The operating system wars have been raging for several decades. While smaller competitors such as Linux still exist, Microsoft and Apple are the clear heavy-hitters. There’s a debate about which company transformed computers into everyday household objects, but an entirely different argument has since taken over: which operating system is better?
Microsoft released the latest OS,
Windows 11, in October 2021, meaning Apple will need to fight to pass Microsoft’s new bar. So how does macOS Monterey compare against the new Windows 11? Keep reading to find out.
What’s New With Windows 11 and macOS Monterey?
Before breaking down the main differences between Windows 11 and
macOS Monterey, it’s important to highlight the key improvements each OS brings to the table. While these are mostly incremental and won’t change anyone’s computer experience in a life-altering way, there are definitely some noteworthy adjustments that warrant consideration.
Windows 11 Improvements
Ironically, the most obvious difference with Windows 11 is that it looks vaguely Apple-esque. Microsoft gave everything a rounded edge — and along with the newly revamped icons, the whole thing looks like an
iMac throwback. Microsoft relocated the Start menu to the middle of the taskbar, so it should feel familiar to longtime Mac users. But, of course, Windows fans have already found a way to let users go back to the way things used to look.
Productivity was a focus for Microsoft, and it shows with some of the new layout and organization options in Windows 11. The new system replaces the live tiles that cluttered the start menu with an easy on the eyes grid view. Now, arranging apps on the desktop to maximize screen real estate is now easy. Simply choose a set template style, and the apps will snap into place.
Perhaps the most buzzworthy new feature involves support for Android apps. Unfortunately, this new addition isn’t as user-friendly as most people expected. Setting it up is a
multi-step process — one that could alienate casual users just looking to tinker around with the functionality. Thankfully, Microsoft seems committed to this partnership, so support will only get easier in the future.
What’s New in macOS Monterey?
Apple has
big plans for their M1 chip — and nowhere is that more evident than with macOS Monterey. New MacBook users equipped with the M1 chip can take advantage of several new features that are only available with the new CPU.
Here are some of the best new features:
- Object Capture: This augmented reality feature allows users to combine several 2D photos into a 3D image.
- Enhanced Maps Features: Another cool 3D feature is an interactive globe of Earth that is only available with M1 Macs.
- FaceTime’s Portrait Mode: Users who wish to blur the background while using FaceTime can only accomplish this with M1-equipped devices.
There’s still a lot to love for those using older Mac devices on Monterey. Several new FaceTime enhancements are included, such as the ability to invite Android or Windows users to a call. Meanwhile,
SharePlay gives users a virtual party room to watch movies, listen to music or just hang out.
Not to be outdone by Microsoft, Apple also packed some productivity improvements into the OS. Users can now group several tabs into one window in Safari. Saving and organizing tabs is also easier — and they can be synced across
Apple devices. In addition, the new Focus feature ensures that users only receive certain notifications. This is great for those who tend to struggle with distraction.
Is There A Clear Winner Between Windows 11 Versus macOS Monterey?
As is usually the case with anything Apple versus Microsoft, the real winners are consumers in general. There’s no wrong decision when it comes to either of these operating systems. Personal preference always wins out in the end — and whether they opt for Windows 11 or macOS Monterey, computer users will be spoiled by a great operating system.
Windows will always have a reputation for being geared towards office and productivity, while Apple devices lean more in the direction of arts and creativity. However, keep in mind that Apple’s seamless integration across all devices makes macOS a no-brainer for anyone with an iPhone. Microsoft is slowly gaining ground with the support for Android — but until this functionality is easier to use, Apple and macOS own a slight advantage.
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