In this article, we are covering Windows vs macOS, and will tell you which one is better on which front, so you can make an informed decision on which to use.
For decades, the Windows vs. macOS argument has raged. In general, both operating systems provide comparable capabilities. However, there are enough variances to sway people in one direction or the other. It all boils down to your priorities. Do you prefer an easy-to-use operating system or one with more flexibility? Is safety a top priority? How about compatibility with other systems? All of these considerations are crucial in determining whether Windows or macOS is better for you.
Windows vs macOS: Which one is better in 2022?
The next sections will go through the key features of Windows 11 and macOS Ventura, the two most recent editions of these giant operating systems. Our objective is to present an overview of everything Windows and macOS have to offer so you can decide which OS is best for you. You won’t find validation for your selected operating system here. With that stated, let’s have a look at how Windows and macOS compare.
Windows vs macOS: The hardware
macOS is only available on Apple machines. That implies it’ll only work on MacBook, iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Pro models. Windows, on the other hand, operates on anything from powerful workstations to the tiny Raspberry Pi. If it can or does compute, it most likely runs or can run Windows. According to StatCounter, 74% of PCs worldwide will be running Windows by April 2022. (opens in new tab). This much outnumbers macOS, which accounts for 15%, with Linux, ChromeOS, and “unknown” accounting for the remaining 10%. As a result, Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems on the globe.
Windows-based computers are also more customizable than Apple-based computers. You can replace the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage on a PC considerably more easily than you can on an Apple device – if you can configure said Apple product at all. Because Windows works on many devices, you may choose a PC that fits your budget. While Apple normally produces high-quality gear, the company’s prices might be prohibitively expensive for some customers. In comparison, you can obtain one of the greatest budget laptops, such as the Microsoft Surface Go 2, for less than $500.
Having said that, selecting a computer from among the finest Windows laptops might be difficult. Even computers with comparable or equal specifications may operate differently due to vendor differences. Apple, on the other hand, manufactures its own hardware and software, making it easier to choose the machine you require.
Windows vs macOS: First-party apps
Both Windows and macOS have a profusion of first-party applications and tools. Both have the essentials, such as a web browser, file explorer, calendar, voice recorder, video editor, widgets, cloud-based storage, and more. Similar office tools have various names on Windows and macOS. In addition to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Apple’s iWork package includes Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. Given their similarities, it’s difficult to conclude which operating system provides superior office capabilities. Because there are more Windows PCs around the globe, Microsoft Office is more frequently utilized. iWork, on the other hand, is fully free, unlike Microsoft Office.
Windows vs macOS: Third-party apps
Third-party programs may be downloaded through the web or the platforms’ own app shops on both Windows and macOS. While the Mac App Store is more important in terms of apps than the Microsoft Store, both operating systems offer a wide range of programs and can download and execute them directly from the web. This is a big selling feature for a laptop or desktop PC: the ability to download files and applications directly to your device rather than being confined to what’s available in an app store.
However, the software accessible on Windows is often more diversified than on Mac. This is especially true for PC games, which are often created for Windows PCs and only offer native Mac versions on occasion. While any product that works on Windows can be made to operate on macOS by emulating a Windows environment on your Mac with software such as Parallels, this takes some effort. In general, it’s a good idea to consider what sorts of software you need to use on a regular basis, and then check to see if that program is accessible on Windows, Mac, or both.
Windows vs macOS: Security features
Because of the open nature of Windows, computers running the operating system have been inundated with viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other sorts of malicious software. Because Windows is so widely used, it’s not surprising that it has to deal with so much malware. In recent years, Microsoft has done an admirable job of issuing security patches. However, because of the sheer quantity of Windows users, the operating system will be subjected to a higher number of assaults.
Because of the company’s regulations and the lesser number of workstations running Apple’s operating system, macOS is more secure than Windows. Fewer PCs mean fewer individuals developing malware for the operating system. However, as previously stated, this does not render macOS immune to malware. On Macs, you should still install antivirus software.
Windows vs macOS: Compatibility
No firm can compete with Apple’s ecosystem in terms of interoperability and device integration. Because Apple produces its own hardware and software, it is able to make gadgets such as the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, AirPods, and HomePod function nicely together.
If you receive a text message on your iPhone, you may reply to it on your iPad or MacBook. You may also exchange photographs and data between Apple devices using services like iCloud and AirDrop. When in close vicinity, the Apple Watch can unlock a Mac or iPhone, and capabilities like Stage Manager allow you to share work across Macs and iPads. You can even utilize your iPhone as a webcam with the improved Continuity Camera.
Because Windows PCs and gadgets that support Windows are made by separate firms, the platform lacks the same level of compatibility as the Apple ecosystem. While you can’t communicate data between devices as easily as you can with Apple goods, some connectivity does exist on Windows. Apps such as Microsoft Launch and Phone Link are compatible with the finest Android phones. You can exchange files, web pages, and even SMS messages between devices, just like you do with an iPhone or a Mac. This isn’t as comprehensive or user-friendly as Apple’s lauded ecosystem, but it’s something.
