Dell and Apple model lines

What's the difference between Dell's Optiplex and Dimension desktop computers?

Dell's Optiplex is a desktop computing series designed for business environments.  Optiplex systems use well-tested, standards-based components that have long product life-cycles.  In short, Optiplex is the somewhat stodgy but very reliable option -- which is why we recommend it strongly for workplace purchases. 

Dell's Dimension series is designed for personal and home office use.   Dimensions are more likely to use new-to-the-market components that have undergone less testing and have shorter product life-cycles.  In short, Dimensions tend to be sexier but less reliable than their Optiplex cousins.

What is the difference between Dell's Latitude and Inspiron laptop computers?

Dell's Latitude is the corporate laptop series, designed for business environments.  They  are built with more robust components, use standards-based solution and have planned technology transitions just like the Optiplex.

Inspiron is Dell's consumer grade laptop.  Similar to the Dimension, it is designed for personal and home office use.   We don't recommend it for workplace purchases.

What are the major differences in Apple's product lines?

It's all good.  Unfortunately, it's all expensive too, relative to comparable performance Windows-based PCs like Dells. Depending on your needs, Apple provides options for portable (Macbooks) and desktop (Imacs) computing. Apple also has the Mac Pro line for workstation needs.