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With the launch of Microsoft Windows 10 in 2015, Microsoft seems to have cemented its position as the new operating system of choice for PCs. According to NetMarketShare, a quarter of devices connecting to the internet are making use of a Windows operating system.
So what makes Windows the number one choice for everyday users, be them professionals or individuals?
Why choose Windows over another OS?
While you might have been looking at Apple products, here are our top 10 reasons to choose a Windows PC!
Microsoft: The History And Models Available
Microsoft: Pioneering The Internet With Windows
Windows was the first operating system with a graphical user interface (GUI) in the 1980s. In 1985, to be exact, Windows launched their first version of Windows compatible with a desktop PC. It became very popular and the was used on almost every computer around the world and by the end of the 1990s.
An internet connection will make your Windows computer far more powerful. Updates can help fix bugs on the operating system. Nowadays, almost every PC uses Windows.
I use Windows on a daily basis and in terms of navigation, it works fine. In fact, since I work from home and all my work is done on my computer, it's hugely important that I have something that I can rely on.
If you are interested in buying a Mac, check out our guide to Mac computers.
Different Versions of Windows
When we talk about a Windows PC, we're talking about a computer that can run the Windows operating system. There are actual Microsoft computers such as the Microsoft Surface.
Some of the more recent versions of Windows are:
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista
- Windows 7
- Windows 8
- Windows 8.1
- Windows 10
In terms of market share, Windows PCs account for 82.16% of the market with Linux accounting for 1.46% of computers. Of course, this doesn't specify which brands of computer people have, unlike an Apple, which is pretty much guaranteed to be running MacOS. For example, you can run Windows on:
- Acer
- HP
- Lenovo
- Dell
- Macbook
If you're a newbie to computers, here is our complete guide to the IT world.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy Windows?
This will vary on the brand you opt for, whether you go for a Microsoft computer or another brand that uses Windows. Before you decide on a budget, you need to ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I need a desktop or a laptop?
- What do I need it for? Professional use, personal use, gaming?
- What IT equipment do I need?
- Do I need to buy a Window's key?
- Do I need Microsoft Office?
- Do I need antivirus software?
You can get laptops for cheaper than PCs except when it comes to gaming. An entry-level Windows laptop will cost you around$300. While you'll pay for a copy of Windows to install as a new OS, a lot (almost all) computers will come with it included.
Top 10 Reasons for Buying a Windows Computer
1: An Operating System with Experience
The first version of Windows dates back to the 1980s. While the first OS with "windows" was made by IBM, since Microsoft's first foray into the market, they've been on the up and up and, for a long time, seemed to have a monopoly in terms of operating systems.
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With the new Windows 10 (which came out in 2015), a new browser, and new functionality, Microsoft remains the market leader when it comes to operating systems.
The latest version was a welcome update in terms of the look and the effectiveness of applications.
It's great in terms of navigation, too.
2: Professionals Prefer Windows
Microsoft is the preferred OS for businesses.
Why?
Because Microsoft has provided businesses in the US with digital tools since the 1980s at a price that American firms couldn't turn their noses up at. The same would later be true for Europe and then Asia. Nowadays, it's very tricky to find a business without a Windows computer.
Bill Gates has always understood the needs of American businesses. This has helped Microsoft become recognisable in the public eye.
It's really easy to get started with Windows, too.
3: Windows Is Available At Unbeatable Prices
You can get a lightweight Windows laptop that's great for everyday use at affordable prices. But, of course, while we're considering entry-level laptops, you can get a high-end machine if you pay more
The least expensive Mac you can buy is the $500 Mac Mini, but you can get super-basic Windows PCs for under $300 that will work just fine for basic tasks, such as running a web browser.
The same rule applies to laptops. The cheapest Mac laptop is the MacBook Air, and it goes for $1000, and Windows laptops for under $600.
4: Windows Programs Are Universal
While the Windows Store is at the heart of Microsoft tablets, Windows Phone, and computers running Windows 10, there are plenty of universal programmes that you can get for any Windows computer. Skype, for example, can be used for calls and video conferencing on almost any computer using Windows.
If you want a new Windows PC, you'll be able to download a plethora of apps and programs for your system. It doesn't matter if you replace your old LG with a Lenovo, for example.
There are also integrated programmes and apps like Windows Defender and Windows Server which can protect any computer regardless of its brand.
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5: Windows Formats Are More Accessible
When it comes to choosing a device, Mac offers fewer options in designs and specs. Fewer options may make your choice more straightforward, but you won't always get the best functionality.
Mac also doesn't offer many choices for RAM and processors, limiting how the computer runs and how much power it has.
Whatever features you get from Mac machines, such as those explicitly marketed for photo and video editors, you're likely to find the same qualities in a Windows PC.
