macOS and Windows have built a sizeable user base over the past couple of decades, with several of the users from each side passionately defending their respective platforms with ferocity and determination. As such, there has been a raging debate between computer users worldwide as to which platform is better, Mac or Windows, Apple or Microsoft? So, we decided to breakdown the differences between the two. While also giving a helping hand to those who may be struggling to figure out what to buy.

In recent years, when it comes to hardware, the two have actually started to slowly converge. As each of them continues to update themselves with all the latest advances and innovations in the tech industry. However, an important distinction between the two, lies in that Apple prefers to assemble and market their hardware directly to users. Meanwhile, Microsoft licenses its OS to other third-party hardware manufacturers uch as HP or Dell.

This means Apple has a much wider and tighter control over the design of their hardware. This ensures that its high-quality standards continue to be maintained. Moreover, Apple continues to be able to retain control of how their software is developed and applied to operational environments. However, the drawback to all this is that everything Apple makes ends up being so expensive. On the other hand, when it comes to Microsoft users, they are provided with a wide level of configurations and hardware setups. This then makes Windows the perfect and most adaptable software for tasks like gaming. However, there is no doubt that once you login to both systems, the differences between the two become even more evident.

iOS vs Windows

As mentioned before besides hardware, the most distinguishing feature between the two platforms is their interface. Apple’s OS is seen as the more simple, and seamless software. Meanwhile, Windows is the more complex and more expansive platform. It is also the one that boasts a wider array of features and customizations. Both Apple and Windows have done their best to make each of their respective software to be more accessible. However, the fact is that there is no denying there are some notable yet similar differences that each cannot deny.

Design: In terms of design, this differs between the two significantly. As while the Apple OS utilises soft edges and more consistent interface across all applications, Windows is much rougher, with an interface that is easily adjustable between programs and applications.

Layout: When it comes to layout, macOS utilizes the Dock allowing users to quickly access shortcuts and programs, which is permanently placed at the bottom of the main screen. On the other hand, Windows utilizes a Startup Menu.

Hard Drive: Users can usually navigate the hard drive in Windows through their file explorer. Meanwhile, macOS utilises a more complex version called the Finder window. Through here you can browse all the files, documents and applications in your internal hard drive, and also control external devices such as a USB A Hub, for instance. For those unfamiliar with this device, it is a popular mac accessory that it extends the limits of your computer setup and offers you an extra number of ports to which you can connect or charge more external devices. In other words, it is essentially a convenient universal connector.

Mobile Integration: macOS unlike Windows, has a unique tie-in with iOS devices through Sidecar, iMessage and AirDrop systems.

Voice Assistant: While macOS has Siri, Windows software utilises Cortana, which is a slightly older voice assistant and comes with more extended features.

In short, even after summarising some of the main differences between the two softwares, it often comes down to personal preference. However, it can be objectively said that macOS offers up a much more accessible and smoother interface, especially for those users with pretty basic requirements and needs.

Security Features

There is no question that Windows often suffers from more issues with malware and viruses. At least in comparison to macOS. This is primarily because of the system vulnerabilities but also due to the extensive number of users, who end up making it the more enticing interface to attack. Of late, both operating systems have taken extreme measures to better regulate any compromised activity from occurring and keep their users more secure. However, many technical experts still recommend the use of anti-virus software. They also encourage the making of frequent backups in external storage devices to better protect your data from being damaged or compromised. If you do not have an external storage drive, we recommend you purchase one soon and also add an SD Card Reader as well. This Mac accessory will be useful in reading data from any SD Cards you may have that contain important video or audio files that you want to keep safe.

In summary, when it comes to security, Apple is seen as the safer choice. This is mostly because of their full control and regulation over their hardware and software. This also means that they can better improve their system with frequent security updates, keeping you better secure and protected from any unauthorized external access.

Conclusion

Despite the many differences between Mac and PC, if there is one thing that you should keep in mind it’s that none of them are 100% secure from malicious attacks. However, one significant advantage that macOS has over Windows is that it is much better designed to fight and resistant them. In short, aside from security, each of the factors we have mentioned are up to you to consider wisely. It will all depend on what you need the computer for and what your personal preferences are. For example, if you need one for gaming then the PC is the best bet. However, if you need something more seamless and robust, then the Mac is the best option for daily tasks.