The 2024 Back to School sales season has commenced, prompting students and parents alike to seek out the ideal laptops that can adeptly manage academic demands alongside video streaming and internet browsing. With a plethora of brands available, the task of selecting the right model can be daunting. A significant decision lies in choosing between an Apple MacBook and a Microsoft Windows laptop, both of which boast some of the finest options on the market, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages.
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M3 (2024) begins at a price point of $1,299 / £1,399 / AU$2,199, while the Dell XPS 13 (2024) starts at $1,299 / £1,099 / AU$2,098.80. For those on a tighter budget, more affordable Windows alternatives exist, such as the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, which has a base price of $999.99 / £1,049.99 / AU$1,899. However, these options are often outclassed by the more economical MacBook Air models, which can be found for under $1,000, and sometimes even below $900.
MacBook vs Windows: Software and OS
The primary distinction between an Apple MacBook and a Microsoft Windows laptop lies in their operating systems; MacBooks operate on macOS, while Windows laptops utilize Windows. Although some keyboard shortcuts and user interfaces overlap, the two systems present markedly different experiences, and transitioning from one to the other can require an adjustment period.
MacBooks are renowned for their prowess in productivity and creative tasks, largely attributed to Apple’s M-series chips. Additionally, a wide array of software tailored specifically for MacBooks enhances their appeal, including Final Cut Pro, Creative Cloud, Affinity Designer, and Visual Studio Code, among others. The user-friendly nature of macOS is another significant advantage, particularly for those who may not be technologically savvy. In contrast, Windows laptops offer a more customizable experience, allowing users to access any file on their device. This flexibility extends to gaming, where Windows laptops excel due to their extensive compatibility with video games, making them a preferred choice for students who enjoy gaming alongside their studies.
MacBook vs Windows: Design
Design is another critical factor that differentiates these two laptop types. MacBooks are characterized by their sleek, distinctive chassis and keyboard, creating a uniform appearance across the lineup. This consistency extends to their limited port selection, typically featuring only a couple of USB Type-C ports and combo jacks. Their lightweight and beautifully crafted design ensures that MacBooks stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Conversely, Windows laptops exhibit a vast range of colors, shapes, sizes, and port configurations, even among similar categories like Ultrabooks or gaming laptops. This diversity allows for a broader selection tailored to various use cases, particularly in the gaming sector, where manufacturers design laptops with specific aesthetics and functionalities in mind.
MacBook vs Windows: Performance
Performance is a key area where MacBooks shine, thanks to Apple’s powerful CPUs, which have evolved through four generations since their debut in November 2020. The latest M4 chip has further solidified the MacBook’s reputation as one of the most performance-efficient laptops available, boasting impressive battery life that sets a benchmark for Windows devices. However, recent advancements in Qualcomm’s AI PCs have introduced Windows laptops that can rival or even exceed MacBooks in terms of battery life and processing power.
In conclusion, both Apple MacBooks and Microsoft Windows laptops offer compelling features that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing design aesthetics, software ecosystem, or performance capabilities, students and parents have a wealth of options to consider during this Back to School season.