In a recent transition from a MacBook Pro to an HP Spectre x360, the initial excitement of exploring Windows has begun to fade. The experience has revealed a stark contrast in design and functionality between the two operating systems. While Windows 11 has made commendable improvements in its user interface, it still lacks the cohesive design language that macOS users have come to expect.
Inconsistent Design Language
Despite Microsoft’s efforts with Windows 11, the inconsistency in design elements can be jarring. Modern applications like the Settings app exhibit a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, yet older tools such as Disk Management and the Registry Editor evoke a sense of nostalgia for the Windows XP era. This disparity becomes even more pronounced when dark mode is enabled, revealing areas where Microsoft has yet to implement a cohesive dark theme.
First-party apps also reflect this inconsistency. While Office applications like Word and Excel shine with a polished look, newer offerings like the web-based Outlook diverge from these design standards, creating a fragmented user experience.
Below-Average Third-Party Apps
The gap between macOS and Windows extends to third-party applications, where the quality and features available on each platform differ significantly. For instance, the latest web browser Arc showcases innovative features on Mac, while its Windows counterpart feels basic and underwhelming. Even Microsoft’s own applications seem to receive preferential treatment on macOS, with a fully-featured Outlook app available for Mac users, while Windows users are left with a less responsive web version.
Additionally, OneNote on Mac boasts support for refined Aptos fonts, enhancing the note-taking experience, a feature conspicuously absent from the Windows version.
Mac-Exclusive Apps
The software landscape further highlights the advantages of macOS, particularly with its exclusive applications that lack Windows equivalents. Tools like CleanShot X offer advanced screenshot and screen recording capabilities that far exceed those found in Windows alternatives. Similarly, MoneyCoach provides an intuitive and beautifully designed expense management experience that is unmatched by web-based finance apps on Windows.
Pixelmator Pro stands out as a powerful photo editor that rivals Adobe Photoshop, combining extensive features with a user-friendly interface. While Windows users may have access to Adobe tools, they miss out on the seamless experience and lifetime pricing offered by Pixelmator Pro.
Finder and Preview Are Better Than Windows Counterparts
One of the most notable differences lies in file management. The Finder application on macOS offers a smooth and efficient experience, contrasting sharply with the laggy performance of File Explorer on Windows. Finder’s tagging system enhances file organization, while the Quick Look feature allows users to preview files effortlessly without launching separate applications. The Preview app on macOS also provides basic PDF editing and image manipulation, which further elevates the user experience.
The Grass Is Always Greener (Except When It’s Windows)
Ultimately, the transition back to macOS feels like a return to a familiar and refined environment. While Windows has its strengths, particularly in gaming, it currently lacks the polished experience that macOS provides. As the landscape of operating systems evolves, one can only hope for improvements in design consistency and third-party application quality on Windows. For now, the MacBook Pro remains a steadfast companion for those who appreciate a seamless and intuitive computing experience.
