If you are thinking about buying a new computer and have doubts about whether to choose a Windows or a Mac, you are in the right space.
Before you take the next step, it is essential that you know what the advantages and disadvantages that each operating system offers. This decision should not be based purely on the brands, but rather on which of the two models would best adapt to what you really need today.
Whether you want it to be able to study, work, play online games or any other activity, each option has very particular characteristics that could make a difference. We help you choose in this buying guide.
Windows computer vs. Mac
This comparison will help you determine what kind of computer is best for you, taking into account factors such as hardware, software, performance, interface, even considering the budget you have, since it is a relevant aspect in any purchasing decision.
Hardware
One of the strongest points that Windows computers have is their wide variety of hardware. There are many manufacturers that market them, which will allow you to choose between options that range from the cheapest to high-end configurations so that you can carry out specific tasks such as gaming or even professional editing.
On the other hand, you will find a much smaller catalog of Mac computers, since they are only manufactured by Apple. The good thing is that Mac controls both the hardware and the software, ensuring seamless integration. You will be able to enjoy highly optimized performance, although the possibility of customization is limited and increases the price.
In this sense, if you need variety and options that can fit different budgets, Windows would be the most flexible option. However, if you prefer optimized performance with a premium design, Mac is the most suitable alternative.
Software
In addition to the differences in terms of operating system (Windows or MacOS), the catalog of applications and programs is usually larger in the former, although the distances in this sense are increasingly reduced and there are Mac versions of the main programs of the market, such as Office for Mac.
Windows usually offers the greatest variety of applications and programs, both in games and professional software, while Mac has exclusive programs for professional tasks, such as Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro. In addition, it hosts its own ecosystem of applications which works in a very solid shape.
Performance and interface
In terms of performance, a Windows computer will offer you a good experience depending on the hardware you choose. You will find options on the market that are very fast and powerful, but there are also devices that are usually cheaper with limited performance but that may be enough for what you need: writing and browsing the internet and little else. In addition, its interface is very intuitive and flexible.
Optimization between hardware and software at Apple allows Mac computers to offer very agile performance. In addition, MacOS is characterized by its simplicity and offering a fairly clean design. The user experience is fluid and very consistent for those who already use Apple devices such as the iPhone or iPad.
Apps and games system
Both systems have their own application stores, from which you can download all kinds of apps and also games. When it comes to integrating into the mobile ecosystem, Windows works perfectly synchronizing Android and iOS phones, although it cannot match the integration that the Mac offers with Apple brand devices.
The integration between MacOS and iOS devices is almost perfect, since it even gives you the option to share your files, messages and other types of content between iPhone, iPad and Mac in a quick and quite simple way.
As for games, most titles are usually available for Windows, which even allows you to build computers exclusively for gaming. At Apple, the models are what they are and, although it has improved its game offering, it is still a little more limited when compared to the Windows platform.
In this sense, if you work as a gamer, a Windows computer would be the most recommended.
Security
Windows tends to be much more vulnerable to viruses and malware, although it has improved in terms of security in recent years, it is still necessary to use an antivirus to guarantee the health of the operating system and the computer.
For its part, MacOS, because it has a structure which is based on Unix, is usually more secure and less vulnerable to attacks than its competitor. Of course, it is not immune, but it is less likely to suffer from security problems.
Prices
The price factor is a very important point and there are big differences. Windows computers have a very notable advantage, since there are many manufacturers and alternatives, you can find very affordable computers depending on the needs you have.
You can even build, if required, your own PC practically as if it were a custom-made suit, which in certain cases can be more economical.
Apple, however, focuses primarily on the high-end, and its prices are higher. It also has fewer models and configurations, although you can customize the storage or memory of your Mac. Despite this, its durability and longevity considerably justify the long-term investment you could make.
Conclusion
Choosing between a computer with a Windows or Mac operating system will largely depend on what your needs and priorities really are.
For example, if you are interested in the variety of hardware, gaming, or do not have as much budget available, a Windows computer may be the most flexible and accessible option.
On the other hand, if what you need right now is to enjoy a more fluid experience, stability, security and integration with other devices, a Mac would be the most advisable, knowing that it represents a good investment for the long term.