Apple and Windows are like the Coke and Pepsi of the tech world. Once people connect with one of these iconic brands, they tend to stick with it. Since freelancers do not work in offices with other workers, there may be no reason to switch to fit company policy. However, you may wonder whether the system you are using is the best for your freelance business.
Does it Really Matter?
The truth is, there may not be a clear winner in the Windows versus Apple controversy, at least not for freelancers. A typical freelancer may never encounter a project or client that will require a choice of one over the other. Many documents are on the cloud where compatibility is not as much of an issue as it once was and even non-cloud documents can be used with either system.
Many successful freelancers swear by the Apple ecosystem and the smooth integration of Apple products. Others are accustomed to Windows, which is the most widely used system, and they don’t feel like switching or doing things “the Apple way.” Much of the differences are subjective. Each system has a selection of devices with varying degrees of quality and price points.
Cost
One main difference between Apple and Windows is the price. Microsoft products tend to be more expensive. They are often considered sleek and more attractive. Many argue that the high price tag of Apple is worth it since the devices tend to hold their value better than PCs.
A used Macbook for instance can often fetch a price closer to the original than a used PC. This is important to consider if you are interested in upgrading periodically and want to sell your old Mac for a solid price.
Pros and Cons of Windows
Windows tends to be a more widely-used system, and it may be easier to find someone to repair it if something goes wrong. Since the operating system is more familiar, it is also simpler to find someone to give guidance on how to perform tasks, Windows devices tend to be cheaper. Also, Windows allows the user to do things the way they want to and provide many custom features.
The disadvantage of Windows is the operating system may have problems more often and crashes do happen now and again. Windows also is more frequently a target for malware and viruses. Also, integration with mobile devices can sometimes be clunkier with Windows than with Apple products.
Pros and Cons of Apple
Apple products are often considered “classier” and higher-end with their sleek design. They also tend to have fewer glitches, crashes, and integrate with Apple mobile devices more seamlessly. Apple Stores and Apple customer service tend to be first-rate and the company values its customers. Because of advanced encryption, Apple products tend to be safer from viruses and cyberattacks than PCs.
The disadvantage of Apple is that one can feel locked into the Apple method. Once one enters the Apple ecosystem, the Apple way of doing things becomes dominant. Apple products are also more expensive. Some customers feel it is worth it, but many feel that the price tag is a bit high compared to what you get. Also, historically there have been some hardware issues, such as with the keyboard, but many of these problems have been remedied.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line of the Apple versus Window debate is that both systems are good, Apple has a few advantages regarding security and integration with mobile as well as attractive design, but some people feel this is not worth the Apple conformity and the price tag.
If you don’t want to lose your pace as a freelancer, it may be best to stick with your current system, because switching does require a period of adjustment. Unless you feel compelled to test the waters, it is a good practice for freelancers to stick with what you are used to–either Apple or Windows.
