Mac v Windows Laptops for Business: Which is Right for You?

Laptops are a must for many businesses to function optimally, enabling staff to access all the data and functions they require to complete their tasks while being mobile.

While previous generations had desktop computers rooted to the office, an age of hybrid working means it is not just travelling reps or those taking trains to and from meetings who need laptops. Add to that the benefits of the cloud as a means of accessing information and the advantages of having a good laptop are such that these devices become essential.

For all these reasons, it is important to make good choices about which laptops to get. Among them is the choice between Mac and Windows.

The choice is not obvious in the sense that one is the greatest thing since sliced bread and the other is completely useless, so you should ignore any such claims. Instead, the choice is about weighing up the relative strengths and weaknesses.

Pros And Cons Of Macs

Mac laptops certainly have a good reputation in some quarters. As Tech 21st Century notes, some regard these as “the best of the best”. But are they?

Its article goes on to note some major qualities. From a hardware perspective, it has a robust and sturdy design to handle wear and tear, as well as long battery life. The operating system is user-friendly and it is great for integrating with other Apple devices. It also has high-quality displays and even has a facility for restoring accidentally deleted files.

Relative to Windows, it also has a major advantage that it tends to be more secure, because it is based on the Linux system and is not often targeted by viruses and malware attacks.

Against that, the article adds, the Mac is costlier than Windows, has neither LAN Ethernet nor HDMI built in, as well as fewer software applications than Windows in general. Also, because it is Apple’s own product, there is a limited range of choice and upgrading options are also restricted.

In its assessment of Macs, SoftHandTech sought to “uncover the truth beyond the hype”, with its list of pros and cons bearing much similarity to the Tech 21st Century account, even down to the statement that it is no good for gaming (not a work imperative!?). However, it adds the criticism that repairs can be “costly and time-consuming”.

Upsides And Downsides Of Windows

Given these pros and cons, how does Windows compare? We have already noted that Macs cost more but have better security. But what else is there to note about Windows?

Profulus lists Windows laptop upsides as having a wide array of software choices and apps, (an obvious advantage over Mac), due to its integration with the Microsoft Windows systems. It is more readily available at different price levels and support for updates is easier to find.

Against that, once again, the fact that it is more vulnerable to viruses and attacks is highlighted, as is the high relative cost and the large amount of system resources used to power the laptop.

Overall, therefore, if your priority is good security, Apple integration, robust design and long battery, go for Mac. If you want more options for upgrades and lower cost, Windows may be your best bet.