because of the 2 hr battery live, she will have changed the computer 500 time and now need a new battery. She would have contracted 107 viruses half of which are undetected by her, She will not be able to play the latest game, or do the latest photo process, due to low-end graphics. She would need a new computer.

If she had bought the Mac, she would have 3.5 years left on the battery (and only recharged 125 times). She would not know what a virus was, let alone had one. She would have had a 1 out of 9 chance of needing service. She would be running the New OpenCL and OpenGL based games / photo process SW. She would get getting free expert advise at her local Apple Store. AND she would part of the cool crowd.

She got what she paid for. She just doesn't realize yet how little that way and how much heart-ache she has coming in the next year.

This is exactly the point – PC's are affordable and part of the mainstream. Apple isolates its products to Apple Stores and puts a price tag so high, it becomes the most expensive thing in your apartment x 2! If you buy designer glasses, buy a Mac. If you wear glasses to see, buy a PC!

This is exactly the point – PC's are affordable and part of the mainstream. Apple isolates its products to Apple Stores and puts a price tag so high, it becomes the most expensive thing in your apartment x 2! If you buy designer glasses, buy a Mac. If you wear glasses to see, buy a PC!

equating press that's been written about Apple or comments by Apple fanbois as "Apple on the defensive" is idiotic at best.

Show me a defensive Apple press release. Apple is filling the niche that they've always filled. If someone wants a lousy operating system installed on a sub-par piece of electronics, more power to them.

Really. Apples and oranges here.

equating press that's been written about Apple or comments by Apple fanbois as "Apple on the defensive" is idiotic at best.

Show me a defensive Apple press release. Apple is filling the niche that they've always filled. If someone wants a lousy operating system installed on a sub-par piece of electronics, more power to them.

Really. Apples and oranges here.

whatever

whatever

Apple is not on the defensive and will not directly respond to this ad. They are fully aware that MS still dominates the market of cheap PC's. So I guess Apple should build a 17 inch laptop with a cozy keyboard and just put whatever the heck crap inside it just so this lady can have a 17 inch screen and keyboard?? LOL that is the funniest part of the commercial is that is ALL she is getting is a keyboard and a screen!

Apple is not on the defensive and will not directly respond to this ad. They are fully aware that MS still dominates the market of cheap PC's. So I guess Apple should build a 17 inch laptop with a cozy keyboard and just put whatever the heck crap inside it just so this lady can have a 17 inch screen and keyboard?? LOL that is the funniest part of the commercial is that is ALL she is getting is a keyboard and a screen!

Oh no, how dare Microsoft make an ad showing how ridiculously overpriced Mac's are? It's not as if Apple has centered the entire Mac ad campaign on the notion that PC's are for lame old people, right? My favorite though is the Macbook spot about how "green" it is, being made out of such recyclable materials as plastic and metal. If only other companies were as environmentally friendly as Apple and made their products out of recyclables, we just might be able to save the planet.

Oh no, how dare Microsoft make an ad showing how ridiculously overpriced Mac's are? It's not as if Apple has centered the entire Mac ad campaign on the notion that PC's are for lame old people, right? My favorite though is the Macbook spot about how "green" it is, being made out of such recyclable materials as plastic and metal. If only other companies were as environmentally friendly as Apple and made their products out of recyclables, we just might be able to save the planet.

I concur with Son Dao, nothing new to see. Also you made an error about Apple's price dropping. The article you liked says Apple's ASP only dropped 8.1% not 13% which is the industry average.

I concur with Son Dao, nothing new to see. Also you made an error about Apple's price dropping. The article you liked says Apple's ASP only dropped 8.1% not 13% which is the industry average.

PCs and Macs are both becoming less relevant as applications migrate off of local hard drives and onto the web. Soon, we'll all be using dumb computers as we let our web-based applications run the world.

PCs and Macs are both becoming less relevant as applications migrate off of local hard drives and onto the web. Soon, we'll all be using dumb computers as we let our web-based applications run the world.

Price of the laptop – $699,

Face of the female cashier – priceless.

Price of the laptop – $699,

Face of the female cashier – priceless.

So, if cost is an issue, when do we get to see a Ubuntu advertisment from Dell or HP?

So, if cost is an issue, when do we get to see a Ubuntu advertisment from Dell or HP?

The fact is, Microsoft doesn't even make computers.

Why don't they compare buying the full, complete (and only) version of OS X versus the Basic, Home and Premium versions of Vista.

Why don't they compare the prices of Office versus iWork.

The fact is, Microsoft doesn't even make computers.

Why don't they compare buying the full, complete (and only) version of OS X versus the Basic, Home and Premium versions of Vista.

Why don't they compare the prices of Office versus iWork.

I have an HP dv7 running Ubuntu Intrepid Ibex and it screams! It blows the doors off of any Mac I've used, and Vista.

I also have an HP HDX18 running Ubuntu Jaunty Jackalope and its media capabilities make the top Macbook look like something you would find in a NY Port Authority toilet.

The main point here is that Mac people aren't cool enough to run the best OS on the planet, Linux.

