It is my opinion that Apple’s hardware/software is better than Microsoft Windows and their accompanying PC’s. However, Apple computers are generally (according to PC users) a hair more expensive than their PC counterparts, yet I still prefer the products.

But one thing that annoys me is the fact that my college (University of Minnesota) has a MCA (Microsoft Campus Agreement), but doesn’t have one with Apple. Why does this matter? Because I can get Microsoft software for penny’s on the retail dollar, but with Apple I save a measly $100 on a $1300 system.

Take for example the pricing of Microsoft software below (as per our Campus Agreement):

  • Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate: $7
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional: $6
  • Microsoft Office 2007: Free Download, $7 for DVD
  • Microsoft Office 2004 Mac: $7

Thats right, despite Windows Vista being a disappointment, I get Vista, on DVD an official with a CD key for $7. How much will OS X 10.5 Leopard cost me? $116, and that is WITH my discount.

Vista Ultimate Retail: $400, I paid: $7, saving 98.25%.

OS X Leopard Retail: $130, Student price: $116, saving 11%.

Whats with that? Why is it Microsoft is willing to be so giving to College students and faculty, while Apple is giving us such a small savings.

When buying my Macbook, I was given the $100 student discount. Microsoft gives a $393 discount on a single piece of software. Does Apple wonder why so much loyalty and market share is still in the hands of Microsoft? Sure, Apple did have the short period where you got a free iPod Nano when buying a Macbook, but this was because they were making new iPod models and needed to clear out inventory. The discount (even after the new models were released), did NOT apply to the new ones, only the older models. Not to mention the iPod required full payment up-front, then a mail-in-rebate to receive the check. Apple needs to change the way it deals with College students if it hopes to win them over. I can’t speak for businesses, only for my college. However I can say that Microsoft offering such a large discount does nothing but encourage people to keep using their PC.