quote:
but when did I say that he shouldn't get a $750 laptop? Which is obviously too cheap for a MacBook, but more quality than a sub-$500 cheap piece of shite?

The problem is sub-$500 doesn't always mean garbage, and you don't have to spend $700 just so the keyboard isn't crappy. Yes, even with his very, very low use requirements, it is possible to not spend enough. But I'm sure you understand that there is a point of diminishing returns, right? There is a point at which the user experience doesn't change in these low-use scenarios. For what OP would be doing, a $750 laptop would not do it faster than a $500 laptop. And while build quality is a concern in super-cheap laptops, you'll find that many of the chassis designs are pretty standard across the full spectrum of a particular model.

quote:
I'm not even saying that this guy needs to get an Apple computer.

It sure sounded like you were all-or-nothing in your chosen analogy.

I'm all for high-end and getting more than you need, but as a power user myself constantly finding new ways to push my hardware just because, I know I'm in the minority and I have to be careful about suggesting people throw money at something that may not be the center of their work or play time. I always approach any request for computer shopping help with the assumption that the user is looking for bang for buck but isn't quite sure what to look for to meet his specific use scenario. I think most consumers (with the exception of OT ballers) take that approach to practically everything. Many of my PC components are overkill for my general use, but it's a hobby, whereas I assume OP just needs a tool, and tools are meant to help accomplish tasks and are acquired with luxury second to effectiveness in mind, unless funds are less limited.

However, OP owned a Mac previously, might as well get another one. It's familiar and easy. Since he mentioned alternative suggestions, that presents an opportunity to point out that there are indeed cheaper alternatives, and while the Macbook Air is appropriately spec'd, an equivalently priced PC would be overkill. So the two sensible choices here are the familiar Macbook Air that will offer an updated but similar experience with no learning curve, or a PC for 50-60% of the price that will get the job done just as well, offer similar or better hardware but with lower (but not detrimentally lower) build quality, possible increased OS learning curve, and lower battery life. Simply, are the cons worth the discount? Or, are the "luxury" features worth the premium?

This post was edited on 11/11/14 at 6:30 pm