Apple Earns PC Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards


link (http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,1851295,00.asp)


rock.

:tucool:

I really thought you meant 'Apple' as in the fruit. I was expecting to see the fruit top the list of foods to eat everyday :D

I really thought you meant 'Apple' as in the fruit. I was expecting to see the fruit top the list of foods to eat everyday :D
After my experiences with Apple customer service I'd rather take a free piece of fruit than a free piece of anything built by Apple. I own and use several of their products, and have given them a fair chance, but I don't see why so many people love them so much to be honest.

Their Airport is a good piece of equipment, I'll give them that. The iBook I have is quite decent, but no better than any Dell laptop I've seen (even the cheapo ones), and the Apple laptops are not cheap by any means. And my iPod, that's the biggest complaint I have. The thing is broken, warranty is out, and their solution is to buy a brand new one, send it in for repair (for HUNDREDS of dollars, yes hundreds), or to kiss off.

It's sad really. Their products LOOK great but I don't think they're at all anymore reliable than anything else out there. They slap gorgeous covers and aesthetics all over their products, ship them in very cool looking boxes with these futuristic looking wall mounts, etc. But what good are all of the pretty aesthetics if the product doesn't work? It's like trying to polish a turd!

but I don't see why so many people love them so much to be honest.
People root for the underdog. In a world where people are buying apples for their own personal use there's simply no other reason for it. They'll come up with them, but as a desktop computer for the average person (home user, student, etc.) an apple is an inferior product to a PC-compatible product, and yet they continue to buy them. The underdog-rooting has helped apple remarkably.

Now, they do have some good products like the ipod, but some people would tell you that appleness is next to godliness. These people need a slap!

Now, they do have some good products like the ipod,

I think there are many lower priced portable players in the market which play the file formats an iPod can play and record voice too. Yes an iPod does look pretty and I would love to own one day. But its just too expensive for the features.

I think there are many lower priced portable players in the market which play the file formats an iPod can play and record voice too. Yes an iPod does look pretty and I would love to own one day. But its just too expensive for the features.I agree totally. I would not personally buy one but I was giving some benefit of the doubt to the ipod since so many reviewers maintain it's an excellent product. For my money I could spend less and get more. There's nothing really fantastic about it besides it's cute.

Don't worry about me though, I'm basically a die hard apple hater. It's my check against all of the pro-apple biased people :)

how is it an inferior product? tell me.

it all comes down to preference. my opinion that macs are better then pcs... is just my opinion. my preference is with apple because im attracted to the machine for what it does for me that a pc cant do.

you all (pc users) on the other hand dont see what i see because of your preference for pcs and your opinion validates you using them.... same with me with macs.

different strokes for different folks really.

so how is apple inferior on an objective level? lets not put our hearts on our sleeves... lets not answer that question with emotion.


now the report i linked.... thats a little more "credible" then someones opinion i gather. but it still is not really accurate. find me one thats more accurate though.

im attracted to the machine for what it does for me that a pc cant do

Can you please give us an example of a thing the Apple can do and a pc can't. Lets call a PC as a 'non-apple machine'. PC aka Personal Computer applies to both Apples and non-Apples :)

Can you please give us an example of a thing the Apple can do and a pc can't. Lets call a PC as a 'non-apple machine'. PC aka Personal Computer applies to both Apples and non-Apples :)


well what i said... before anyone takes it out of context is "my preference is with apple because im attracted to the machine for what it does for me that a pc cant do."


whats that? its all opinion.

to me macs bring me more chicks. macs are more sexy.

pcs cant do that for me.

apple has a better look... the operating system in the mac is far more friendly and more maliable... not as stiff and rigid.

and thats my opinion as a result of my expierences.

you all have different expierences that put you either against the mac or for it... or for both.


Lets call a PC as a 'non-apple machine'. PC aka Personal Computer applies to both Apples and non-Apples

thats fine with me. no issue. us mac zealots refer to non macs as pcs..... and yes i know what it stands for.... if you want to get technical.

i also call pcs.... eye soars.


