Introduction

There are many who do not encourage PC movers moving to Mac and vice versa. They point out that structurally and inherently the two operating systems are very different to one another. However, closer examination between the two reveal that the similarities are as big as the differences are.

There is no question that both Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s MacOS are superb in their own right. The different approaches to making the best customer experience possible has led them to adopt different paths. Both are highly successful companies, who have a huge following.

In this article, we look at some of the top similarities that exist between the two. We also look at why both these operating systems try hard to offer a seamless customer experience for the user.

Top 5 Similarities between Windows and MacOS: The List

External Device/Accessory Support-

Whenever we use a PC or a Mac, we always have to take the support of external accessories to create a more fulfilling work environment. We are talking about printers, scanners, keyboards, mouse, webcams, etc. Both operating systems come with preinstalled drivers for a smart and simple plug-and-play experience.

There is just one difference, and that pertains to the usage of external hard drives. Most hard drives are formatted with NTFS, and users may have problems of shifting them between PCs and Macs. There are many NTFS for Mac apps out there in the market, which can easily address this issue. You can also create separate divisions or format the NTFS to a FAT32 format.

Both run plenty of Integrated Software for daily use-

Out-of-the-box, both Windows and PC run several integrated software, which people use of a regular basis. Windows Office and Media Players run exactly in the same way in a Mac. You can easily set up MS Office on your Mac as well as install VLC player!

In other words, almost all the apps, which we take for granted on Windows come for MacOS as well. They might have other names or some added features, but for a user, it becomes very easy to make the transition and enjoy the same experience for work and entertainment.

Vulnerability to Viruses, Malware and Phishing Attacks-

Many argue that Macs are more secure and safe than Windows PCs are. This is not true. Macs are as susceptible to attacks as PCs can be. The lower rate of attacks is simply because budget users do not use Apple products and devices.

Volumes make PCs better targets and translate into improved success rates for hackers. Once we see Apple products enjoy the same volumes as PCs, you will see hackers turning their attention to them as well. This is why almost all major antivirus product companies have their Mac solutions for MacBook, iMac and even iOS based products (iPhones and iPads).

Gaming Concerns and Similarities-

A major area of debate between PC and Mac relates to the gaming capabilities of the operating systems. According to experts, even this is over-rated. Traditionally, Apple has not enjoyed a good rep for being a gaming friendly OS. While Windows has been lauded for its adaptability towards gaming interests.

MacOS is a perfectly legit and powerful system, which is capable of running the heaviest games. Apple maintains a strict quality control over the hardware going into its devices. This enables it to offer gamers a seamless experience when playing heavy-duty games. This is very similar to how you would enjoy a Windows PC for your gaming needs and concerns.

App Stores and Tech Support-

In the past few years, Windows has also come out with the Windows Store, which has been modelled on the same lines as the App Store. The experience, usability and customer benefit is more or less the same. Yes, the process wary, with Apple being a little on the higher side.

In terms of tech support, both the entities have stepped up their game by offering support to the customers in every way possible. Windows has an advantage in this case, as it works with multiple hardware companies that use Windows in their systems (HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, etc.).

Conclusion

These similarities are maintained as a way to encourage users, to shift between the two. The other variables become deciding factors and push users to prefer one to the other. Whether you are a student or an entrepreneur, or a gaming enthusiast, you can choose either systems based on your personal preferences for the OS.

Can you think of some other similarities, which we can add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.