The revolution of computing began in the 1980s when Apple and Microsoft launched personal computers for the general public. The rivalry between Windows and MAC Operating Systems started immediately, as both offered nearly identical features initially. This rivalry escalated into a marketing war in the mainstream media during the 1990s, with both giants engaging in humorous commercials aimed at each other.
Today, while there isn’t the same level of media war, both companies have successfully established their own brand identities and loyal customer bases, significantly boosting brand awareness. Presently, Windows holds over 70% of the global computer market share, whereas MAC OS holds only about 20%, because of various factors.
Continuous enhancement and evolution with customer satisfaction made both Apple and Microsoft to trillion-dollar company status.
Let’s have a look and find out what is the difference between both systems.
Operating System
The operating system is a set of commands or software through which users can interact with a computer. The software and OS combine to help users perform certain tasks like creating a document, watching a video, or editing an image. There are other OS also available like Linux, Chrome OS, and Ubuntu, but they have a tiny market share of roughly 1%.
The main difference between Windows and MAC is the price tag. Windows systems and operating devices are cheaper as compared to Apple’s Mac Book and Mac Book Air. Whereas many players are using Windows on their devices like HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, and LG are few of them.
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft introduced Windows in 1985 for the first time. The reason behind Window’s dominance in the market is that it was easily accessible and cheap to buy. Windows was available in CDs early on back in the day, and those CDs were cheap and easy to get from the local market even in in 3rd world countries they used this strategy to give easy access to their program to everyone, which eventually created their loyal customer base in huge numbers.
Now Windows offers online software, apps, and updates with monthly and yearly subscriptions. Buying a CD and installing windows is not an option anymore. Here are some advantages of a Windows based system;
Advantages
- Low price
- Easy to use
- Easy customization
- Third-party software installation
- Available in a vast range of PCs and Laptops
- Touchscreen laptops & pads are also available
- Recently added AI-integrated Copilot
Disadvantages
- The biggest disadvantage of a Windows system is Virus threat. It can easily affected by viruses which damage your data.
- Windows eventually gets slow after some time and requires a new installation.
Price
MacBook Air: Starting from $999
MacBook Pro: Starting from $1599
Apple MAC
MAC or Macintosh operating system was launched in January 1984 by the founder of Apple Inc. Steve Jobs. With unique hardware design and outstanding creative graphics, Mac builds its identity as a top-notch product of Apple. MAC systems are considered high-quality products but with a high price tag. It will give users a pleasant experience with integrated apps and software developed by Apple. This also gives it another edge in high performance and speed. Compared to Windows PC MAC never gets slowed down or infected with any viruses, and users often work with the same system for decades without any major issues.
Advantages
- Unique and outstanding user experience
- Better speed and performance
- Siri for assistance
- Built in video editing program iMovies and music studio Apple Music
- Easy connectivity among other Apple devices
- Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality products
- Virus-free
- Security and Data protection
Disadvantages
- High price tag
- Not easy integration with non-Apple devices
Price:
HP Spectre: Starting from $1149
Dell Latitude: Starting from $1049
Lenovo Think Pad: Starting from $849
Final Conclusion
There is no doubt that Apple’s MAC offers more quality and great user experience over Microsoft’s Windows but I prefer Windows over MAC because of the simple obvious reason of economic value. It is not feasible to buy an expensive system for day-to-day needs or even for professional use. You can buy a cheap PC and do wonders with it. It is therefore, recommended to go with Windows, make a living out of it, and then you can buy whatever you want.