Windows PCs and laptops can be easily customized, and their parts can be upgraded depending on your needs, which is not always the case with Mac computers.
Therefore, Apple's devices are less customizable than Microsoft and other similar range devices in the market.
Although Apple's hardware is meant to last much longer, you will have limited options if you wish to switch things up on your Mac computer.
Whether you're using a laptop, desktop, or tablet, it's up to you. By choosing a Windows computer, you'll get:
- A 32-bit processor (often 64-bit)
- An effective file explorer
- A USB-bootable computer
- Partitionable system
- Simple internet connectivity
There are plenty of accessories and devices for both individual and professional use.
Another benefit of Windows laptops is that they all come with commonly used ports, while newer Macbook Pros come with USB-C ports only.
If you wish to plug in non-USB-C accessories, things can get frustrating. You can't plug in external hard drives, SD cards, monitors with HDMI, and other USB accessories, without using a USB-C adapter.
While you can use a USB-C adapter, it can be hard to carry an extra cable around everywhere. Furthermore, it's easier to lose so you will have to buy a new one every time you leave it at the bar.
Frustratingly, Apple's newer laptops support the proprietary Thunderbolt 3 standard, bringing everything to a single port instead of connecting your device to multiple ports.
But it is seen as the future. Its data transfer speeds are faster, and the only drawback is that they do not support non-USB-C accessories.
6: The Cloud
With Microsoft OneDrive, anyone with a Microsoft account can store photos, videos, and files. The paid-for versions start at $5 a month.
It's also easier to save to the Cloud with Gmail and Google Drive from a Windows PC. This is very useful if you need to change computers.
7: The Windows Help System
The Windows Get Help App can provide you with support. You no longer have to look for the "Help" tab, which is often of little help.
This can help you use your computer and Cortana is a bit like having your own personal assistant. If you played the Halo games on the Xbox (also made by Microsoft), you'll recognize her voice.
While you might have problems with bugs and programs operating slowly with an older version of windows, in my experience, updating to Windows 10 sorted out a lot of the problems I was having.
8: Windows Constantly Reinvents its System
With Windows 10, the Start Button and Start Menu are back alongside the taskbar after having disappeared for a few years. This is good news for purists, who were very unhappy with the decision to remove it. This is a quick way to access your files in just a few clicks.
Windows computers also boast more frequent updates and new specs compared to Apple computers.
However, if you're looking for slimmer laptops, the Macbook and the Macbook Air are good options. They are easy to carry and look sleek.
In contrast, they lack power and run on outdated specs from 2015, while the Mac Pro hasn't featured an update since 2013, making it unworthy of such a high investment.
When compared to Windows computers, they lag in this department. Windows feature regular updates whenever new specs are available.
Thanks to regular upgrades, Windows is more effective than ever when it comes to everyday use. There's a reason that professionals love the design and functionality of Windows.
Additionally, when a new version of Windows is released, it's often very easy to upgrade. My older laptop was running Windows Vista (which wasn't great) but I got a free Windows 10 Upgrade and never had to install the hugely unpopular Windows 8 that was like having a giant smartphone or Surface Pro if you used it on a desktop computer or laptop.
9: Windows Graphics Are Better for Gamers
Have you heard of Nvidia graphics cards?
Any self-respecting gamer needs to have a decent graphics card so that they enjoy beautiful games without the framerate dropping. Some of the most popular cards include:
- MSI GeForce GTX 1050 2G OC (around $208)
- Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1060 G1 Gaming (starting at around $346)
- AMD also has a decent reputation, especially when it comes to models such as:
- Sapphire Radeon RX (starting at around $346)
- Gigabyte RX 500 Series (starting at around $277)
What's the best thing about them?
They're only available for Windows systems! Windows has been the OS of choice for playing online, especially with Intel Core i3 and Intel Core i5 processors.
If you're a gamer, Windows PCs are the computers you should be looking for! Video gamers would be most suited to invest in a Windows PC, since only a fraction of games are compatible with Apple computers and seem to lack the power needed for high-end video game graphics.
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You can also check out our price guide to computers, and check if you would rather get a PC or a laptop.
10: For Microsoft Office
Most users know that Microsoft Office is available for both business users and individuals. Everyone's familiar with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to such an extent that they've entered the everyday lexicon. Additionally, you'll probably need to be familiar with these programs if you're looking for work as it's generally expected that most employees working in offices.
The Office Suite on Microsoft computers is more compatible with Windows than with Mac computers.
It includes a range of apps like Word, Powerpoint, and Excel that are more stable and better optimized to work with Windows PCs than their Mac versions.
The Windows OS can also be customized and fine-tuned with much more ease than its macOS counterpart.
