[Swordmaker]

[Endnote: When I was writing this article, I also looked at the bargain machines from other Windows PC vendors. As I browsed these companies’ websites, something popped out at me: The different ways in which Apple and the Windows PC vendors (including Dell) “strip down” their low-end models. The Mac mini is stripped down externally—no mouse, keyboard, or display—while still being a full-featured machine internally. Windows PC makers generally take the opposite approach: You get a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, but limited hardware features and little to no software. And speaking of software, why do so many Windows writers neglect to include the value of bundled software, monetary or otherwise, when they “compare” computers? I suppose it’s because the “free” software that comes with most Windows PCs stinks—in the budget PC world, if it comes with the computer it must not be very good. Tip to Windows writers: You’ve been led astray. The software that comes with a computer can be free and great.]

[Swordmaker]

APPLES to Oranges comparison - PING!

If you want to be on the Mac Ping List, Freepmail me... if you want off, do the same.

[cyborg]

Buying an Apple ibook was the best decision I ever made. Don't ever buy a celeron powered anything, not even a celeron powered toothbrush. Those loons with the volvos covered with rainbow apples were right all along :o)

[SunkenCiv]

"have often claimed that price -- in addition to various Microsoft conspiracies -- is the only thing keeping the masses from switching to their favorite brand"

I've never claimed that. :') Macs are the better choice for those who want to get things done, with a special edge in creative fields, while Wintel machines are for those who like to replace whole systems on a regular basis. ;'D

[rwfromkansas]

Compare specs.

The PC will always be superior for less, including in processor speed.

As for software, who cares. The vital stuff is bundled usually (Word etc.)

And, if you already have it, why get it again?

[Bush2000]

Except it's not a $499 computer. It's a $800 computer, when you add in the price of a monitor. That's what needs to be compared.

[avenir]

I have no idea how this comparison will turn out, but here we go:

DELL XPS

--Pentium 4 Processor 550 w/HD Technology (3.40GHz, 1MB L2 Cache, 800MHz FSB)
--Win XP Pro
--2GB Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM
--500GB SATA RAID 0 (Data Striping)
--19" Dell Ultra Sharp Digital Flat Panel Display
--256MB PCI Express x16 NVIDIA GeForce 6800
--16x DVD-ROM Drive
--16x Max CD/DVD Burner (DVD+/-RW)
--Sound Blaster Audigy 2 ZS (D) Sound Card
--Dell 5650 Surround Sound 5.1 Speaker Sys w/Subwoofer
--Microsoft Office Small Business Edition 2003
--Misc Software
--4-Year Limited Warranty w/XPS Tele Support
--4-Year At-Home Service

$4199

---

Mac G5 Dual 1.8GHz

--Dual 1.8GHz PowerPC G5 (900MHz frontside bus/processor 512K L2 cache/processor)
--Apple OSX
--2GB DDR400 SDRAM
--2 x 250GB Serial ATA
--20" Cinema Display
--NVIDIA GeForce 6800 GT DDL w/256MB SDRAM
--8x SuperDrive
--Sound System???
--Microsoft Office 2004 for Mac "Test Drive"
--iLife etc.
--Apple Care (3 Years Warranty, 3 Years At-Home Service)

$4668

---

Note when comparing:

The Mac has no speakers or good sound card
Does not include Office
Has 3, not 4 years At-Home/Warranty

Also not sure if I picked the appropriate GHz for the Mac, or if the 20" Cinema Display was much more than the 19" Dell.