The Windows vs. Mac debate has been raging for more than 20 years now. Although with the introduction of the iPod, iPhone, and other cool electronics devices from Apple, the historical runner-up has been gaining more market share over the last few years and is gaining more popularity as an operating system. However, if you’re looking to make the switch from Windows 7 to the latest Mac OS, there are a few things you ought to know before you get started.
Similarities
At a basic level, the two operating systems are not all that different. They both use a mouse and keyboard to operate and many of the functions are the same. You can easily search your computer from each and they both provide you with a lot of flexibility to personalize your computer however you want, from desktop picture to icon appearance, file structure, and more. Even many of the keyboard shortcuts are similar to the ones you would use on a PC.
Differences
On the other hand, Apple keyboards come equipped with an Apple, or Command, key that is at the bottom of the keyboard on either side of the space bar. This key acts similar to the way a Ctrl key works on a PC, for keyboard shortcuts.
Another key difference is how programs run and close on a Mac. Besides the different locations of the close button for windows in each OS, when you close a Windows window, the program shuts down. On a Mac, if you click the close button only that window closes, but the program is still running. If you want to shut down a program you’ll have to click Quit from the file menu or use Command+Q.
Some people prefer the utilitarian style of the PC and others prefer the user-friendliness of the Mac. What’s important is that you decide which OS fits your personality and use the one you feel more comfortable with.
