Apple and Windows: A Guide to The Differences

By: Tony A.

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I feel like I am one of the few people who can’t keep pace with all the techno developments in the computer world. Whenever I am just getting used to my Windows computer it seems like it starts to go wrong and I have to fix or replace it. Bewildered, I have often wondered what the differences between the Apple Mac and normal Windows PCs are, and whether I should make a change. So, I was very pleased to see this simple guide that breaks down what each is good at, helping me decide which best suits my needs.

First follows a brief list of the advantages of the two computer types, then a more detailed look at 7 ways Windows and Apple based desktops differ.

Why Should You Purchase a Windows-run PC?
• Good low prices
• Vast software compatibility
• Flexibility when it comes to customizing your computer

Why Should You Purchase an Apple Mac?
• Ease of use
• Reliable security
• If you like to create websites, videos, etc.
• Superior customer service

1. Operating System
An operating system, or OS, manages computer hardware and software resources. Being the most important programs on a computer, it provides common services for various other computer programs. It helps recognize keyboard and mouse input, sending it to the monitor, keeps track of files and disk directories, and controls peripheral devices like disk drives, printers, and USB connected phones and MP3 players. Most PCs are managed by one of Windows’ OSs: Windows 7, 8 and 10 are the most important. Apple desktop computers are usually run by OS X (pronounced ten).

Differences
Both are excellent operating systems and offer tremendous performance. However, you may find that Macs have much faster processors than Windows. They are, however, a little short on RAM, hard disk space and USB ports, where Windows machines usually offer a lot. So if you want a quick smooth running system, the Apple is superior. But if you are concerned more with memory power, Windows offers you the most.

2. Software
A computer is built with hardware; the physical material you can see. The internal part of the computer that makes encoded information and instructions is the software. Software is a type of computer program.

Differences
Windows dominates in this area and has done so for years, being more well known for a longer period of time and having a greater market share. Developers, therefore, make Windows compatibility their priority, and so, it offers more choice. This is particularly true for the growing number of people of all ages who play video games on their computers. On the other hand, Apple is usually considered better for creative types, who wish to run their own websites, make videos or anything of that kind. Overall, though, there is no great difference, and now you can even use Microsoft Office on Mac.

3. Security
A computer virus is known as malware, which like a biological virus, replicates by reproducing itself in order to move from one host computer to another, usually online. Viruses are man-made malware which are created in order to steal sensitive information from victims, to spread political messages, or to find fault with prominent software.

Differences
The flip side of Windows’ huge recognizability is its greater vulnerability to Trojan viruses. Windows is the bigger target for criminals and it is principally for this reason that, relatively speaking, the Mac is considered much safer. So, if security is your primary concern, Apple should offer you peace of mind.

4. Repairs
Every now and then, something goes wrong with a computer that you just can’t figure out. At this point, you will take your computer to a professional for repairing, which unfortunately can be costly.

Differences
In total there are only 18 types of Macs. Whereas Windows is just an operating system and not a PC manufacturer, there are many different PC machines. If you have a problem with your Mac you know exactly who to deal with, and they have a great understanding of their products. The PC world, on the other hand, is too vast for most of us to entirely come to grips with. Again if you have been burned by PC failures in the past you might prefer to use a Mac, since they offer excellent customer care, too.

5. Customization Versus Usability
There are at least two types of computer users, who neatly fall into a key distinction between Windows and Apple. Some like to use a computer as if it were an advanced television, that you can more or less take from the box, turn on and start using. Others want to customize their computer, optimizing it so it can perform most efficiently the user’s preferred tasks.

Differences
Apple Macs are famously user-friendly, with customers being delighted that they are so simple to set up and start enjoying. PCs, on the other hand, offer a huge range of different experiences, since there are so many different models. However, if you prefer to customize your computer to suit your personal needs, there is no denying the astonishing versatility of Windows-based computers.

6. Price
People spend varying amounts of money on their computers. Unless money is no object to you, you'll need to try and balance what you can spend versus what you actually want from a computer.

Differences
Macs are notably expensive since Apple put a premium on high quality. They will set you back over $1000, whereas Windows PCs can be bought at every price level. Most people who purchase expensive desktops go for a Mac (+80%), most people on a budget choose Windows-based PCs, which is why the Windows market is vast. So, if you want a high-quality product, the market suggests you would be better off investing in an Apple Mac, but if you are on a budget, Windows offers terrific value for money. These days even the lowest priced computers perform the most common jobs very well. So if you just want to browse the web, then there is no need to spend too much money.

7. Machine Life
In days gone by, we might have expected our expensive appliances, our refrigerators, TVs, ovens to last us for perhaps 10 years. Yet we all sense that technological developments and competitive pricing mean that we don’t wait so long to replace our items. This realization coupled with a widely held suspicion that manufacturers deliberately build computers with reduced life, forcing us to replace them more quickly than we expected.

Differences
Many have said that if you pay double price, expect double the life, and if you pay half, expect half the life. Yet this is not necessarily the case, and research is wanting in the area. However, if it is true then both options will be as economical as the other. We suggest that putting security and repair problems to one side, life of the machine is not a factor in determining which system is best for your needs.

Summary
Today we have tremendous choice when it comes to desktop computers, and this it seems, is only going to get better. Overall, there aren't that many great differences though between the two operating system choices we have. However, if money and choice are among your concerns you should plump for a Windows-run machine. If security, ease of use, and customer service are your biggest worries, then you may want to consider the Mac options.