1. Price
MacBooks are quite expensive, compared to typical Windows laptops. MacBook Air M1 is the best value laptop for typical users, but even the base model starts at over $1300. If you are on a budget, you can find Windows laptops sell for less than one quarter to half of this price. On the other hands, very few Windows laptops at this price point will match the build quality and design of the MacBook
2. Software Support
MacOS differs significantly from Windows, leading to potential compatibility issues. While third-party app support for MacOS has improved, some essential applications may still be exclusive to Windows, impacting workflow efficiency. Many business apps still run only on Windows
3. Incompatibility with Windows
Older MacBooks actually supported running Windows via Boot Camp, allowing you to use both MacOS and Windows on the same device. With the transition to Apple silicon chips, newer MacBooks no longer support it. Although virtualization software offers a workaround, it comes with limitations and potential performance issues.
4. Limited Hardware Upgrades and Repair Accessibility
Apple’s closed hardware systems restrict user upgrades and repairs. Proprietary parts and integrated components make DIY repairs challenging, while software restrictions further complicate self-repair attempts. Basically, if something goes wrong, Apple wants you to buy a new device instead of fixing it. No wonder they became the most valuable company in the world!
5. Storage Constraints
Base MacBook models offer limited SSD storage, with upgrades at a premium. Compared to Windows laptops, MacBook storage options are relatively constrained, necessitating external drives and cloud-based storage solutions. Also, you can’t just buy a base model with, say, 256GB of storage, and later upgrade it to 1TB, like with most Windows laptops.
6. Port Limitations
Apple’s minimalist approach to ports can be inconvenient for users requiring diverse connectivity options. While some MacBook models offer only USB-C ports, recent redesigns have reintroduced HDMI and SD card slots, alleviating port concerns to some extent.
I still remember looking at a 2015 Macbook 12″ model with only one USB-C port that was ALSO used for charging it!
7. Gaming Restrictions
MacBooks have limited gaming capabilities compared to Windows laptops, with fewer game titles available and delayed releases. The transition to Apple silicon further hinders gaming options, making Windows PCs a preferable choice for gaming enthusiasts.
Should You Still Buy a MacBook?
Switching to a MacBook, as with everything else, is all about weighing up the pros and cons. Although it has disadvantages, we believe a MacBook is a wonderful machine to use.
It makes up for what it lacks in games with creative apps, ecosystem integration, beautiful design, and reliability. As with everything Apple, it simply works, and there’s much less to worry about compared to a Windows machine.
