Technology

Which operating system is better: Windows or macOS?

WRITTEN BY
07/22/21
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Fact Box

  • An operating system is the “primary software that manages all the hardware and other software on a computer. The operating system, also known as an ‘OS,’ interfaces with the computer’s hardware and provides services that applications can use.”
  • The name mac refers to Apple’s Macintosh computer, named after project creator Jef Raskin’s favorite apple variety, the McIntosh. However, an audio equipment company already existed under that name, so Apple decided to slightly amend the spelling to avoid trademark conflicts. 
  • The first version of Windows was introduced in 1985, and “for the first time allowed DOS users to visually navigate a virtual desktop, opening graphical ‘windows’ displaying the contents of electronic folders and files with the click of a mouse button, rather than typing commands and directory paths at a text prompt.”
  • Statista reports that as of July 2021, Windows OS has a desktop PC market share of about 72%, while macOS accounts for about 15%.

Luna (macOS)

From compatibility and integration to security and customization, macOS has several clear advantages when compared to Microsoft Windows. It is easier to install and provides faster, automatic updates, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals. macOS is also integration-friendly, letting you easily sync data across devices. Through the macOS notifications panel, you can send messages to any nearby Apple device. Anyone can start working on one device, take a break and continue on another. The data is safely stored in the cloud. You can transfer photos, videos and nearly any type of media through Airdrop. All this data is also accessible through wearable Apple tech like smartwatches.

Many people assume macOS is extremely expensive and opt for Windows to save money. But if you compare all the features, the price is nearly similar. Apple products may have a higher price tag, but they also last longer, reducing overall repairing and maintenance charges in the future. Additionally, Windows requires separate purchases to own and operate office software like Word or excel. Therefore, students and small-budget families prefer macOS as it comes with a large number of free applications. These cover most of the essential functions, including video editing (iMovie), Keynote (presentations), Pages (documents), and more.

Security is another important issue where macOS easily trumps Windows. Macs use a closed ecosystem, making it more trustworthy, secure, and accessible than Windows. 'Apple devices protect not only the device and its data, but the entire ecosystem, including everything users do locally, on networks and with key internet services,' their statement reads.

 

Owen (Windows)

When it comes to operating systems, there are two major players: Windows and macOS. And while a cult-like following can be attributed to macOS, Windows is actually far better. For starters, Windows offers more freedom within its user interface. For example, PC Magazine mentions both the desktop and window management of the Windows operating system and explains why it is superior to that of Apple's. When looking at the window management in Windows, the ease and speed at which a user can arrange a window are noticeably better than anything macOS has to offer. Snapping windows to the left, right, top, or bottom portions of the screen is as easy as clicking and dragging. These seemingly obvious details are not present in macOS, and if/when they do appear, it is Apple simply copying what the competition has done better.

Ease of use aside, Windows also boasts a more flexible array of software. CNN's Michael Andronico talks about the customizability of owning a Windows device, which comes in various forms, including both normal computers and hybrid laptop-tablets. In the computers from the two operating systems, the Windows computers also have much more freedom and customizability in terms of hardware selection. While its true macOS offers some great hardware, it's very expensive and overall not configurable or customizable to the user's wants and needs. However, Windows allows users to interchange things like CPU, graphics cards, storage, RAM, VRAM, and more. And at a lower price than Apple's fixed hardware, it’s an easy choice. Overall and in the end, both options are great. But Windows takes home the gold.

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