I must ask, since this has always personally deterred me from Apple products myself, but how do you see past the markup/price point?
This Pro is an exception - I trust your research in regards to a competitive pricing model, though I am referring to their general macbook product line in which their 2k+ computers can be built with similar specs usually at a third of the price.
I am aware of the OS differences that don't really make the direct spec comparison compatible, but even then the thought of spending over 2k on a computer when you can do everything you need spending a little over 1.2k laptop has never been attractive to me.
Obviously this model of luxury has been wildly successful for Apple profit wise - their perception is also that of a luxury brand, and teens I have known are obsessed with having an Apple product because they think other products "look trashy" even if they can't afford them.
Well you do normally pay more for a mac versus a similar spec pc. The difference depends a lot on the model. Whether it is worthwhile or not depends on how much you value the design and OS. For me it has generally been worth it but I suspect it won't be for everyone.
Thank you for your insight - and of course it does come down to personal preference. I am too used to Windows at this point and very comfortable with the hardware and software.
I will admit - Windows has been very annoying. I paid a premium just to make sure I had windows 7 on my computer over 8 and 10. I am hoping your OS providers are not trying to screw you over!
I don't think so but I think the OS has become more like IOS in many ways. I still prefer it to Windows (especially Windows 10).