Mac or Windows? Computer fans have wondered for ages which Apple or Microsoft offers the most powerful computers? Too clear-cut an answer would not take into account the complexity of the subject. Because each user has their own unique expectations and needs, particularly in terms of design. At the end of the day, it has to be said that Windows computers like Apple’s are equipped with quite reliable systems and the differences are quite complex. In this post, we take a close look at the differences between Mac and Windows and tell you the pros and cons of each.

Mac or Windows? The price of both systems

Those who are primarily looking for a cheap device usually shy away from Apple products. It must be recognized that the designer of Cupertino is not really comfortable with low prices, so it is rather Microsoft who, along with Windows, provides the cheapest devices on the market. Apple’s cheapest notebook currently costs $ 1,100. And for that price, you won’t get much in the way of gear. If you want to improve your laptop by replacing, for example, the working memory of 8 GB with one of 16, you will have to add $240. For the same price, Windows offers virtually a complete beginner’s device.

Those who defend Apple always advance the argument that at Mac the total costs are justified by the significant offer of training and support so that in the end we find it financially. For companies, the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) aspect is central. Here again, it is complicated to give a clear-cut answer insofar as the costs depend on the behaviour of users and the professional branch concerned. Also, keep in mind that a Windows device equivalent to a Mac can cost you the same price. Microsoft’s Surface line of laptops, for example, is in the same price bracket as Apple’s laptops and some devices are even more expensive. In fact, it’s like everything else: it all depends on what the customer is looking for.

Mac or Windows – Who Offers the Better Design?

The question of design is a top priority at Apple. Ultimately, the California-based company has long adopted a philosophy of placing product form above functionality. It’s not just about aesthetics but also what is generally called usability. It is not enough for devices to have a good external appearance; they must also be pleasant to use. At Apple, the presentation of new prototypes of MacBooks or iPhones is always eagerly awaited and is a real spectacle with jubilant spectators all over the world. The great Jonathan Ive has been the master of design at Apple for many years. He is responsible for both the user interface of the software and the design of the devices.

So, on this point, Microsoft is clearly lagging behind because Windows 10 can hardly compete with Apple’s computers when it comes to usability. Experts are common, with a few exceptions: Even the most high-end PCs from Microsoft cannot claim an elegant and efficient symbiosis between the operating system and the hardware as is the case with a macOS device.

The question of choice for Mac and Windows

Since Apple does not allow other manufacturers to use the macOS operating system, a Mac can only be purchased from Apple. This also means that for customers the choice of products is limited to four desktops and three laptops. Conversely, the Windows user will be able to choose from a wide range of various products from different manufacturers. Whether you are looking for a convertible device (a tablet with a removable keyboard), an Ultrabook, or a gaming computer, there is something for all tastes and all wallets, from $ 300 to $ 3,000.

The software offers for Mac and Windows

At the moment, the market share held by Apple is 10%. And this is the highest number in the last 30 years. Still, this is a much less exciting market for software developers than for Windows products. This is also the case for the choice of software. Windows computer users have significantly more choice when it comes to software than Apple devotees. As applications that can be downloaded from the internet are becoming more and more successful and steadily gaining market share, this criterion is no longer as important as it used to be. For browsers, for example, the operating system of your PC does not play a role.

Windows users navigate an ocean of software, but those who prefer Apple aren’t lost in the wilderness either. Because there is a good alternative to any Windows application. For example, Microsoft Office 2019 Home and Business MAC or Adobe Photoshop Elements 2019 MAC available on professional online stores. It is only for commercial software intended for companies that we are a little short of alternatives. If you use an Apple computer and occasionally need Windows software, the solution is virtualization. With Parallels or Vmware, you will be able to use Windows software inside macOS. An almost unlimited function. If the computer is efficient enough to meet a high level of demand.

Gaming, rather on Windows or Mac?

As Apple computers are not very suitable for video games, gamers who use a Mac often play on game consoles such as the Sony Playstation. And when a game designer decides to release a Mac version, it’s long after the Windows version.

In addition, the faithful of Apple also does not have the option of replacing their Mac graphics card. Knowing that most games require particularly good graphics cards, only the best Mac machines deliver a satisfying gaming experience. But few gamers can afford them. Macs are therefore not made for occasional gaming. If it’s a hobby that occupies an important place in your life, it is better to turn to Windows.

Mac versus Windows: Conclusion

As each user has their preferences, this is not to advise you to purchase a particular operating system. We can, however, summarize our own experiences and ultimately find that Windows computers are cheaper and that users have a wider choice of products, compared to those who have switched to Apple. Not to mention the choice of software. Like for example Corel CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X7 which you will find in the MULTIMEDIA & GRAPHICS section or AVG PC TuneUp which will allow your computer to run faster. Even if Apple’s spirit of innovation still amazes us, Microsoft also manages to surprise us with new products. For gamers, it is better to invest in Microsoft.

If you don’t intend to devote your free time to video games, if you don’t need special software and an exceptional design makes you happy, then better go to Mac! When it comes to protection against viruses and malware, Apple users have an advantage here too. This is due to the low market share represented by Mac products. There are significantly fewer Mac users, which has a direct impact on the interests of malware developers. Microsoft fans are constantly targeted by hackers, while the number of malware intended for Apple remains very limited. In the end, what perhaps matters most is individual taste.

Windows or Mac: Summary of pros and cons

Benefits of Windows:

  • more suitable for gaming
  • a larger choice of software
  • wide variety of products
  • reasonable costs

Advantages of Mac:

  • attractive design

less susceptible to viruses and malware