Windows vs macOS: Update frequency
Windows receives significantly more updates, particularly security patches, than macOS. While Microsoft often publishes security updates, it might be inconvenient to upgrade Windows numerous times each month (as is sometimes the case). Although updates assist to improve Windows security, they can often cause problems. As previously said, there are several machines that can run Windows. As a result, certain upgrades may create unexpected issues. Attempting to resolve these issues may result in further difficulties that need additional updates.
Although macOS updates do not always function as intended, they have a better track record than Windows updates. Apple can take its time fine-tuning upgrades since it doesn’t release many of them. And since the corporation is delivering upgrades for machines it makes, it can better assure updates won’t create many (or any) problems.
Both firms now deliver one major scheduled upgrade each year that introduces important new functionality. Microsoft used to issue big upgrades more regularly, but now follows Apple’s lead and distributes them once a year. The release version of macOS Ventura for Macs is scheduled in Fall 2022, as is the next major Windows 11 upgrade.
Windows vs macOS: User experience and ease of use
Apple built macOS to be user-friendly for the majority of users. The company’s phrase “it just works” exists for a purpose. This isn’t limited to macOS. All of Apple’s operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, and WatchOS, are designed with the user experience in mind. If you’ve never used a computer before, macOS will probably be easier to learn.
On the surface, Windows – particularly Windows 11 – does not appear to be unduly difficult. When compared to macOS, there is a deeper depth of menus and options. This might make troubleshooting difficult, but it also means that each problem has several solutions. Windows isn’t as beautiful as macOS, especially when you dive deep and find archaic windows and apps, but it offers more versatility than Apple.
Some people dislike the Windows taskbar and the macOS Dock. Clicking an app’s icon in the Dock does not launch a window on macOS. Instead, the app’s menu will appear in the Menu Bar at the top of the screen. This might be perplexing for Windows users who are accustomed to viewing Menu options within the window of an app or application. The taskbar in Windows provides extra choices. Hovering the mouse cursor over a taskbar button, for example, displays a miniature representation of the application window.
Windows vs macOS: Gaming
This isn’t even a competition. Macs will not suffice if you want to perform heavy gaming on your PC. While macOS offers Apple Arcade and its own version of Steam, the offerings pale in contrast to what’s available on Windows. When you consider hardware customization, which allows users to change components like as graphics cards and CPUs, there’s little doubt that PC gaming is superior.
The Xbox software for Windows allows you to play games purchased from the Microsoft and Xbox shops. Microsoft’s gaming subscription program, Xbox Game Pass, includes hundreds of downloaded and streaming games from Microsoft’s own first-party studios as well as third-party publishers. PC users may also access strong libraries through game launchers such as Steam and GOG. On PC, the emulation sector is also thriving.
Though Apple lags in gaming, the corporation is attempting to make its platform more appealing to gamers. The Apple M2 processor, macOS Ventura, and the Metal 3 API may soon change everything. With this, Apple intends to improve game graphics and take use of Apple’s graphical capabilities. Given the high-profile titles such as Resident Evil Village and No Man’s Sky that are coming for Macs later this year, it appears that Apple is finally delivering high-end gaming experiences. However, outside of specialized home video game consoles, Windows PC is now the greatest gaming platform.
Conclusion
Because tools like Final Cut Pro are more widely used in creative professions, Apple machines are ideal for professional video and audio editors. Macs equipped with the powerful Apple M1 and Apple M2 CPUs compete with specialized workstations. Many IT companies covet Apple’s device and service interoperability, and the platform’s security is virtually unequaled. It is also the most user-friendly operating system for first-time PC users due to its simple interface.
If you value high-end PC gaming, Windows is the only viable option due to the platform’s widespread backing from game developers and publishers. Windows’ higher adoption rate and cheaper hardware alternatives make it perfect for most individuals, even if the operating system can be unintuitive at times and is vulnerable to the bulk of malware assaults. Windows, while arguably not as user-friendly as macOS, strikes a fair mix between simplicity and sophistication.
To avoid disappointing you, dear reader, we will refrain from announcing a clear winner. Both Windows and macOS have advantages and disadvantages. Microsoft’s operating system provides more flexibility in terms of software and hardware customization, and it is available for more devices. While Apple’s hardware isn’t as durable or economical as Windows PCs, you’ll receive a more finely tuned experience that’s designed with simplicity of use in mind. What it all comes down to is the personal needs and preferences of the user.
We hope that you enjoyed this article on Windows vs macOS. If you did, we are sure that you will also like to check out some of our other articles, such as Zoom Mac vulnerability allows hackers to gain remote access, or best internet browsers for Windows 11.