I have an HP dv7 running Ubuntu Intrepid Ibex and it screams! It blows the doors off of any Mac I've used, and Vista.

I also have an HP HDX18 running Ubuntu Jaunty Jackalope and its media capabilities make the top Macbook look like something you would find in a NY Port Authority toilet.

The main point here is that Mac people aren't cool enough to run the best OS on the planet, Linux.

So Chrysler gives someone 8000$ and sends them to the Lexus dealer. The person doesn't buy a Lexus. So that must mean that Chrysler is better than Lexus. You get what you pay for. She HAD to have a 17" screen on a sub-1000$ laptop? Windows is a TERRIBLE price to pay for the screen real estate. Windows Home no less, hours of lost work, hours of virus removal, hours of frustration but she can say she has a 17" laptop when it is functioning.

I do not have to time or money to fight this battle. Microsoft can spend as much as they want to ADVERTISE their Operating System. I wonder how much better it would have been if they had spent the money making Windows usable.

Secondly, PCMag, MacWorld, ArsTechnica all seem to have a totally different take on the ads.

So Chrysler gives someone 8000$ and sends them to the Lexus dealer. The person doesn't buy a Lexus. So that must mean that Chrysler is better than Lexus. You get what you pay for. She HAD to have a 17" screen on a sub-1000$ laptop? Windows is a TERRIBLE price to pay for the screen real estate. Windows Home no less, hours of lost work, hours of virus removal, hours of frustration but she can say she has a 17" laptop when it is functioning.

I do not have to time or money to fight this battle. Microsoft can spend as much as they want to ADVERTISE their Operating System. I wonder how much better it would have been if they had spent the money making Windows usable.

Secondly, PCMag, MacWorld, ArsTechnica all seem to have a totally different take on the ads.

The headline presenst a presumption as fact. Shoddy and weak!

The headline presenst a presumption as fact. Shoddy and weak!

Booya, This is how we roll… kiss that apple!

Booya, This is how we roll… kiss that apple!

This is horrible. We all know that that Apple invented everything digital, and that if you don't have an old sweater and look like Steve Jobs, that you are out of it.

Listen, Macs have nice hardware. They have decent software (UNIX port, for those Mac fanatics that don't know), but if they are soooooo great, why are 90% of the worlds computers NOT Apples?

This is horrible. We all know that that Apple invented everything digital, and that if you don't have an old sweater and look like Steve Jobs, that you are out of it.

Listen, Macs have nice hardware. They have decent software (UNIX port, for those Mac fanatics that don't know), but if they are soooooo great, why are 90% of the worlds computers NOT Apples?

Troll, what a senseless name. It just encourages people not to speak their mind, which all this person did and in a most harmless way.

Troll, what a senseless name. It just encourages people not to speak their mind, which all this person did and in a most harmless way.

PS have fun with all you virus and malware protection slowing you down. My Mac come practically bullet proof!

PS have fun with all you virus and malware protection slowing you down. My Mac come practically bullet proof!

Lauren you are right, you are not cool enough to be a mac person. BTW I just bought the 24inch HD Widescreen Mac with wireless mouse and keyboard for $1800

Lauren you are right, you are not cool enough to be a mac person. BTW I just bought the 24inch HD Widescreen Mac with wireless mouse and keyboard for $1800

Like the final quote in the article above, it does go deeper into a "red state/blue state" feel in that the actress is vaguely Palinesque – her looks (eyes, cheekbones), some mannerisms, and even her voice inflections all offer a subtle reminder. I sensed it almost immediately. Ugh.

Like the final quote in the article above, it does go deeper into a "red state/blue state" feel in that the actress is vaguely Palinesque – her looks (eyes, cheekbones), some mannerisms, and even her voice inflections all offer a subtle reminder. I sensed it almost immediately. Ugh.

She says "Im just not cool enough to be a Mac person".

That pretty much sums it up. Microsoft sucks at advertising and software. This must be the "Vista" version of the commercial.

She says "Im just not cool enough to be a Mac person".

That pretty much sums it up. Microsoft sucks at advertising and software. This must be the "Vista" version of the commercial.

The Apple ads feature actors and actresses too. Faking locations is what commercials are all about. I could clean up the dv7 and make it comparable in performance to the MacBook in one hour.

Finally, for $2800 I could have three laptops multitasking productivity far exceeding anything the MacBook could do.

PS "Five year old networking"? Are they for real?

The Apple ads feature actors and actresses too. Faking locations is what commercials are all about. I could clean up the dv7 and make it comparable in performance to the MacBook in one hour.

Finally, for $2800 I could have three laptops multitasking productivity far exceeding anything the MacBook could do.

PS "Five year old networking"? Are they for real?

"On the defensive?" I don't think so. I see signs of desperation. There seems to be no new news here. Microsoft's campaign only highlights the key area where Apple has always been far better at: Making a user friendly product that is geared for the user and rather than lowest common denominator ubiquity.

"On the defensive?" I don't think so. I see signs of desperation. There seems to be no new news here. Microsoft's campaign only highlights the key area where Apple has always been far better at: Making a user friendly product that is geared for the user and rather than lowest common denominator ubiquity.

Troll.

Troll.