by , 8:00 AM EDT, May 30th, 2003

Consumer Reports recently surveyed 39,000 readers, asking them for their experience with different computer manufacturers. The results of the survey appear in the June 2003 issue of Consumer Reports, and they look good for Apple. According to Consumer Reports readers, Apple has the lowest percentage of failed computers, and the best technical support.

In order, Apple beat Dell, Gateway, Sony, HP, and Compaq (measured separately in the survey) in the Technical Support results. For machines needing repair, Apple placed better than Dell, HP, IBM, Compaq, Gateway, and Micron (also in order). In both categories, Apple was comfortably ahead of #2 Dell. From Consumer Reports:

In a survey of 39,000 Consumer Reports readers, 4 percent bought a computer that was completely inoperable within the first month; another 10 percent had problems that month but could use the computers. The chart below shows the percentage of computers that ever had a repair to original hardware components.

Our findings have been quite consistent over the years. However, any brand's repair history includes models that have been more or less reliable than others. Histories also can't anticipate design or manufacturing changes. Still, you can better your chance of getting a reliable computer if you choose a brand that has proved reliable in the past.

The magazine included two tables of information, both of which include Apple at the top of the heap. Screen shots of those tables:

You can read the full article at Consumer Reports' Web site.

The Mac Observer Spin:

The best thing is that Consumer Reports has a lot of clout with consumers. This survey should help sell some Macs.

Consumer Reports