The battle between Windows and Mac is proceeding relentlessly, and always with no unanimously agreed victory. However, there are possibilities that you can approach this almost rhetorical question by narrowing down the context.

The numbers reveal that Windows 10 is much ahead of Apple in terms of popularity or the percent of users. In fact, as per the statistics, Windows appeared to have four times more worldwide users than Apple only two years ago. Apart from what the figures say, there is a constant debate on whether to buy a Mac or Windows PC.

In this article, we will look into some of the most important features and considerations a student would have on a broader scale to get a better idea to help make a decision.

The Interface

The first and obvious difference you would regard is the difference in the interface. Windows 10 has derived the best of its previous versions to provide a sleek and modern user experience.

The highlight here would be that most users would be familiar with the traditional interface, only with a few changes such as the Start Menu and its accompanying graphics. You can also access Cortana directly from the Start Bar, but the appeal of it would depend on how much you would actually use it.

macOS interface, in almost every feature, is vastly different from that of Windows. Those who are used to macOS would not have issues adapting to the latest version Catalina. Apple has not added made any significant changes to its interface. The latest update comes with dark modes for a number of applications and dynamic desktop. The stacks might be a pleasant addition for Mac users; however, similar features have always been there in Windows.

Availability and Compatibility of Softwares

Both Windows and Mac have dedicated platforms working to make every app and software more accessible to the users. However, macOS has free access to its off office suite iWork that comes with Pages, Keynotes, and Numbers. On the other hand, most laptops with Windows do not have an Office Suite pre-installed. Even for the available ones, the license is valid only for a limited time.

It might also be comparatively challenging to find free versions of many software for macOS users worldwide. In the cases where versions are not available for either operating systems, users can always install Windows on Mac or vice versa. Whether it is worth performing is a topic for another day.

Another attractive part of Mac users is the Safari browser, which is supposedly more secure than Chrome. That said, students searching for trustworthy websites to order custom essay will get the same results based on the search engine. Let us discuss more about the security concerns below.

Security

Protection against malware is where Apple gets ahead by a long leap. This has been and still is a problem for Windows, even in the latest versions. While Microsoft consistently releases upgrades, the OS continues to be a target for viruses.

Mac devices are comparatively more secure. While both operating systems are not entirely immune to a cyber attack, Macs come better fortified than Windows. macOS has some built-in features for security.

As a Unix-based system, the chances of a virus spreading are relatively lower. Moreover, Macs also prevent users from downloading or installing apps that are not approved by Apple. Unless you make changes or find loopholes to download, Mac devices seem to be better protected.

Cost and Durability

For the majority of students, the price tag is likely to be the determining factor. With computers, in most cases, the price is directly proportional to the performance. To that degree, however, Windows still offers many affordable options, whereas it is only fair to say that Apple devices are exorbitant.

The durability, once again, would depend on the model. If you already own another Apple device, then the ecosystem is a pretty appealing factor. Many of the Windows devices and Apple comes with a one year warranty included. To extend it further, you will have to renew it or pay extra.

On the Last Note

The bottom line is that it is not a straightforward answer on which OS is best for students. Both are viable options for learners. The answer for which is best suited would depend on the budget, the types of software you require, and ease of use. Many people have personal preferences plainly based on brand loyalty.

Hopefully, the points above will help you make a well-informed decision.