When it comes to lowest prices, Mac desktop computers are not as competitive as the typical Windows-based desktops we see today. While some new Windows-based desktop systems go for under $300, you usually can't buy a new Apple Mac desktop for under $590. That's not a knock on either Mac or Windows-based desktop brands. It just means that the lowest-priced Apple Mac desktops in general provide more features and functionality than the cheapest Windows-based desktops, and therefore Mac desktop computers start at higher prices. If you just need a desktop for basic computing needs like surfing the internet, checking and sending email, listening to and burning CDs, watching DVDs, basic productivity work, and downloading or saving a reasonable amount of files, then you can save $300 or more by purchasing a cheaper desktop brand. The lowest-priced Apple Mac desktops are comparable to mid-range models of most other desktop brands in terms of functionality and technical specifications.