Some people like the stability of the OS, simplicity of use and range of applications relating to multimedia which makes it popular in this industry. However - thread isn't about why apple is better or windows is better. I use both and not biased either way. Your cheapest new mac will either be from a place like JB Hifi or the refurbished models on the apple site. your going to struggle for a new one under 1k though, they don't sell anywhere for less than the retail price very often. If your looking for a new windows laptop you'll score a deal at nearly any store these days as they are all hungry for sales. What software were you looking at using as that plays a part in what your looking for in a laptop (e.g. logic is only on macs, fruity loops is only on windows, ableton is on both).