Mac VS PC: Pros and Cons

If you are reading this, chances are you are one of the many computer enthusiasts that are stuck between the Mac vs PC debate.

Nobody can deny the fact that computers are desirable. But, not everyone can agree on one computer type. Some say a Mac is the best while others sing the praises of a PC.

Well, let’s end it with an objective and detailed look at the pros and cons of both computer types. After all, the most important thing is, what’s best for YOU?

After reading this article, you’d know which one is a more suitable option for you depending on your priorities.

Let’s dive in.

Pros and Cons of a Windows PC

Notice the use of “Windows”? It’s because a PC can also run on other operating systems like Ubuntu. But, by far, the most popular operating system is Windows. See, a Windows PC is a staple of the computer market. 

Let’s talk about a Windows PC’s Pros and Cons now. 

Windows PC Pros

Price

Up-to-the-mark performance at affordable pricing is probably the most prominent benefit of a Windows PC.

Most PC builders source their parts from a highly competitive manufacturers’ market. This leads to lower production costs for these companies and eventually lower prices for the consumers.

On top of that, with an ever-increasing number of products hitting the market, the shelf competition brings the price down even further.

Options

Another great thing about a Windows PC is that the market gives you a lot of options. Enter a physical or virtual Windows PC shop and you’d be able to select a PC for yourself from a variety of manufacturers.

Something that a Mac store won’t offer you.

Having multiple great options can tip the scales a little bit towards Windows PCs in the PC VS Mac debate. But, even that’s not for everyone; some people just do not want the luxury of too many options.

So, the advantage is mainly for those who like to have multiple options.

Flexibility

This one is a great attraction for people who love to build their own custom computer that does exactly what they want it to do. 

Fortunately, Windows PCs are one hundred percent customizable, which means more flexibility and more control over their performance. 

Unfortunately, you can’t do the same with a Mac.

Easy Upgrade and Replacement

In this ever-advancing computer technology, it’s easy to find a piece of hardware that’s more desirable than your current one. 

For instance, down the road, you think an 8 GB RAM isn’t good enough anymore for the information-intensive tasks you need to perform. 

Fortunately, you can upgrade any of your PC’s components whenever you need or want; and in case any of your PC’s hardware runs into a problem, you can always replace it. 

Something a Mac user can’t do.

Generous Freeware Availability

Another reason why a vast majority of computer users lean a little bit more towards PCs is generous freeware. 

And, although Mac offers a decent number of free downloadable software, it’s just not comparable to what the PC community has to offer.  

Let’s look at the numbers: The download.com repository hosts upwards of 55,000 packages; the number is less than 5000 for Mac. 

That said, PCs aren’t perfect either. Let’s now jump into the drawbacks of Windows PCs.

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Windows PC Cons

Inconsistent Quality

When you have a lot of options in the market, some of them are bound to be of low quality. It’s relatively easy to end up with a machine that’s just not up to the mark.

Therefore, it gets a little tricky when it comes to selecting the right PC. This is why many consumers don’t prefer to have the luxury of multiple options. It can easily get overwhelming for the non-tech-savvy ones. 

A wrong decision can lead to frustrating hardware problems, or worse, a system breakdown. So, there is a small risk involved when it comes to selecting a PC.

Susceptible to Problems

As PC companies source elements from different manufacturers, there is a good chance that a PC will run into a problem. 

More Prone to Viruses

PC software is also more prone to viruses, which is one of the most prominent cons of PCs that might turn the tables in favor of Mac. 

Difficult Learning Curve

If you are not a regular PC user, it can be a little time-consuming to get used to the operating system. 

Lower Resale Value

Moreover, the lower resale value of a PC is another factor that might tip the scale in favor of Mac for some users. 

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Pros and Cons of Mac

Let’s now talk about the pros and cons of a Mac. 

Mac Pros

Design

Even a PC lover won’t deny the benefit of owning a Mac. These computers are quite appealing to the eye. Something you can attribute to the design background of Steve Jobs, the owner of Apple. 

If an eye-catching and aesthetic design is a priority that you can’t compromise on in your machine, Mac would be ideal for you. 

Quality

Unlike PCs, only Apple is responsible for putting together its systems.

As the quality control of the whole process falls under one company, it’s easier to maintain a consistent quality throughout the process.

Great Customer Service

Whenever you face a problem with an Apple product, there is only one place that you need to go and ask for help: Apple. 

This keeps things streamlined and easier to manage. Plus, Apple’s customer support team is supportive and cares about your experience.

Pre-loaded Applications

Another benefit of owning a Mac is the useful apps that come preloaded on the system. For instance, Mac users get a pre-loaded app that’s similar to Microsoft’s Office. 

On the other hand, Microsoft Office Suit comes at a decent price tag.

Safer

Macs also tend to be safer than PCs when it comes to security vulnerabilities. Hacking into Apple’s system is not easy as it sends a notification with every update. 

Plus, a Mac offers a lot smoother experience than a PC mainly because Apple itself manages every software and hardware. So, it’s easier to keep everything in harmony.  

Mac Cons

Not for Gamers

Apple Macs are not designed to provide the best gaming experience. And, you can’t customize them to fit your needs either. 

So, if you like to play the latest high-end games, a Mac isn’t for you. However, it does provide good support for casual gaming.

High Price

There shouldn’t be any doubt that Apple products are pretty high-quality. But, you do have to invest more in a high-quality product. 

Macs are significantly more expensive than PCs. On the flip side, you’d see a wide variety of price ranges in the PC market. There’s something for everyone there.

High Repairing Costs

Another thing that might deter someone from preferring a Mac over a PC is its higher repairing costs. You see, not only are Mac parts pricier, but they are also not that easy to replace. 

Whereas, PC parts are readily available at low prices, and they are easy to replace too. And, if anything goes south, you’d have to rely on Apple’s expensive repair service.

Not Upgradable

Once you buy a Mac, you have to make your peace with its hardware. So, you can’t increase your Mac’s RAM or hard disk space, for example. 

PCs offer a lot of flexibility there. In fact, you can even build your PC from scratch. 

That said, Mac’s resale value is better than that of a PC. So, even if you don’t like your machine at some point for some reason, you can always switch it to a newer version. 

But, of course, you’d have to spend a bit to acquire a new and improved machine. 

App Compatibility

Macs aren’t compatible with many popular programs. And, that’s true for the latest games as well. 

So, it’s important to make sure that it will run the programs that you use in your routine. If not, you’d be better off with a Windows PC. 

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Final Thoughts

There are different aspects to selecting a computer. And, because a PC and Mac both have their pros and cons, we can’t announce a clear winner. 

So, the final decision majorly depends on the user preference. 

To wrap up:

PC

• Are inexpensive
• Come with a lot of options
• Are customizable
• Are Upgradable
• Have generous freeware available

However, they:

• Are susceptible to problems
• Aren’t consistent in quality
• Are prone to online viruses
• Have a difficult learning curve
• Have a lower resale value

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On the other hand,

MAC

• Offer higher quality
• Boast a great design
• Have effective customer service
• Are more secure
• Come with pre-loaded applications

However, they:

• Are expensive
• Are not ideal for gamers
• Have high repairing costs
• Aren’t upgradable
• Aren’t compatible with many apps

Therefore, keep in mind the benefits and drawbacks of both before deciding. Because it’s a long-term investment and you don’t want to regret your decision later.