The Mac vs. PC debate is one of the most controversial topics when it comes to computers. This page gives an overall comparison between computers running Apple's macOS and those running Microsoft Windows. We are looking to help users who are interested in buying a new computer, not dictating which brand is the 'best.'

Security

Jun 17, 2020  The basic edition targets those who are switching from PC to Mac for the first time, as well as the everyday user that has a need to utilize Windows applications on a regular basis. It contains the basic toolset along with 8 GB of VRAM and 4 vCPUs.

Microsoft does, of course, have an Office product for Macs, but it's far from a priority for the firm. Even with a new 2011 version on the way, many Mac users choose not to shell out for a full. The Mac version loaded easily in my wife's iMac (3 yr old). Her iMac was experiencing some sluggish performance and odd behaviors but still worked OK - just not as quick as it use to be.

Mac - Traditionally, Macs have had fewer security vulnerabilities. Also, in overall numbers, Macs receive fewer viruses than PCs running Windows. However, these numbers can be misleading as Apple's computers only account for less than 10% of the market share. Consequently, PCs show that they have more vulnerabilities, but if one were looking to infect or illegally access the most computers, PCs are the best target.

PC - More people today are using computers running some version of Microsoft Windows, which makes it a smarter target for attackers. That being said, Windows computers have had more security vulnerabilities than Apple computers in the past.

Bottom line: Mac wins in this category. While newer versions of Windows have made significant improvements in security, most malware is created for PCs. Therefore, you're less likely to run into security issues with a Mac.

Price

Popular Pc Software Not Available On Mac Computer

Mac - Although many people may argue that 'you get what you pay for,' compared to a PC, a Mac computer, along with its peripherals, is far more expensive from a dollar to performance perspective. That being said, Mac computers are well built with high-quality components, whereas some PCs are not.

PC - Many PCs, including their peripherals, are far less expensive than a Mac. They are especially cheaper when it comes to customization of the computer's components.

Bottom line: PC wins this category when comparing all computers and hardware. If you compare only high-end hardware, a PC can be nearly as expensive in some cases.

Operating system

Comparing the operating system is like comparing apples and oranges. Both macOS and Windows 10 are clean, fast, highly capable operating systems. In this category, it comes down to personal preference and the user's specific needs.

Bottom line: Tie, as it depends on the user's preferences.

Windows is put onto PCs by multiple manufacturers, most of which add some form of bloatware. But, it is removable and doesn't mean Windows 10 is an inferior operating system. However, an Apple user has never had to deal with bloatware.

Mac users can utilize Boot Camp to run Windows on their Mac. PC users can also install Linux on their computer and use it in conjunction with Windows or as an alternative to Windows.

Software

The number of software titles for Mac has grown over the years. However, Windows dominates the computer software market, especially when it comes to gaming. Developers are more likely to create software for PCs because of its much larger user base. Furthermore, there are hundreds of free programs available for PC that are not available for Mac.

Bottom line: PC wins this category in the overall availability of software and free programs. However, keep in mind that most of the bigger, popular applications, like Microsoft Office products and Adobe products (e.g., Photoshop), are available for both PC and Mac.

Ecosystem

Mac - Apple has created a strong ecosystem with Apple products, like the iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. Purchasing an Apple computer helps you interact with other Apple products more easily using macOS.

PC - Microsoft has a strong ecosystem with Microsoft Office and the Xbox. However, they no longer have any mobile solutions and must rely on Android devices. Also, because there are so many different manufacturers, their ecosystem is not as cohesive as Apple's.

Bottom line: Mac wins this category for anyone who already has Apple products.

Build quality

Mac - Macintosh computers are known for their exceptional quality across their entire line, including both laptops and desktops. Macs offer a very compact profile regardless of form factor and are aesthetically pleasing.

Although Apple is known for its quality, there are plenty of examples where Apple has made mistakes. For example, recent Apple MacBooks have had a lot of issues with their keyboards.

PC - PCs have always been highly customizable, from cases to internal components. As such, there are many different levels of build quality. Therefore, while you can get very high-quality components for a PC, you can also get those that are of poor quality.

Bottom line: Mac wins this category - but situationally. While the quality of PC components can be as high as an Apple, we're comparing the overall quality of all PCs.

