A new reliability ranking published today by support firm RESCUECOM cites Apple and Panasonic as the most reliable computer brands. Basing the figures on the number of help calls relative to each company's approximate market share, the company gives Apple a clear lead with a score of 700 for having the fewest number of calls between January and October. Panasonic scored significantly less at 489 but is still considered a standout as its ToughBooks have gained in market share but haven't triggered a proportionate increase in requests for help.

Historically reliable Lenovo scored 393 while Toshiba and HP have also made surprise inroads to make relatively new appearances on the chart at fourth place (299) and fifth place (184) respectively. Dell has been knocked out of fifth place as a result and hasn't had its score published.

Smaller brands aren't listed, RESCUECOM claims, but are typically ranked lower. PCs made by brand-independent shops, also known as "white box" PCs, also tend to score lower.

Such reports often provide general indicators of PC performance but are potentially affected by the likelihood of computer buyers to use particular support resources; Apple in particular is helped by its retail network, which lets users obtain support in person rather than turn to third-party firms for help.