Re: Too expensive
"If I buy a machine that costs 2 grand - which for me is unlikely as I can't afford to - it had better be upgradable and not considered a disposable item."
But it's easily upgradeable.
Step 1: Make a backup. Step 2: Wipe the machine, then install the latest OS. Step 3: Put it on eBay. Step 4: Use the money towards a new machine.
Instead of upgrading say a five year old laptop, and ending up with a slightly better five year old laptop, you now have a new one.
Or wait three months, and 15" MacBook Pro's will appear as "refurbished" (in reality brand new), at a decent price.