macOS vs iOS Development

The Unix-based OS that makes you feel like a pro until you realize you're just paying the Apple tax meets apple's walled garden: where you build beautiful apps, but only if you play by their rules. Here's our take.

macOS

Nice Pick

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

iOS Development

Apple's walled garden: where you build beautiful apps, but only if you play by their rules.

Pros

• Access to a high-spending user base
• Swift and SwiftUI make modern development fast and safe
• Tight integration with Apple hardware and services
• Strong app review process ensures quality and security

Cons

• Requires a Mac and annual developer fee
• App Store approval can be slow and unpredictable
• Limited customization compared to open platforms

The Verdict

Use macOS if: You want seamless integration with apple hardware and ecosystem (e.g., handoff, continuity) and can live with limited hardware customization and upgrade options—you're locked into apple's walled garden.

Use iOS Development if: You prioritize access to a high-spending user base over what macOS offers.

The Bottom Line

macOS wins

The Unix-based OS that makes you feel like a pro until you realize you're just paying the Apple tax.