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Ubuntu vs macOS

The Linux distro that's so user-friendly even your non-techy friends might actually use it 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.

🧊Nice Pick

Ubuntu

The Linux distro that's so user-friendly even your non-techy friends might actually use it.

Ubuntu

Nice Pick

The Linux distro that's so user-friendly even your non-techy friends might actually use it.

Pros

  • +Massive community support and extensive documentation
  • +Regular LTS releases with long-term stability and security updates
  • +Pre-configured with essential tools and a polished desktop environment
  • +Excellent hardware compatibility and driver support out-of-the-box

Cons

  • -Can feel bloated with pre-installed apps you'll never use
  • -Snap packages are controversial for performance and integration issues

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 Ubuntu if: You want massive community support and extensive documentation and can live with can feel bloated with pre-installed apps you'll never use.

Use macOS if: You prioritize seamless integration with apple hardware and ecosystem (e.g., handoff, continuity) over what Ubuntu offers.

🧊
The Bottom Line
Ubuntu wins

The Linux distro that's so user-friendly even your non-techy friends might actually use it.

Disagree with our pick? nice@nicepick.dev