That could be true, but I also wonder how many people look at the weird bazaar that is the average website and then throw up their hands and buy Apple instead. Less hassle, etc.
Anecdotally, most of my family doesn't have Apple money, so they send me Amazon and Best Buy links asking if a low-end Windows machine is worth the $250.
I observed many times how even below-middle-class people around here in Eastern Europe could muster the money for a MacBook or a high-end iPhone with help from relatives or local short-term money lenders. (Sometimes from their boss as well -- many employers are happy to deduct 10-20% of your salary for 4-8 months until you repay the device.)
Also what you said about service is something that much of the tech crowd here in HN seems to severely underestimate. Even I as a programmer and a few other hardware guys I know appreciate a semi-informed employee who comes to us and answers intelligently any questions we ask them. Those that don't try and swindle us usually get our money.
Hurray for my new procrastination tool!
Rather: If you have Apple money, you buy a ThinkPad (either for the performance/value or as a status symbol). :-)
Try to find an answer if your TP has world-wide support. You can't. It needs IWS International Warranty Service. TPs have that by default, people say, but during checkout it will tell you IWS is not applicable (because included? the IWS model number list will tell you, but do you have the correct model number during checkout?)
/rant
Given the number of configurable options across the product line for processors, memory, hard drives, screens, etc., there must be thousands of possible combinations.
I assume many laptops across all of the series are available with 13-inch screens, so the name of the "13 series" is particularly confusing.
The X280 still has a 1366x768 display option.
For T480s, you need to figure out if you have 8GB RAM or 4GB soldered + 4GB. Even more stupid, the latter option comes more expensive.
The configuration page lists the options like that:
8GB (4GB soldered + 4GB)
8GB
For me that implies the 8GB are configurable. What the fuck.
http://psref.lenovo.com/Detail/ThinkPad/ThinkPad_A485?M=20MU...
And they'd go somewhere and get quotes? What's the process?
Is there something similar for other brands?
I have Apple money, I bought a Thinkpad.
I do own two apple devices (ipad mini 2 and this years iPad with a pencil), excellent devices but I like Linux too much for day to day work.