Apple users have to justify their OTT outlay for what they're actually getting... so they usually wax lyrical about how awesome the user experience is and how the hardware is so stunning, etc, cos it makes them feel better about spending too much, relatively.
I know not aimed at me directly but as this is a discussion forum, I thought I would discuss. ;-)
Each to their own I say. I encourage people to think about what decisions they make but where they end up is their own choice only.
On the issue of price, there is more to it than the book price. You have to consider amortisation and true value.
In my experience, you pay slightly more upfront but the shelf-life and stability compensate so overall it ends up being cheaper.
I hate shopping so in general I buy as infrequently as possible.
My first iMac lasted me 8 years as our sole home computer (still perfectly usable), the current one is just a child at only 2 years old and fully expect it to last at least as long.
Not had any hardware or software problems which is a main consideration for me as I don't want to do any administration at home. I write software for a living, get quite enough of during the day.
I don't think I over paid. I would not go so excited about it to call it awesome or stunning. It's a computer, a tool, that's all.
The laptops I get given for work, lets just say that they don't deliver the same experience.