This is the same tired, old argument that has been going on since the beginning of both the pc and the mac. I have been a pc user since the beginning. Because, you could always build your own desktop pc to your own specifications. I don't know anyone who has built their own MAC from components that they buy themselves from various vendors. I am a gamer as well. So, MACs have pretty much been useless for that area of computing. So, now we're comparing laptops. I agree that the new MACs are pretty sexy. And they do come with a better bundle of software than your typical pc laptop. But, who amongst pc cognescenti just uses their pc laptop they way it came OOTB? Not me. The first thing I do is get rid of the bundled software and install the software I want on it. I also go with XP Pro because it does provide some features that XP Home doesn't. As for graphic image processing or video processing, I don't do much of that. My Compaq R3000 (came with: 2.7ghz P4, 512mb which I upgraded 1.2gig, ATI 9000GP and 60gig HDD along with 3, yes count em 3 USB ports, one firewire, and smart card slots and a 15" screen, WiFi 802.11b, JBL sound) for: $1600 after a $200 rebate froom Circuit City. It has been a very reliable laptop (w/exception of internal PS burning out, but was on warranty). I am even able to play some games on it. CS, Wanted Dead or Alive play well on it. UT2k4 plays but choppy graphics. The point I guess is: whatever floats your boat. I would still take an Alienware gaming laptop over the MAC anyday. I still think MACs are expensive and not for the average user or the gamer. But, they are better at image editing and applications such as that. As I said, I have considered buying a MAC laptop and may still do so in the future. But, for my home desktop machine, give me a pc anyday over the MAC offering. Just my 2 cents worth....