Customization and upgrades

Mac - Apple computers may be customized with several options. All their computers come pre-built and are only manufactured by Apple.

PC - PCs have more pre-built options due to a higher number of manufacturers. Furthermore, for those who want to build a computer, the options for customization are exponentially higher.

Bottom line: PC wins this category.

Boot time

Bottom line: Traditionally, Macs were faster to boot up than PCs. However, with the release of Windows 10, PC boot times have decreased dramatically. In some cases, Windows 10 performs faster than macOS. That being said, these differences are negligible when comparing computers with similar hardware. The single biggest component in reducing boot time is the type of hard drive a computer uses. Both Macs and PCs have SSDs available to them, but those who build PCs have much faster options.

Bottom line: Tie when comparing a Mac and PC with the latest operating systems and similar hardware. However, a PC can be built with faster or slower hardware that increases or decreases the boot time.

Drivers

Mac - Mac has an advantage because Apple is the sole manufacturer of these computers and most of the hardware. Consequently, Apple can control and maintain most of their drivers.

PC - PCs are built by many different manufacturers with interchangeable components, which requires numerous drivers. Although plug and play has made it easier to install hardware, all hardware still requires drivers and for the hardware manufacturer to maintain those drivers. Also, because there are so many different hardware manufacturers, it can be difficult to make sure all drivers remain up-to-date.

Bottom line: Mac wins this category.

Gaming

Over the years, computer game companies have shown increased support for Macs. However, Windows owns 90% of the market share, and as such, developers are far more likely to create games for that operating system. Additionally, because custom-built desktop PCs have more upgrade options (e.g., latest graphics card), they can meet and exceed the demands of new games without needing to replace the computer.

Bottom line: PC wins this category.

Support

Mac - When needing technical support or help with your Mac, Apple can offer a lot of assistance that is not available for PCs. Because Apple designs and builds their computers, you only need to deal with Apple when you have problems. Also, Apple has many stores around the world that offer in-person support and help with using Apple products.

PC - If you purchase an OEM PC (e.g., Dell or HP), support can be hit or miss, depending on the OEM and the type of problem you're having. Also, while there are plenty of repair shops that fix computer problems, they are not specialized for one brand of computer, and they offer no training. Finally, if you build your own computer, you'll be dealing with many different manufacturers for support.

Bottom line: Mac wins this category

Repair costs

Mac - Apple strives to make its Mac product line as sleek and compact as possible. To do so, they continue to further integrate their components. Thus, when their computers need to be repaired, it's more expensive. Apple also makes it very difficult for anyone but them to repair their products. Although this helps make sure the repairs are done correctly, it can also increase the costs and make it harder to get your computer fixed.

PC - Desktop PCs repairs and can be done by any local computer repair shop. However, some PC laptop repairs can be as expensive and difficult as an Apple laptop.

Bottom line: PC wins this category.

Touch capability

When it comes to desktop and laptop computers (not mobile devices), Mac offers no touch screen capability, only the Touch Bar on some MacBooks.

Bottom line: PC wins this category.

Additional disclaimers

Not all PC's are the same

There are many PC manufacturers, and thousands of models of computers, which means not everything mentioned above applies to every PC.

My Apple can run Windows

Microsoft Windows can run on Apple computers using Boot Camp, which means not everything above may apply to your Mac. In the case of gaming, you may be able to run the latest games on your Mac using Boot Camp. However, Boot Camp is not perfect, and it does not mean every game can run on your computer since PC games are not developed with Apple hardware in mind. Thus, it's also very possible to encounter problems and have performance issues.

Windows XP is not Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10

Windows XP is over 18 years old. Comparing a Windows XP computer to a new iMac with macOS is like comparing a Ford Pinto to a Ferrari. When deciding between any computer, make sure you compare the latest models with similar hardwarecomponents.

Mac Computer Software Programs

Some people don't like Windows or macOS

For a lot of people, it may only boil down to the computer's operating system. Some users don't like Apple macOS or Microsoft Windows. If you're more familiar with one of these operating systems, that could be the most important factor. If you don't like using macOS, get a PC. If you don't like using Microsoft Windows, get a Mac.

