Having navigated the landscape of Microsoft Windows since the era of Windows 3.1, my relationship with the operating system has been one of necessity rather than affection. Over the years, I have remained loyal primarily due to familiarity. I understand its mechanics and can troubleshoot its frequent hiccups with relative ease. While Windows 11 may appear to be a modern evolution, it often feels like a patchwork of contemporary features layered over a legacy system, offering a certain comfort in its familiarity.
Despite the growing prowess of Linux and macOS, particularly in gaming support, Windows 11 remains the go-to choice for PC gamers seeking the broadest selection of titles. However, nostalgia and a reliance on my extensive games library are not the most compelling reasons to stick with an operating system. This dilemma highlights a long-standing challenge for Microsoft: fostering genuine affection for Windows among its user base.
As Windows 10 approaches its End of Life in October 2025, Microsoft faces the prospect of many users seeking alternatives. While the company hopes to transition these users to Windows 11, the lack of genuine enthusiasm for the operating system could lead them to explore other options. Recently, I found myself gravitating towards macOS, particularly with the introduction of impressive new products from Apple. My experience with macOS has increased significantly, prompting me to consider a permanent switch from Windows 11 to macOS Sequoia.
What I didn’t miss when ditching Windows 11
Having some prior experience with macOS, I was not entirely unprepared for the transition. However, the absence of the familiar quirks of Windows 11 became apparent after two weeks of using macOS exclusively for work. One of the most welcome changes was the reduction of intrusive advertisements and persistent prompts from Microsoft urging me to engage more with its services. Windows 11 often bombards users with unwanted suggestions, from irrelevant game recommendations to unsolicited nudges to use Microsoft Edge.
In contrast, macOS presents a cleaner interface, with promotional attempts that feel less invasive and can largely be ignored. While Apple does encourage users to explore its ecosystem, the approach is far less aggressive than Microsoft’s. The occasional suggestion to try Apple Intelligence in the Preferences app pales in comparison to the relentless push for Microsoft’s Copilot.
Another significant advantage of macOS is its respect for user preferences. When I set Google Chrome as my default browser, macOS adhered to that choice without question. In stark contrast, Windows 11 often attempts to override user settings, reverting to Edge even after explicit instructions to the contrary. This includes instances where links opened from the Start menu or Widgets area would default to Edge, disregarding my preferences.
Windows 11 also has a tendency to present a setup screen after large updates, often with options that can inadvertently reset default settings. This can lead to Edge being reinstated as the default browser if users are not vigilant. Additionally, the stability of macOS has been a refreshing change. While I am adept at troubleshooting Windows issues, the interruptions can be frustrating, especially when no straightforward solution exists. In contrast, macOS offers a more stable and reliable experience, albeit at the cost of flexibility in hardware compatibility.
What I missed about Windows 11
As I immersed myself in macOS, I began to realize the absence of certain features from Windows 11 that I had previously taken for granted. One of the most significant was the Clipboard Paste feature. While adapting to the CMD + C and CMD + V shortcuts was manageable, I sorely missed the convenience of Windows 11’s Clipboard history, accessible via Windows key + V. This feature allows users to view and select from a history of copied items, streamlining the process of pasting multiple elements. In macOS, I resorted to a third-party application to replicate this functionality, but it lacked the seamless integration of Windows’ native feature.
Moreover, I found the window management capabilities of Windows 11 to be superior, especially when working on smaller screens. The ability to easily snap windows to either side of the screen for efficient multitasking was a feature I came to rely on. The keyboard shortcuts, such as Windows key + arrow key, facilitated a swift arrangement of open applications, enhancing productivity. While macOS Sequoia has introduced similar functionality, it still lacks the polish and efficiency of Windows 11’s implementation.
Ultimately, the convenience of the clipboard feature alone has drawn me back to Windows 11. Despite the frustrations that come with it, this single aspect significantly enhances my workflow. While I may still utilize Windows for gaming, my hope is that Microsoft recognizes the importance of refining user experience through practical features rather than relying on gimmicks or intrusive advertisements. The path to fostering genuine user loyalty lies in simplicity and functionality, not in the relentless promotion of AI tools.
