Windows and macOS are the most popular operating systems in the world.
Depending on your use cases, either OS can benefit you with power, application selection, and user experience.
If you are a developer, one OS may work best for your needs depending on what software you are creating.
Are you wondering what the best OS is for developers? If so, then stick around as we compare Mac vs. Windows for programming.
Deciding on Your Machine
If you are a developer, deciding on your daily driver computer can be a tricky situation.
Not only does the operating system come into play, but so does the hardware and price of the machine.
MacBooks notoriously have the so-called “Apple Tax,” where you pay a premium for their devices. The build quality of Macs is stellar, alongside their support system through Apple Support and the Genius Bar.
Moreover, if you are already an iPhone user, all of your data and information can sync with your laptop. The continuity across devices is one of the most significant reasons why people continue to stick with Apple products for years and years.
Also, there are handy tips and tricks to learn on macOS. Click here for more information.
On the flipside, Windows is offered on a variety of different models and price points to choose from. For example, if you want a machine that is user-upgradable, then a Windows device may be your best bet.
Also, Windows software is exceptionally compatible with almost any software or hardware. As of this year, Windows still has a 77% OS market share in the world.
This means that when you opt for Windows, you don’t have to worry as much about compatibility.
All in all, deciding on your machine depends on factors that include price, what specs you want, and what type of device you want to have for the long-haul.
Narrowing Down Your Programming Needs
In addition to factors like price and specs, you may need a very specialized device for your programming needs.
If you are developing a wide array of applications that are meant for iOS, then a Mac may be your best option. On the flip side, if you are working in Visual Studios and are developing programs in C++, then something like a Surface Laptop 3 or Dell XPS 13 may be a better-suited option for you.
Also, depending on your programming needs, you may want a device that offers flexibility to other peripherals without any hiccups. For example, you may be using a Macbook Pro as a daily driver, but using Linux OS as your primary operating system.
Both Windows and macOS can run Linux without any issue, but going back to the talk of specs may play a role in longevity. If you begin programming more complex projects, you may need a device that can handle the added weight for a more extended amount of time.
Narrowing down your programming needs is the key to understanding whether mac vs. windows is best for programming since the operating systems offer similar features compatibility with other peripheral software.
The Case for macOS
Gone are the days of a Macbook being an exclusive status symbol. Though the price may suggest it, Macbooks are relatively common in programming.
That is a good thing because macOS is known for being extremely reliable as an operating system. Not only is it optimal if you are an iPhone user, but it also allows you to get in and get your work done seamlessly due to Apple making the hardware and software.
Moreover, Macs generally last a long time. If you are making a significant purchase and want your laptop to stick around for four or five years, then a mac may be a better option. Though Windows has improved in its longevity, Macs still have a better resale value, and customers usually keep them for longer.
Additionally, Macs offer cross-platform compatibility. Because of this, you can run different operating systems on a Mac without issue. For example, if you are programming and want to test a string of code on Windows and Linux, you can do that on a Mac. Through Boot Camp Assistant on the Mac, you can download and run Windows 10 and test your code on different platforms.
Overall, the case for macOS includes its diversity and simplification of an operating system. If you want to get in and get your work done with little issue, then macOS is an excellent option for you.
The Case for Windows
As previously mentioned, Windows is the most used operating system in the world. Windows offers a plethora of device options and allows you to pick and choose what device you want.
If you are a macOS user, you are stuck to their sometimes flawed design choices since Apple is the only company that develops and sells macOS on their own devices. With Windows, various companies sell their computers with Windows OS.
Dell, Lenovo, Samsung, HP, and the list goes on. If you are unhappy with a particular brand’s device, you can move on to the next one while still using the same OS.
Additionally, Windows is usually less expensive than Macs, but you sometimes get more for your money. If you want a machine that is more upgradeable with time as you program more intricate projects, then a Windows device may be able to grow with you.
Windows is more customizable, too. If you want an OS that allows you to explore its OS and make the changes you wish to, then Windows is the best option for fine-tuning your computing experience.
Lastly, although Macbooks have an excellent build quality, Windows devices are now at the same level. For example, Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 3 is an incredibly well-built and premium device that runs Windows and looks as clean as a Macbook.
If you want a more flexible OS with various hardware options and customizations, then Windows may be the best option for you.
Mac Vs. Windows for Programming
From narrowing down your device from price to OS experience, this is a comparison of Mac vs. Windows for programming.
Depending on your needs, one OS may be better than the other. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, but it is up to you to decide what device best suits your programming needs for the long-haul.
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