Khaberni - In 2024, many decided to switch from Windows to Mac, driven by the improved performance of "Apple" processors, system stability, and privacy concerns.
But the experience of switching to MacBook is not without surprises—some of which may not appear until months or even years of use.
If you are thinking of jumping from the world of Windows to macOS, here are five points you'd better know beforehand.
1- Gaming: The Deferred Dream
Despite the power of "Apple's" ARM-based processors, MacBook has not yet become a true gaming platform.
Although the company has launched tools like the Game Porting Toolkit, and some major titles have reached the App Store, support is still limited compared to Windows, according to a report published by "slashgear" and reviewed by "Al Arabiya Business".
Only a few AAA games are released concurrently with the macOS version, and the App Store remains poor in this regard.
There are solutions like CrossOver based on Wine for running Windows games, but they require tweaks and repeated trials, and not all games run smoothly.
If gaming is a priority—even on the side—Windows remains the safer choice.
2- The cost does not stop at the price of the device
MacBooks are not cheap by nature, but the surprise is that expenses can continue after purchase.
There’s an +AppleCare subscription, and services like iCloud and Apple Music, not to mention paid applications for simple functions often free on other systems.
For example, some apps charge for displaying AirPods battery information, while it’s a free built-in feature on the iPhone.
The subscription culture is present in all systems today, but it appears more in macOS, meaning the cost of ownership can gradually rise without you realizing.
3- Don't be surprised by "Apple's" philosophy
Those accustomed to the relatively open Windows system might be surprised by "Apple's" different philosophy.
The company rarely responds directly to user demands, even if they seem logical or simple.
Some features that users consider intuitive may be delayed for years, or never arrive at all.
Often, the solution is through external applications to fill gaps in the system.
Over time, you learn to live with this philosophy—or look for alternatives.
4- Keep a backup Windows computer
Despite the maturity of macOS and the availability of most basic applications, occasionally you will find yourself in situations where you need an actual Windows device.
A practical example: creating a USB unit for Windows installation.
The process is easy on Windows itself using "Microsoft's" tools, but it can become complicated on Mac, requiring unofficial tools that may stop working in the future.
Whether it involves specially formatted encrypted files or tools only available on Windows, having a backup device could save you from an unexpected predicament.
5- The return might be harder than you imagine
Entering the "Apple" ecosystem is easy, but leaving it is not always so.
Services like iCloud work efficiently within the company's ecosystem, but they are less smooth outside of it.
The iCloud application on Windows is limited, and there is no real support on Android or Linux except through the web.
The system also relies on its particular APFS format, which creates friction when sharing storage units with other systems.
In addition, you might depend on exclusive macOS applications with no real alternatives on other platforms, making a return to Windows mean a complete rebuild of your workflow.
Switching to MacBook is not necessarily a wrong decision, as "Apple" devices offer a stable experience, strong performance, and excellent battery life.
But the full picture does not stop at manufacturing quality or system smoothness.
If you are a gamer, love maximum flexibility, or do not want to enter a relatively closed ecosystem, think carefully.
However, if you are looking for a comprehensive and stable experience and are willing to accept some restrictions, MacBook may be a suitable choice.
