Difference between Mac and PC

Key Difference: Mac can only be run on a computer designed and sold by Apple. On the other hand, a PC is generally the computers that work on the Windows operating system.

Mac and PC have been made out to be two completely different things. Although this is to some extent true, Macs and PCs also have a lot in common. However, the following content will help one to understand the differences between Macs and PCs.

A Mac, short for Macintosh, is a brand name which covers several lines of personal computers designed, developed, and marketed by Apple Inc. Mac, a UNIX-based operating system, can only be run on a computer designed and sold by Apple. Mac is often pricier than PCs, as Apple is considered a brand. Apple also tends to utilize higher end products, such as internal components, screen, keyboard, etc., in order to maintain its brand status. Mac has its own operating system and is quite different from Windows.

A PC is essentially a Personal Computer, i.e. any computer that is utilized for personal use. However, the term is now generally used to refer to a computer that works on the Windows operating system. A PC commonly requires a central processing unit and some form of memory. The processing unit is responsible for carrying out the arithmetic calculations and logic operations, while a sequencing and control unit that can change the order of operations based on stored information. However, a PC is not limited to just computing calculations, it can also be used to store files, transfer documents/files from one person to another and send and receive data to and from other devices via busses. PCs these days are becoming smaller and smaller and are being used for more purposes than just for computing. PCs running Windows, on the other hand, tend to be cheaper, as there are thousands of different computers running Windows.

Comparison between Mac and PC:

	Mac	PC
Description	Mac, short for Macintosh, is a computer designed and sold by Apple.	PC, short for personal computer, is nearly every other component, including the Windows operating system.
Stands for	Macintosh	Personal Control
Operating System	Unix based operating system	Microsoft Windows 7, Linux. Between 2007-2009, Microsoft Vista was the operating system
Runs	Macs use their own operating system	Usually runs the Windows operating system
Vulnerable	Macs are not that vulnerable to security threats	PCs are more vulnerable to security threats than Macs
Producer	Apple Inc	There are numerous companies like Samsung, Dell, Toshiba, Sony and many more
Looks	For Mac, the company spends years working on how its product looks.	PC designs are totally dependent on the company making them, but they are usually not as attractive as Macs.
Price	Macs are more expensive than PCs.	PCs are less expensive than Macs.
Gamers	Macs typically can’t compete on the gaming side	PCs are better for hardcore gamers
Users	Mac users will bring up concepts like security, design and usability.	PC owners counter with price, software compatibility and choice.
If problem arises	Macs problem can be fixed in one session as there are Apple stores to help them out.	Microsoft PCs problems cannot be solved because they have a few retail location, but not as many as Apple does.
Market Reach	Attracts graphic designers, video and music producers, tech journalists, app developers etc.	Wide reach to all section. Business users tend to use Windows hardware due to compatibility.
Apps and Programs	Same as gaming, limited choice due to user range and less developer powers	Same as gaming, excess choice due to user range and large developer powers