Throughout history, we’ve always loved taking two titans and pitting them against one another. Batman vs. Superman, McDonald’s vs. Burger King, Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi…the list goes on.
Of course, sometimes these competitions carry the added benefit of helping us discover which product is a better fit for us. One such matchup involves comparing a Mac computer against a Dell computer. But which one suits your current needs?
Well, that’s where we come in. It’s time to pit Mac vs. Dell to find out which computer comes out on top!
But enough preamble, right? Grab a seta and get ready for fight night!
Operating Systems and Hardware Power
One of the primary differences between Mac and Dell computers revolves around the OS (operating system) they run, with Macs relying on Mac OS while Dell computers use Windows OS. Mac OS boasts a greater number of quality apps alongside it, with offerings like GarageBand and iMovie outclassing their Windows counterparts.
On the flip side, Windows OS offers more flexibility than Mac OS. While you can install Windows OS onto a Mac or use a program like Boot Camp to simulate the OS, there’s no option for getting Mac OS applications or features on a Windows computer.
But what about the hardware power? Well, at their peak, Macs run a 10-core CPU (the more cores, the more computing power you get) while Dells can wield up to a 28-core CPU (though you’ll have to pay a pretty penny to get that much power).
Dell also utilizes NVIDIA graphics cards over Apple’s AMD cards (or new M1 chips). NVIDIA cards tend to take the edge here, as they tend to offer better power efficiency and performance when put against contemporary AMD counterparts.
When it comes to storage, however, Mac takes the win. After all, it offers 8 TB of data storage on its peak model compared to Dell only offers 2 TB on theirs.
User Experience
Another key difference between the two computers lies in how they prioritize user experience. Apple keeps things less complicated, with streamlined menus and a simple interface to help even those who are new to Apple (or computers in general) get a grasp on how to perform basic functions like sort their files or view security settings.
Dell, on the other hand, is more difficult to parse. To compensate for this, it offers a wider suite of accessibility options for users with disabilities than the competition. These options range from Braille integration to the ability to control the computer by moving your eyes.
That said, Apple also offers a better host of customer service options and works to cater to the average user more than Dell. Their nationwide stores offer an easy way to schedule in-person appointments to get your computer fixed. You can also contact Apple support across a wide variety of methods, ranging from phone calls to live chat.
Security and Privacy
A common conception is that Mac computers fare better in the digital security and privacy sphere due to their greater efforts to conserve the inner working of their OS and hardware to the public. Windows, on the other hand, lacks that protection by virtue of being more open and usable on multiple systems.
Apple also emphasizes data privacy much more than Dell does. They do so by disabling tracking cookies while you surf the Web and encrypting any communication you do through Apple apps like FaceTime or Messages.
Of course, Apple computers are far from invincible. The need for anti-viral tactics like how to get Yahoo search off Mac has increased as cyberattacks start to target Mac computers more. So as long as you get a good anti-virus app and practice online safety, Apple will take the win in the security and privacy department compared to Dell.
What Are You Going to Use the Computer for?
Another big factor that determines which computer you get revolves around what you want to use the computer for. Avid gamers, for example, should go with Dell. Not only are there fewer games compatible with Mac OS than there are with Windows, but Dell computers tend to offer better graphics and raw power. This means you’re less likely to get graphical stutters or drop frames while playing action-intense games like Doom Eternal.
On the other hand, if you plan to do a lot of video editing or graphic design on your computer, you’ll want to pick up an Apple computer. This is because Apple implements special technology into their screens (retina display) that allows you to view an image closer without losing detail.
Apple also offers better editing and design apps from the get-go with its OS and boasts superior memory to the price point (useful for large video files). They also can share files between Apple devices within seconds. This makes them great choices for artists on the go.
Differences in Pricing
Of course, tons of features mean nothing if you don’t have the cash to get the computer. For those on a budget, Dell is the way to go. They offer less powerful models for cheaper than Apple does, and you can always swap parts out on a Dell computer to improve power as you go (unlike Apple computers, which aren’t designed to swap out things like graphics cards).
Compatibility with Accessories
Finally, how does each computer work with accessories and extra devices? Well, Macs have better integration with brand devices, as you can share files and access features across all your Apple devices from a Mac with ease. The trade-off is that Macs don’t play nice with third-party devices like Dell computers do, meaning you’ll have to pay more to get that name-brand Thunderbolt converter for your Mac.
Dell also tends to offer more support for different ports on their computers, something Apple is moving away from.
Who Won the Mac vs. Dell Fight? You Decide
So, now that you’ve seen the different arguments within the Mac vs. Dell fight, who wins? Well, it’s whatever computer fits your current needs and budget the best!
And if you need more tech tips or some help deciding between computer models, make sure to check out the other articles on our website!
