1. Windows :
Windows is a group of various proprietary graphical operating systems which is provided by Microsoft Incorporation. It is also known as Microsoft Windows. It currently includes Windows NT and Windows IoT as members of its family. Earlier it included Windows 9x, Windows Mobile and Windows Phone which are no longer in use. It is the most used operating system in personal computers. The first version of Windows was launched by Microsoft in 1985. The most recent version of Windows for personal computers is Windows 11.
Here are some features of Windows:
- User Interface: Windows has a graphical user interface (GUI) that is easy to use and navigate, with features such as the Start menu and Taskbar.
- Gaming: Windows is known for its strong support for gaming, with many popular games being developed specifically for the Windows platform.
- Productivity Tools: Windows comes with a suite of productivity tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Customization: Windows is highly customizable, with users able to change the look and feel of the operating system by changing themes and settings.
- Compatibility: Windows has good compatibility with a wide range of hardware and software, making it a popular choice for both consumers and businesses.
2. macOS :
macOS is a series of proprietary graphical operating systems which is provided by Apple Incorporation. It was earlier known as Mac OS X and later OS X. It is specifically designed for Apple mac computers. It is based on Unix operating system. It was developed using C, C++, Objective-C, assembly language and Swift. It is the second most used operating system in personal computers after Windows. The first version of macOS was launched by Apple in 2001. The latest stable version of macOS is 10.15.1 which is also known as Catalina.
Here are some features of macOS:
- User Interface: macOS has a clean and intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) that makes it easy to use and navigate, with features such as the Dock and Mission Control.
- Integration with Apple Devices: macOS integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads, allowing users to transfer files and data easily.
- Productivity Tools: macOS comes with a suite of productivity tools like Pages, Numbers, and Keynote for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Security: macOS has built-in security features like Gatekeeper, which helps protect the system from malware and other malicious software.
- Accessibility: macOS has a range of accessibility features built-in, including VoiceOver, which makes it easier for users with visual impairments to use the operating system.
Similarities between Windows and macOS:
- Multi-Tasking: Both operating systems allow for multitasking, allowing users to run multiple applications at the same time.
- Networking Capabilities: Both operating systems have strong networking capabilities, with support for a wide range of network protocols and services.
- Application Stores: Both Windows and macOS have their own application stores, allowing users to easily find and install new software.
- File Systems: Both operating systems use hierarchical file systems, making it easy to organize and access files and folders.
- Compatibility: Both Windows and macOS have good compatibility with a wide range of hardware and software, although Windows is generally considered to have better compatibility with third-party hardware and software.
Difference between Windows and macOS is as follows:
| WINDOWS | MACOS |
|---|---|
| It was developed and is owned by Microsoft Incorporation. | It was developed and is owned by Apple Incorporation. |
| It was launched in 1985. | It was launched in 2001. |
| It is designed for PC of all companies. | It is specifically designed for Apple mac computers. |
| The current stable version is Windows 11. | The current center’s stable version is mac 12.0.1 (Monterey). |
| It is for workstations,, personal computers, media center, tablets, and embedded systems. | Its target system type is workstations, personal computers,, and embedded systems. |
| Computer architectures supported by Windows are IA-32, x86-64, IA-64, ARM, Alpha, MIPS and PowerPC. | Computer architectures supported are x86-64(10.4.7-present), IA-32(10.4.4-10.6.8) and PowerPC(10.0-10.5.8). |
| File systems supported are NTFS, FAT, ISO 9660, UDF, HFS+, FATX and HFS. | File systems supported are HFS+, APFS, HFS, UFS, AFP, ISO 9660, FAT, UDF, NFS, SMBFS, NTFS, FTP, WebDAV and ZFS. |
| Kernel type is Hybrid with modules here. | Kernel type is Hybrid with modules here also. |
| Package management is MSI or custom installer. | Package management is a macOS installer. |
| Update management is Windows Update. | Update management is Software Update. |
| The native APIs are Win32 and NT API. | The native APIs are Carbon, Cocoa, Java,, and BSD-POSIX. |
Conclusion: Windows and macOS are both excellent operating systems with their own advantages and disadvantages. If you’re looking for a system with a wide range of software and hardware compatibility and high customizability, Windows may be the better option. However, if you’re looking for a system with a sleek and intuitive user interface, strong privacy features, and seamless integration with other Apple products, macOS may be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between these two systems will depend on your specific needs and preferences.