I would agree with that for their computers to a degree, but I was under the impression that their mobile processors are known for how far ahead of the competition they are.
Hardware is more than just processor though. They have had less storage, less memory, and worse cameras for many generations. I'd have to do some research into mobile processors specifically, but this is just broad statements. I'm not saying anything about the state of Apple today, but over the past 15+ years. In general, Apple hardware has been worse than their competitors despite costing more.