Users will find it easier to tweak – with more settings and features – than Apple's macOS. Meanwhile, advanced users will find the Windows OS a definite notch above the macOS on Apple computers.
Mac computers beat Windows with the Apple ecosystem integration they offer. Apple devices such as the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and AppleTV, can be seamlessly integrated with a Mac PC.
Not only Windows, but no other company can match up to Apple's device integration capabilities.
Have you already used PowerPoint to make a presentation?
Whether it's for everyday use, work or play, are you ready to buy a Windows computer?
If you're not convinced, you should consider checking out our article on the reasons to buy an Apple.
Apple Vs. Microsoft: Compare And Contrast
Read our in-depth take on both types for an informed second opinion:
Repair
With a Windows PC, any repairs and replacements aren't going to cost you as tightly as getting your Mac repaired.
Regardless of whether you get your Mac fixed from the Apple store or go to a certified Mac repair store, the prices are steeper than getting repairs done on your Windows PC.
However, finding a place to get your Windows PC repaired can be hard to figure out. Since each part may come from a different brand, there is no one authorized repair shop.
Instead, you will find multi-faceted mechanical repair shops, and each place might charge a different price depending on parts.
However, the way people usually get their Windows components fixed is by sending each part out for a warranty claim or by finding a dedicated repair person for that device.
In contrast, getting a Mac PC repaired is simpler; head over to your local Apple Store, and you will get instant service as you enter.
And if the price isn't an issue for you, Apple beats Windows in convenience and customer support.
Hardware And Peripherals
Mac offers some spectacular designs on their Macbooks, MacPros, and iMacs regarding hardware options.
But, they're all quite pricey and dwarfed by Window's much more extensive array of hardware options.
With the latest Windows devices, you can even add options like HoloLens and VR headsets, along with other peripheral add-on devices.
And Again, Windows wins hands-down when it comes to internal components, such as graphics cards, processors, and storage.
Compared to the Mac, it offers users more liberty to configure their system with the components they want.
In fact, you won't find many professional gamers using Apple PCs. This is because most Video game publishers make games that require a certain level of processing capability – those offered by GPUs, processors, RAMs, etc. made by:
- AMD
- Intel
- Corsair
- Kingston
- NZXT
All of the products made by these brands and others come together to make Windows PCs ideal for high-end gaming, designing, editing, and rendering.
Furthermore, cryptocurrency mining has also become possible because of the marriage between the hardware and peripherals made by these brands.
Operating Software
The Apple vs. Microsoft debate is closer run when discussing their operating systems. Both software offer many built-in apps and utilities such as:
- Calculators
- Calendars
- Photo and video editors
- Voice recorders
- Screenshot tools
- Internet Browsers
- Music players
- Document editing software
Newer versions even feature apps for weather, maps, and news. Furthermore, Microsoft even includes apps like Skype, Translator, and Xbox gaming apps.
In contrast, macOS includes a streaming music service, a video editor, a complete productivity suite, and a GarageBand music composition app.
Both platforms have developed a rich ecosystem of apps, services, and software. However, while macOS is more suited for creative development, Windows caters more to business applications.
However, users can find good business apps for Mac. Conversely, users can also find some handy creative tools and apps on Windows.
Influence
Windows holds a much higher market share compared to Mac. Most computer users worldwide use computers from the Microsoft platform (roughly 3 out of 4 computer users), while macOS, Linux, and ChromeOS occupy the remaining percentages.
And even though Apple computers are costlier than their competitors, their total cost of ownership for Mac computers comes out to be lower than Windows PCs.
Even the cheapest Apple laptops go for around $999, but they come equipped with all the features you need to become functional.
You can access Active Directory, XProtect, File Vault, and disk encryption without needing additional software.
Users of Microsoft computers, in contrast, need to add these features to their operating system or pay extra for the Pro version of Windows 10.
Meanwhile, they also have to purchase other add-ons like antivirus software.
Therefore, while you would pay less for an entry-level PC than for a Macbook Air, it will cost you some money here and there to set up and troubleshoot it compared to an Apple computer.
Installation
Both Windows and macOS are pretty easy to install, and their installation process is similar. In addition, they come with installation wizards that help you get your new computer up and running in a short time.
You can get Windows and Mac computers up and running without signing into a Microsoft or Apple account, but you'll get a better experience if you make an account.
Also, both OS's instantly install and recognize the drivers needed for the peripherals. Therefore, it's pretty easy to use keyboards, external storage devices, and mouses.
Although most Microsoft devices are pretty easy to use with third-party peripherals, Apple can sometimes make a meal out of connecting to them.
Voice Assistant And Help
Microsoft assists users with Cortana to aid with the installation process. For updating macOS, users can go through the System Preferences or take help from Siri.
Both operating systems and computers deliver quite well with performance, despite some minor changes in their operations.
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