I still cannot decide on what type of computer to get

Finally, if you're still having difficulties deciding what type of computer to buy, use the following link to guide you in your buying decision.

Whether you’ve just bought a new system or reinstalled Windows, the very first task is to install essential Windows apps & computer software for your ease. Because having the best PC software can entirely change the way how you work. Since, relying on these ideal programs for Windows 10 not only, maximize your efficiency but also helps you in getting the best out of your PC. Some are free, some cost a few dollars, but all are well worth the investment.

However, choosing the appropriate applications isn’t always easy, but don’t fret guys here we are to help! These are some of the best-handpicked software & apps for Windows 10 that you can use to increase your productivity, from best virus protection to fun photo editing – these are the best of the bunch!

Also Read: best free pc cleaner 2020 windows 10

Top 15 Best PC Software For Windows 10, 8, 7

We’ve trawled the Internet for 15 Best Windows 10 Software & Apps in every major category, that you can count for better efficiency and greater output. Make the most out your PC!

1. Advanced System Optimizer (Best PC Optimizer Software)

It must be already clear by now that computers require regular cleanup & maintenance to ensure good & smooth PC performance for a long time. Users should often yield ‘boost tonic’ to their systems to improve overall performance and enhance computer experience. Advanced System Optimizer is one such super-tonic that keeps your RAM optimized, effectively clear caches, junk and unwanted hidden residues to boost system performance. Apart from featuring a plethora of tools to keep your system healthy, Advanced System optimizer comes with Registry Cleaner, Game Booster, Disc Optimizer & Driver Updaters.

This PC Cleaner effortlessly indexes junk files, logs, and redundant data at one place where users can remove everything with a single click. Apart from being the best PC cleaner in the market, the software possesses several features for system cleaning, game optimization, system protection, & optimization of the hard disk.

Download Advanced System Optimizer for lag free & smooth running of Windows PC! First and the foremost essential PC app for Windows 10!

2. EaseUS Todo Backup Home – (Best Disk Cloning Software)

Disk Image Software simply replicates system’s OS, drives, software, and patches, so that you can restore your computer anytime if any contingency happens. Precisely, a disk cloning software makes a clone of every bit of information from one hard drive to another disk. And, EaseUS Todo Backup Home is a dedicated hard drive cloning software that allows you to securely duplicate the configurations of multiple systems so that each machine is identically set up.

Using this disk mirroring software, you can efficiently take a backup of your computer and keep your data safe from malicious content. You might confuse it with a backup tool, but that’s completely a different story!

Download this dedicated Windows PC software, for creating an exact disk image of your business workstation! Read Full Review

3. Advanced System Protector – (Best Antivirus For Windows 10)

For long running of your system, you require the best antivirus for PC that simply protects you from all the malicious threats, adware, spyware, and other infections. Introducing, Advanced System Protector one of the most important PC app for Windows 10. It simply scans your system for all sorts of malware that Windows Defender or any other antivirus tool might not catch. It provides real-time protection from existing & upcoming threats, and it’s super-fast scanning algorithms makes sure that you get ultimate protection by successfully cleaning potential threats.

The computer software is loaded with a huge database of spyware definitions that effectively identifies which program or service can be a serious threat. So, that you can remove them with a single click. Hence, to get a powerful blended security solution for your PC, upgrade to Advanced System Protector which is totally worth the shot.

Advanced System Protector is surely one of the best Software for Windows 10 PC, that keeps unwanted invaders out from the system!

4. VLC Media Player – (Best Video Player)

You saw this coming, right? Talking about the best video player for PC and not mentioning the monarch isn’t possible. VLC Media player, the most popular HD video player comes with tons of mind-blowing features & functionalities. In fact, it doesn’t need any introduction, as probably it’s one of the most common windows media player that must be already installed on most of the systems. Being one of the best video players in the market, it offers to play files, discs, devices, webcams, streams and all the popular codecs.

VLC Media Player is another best PC software that is completely free of cost and runs on all the popular platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, Unix, Android, and iOS.

Enjoy movies, music to the core with VLC Media Player, another essential Windows 10 software!

5. Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro – (Best Duplicate Photo Finder)

Our list of ‘best programs for Windows 10’ would be incomplete without mentioning a photo management tool, that helps you maintain your photo library & keep it much organized and clutter-free. Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro is a dedicated duplicate photo cleaner that smoothly scans and remove duplicate photos in a click. No matter how much you organize your photo albums, Duplicate photos somehow always find their way to clog your library. However, with Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro you can easily deduplicate your gallery in a couple of clicks.

The Windows PC software is quite easy-to-use and comes with different sorting modes to find duplicates. Works with all popular file formats and available in 14 different languages. And best of all, the application not only scans for internal storage, but it also allows users to remove duplicate images from external devices like pen drive, memory cards etc.

Download duplicate photo cleaner!

6. TweakPass – (Best Password Manager)

An ideal password keeper is the need of the hour. Remembering passwords for multiple accounts is definitely something we all want to avoid in our hectic lives.

Hence, TweakPass is one such Windows computer software, that frees you from a lot of effort & hassle to remember password for all your online accounts. It’s one of the best password management applications that comes with multi-layered security to shield your personal information.

It securely consolidates numerous passwords in a single location. All you need to do is scan your PC & it will automatically collect your stored login credentials & transfer all such sensitive information to a Secure Vault.

Now stop writing down your confidential information on sticky notes & download TweakPass to manage all your passwords, anywhere anytime!

Download TweakPass for best password protection! A must-have PC app for Windows 10!

7. Audacity – (Best Audio Recording Software)

Came decades ago, Audacity is one of the oldest yet powerful PC recording software so far. It has a simple & easy-to-use interface and it’s undoubtedly an ideal Windows 10 app for both newbies and pros. Audacity has dozens of tools that allows multi-level tracking, mixing, and navigation in a few simple drags and clicks. It comes with an ability to cater to all type of music files, irrespective of any format. As it comes with a function to convert files into MP3 format, which is quite a rare feature among all the music recording software.

Not only this, Audacity is a very versatile tool which is capable of not only voice recording but it also offers a wide range of editing tools that makes it the best audio recording software among the glut.

And the best part? It’s absolutely free!

8. Hotspot Shield – (Best VPN For Windows 10 PC)

Using an ideal VPN service for your system ensures that your Identity is protected while you surf the Internet and no malicious threats or cybercriminal can harm you in the virtual world. They simply amp up security and privacy, and Hotspot Shield is an epitome of that! The platform offers free VPN servers so that you can access the Internet with no borders while maintaining online privacy and anonymity.

Using Hotspot Shield, you can browse content from 15 countries with military-grade security and encryption. It has a virtual tunnel that lets users hide their IP Address so that no spies can track them in the online world. It’s fast, easy-to-setup and top VPN for streaming, shopping and social.

This Windows PC Software offers free VPN servers so that you can access the Internet with no borders while maintaining online privacy and anonymity.

9. Skype – (Best Video Calling App for PC)

Certainly, the most popular name on the list of Best Windows 10 apps, Skype has been crowned as the best free video chat app available for every well-known platform right now. Introduced long back, it has come a long way to offer the best video calls over the years. Not only video calls, but you can also use it for placing voice calls, annotate PowerPoint for real-time collaboration with up to 250 people, share your screen or record meetings, send instant messages, video conferencing and much more.

Skype offers both free & paid calling facility. You can use the paid version for placing international calls at nominal prices. Plus, it proffers several subscriptions plans which let users make unlimited calls to landlines and mobiles. You can check out their plans here! Must include Skype in your to-do list of best programs for Windows 10.

10. Launchy – (Best Program Launcher Windows 10 PC)

On the surface, Launchy is an effective windows launcher that helps your computer to shoot programs, software, websites and apps super-fast. But unlike other launcher apps, it has much more in its bucket, which is making it the best windows launcher in the category!
Aside from doing basic tasks like launching software, websites, folders, files, searching the web & organizing your programs. It performs advanced functions as well such as launching portable apps, opening buried directories, providing your favorite apps with short keywords for easy access, killing processes, performing calculations, etc. with just few keystrokes. It’s another best PC software you should download on your desktop right away.

Install Launchy to organize your favorite apps for quick access!

