Apple had managed to surprise market researchers during the past several months, as the Cupertino-based company had reported very good sales figures. Moreover, Apple sales had been going better than the sales of Windows-powered computers.

However, In January the trend changed, as Apple reported a six percent overall decrease in its sales. What is interesting, though, is that Apple’s worse sales figures came along with Windows PCs manufacturers stating that they recorded an increase in terms of units sold. Nevertheless, due to the prevalence of low-end PCs on the market, OEMs didn’t report increased revenues.

Having Apple recording a decrease in sales made many analysts wonder whether the company’s potential customers decided to switch to Windows. This might be true, as Windows PCs that have the same specs of an iMac or a MacBook are often significantly cheaper.

Even so, Stephen Baker, a market researcher at NPD, pointed out that Apple customers rarely make the switch to Windows. He added that an Apple fan would rather wait for the economic situation to improve or for Apple to update its products, rather than going down and buy a low-end PC. Hence, he stated that he doubts that the increased number of PCs sold this month was caused by an infusion of former Apple customers.

The economic downturn has already made some changes in Apple’s policy, as the company is offering a $999 previous-gen MacBook with improved specs, close to the ones of the unibody MacBook. However, Baker said that a $999 price tag still isn't enough for people to switch to a Mac, adding that Apple will sell more if it lowers the price of the MacBook to around $800.