I needed a new computer, my clients are needing more video editing capabilities for me that my 3-year-old PC couldn't handle. As much as I love my Dell, it was time to face facts: Apples are better at graphics. I priced out a top-of-the-line Dell, compared specs to a less-expensive iMac, and found the iMac was faster for what I needed to do, with a better screen and came with video editing software. Considering the Dell was going to make me learn a new operating system and upgrade all of my software anyway (due to Windows 7), there really was no choice left to be made.

At the Apple Store

The store is very contemporary, very clean, all white, like you're in an unearthly world. Very streamlined too, like their computers. There are more than two dozen computers sitting out, connected to the Internet and loaded with the iLife "lifestyle suite," waiting to be test-driven. And I have to add, as a mother this was important: a video game console to keep the kids occupied! We hadn't been in the store more than a few seconds when the Concierge introduced us to a Specialist. This guy spent the next 2 hours dedicated to me, answering every question, recommending what I needed based on what I said (he listened!) and what was more than I needed or useless for me. Very down-to-earth, honest kind of guy, not salesman-y at all. When I was ready to check out, he verified what I needed, ordered it on his handheld (some guy in the back brought it up), and swiped my credit card through his handheld. I don't know if they even have a register there for checking people out, this was all done standing in front of their demo machines.

I had originally placed my order with Dell before looking at the iMacs. They told me it would be at least two months before I could receive my order. After 2 hours at the Apple store, I walked home with a superior computer in my hands, including a gorgeous 27 inch monitor, for less expense. Not bad, eh?