Cost comparison of Windows and Mac in enterpriseCost comparison of Windows and Mac in enterprise
A detailed cost comparison of windows and Macs to evaluate the benefits these platforms can bring to enterprise users.
Would you prefer an Apple or a non-Apple technology for work? When given a choice, the majority of the employees prefer to work on an Apple device.
It’s not surprising that they choose an expensive technology. It got great features to meet all their needs, but it can be a tough choice for enterprises.
Apple devices have gained a name in the enterprise market not just as flexible devices. Those are expensive ones too. But choosing apple devices for an enterprise doesn’t seem to be a bad idea. It has impressive performance capabilities and adaptability that can cater the best for enterprises.
Now let’s analyze the TCO of Apple devices to find an answer to a question: Should we use Apple or a non-apple technology for our enterprises?
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FYI
“Gartner defines TCO as a comprehensive assessment of information technology (IT) or other costs across enterprise boundaries over time. For IT, TCO includes hardware and software acquisition, management and support, communications, end-user expenses and the opportunity cost of downtime, training, and other productivity losses.”
The upfront cost of a purchase is easy to calculate. It is the hidden costs that are difficult to predict. A TCO analysis aids in understanding the indirect costs of the product lifecycle, such as maintenance, support, license fees, etc.
Businesses use the TCO to analyze short-term and long-term costs and finally decide what devices they want to get. This analysis reveals which solution would provide a positive Return on investment and help the business grow. It also helps to stay financially prepared in case of an unexpected financial surprise.
Here are the different costs we need to keep in mind for calculating TCO
- Acquisition cost: The upfront cost of the device and other accessories.
- Operation cost: Service and support costs to maintain service continuity, eliminate downtime and keep users productive.
- Technology Lifespan: The time for which the device or the technology can be used.
- Resource cost: Hiring in-house technicians or third-party software to manage devices.
TCO of Apple vs non-Apple technologies
Without further delay let’s analyze the TCO of Apple and non-Apple technologies.
There is no argument that Apple devices are costly. A mac costs $500 more than an average PC. This is the same for other Apple products like iPhones and iPads. But Forrester’s studies show that macs cost less over a 3-year product cycle when hardware and software costs are factored in.
Here are the reasons why Apple devices have low TCO
Apple devices are built to last longer
The optimal age of PCs is no more than four years. Meanwhile, macs average between 5 and 7 years of service, with some lasting longer. In the case of iPhones and Android phones, Android phones have an optimal age of 3-4 years, while iPhones may last for seven years. This further increases ROI compared to its competitors.
Durability
Apple devices are designed with durable materials. They are tested to withstand harsh environments; mechanical stresses, such as a sudden impact with a hard surface. Climate tests are done to evaluate performance under extreme heat and cold, dry and humid conditions, and intense sun exposure. Apple devices also undergo chemical sensitivity tests for evaluating the ability of devices to stand up to accidental spills like coffee, soda, sunscreen, or ketchup. These standards make Apple devices the best choice for enterprises. They have an indirect impact on total cost through low downtime and more efficiency than competitor devices.
Software updates
Apple devices are designed to be upgradable. And because those upgrades are available across multiple generations of products, more users can take advantage of new software features. Compared to other platforms, the software update process is simple and efficient, resulting in higher adoption. This operating system consistency is not only beneficial to users, but it also makes Apple devices far easier to manage for IT. Using the same operating system throughout a deployment simplifies hardware and software support, app development, integration, security updates, and other tasks.
Residual costs
Apple devices have a high residual value compared to other competitors. The combination of highly durable hardware, a worldwide network of repair providers, and simple software updates mean that Apple products retain significant value over their lifecycle, making them more affordable. In contrast to this, other devices are frequently unused or given away at the end of their lifecycle.
Support tickets and services
The cost of supporting, managing, and operating a new client device extends beyond provisioning and deployment. Mac users typically open fewer service tickets with their company’s helpdesk. This cannot be just due to their great popularity. But it also has to do with the fact that Macs are less error-prone. And, there’s a good reason for this; Apple controls the hardware and operating system, and problems tend to be simpler so devices are less prone to error. Obviously, when the complexity is less, there are fewer things that can go wrong.
Reduced risk of a data breach
Apple incorporates security into the base of its platforms. Apple has created security architectures that address the unique requirements of mobile, watch, desktop, and home, building on the experience of creating one of the world’s most advanced mobile operating systems. Apple devices thus help IT to make sure devices are safe from threats.
It’s also simple to deploy and manage Apple devices on a large scale. Every iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV can be automatically set up and configured, eliminating the need for IT to handle each device individually. With Apple Business Manager, devices can be distributed directly to employees and used right away, eliminating the need for manual configuration and further lowering costs. So, you can now provide your employees with the tools they need to be productive while also being cost-effective for your company.
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When comparing the costs of Apple and non-Apple technologies, it can be tough to choose between them because both platforms have pros and cons that set them apart from one another. While Apple devices might imply a bigger financial commitment at the outset, they can pay off in the long run. Apple has greatly enhanced its products’ security and privacy features, showing its continued dedication to building quality products not just for personal use but for the enterprise too. To choose devices for your enterprise; more than looking to fit them in your budget, you need to make sure it fits best for your needs.
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