You've just met one: Apple user since 1990 - totally happy. Last configuration: OS10.3/something, on a G3 with plenty of RAM and a decent processor.
2005: a school I teach at lends me a Dell Inspiron laptop with XP. Result: even happier. Maybe I'm just getting dumber with time?
Whatever. But no error messages, and I learn pretty quickly about the fascinating world of virus/adware/spyware/etc. protection.
I admit that if I wanted to run sophisticated graphics and film apps, I'd probably go for a Mac - they have the reputation of being the best for this.
Conclusion: better a Dell or equivalent at half the price than paying twice the amount (or more) for the 'Rolls' of computers. A Rolls is lovely, but for what I do with my computer (essentially surfing the Net) cheap transportation does me just fine.^
Afterthought: With the equivalent of what you spent for what's sitting on your desk, I could purchase a new Dell/equivalet PC every year (with the manufacturer's guarantees) for six years, while giving my earlier model away - and still come out ahead.
For me, it's a no-brainer.
No wisecracks from the gallery, please.