Mac or Windows: Choosing Between 2 Computer Operating Systems

By Jose Victor M Jayme

When buying a new computer, there are a number of things you have to consider. Chief among these would be the matter of which operating system (OS) you want to use. This decision determines the type of hardware and software which will be available to you. The 2 most well-known systems available in the market now are Microsoft's Windows and Apple's Mac OSX. Windows is considered to be the industry standard while the Mac OSX is definitely cool, hip, and sleek. So before choosing an OS, it is better to find put the pros and cons of each system.

Windows

Windows remains the dominant operating system in the market. Many businesses opt to use this particular brand. It is definitely the OS to beat, and with good reason. It has the widest array of available apps. It is also important to note that many of these apps are free. It is also compatible with more hardware than any of its competitors. When it comes to gaming, it is the system of choice with many of the popular titles, from Halo to Bioshock, being Windows exclusive.

The downside to this particular OS, however, is that it is the primary target of many viruses and other forms of malware. Unfortunately, this is a negative result of the system's popularity. So, if ever you choose to use this OS, don't forget that you will most probably need a sturdy anti-virus program.

Mac OSX

The Mac is perhaps most well-known for its sleek design and its easy-to-use interface. After being overshadowed by Microsoft's Windows for the longest time, Apple has been steadily gaining ground over the last few years. Appealing primarily to the creative types, it comes equipped with the best audio and video editing software. Easier music creation, photo editing, and video production are among the Mac's strong points. Also, its catalogue of software is continually growing due to the fact that more and more third-party developers are joining Apple's bandwagon.

While Apple controls only a relatively small portion of the OS market, this has actually worked out for them. The OSX rarely becomes the target of viruses and other forms of malware. It is also more secure when compared to its Microsoft counterpart due to its Unix foundations.

Of course, it is important to mention that despite these benefits, there is one downside to the Mac. It is much more expensive than your average PC.

These are just the basic differences between the two dominant systems in market today. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages that come with each system before finally deciding which one you will get.

Jose Victor M. Jayme is a graduate of the University of the Philippines, with a degree in the Social Sciences. He has been working as a freelance copywriter since 2010.

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