Windows vs macOS
The operating system that powers half the world's PCs, whether you love its compatibility or hate its updates 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.
Windows
The operating system that powers half the world's PCs, whether you love its compatibility or hate its updates.
Windows
Nice PickThe operating system that powers half the world's PCs, whether you love its compatibility or hate its updates.
Pros
- +Massive software and hardware compatibility with broad driver support
- +Integrated development tools like WSL for Linux environments and Visual Studio
- +Active Directory and enterprise management features for large-scale deployments
- +DirectX and gaming ecosystem that dominates the PC market
Cons
- -Forced updates that can break workflows and require frequent reboots
- -Bloatware and telemetry by default, requiring tweaks for privacy and performance
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 Windows if: You want massive software and hardware compatibility with broad driver support and can live with forced updates that can break workflows and require frequent reboots.
Use macOS if: You prioritize seamless integration with apple hardware and ecosystem (e.g., handoff, continuity) over what Windows offers.
The operating system that powers half the world's PCs, whether you love its compatibility or hate its updates.
Disagree with our pick? nice@nicepick.dev