36: A Weird One

Pricing Strategy

The pricing strategy for the new Mac Pro has sparked discussions among tech enthusiasts. John Siracusa and Casey Liss reflect on their initial predictions, noting that the $2,999 price point was anticipated, though they believe Apple could have priced it lower if desired 1. John appreciates the flexibility in build-to-order options, allowing users to mix and match components to suit their needs 2. He highlights Apple's pricing strategy, which often nudges customers towards spending slightly more than intended, leaving them satisfied with their purchase 3.

   

Configuration Choices

Configuring the Mac Pro involves strategic decisions between CPU and GPU options. John Siracusa considers opting for a less expensive CPU to allocate more budget towards a better GPU, as many tasks are not CPU-bound 4. Casey Liss notes that the high-end twelve-core CPU option is costly and may not offer significant speed advantages for most users, suggesting the eight-core might be more practical 5. John emphasizes the importance of being able to customize configurations to meet specific performance needs 4.

   

Upgrade Timing

When considering an upgrade to the Mac Pro, future technology releases and current needs play a crucial role. Casey Liss contemplates waiting for the next Xeon generation, which promises modest performance improvements, before upgrading 6. Meanwhile, John Siracusa is eager to upgrade, having waited long enough for the new model 2. He also mentions the clever marketing tactics of Apple, which often lead customers to spend slightly more than planned, yet leave the store feeling content with their purchase 3.