The latest figures from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) show that customer happiness among computer owners has risen significantly since last year.
Predictably, Apple was far and away the highest scorer, rising two per cent to 86. This was the highest that the company has ever achieved and puts it a full nine points clear of its nearest rival. In addition, it marks the seventh consecutive year that Apple has led PC manufacturers in this survey, which analysts put down to the extreme loyalty of the brand's fans.
However, the Cupertino-based company wasn't the only winner. Satisfaction in the PC market as a whole rose by four percent to an industry peak of 78, with the vast majority of brands seeing increased scores. Dell, HP and Acer all gained between three and four per cent to achieve scores of 77 each, with the aggregate data for smaller brands - including Toshiba, Lenovo and Sony - also reaching 77. Compaq brought up the rear with a still respectable 74, though failed to gain any ground compared to last year.
The gains seen by Windows-based machines were largely attributed to the success of Windows 7, which the analysts believe has done much to dispel the negative impressions associated with Vista. However, lower prices, better service and smaller form-factors also contributed to the improved customer satisfaction.
The ACSI index is measured on a 100 point scale that considers customer service, pricing and reliability.
