Mac vs. PC: What's right and best for you?

One of the most divisive issues when it comes to computers is the Mac vs. PC argument. ​

The purpose of this article is to contrast a PC running Microsoft Windows, and an Apple Macintosh computer. It should not be used to choose between the two in order to inform people looking to purchase a new computer. Your choice of a purchase should be based on what you feel will benefit you the most.

Short form for "Macintosh" and refers to any computer produced by Apple, Inc.

Stands for "Personal Computer". Refers to any computer running IBM-Based (Windows, Linux, Solaris, FreeBSD) operating systems.

Performance

Mac: Since Apple controls the hardware and software bundles and model updates, every Mac runs without lag or incompatibilities concerns and performs as intended.

PC: Various OEMs and even custom-built PCs might not have the right drivers available for every component in every OS version, resulting in incompatibilities and slowness. Maybe not performing as expected.

Security

Mac: Although the threat of malicious software is growing, such as from Java, because Macs are not as widespread as PCs, there is less malware specifically built to target Macs.

PC: Windows is the most common desktop operating system, therefore most virus authors target Windows systems; nevertheless, Linux frequently has less malware.

Compatibility

Mac: Can access practically all PC files and cohabit with PCs on local networks. opens.doc,.exe,.xls, and other file types. Other file types have their own software. Can fully compatiblely run Windows on a Mac.

PC: PCs cannot natively handle Mac-based files (.DMG), but you can install software that allows you to read and possibly write Mac-based files on a PC.

Repair

Mac: Any competent individual can carry out repairs and upgrades. You can contact nearby computer repair shops for repairs. However, more recent Macs are becoming less upgrade-friendly.

PC: Any competent individual can carry out repairs and upgrades. You can also contact nearby computer repair shops for repairs. Limited warranties are provided by OEMs and component retailers.

Gaming

Mac: Although more programs have been published recently for the Mac, there aren't as many games that are designed just for it. A central location for people to download games is the App Store.

PC: The selection of PC games is vast, and Windows users have far easier access to hardware that has been optimized for gaming performance. Windows-based systems are also preferred because of the variety of graphics cards and upgradeability.​

Customizability

Mac: No
PC: Yes

Voice Commands

Mac: Yes
PC: Yes

Maps

Mac: Yes
PC: Yes

Widgets

Mac: Yes
PC: Yes

Has Registry

Mac: No
PC: Yes

Overclockable

Mac: No
PC: Yes