macOS vs Linux | the ULTIMATE comparison

Summary

In this video, the creator compares macOS and Linux (GNOME), evaluating both operating systems across various aspects like user interface, file management, and system integration. macOS excels in seamless device connectivity and ecosystem integration, especially for Apple users. However, Linux stands out with its flexibility, superior file management, and greater customization options. While macOS offers a polished, user-friendly experience, Linux provides a more open and adaptable environment. The conclusion suggests that the best OS depends on personal preference, as each system offers distinct advantages based on the user’s needs and familiarity.

Takeaways

• 😀 macOS offers a dock and a global menu, but Gnome provides a more flexible app-switching experience with the Super Key and Dash.
• 😀 Linux’s Gnome environment allows for easy customization and theming, while macOS offers limited theming options.
• 😀 macOS has issues with task switching, such as difficulties reopening minimized apps and switching between multiple instances of an app.
• 😀 Gnome’s window management is much better, offering smooth app switching, easy workspace handling, and the ability to use keyboard shortcuts effectively.
• 😀 Finder in macOS lacks features like cut-and-paste for files, which are essential for efficient file management. Nautilus on Linux excels in this regard.
• 😀 macOS integrates well with other Apple devices, providing seamless features like Handoff, Airdrop, and universal clipboard across devices.
• 😀 Linux allows full access to external devices and drives, like NTFS drives, without restrictions, unlike macOS, which has limited support for writing to NTFS devices.
• 😀 macOS has occasional delays in day-to-day interactions, which may feel like intentional slowdowns, despite strong performance with demanding tasks.
• 😀 macOS includes a wide range of pre-installed apps, including video editing and music tools, but the integration with other platforms (like Android) is often limited.
• 😀 Linux’s open-source nature makes it completely free and highly customizable, offering users a sense of ownership and freedom in comparison to macOS’s paid, closed system.

Q & A

What is the main comparison in the script?

The script compares the user experience of macOS on a MacBook Air and Linux (GNOME desktop environment), focusing on various aspects like interface design, file management, system performance, and device integration.

How does GNOME’s application launcher differ from macOS’s?

GNOME uses a dash that is hidden by default and accessed by pressing the Super key, while macOS uses a separate key to access its application launcher, which the speaker finds inconvenient.

Why does the author prefer using a mouse over a trackpad?

The author prefers using a mouse because their other setups don't support trackpads, making it more consistent across devices.

What issue does the author find with macOS's top bar and control center?

The author finds macOS's global menu for open apps and control center inconvenient, especially when using an external display. Certain features like toggling dark mode and eye protection are harder to access compared to GNOME.

What are the drawbacks of window management on macOS as mentioned in the script?

macOS has issues with minimizing apps, switching between instances of the same app, and lacks proper window snapping, which makes window management more difficult compared to GNOME.

What makes GNOME’s Nautilus file manager better than macOS's Finder according to the author?

Nautilus is praised for its sleek design, fluid animations, customizability, and efficient handling of tabs and file transfers. In contrast, macOS's Finder lacks features like easy tab management and drag-and-drop file movement.

How does Safari on macOS differ from Firefox on Linux in terms of cross-platform integration?

Safari on macOS integrates seamlessly with Apple devices, allowing easy file sharing and continuity across multiple devices. Firefox on Linux, while feature-rich, lacks this level of seamless cross-platform syncing, especially between mobile devices.

What frustrations does the author experience with macOS related to system delays?

The author notices slight delays in actions such as opening apps, switching directories, and fetching properties in Finder. These delays do not appear to be performance-related but are more likely intentional design choices by Apple.

How does macOS handle device integration differently compared to Linux?

macOS offers seamless integration with Apple devices, such as automatic connection with iPads and sharing of mouse and keyboard across devices. Linux lacks such seamless integration, though certain desktop environments like KDE offer some similar features.

What is the biggest advantage of Linux over macOS in terms of system flexibility and cost?

Linux is free and offers immense customization options, allowing users to modify their system according to their preferences. In contrast, macOS is a paid system with limited customization but offers a more polished and integrated experience.