When it comes to the battle between operating systems, most of us immediately think of iOS and Android. However, those are just mobile operating systems, but we get it – the world is all mobile now and nobody really considers operating systems in the context of laptops and desktops, even though most of us use them at some capacity.
Anyway, long before Apple’s iOS started going toe to toe with Android, Apple’s Macintosh OS was busy feuding it out with none other than Microsoft’s Windows. The battle is typically referred to as Mac vs. PC instead of Mac vs. Windows because Windows can be installed on any PC while Mac is exclusively by and for Apple.
Anyway, which one should you buy? Well, that’s what we are here to find out. So, let’s begin.
Design
Apple’s Mac lineup has always been appreciated for design. They are minimalistic, understated and perfect in every way. Compare a Mac to any run of the mill PC and the Mac ends up looking like a work of art. However, things are definitely changing now.
Apple’s still sticking to the minimalist approach and that’s not necessarily a good thing. There’s a point when even the best things start to lose their appeal if there’s no change. The closest Apple has come to introducing change is offering the new MacBook in Rose Gold and Gold paint schemes. However, we don’t think it’s enough, especially when PCs are at your heels.
In fact, PC designs have undergone some tremendous changes in the past. Manufacturers are moving away from just practicality and focusing their attention on aesthetics as well. Plus, with touchscreen tech and what not, it’s only a matter of time before PC manufacturers catch up with Apple in the design department.
Just take a look at the HP Spectre 13 or the Surface Pro 4 from Microsoft and you’ll know what we’re talking about.
Pricing
Let’s face it – PCs are cheaper. What you can get on a Mac, you can get on a PC for cheaper. The average Mac product will set you back by $1000 while PCs vary from a few hundred to a thousand depending on what specifications you’re looking for.
In general, it would be hard to compare prices between the two. However, if you were to load up an average PC with the same hardware on a basic Mac, you’d find that the PC would be cheaper. That brings us to the next point of comparison.
Software
Mac systems run on the MacOS and this is a superior operating system at the end of the day. It’s optimized to provide only what the user wants and needs. So, there’s no bloatware or trial software taking up precious space, which is the case with Windows-based PCs. Another aspect of the MacOS’s optimization is that it offers top-notch performance. You actually don’t require serious hardware to enjoy some speed and efficiency. However, if you want the same performance from a PC, you’ll need to invest in high-end hardware, which means you’ll have to spend almost the same as you would on a stock Mac.
Gaming
Windows/PC wins this hands-down. There’s not really much that Mac has to offer in terms of gaming. Apart from boasting an infinite number of titles, Windows systems can also stream games from PS4 and X-Box One now. So, gaming is one area that PC/Windows continues to dominate.
Customization
PCs can easily be customized according to your needs. In fact, you can build one in your home from the ground up. But, with a Mac, that’s next to impossible. Macs, on the other hand, are, as we said earlier, optimized, which means the hardware and the software are programmed to work in absolute harmony. It would take some serious effort and knowledge to customize a Mac at home. Plus, it would be a huge risk.
Verdict
There really is no clear winner here. At the end of the day, it all boils down to what you need. If it’s gaming, affordability, practicality, and versatility you’re looking for, PC/Windows is your best bet. However, if you want performance, quality, and style, Mac is your best bet.
