Linux vs macOS
The free, open-source Swiss Army knife that runs the world, but good luck figuring out which distro to pick meets the unix-based os that makes you feel like a pro until you realize you're just paying the apple tax. Here's our take.
Linux
The free, open-source Swiss Army knife that runs the world, but good luck figuring out which distro to pick.
Linux
Nice PickThe free, open-source Swiss Army knife that runs the world, but good luck figuring out which distro to pick.
Pros
- +Open source
- +Stable
- +Highly customizable
- +Free and open-source with massive community support
- +Runs on everything from servers to toasters
- +Highly customizable and secure by design
Cons
- -Steep learning curve
- -Hardware compatibility issues
- -Distro fragmentation leads to endless debates and confusion
- -Driver support can be a wild goose chase
macOS
The Unix-based OS that makes you feel like a pro until you realize you're just paying the Apple tax.
Pros
- +Seamless integration with Apple hardware and ecosystem (e.g., Handoff, Continuity)
- +Unix foundation with a polished GUI, great for developers who want both terminal power and user-friendliness
- +Robust security features like Gatekeeper and System Integrity Protection (SIP) out of the box
- +Excellent built-in tools like Xcode for iOS/macOS development and native support for popular languages
Cons
- -Limited hardware customization and upgrade options—you're locked into Apple's walled garden
- -Can be pricey compared to alternatives, with frequent major updates that sometimes break compatibility
The Verdict
Use Linux if: You want open source and can live with steep learning curve.
Use macOS if: You prioritize seamless integration with apple hardware and ecosystem (e.g., handoff, continuity) over what Linux offers.
The free, open-source Swiss Army knife that runs the world, but good luck figuring out which distro to pick.
Disagree with our pick? nice@nicepick.dev