;)

We have a mix in our house: a top-spec PC (well, it was a year ago..), an iBook, a mac mini and a couple of iPods.

The PC is the most powerful, and was far cheaper than I could get an equivalent mac. Unfortunately, it runs windows - the only operating system I know that if you re-install from scratch (full re-format etc) with identical hardware, and identical install disks, you can end up with completely different problems. I suppose that part of the problem is due to its popularity that there is such a varied amount of devices, software etc., but it's just a bit difficult at times.

I've run GNU/Linux, and it's nicer than windows, but just a bit too much effort to find the correct drivers/installs at times, and of course, doesn't have quite so much of the 'polished' commercial software (I want a Sony Vegas replacement, and there's nothing even close).

As for the mac, well, my wife uses the iBook (I just bought her a new one, as the old one died after 3 years - a refurb in the first place). She loves it - it's silent, and just works. She plugs in her video camera, and it works. Digital SLR - yep, guides her through. You get the idea.

Sure, windows could do this with the correct software installed, out of the box, etc., etc... but it doesn't have that seamless experience that Apple OS X provides - not for our needs anyway.

I use the mac mini for day-to-day stuff - I'm typing on it now. I use the PC for power-needs, because I can't justify buying a powermac to add to the collection (although I'd love one), but I could happily leave the windows world behind.

With the intel macs on the way, I'm really hoping that prices drop down even more - As much as I love the idea of OS X to run on any PC, it would just gain the problems that windows has.

I certainly wouldn't recommend a mac for a hardcore gamer, or anything but a powermac for someone into power apps (3D, photo, video, audio), but for a huge proportion of the home user, your average mac mini or iMac etc., is just more 'friendly' overall.

IMHO.

Their customer service isn't the most adept at times, but I haven't used a PC equivalent, except for microsoft, and that was just to reauthenticate the operating system I'd already bought (grrr).

I want a new OS that combines the best of all of them. Until that day, I'll use OS X.

Michael.

Can you please give us an example of a thing the Apple can do and a pc can't. Lets call a PC as a 'non-apple machine'. PC aka Personal Computer applies to both Apples and non-Apples

I use a PC at work, and a Mac at home, so I think I qualify for having an objective opinion...

* My Apple (both a G5 and Powerbook) only needs to be restarted when a system update is automatically installed. My PC (running XP Pro) needs to be restarted to solve problems.

* Mac's are virutally immune to viruses & spyware. On my PC I need to have Norton A/V hogging up resources, and downloading new virus signatures every night to keep 95% of the nasty buggers off my computer.

* One word: Spotlight (in OS 10.4 Tiger). Control-Spacebar brings a search window which I can type any word and instantly every file, email, or contact in my address book with the searched word is displayed. Searching on my PC requires waiting for the search to complete, and doesn't encompass email or contacts. Spotlight works great in launching progams as well.

* Built in PDF file creation in OSX. Can print to PDF from any document without 3rd party software. While browsing the internet, there's even a nifty feature whereby I can click a "Save as Web Receipt". In doing so the webpage is saved to a "Web Receipts" folder in my documents. Spotlight also makes it wonderfully easy to later find that web receipt as it is tagged with the store name.

* RSS in Safari (Web Browser). Clicking the RSS icon will display an RSS-enabled site's content in an easy to read format.

* Automatic software update. All hardware, operating system, and Apple software is automatically updated every night with any patches or upgrades.

* Just found this the other day... a printer attached to my Mac ran out of ink. Apple's print center informed me which cartridge I needed to buy (by model number) and provided a "buy ink now" link. Very cool.

* iLife integration. Even a computer newbie can create, edit, and burn their movies or pictures to a DVD. iMovie lets users drag photos from iPhoto, or audio tracks from iTunes into their creation. When done, iDVD burns the movie, with amazing templates to create the "front end" of the DVD. PC users would need a lot of expensive software to complete the same tasks.

I could go on, but I have to get some work done.