11. Advanced Driver Updater – (Best Driver Updater Software)

Here’s another must-have Windows 10 software, Advanced Driver Updater that allows you to scan for outdated device drivers on your PC and quickly updates them for you in a single click. With this top-notch Windows 10 updater software, you are not required to search for legitimate drivers online, as it natively installs them on your PC. Once you download this Windows PC software, it automatically starts scanning for missing, damaged or outdated drivers efficiently and lists them down according to the priority of quick action. You are just required to tap the ‘Update’ button & it will fix everything for you in a few moments.

Like an ideal driver updater software, Advanced Driver Updater does accurate scanning, allows users to back up & restore the old drivers, plus it holds a huge driver database so that you never miss an upgraded version of device drivers. To complete your to-do list of best apps for Windows 10, don’t forget to include Advanced Driver Updater- An amazing solution that gives your system a super-boost by updating device drivers!

12. Adobe Photoshop CC – (Best Photo Editor App)

Listing down the best Windows 10 software and missing Photoshop is certainly not possible. When it comes to photo editing, Adobe Photoshop CC happens to be one ubiquitous application. This picture editor is the cradle that holds the entire photography industry in its arms. Equipped with tons of editing tools and dozens of photo effect & filters, it’s has become one of the most trusted hand for numerous artists & designers around the world for decades.

This free photo editing software (free-trial available) is capable of making websites, logos, banners, icons, photo editing etc. Ranging from all the elementary to precocious tools, either you want to perform everyday edits or make something exceptional, this image editor provides a complete set of photography tools that’ll transform your simple pictures into an Art!

Install Adobe Photoshop CC & fill your bucket of best apps for Windows 10!

13. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe – (Best Video Converter)

List of best programs for Windows 10 cannot be completed without mentioning WinX Video Converter. It’s an all-in-one video converter software that allows users not only to convert every type of video files, but it can also be used for downloading YouTube videos, creating slideshows, editing videos and much more. The software comes with a simple and intuitive interface and nets you the power to convert any videos to any formats.

Comparing from all its competitors in the category, WinX offers the widest library of conversion & optimization profiles. Built using HQ engine and de-interlacing engine to optimize the image quality, this free video converter supports cropping, trimming, merging & adjusting parameters to control size and quality of a video.

14. Right-Click Extender – (Best Context Menu Editor)

How can we forget to help you in modifying your context menus? Admit it or not, but we all deal with choked right-click menus that are stuffed with numerous unwanted entries. While adding or removing context menu items manually is quite a difficult process. So, introducing you to a Windows 10 app, Right-Click Extender that allows you to edit/remove context menu items with utmost ease. The computer software has a simple, clear and easy interface. You can easily enable or disable additional entries not only on your Windows right-click menus but to also on drive, and other files and folders.

To get started with the editor, you just need to check & uncheck boxes to add or remove context menu items in the program list. Apart from that, you can also create a ‘system restore point’ of all the default settings, so that you can easily rollback if in case anything doesn’t work well.

15. Logitech Webcam – (Best Webcam Software For Windows PC)

Reaching to an end of our list of Best Apps for Windows 10, with one of the most important utility that will help you to connect & see your loved ones in the easiest way possible, Logitech Webcam! Treated as one of the biggest pioneer manufacturers of webcams, Logitech Webcam software bridges the gap between two hardware & creates simple yet easy-to-use recording experience. It supports a plethora of Logitech webcam models so that you can effectively connect with others using HD video & images.

With Logitech Webcam software you can easily adjust camera’s sensitivity & to detect motion. Moreover, this webcam software has a surveillance mode which helps you in case you want to view the feeds of the home cameras. It’s compatible with Windows 10/8/8.1/7.

Install Logitech Webcam Software, a have to be Windows PC Software to get connected to your loved ones!

Wrapping Up: The Best Software For Windows 10 Computer

Hope now you know which computer software and Windows 10 apps are useful for you and which you should download right away on your system. If in case, you don’t find one of our favorite PC apps for Windows 10 much effective. Then do check out our website for finding other suitable alternatives.

Although, we believe that majority of the people will get plenty of use out of these above mentioned “Best PC Software”!

Make the Most Out Of Your Windows 10!