[matt_m]

I imagine it depends where the computer is used - users that mostly use it on a desk where they plug / unplug it but don't move it around a lot while plugged in probably don't have problems. The cords always seem to fail if they are used a lot on a couch / in bed etc, and since the portion of the cord that fails is not easily replaceable there's not much choice but to buy a new one for nearly $100.

A long time ago, before the MagSafe cables, name brand third-party Mac laptop chargers were available that you could use however you want without fraying. I had one from Macallay. The reason why it never had any issues when using it the same way Apple chargers failed was obvious: the cable where it connected to the computer was a lot thicker.

As far as I know, there's no legal third party MagSafe cables, and the knock off ones copy Apple's design anyway and have no advantages. I've learned to just use it on a desk most of the time when plugged in, since it's a nuisance to deal with failing power cables. But for me, that's a pretty big trade off in order to gain a more aesthetically pleasing cord thickness.

I suppose it's debatable what sort of usage counts as 'abuse' or not, but you can be assured that the Apple chargers will fail in the exact same circumstances that other chargers will not. It's probably my single biggest issue with their hardware, especially since they prevent any alternatives from being available.