The value of the PC to me at work is simply that the software application we use is PC based. Given the choice though, I'd prefer the simplicity and convenience of Apple and OSX Tiger.

After my experiences with Apple customer service I'd rather take a free piece of fruit than a free piece of anything built by Apple. I own and use several of their products, and have given them a fair chance, but I don't see why so many people love them so much to be honest.

I'm quite surprised at your experience with Apple support.

My first Mac was a G3 Powerbook, which I picked up on eBay for about $500. A year or so later, the display went green. I called Apple Support & explained the situation. The rep told me that I needed go to apple.com and purchase the extended warranty for $249, then call him back the next day.

I did this, and since my 2 year old G3 was now "under warranty" he was able to replace the entire unit. But there was a problem. Apple no longer manufactured the G3, they were up to the G4. The rep asked if I'd mind getting a newer model, and once I picked my jaw up off the floor a new one was on it's way... along with a box to pack up my G3 and ship back to them.

Two years later I had a problem with the G4 powerbook. Called up tech support, and they ended up sending me ANOTHER brand new machine. Another machine upgrade.

Where else could I buy a used laptop on ebay for $500, and then extend the warranty for $249 to end up with not one, but two new machines?

They sold me for life, & could be a good reason why so many people love them.

"People buy/use Apple because people like to root for the underdog."

That is the best argument I've ever seen!

"People buy/use Apple because people like to root for the underdog."

That is the best argument I've ever seen!

i think its a suck ass arguement if you want to call it one.

thats a myopic assesment.... the rooting for the underdog part.

its using flawed aristotelian logic and is a result of an emotional bias not a rational or objective one.... not your response but the underdog statement. you are very much entitled to holding that opinion... but lets all just see it for what it is ... an opinion... nothing absolute.



:tu:

i have nothing against you man.. so dont take it personal. im cool with you (you know before anyone takes it where it doesnt need to be taken).

99% of those who claim Apple sucks have never used one or have only limited experience and/or only used public ones which, as with any public computer, has its fair share of problems. Notice I said 99%, so you may not apply.

Now, 99% of those who use both a Mac and PC regularly admit that Apples are superior, myself included. Just a few of the reasons being named by eleven24, but make no mistake, there are plenty more.

Yes, Apple's are usually not as cost-effective and come up short on software compatibility. However, the Mac Mini and iBook nearly erase the cost-effective issue and for your average home user, there is nothing a PC runs that a Mac can't. And, everything your average computer user uses is FAR superior on a Mac, even MS Office (ironic, isn't it?).

Now you may say, well if Apples are so good, why is it a Windows Dominated world? Good question. I don't know enough of the history of computing to know how Bill Gates "beat" Steve Jobs, but these days, Apple is surely picking up speed -- a lot of it.

Decent post on Apple versus PC prices (http://www.classic45s.com/blog/2005/04/of-course-macs-are-more-expensive_24.html).

Now you may say, well if Apples are so good, why is it a Windows Dominated world? Good question. I don't know enough of the history of computing to know how Bill Gates "beat" Steve Jobs, but these days, Apple is surely picking up speed -- a lot of it.


yep... good question.


i think a big part of it has to do with the fact that microsoft is a software company and apple is a hardware company.

also... microsoft is more about business and turning a profit at the expense of the user as oppose to apple who is more about the user as opposed to business and turning a profit.

despite the fact that apple is a part of capitalism with all its hangups and negatives it still is the good guy in this comparison because they are looking out for the people more (user friendly... innovation etc. etc.... im not even touching customer support because thats too varied).

I don't know enough of the history of computing to know how Bill Gates "beat" Steve Jobs, but these days, Apple is surely picking up speed -- a lot of it.

Jobs = better product. Gates = better businessman.

Both have admitted as much.

:nod:

Decent post on Apple versus PC prices (http://www.classic45s.com/blog/2005/04/of-course-macs-are-more-expensive_24.html).


thnx for that. that was really good.

i think its a suck ass arguement if you want to call it one.

thats a myopic assesment.... the rooting for the underdog part.

its using flawed aristotelian logic and is a result of an emotional bias not a rational or objective one.... not your response but the underdog statement. you are very much entitled to holding that opinion... but lets all just see it for what it is ... an opinion... nothing absolute.



:tu:

i have nothing against you man.. so dont take it personal. im cool with you (you know before anyone takes it where it doesnt need to be taken).
Oh please. No offense taken. No worries friend! :)

I disagree with your opinions on Mac, but as you said, and I agree, they're opinions.

I am of the belief that there is NO answer to this argument, there is no winner. A lot of people love Apple, a lot of people love Microsoft, a lot of people love AOL. Whatever. The fact is that I have had terrible experiences with Apple. I have had some major problems with my iPod and with their customer service. But a lot of people have GREAT experiences with them. And a lot of people have bad experiences with "Non-Apple" products.

As I stated, however, I do like Airport Extreme and I don't have any MAJOR complaints about my iBook. It's nothing to brag about, but it isn't too shabby. I really can't stand my iPod though. Well, I liked it when it worked, but it doesn't work anymore so that's what I don't like. :)

Also, iTunes is a remarkable piece of software, I must admit.

99% of those who claim Apple sucks have never used one or have only limited experience and/or only used public ones which, as with any public computer, has its fair share of problems. Notice I said 99%, so you may not apply.

Now, 99% of those who use both a Mac and PC regularly admit that Apples are superior, myself included. Just a few of the reasons being named by eleven24, but make no mistake, there are plenty more.
Yeah, I am in the minority. Lots of bashers simply don't give the product(s) a fair try. But that works both ways. I have A LOT of "Mac Friends" who bash Microsoft, PC, etc. but they don't even use them.

I use both daily. My iBook sits in my bathroom and I use it whenever I'm on the toilet to surf the web (LOL). I've made a couple JSF posts while sitting in the John!!!! (Too much information?) Anyway, I do use both, but I prefer PC MUCH more than Apple to be totally honest. Who knows, maybe my PC is just far superior though (RAM, CPU, etc.).

And, everything your average computer user uses is FAR superior on a Mac, even MS Office (ironic, isn't it?).
Well, I was very surprised to see how good Office was on my iBook. MSN Messenger is also pretty good on Mac, even though that's not a big deal to most. :)

But I wouldn't say every product/software is better on Mac than PC. I personally think most of my "video stuff" runs better on PC, which is contrary to everything you read (almost all of my friends who are in graphic design and print work prefer Mac). Personally I like running After Effects better on my PC than on a Mac (again, though that could have a lot to do with my CPU, RAM, and of course having 3 monitors on my PC, lol).

Oh please. No offense taken. No worries friend! :)

I disagree with your opinions on Mac, but as you said, and I agree, they're opinions.

I am of the belief that there is NO answer to this argument, there is no winner. A lot of people love Apple, a lot of people love Microsoft, a lot of people love AOL. Whatever. The fact is that I have had terrible experiences with Apple. I have had some major problems with my iPod and with their customer service. But a lot of people have GREAT experiences with them. And a lot of people have bad experiences with "Non-Apple" products.

As I stated, however, I do like Airport Extreme and I don't have any MAJOR complaints about my iBook. It's nothing to brag about, but it isn't too shabby. I really can't stand my iPod though. Well, I liked it when it worked, but it doesn't work anymore so that's what I don't like. :)

Also, iTunes is a remarkable piece of software, I must admit.

well... i respect your opinion and responses more now since i know you are objective about all this. thnx for being cool about it.
what kind of an ipod do you have?

well... i respect your opinion and responses more now since i know you are objective about all this. thnx for being cool about it.
what kind of an ipod do you have?
:)

An iPod Mini. Like I said it was nice when it worked, but it's broken and Apple's Customer Service has been absolutely terrible (and it's not the only bad experience I've had with their Customer Services). Also, it looks like A LOT of people have had the same problem with their iPods (mini and others). I researched it for hours and found a bunch of people with the same problem. :d_frown: