Operating System

What Is the Best Operating System for Mac Computers?

If you have a new Mac computer, you may be wondering what the best operating system is.

The latest version is macOS Catalina; however, macOS Big Sur is on the horizon, slated for release in September. With the various features and benefits of both operating systems, is it worth the upgrade?

In this article, we will cover the pros, cons, and features of both operating systems, and then decipher the best use cases for both. If you are unsure about what the best operating system is for macOS, we have got you covered.

Here is a guide to learn what the Mac operating system is the best choice for your use case.

How to Know When to Upgrade Your Mac’s Software

The best software to download on your device is usually the latest and greatest, and this is because of security enhancements and better all-around functionality.

However, sometimes you may lose out on features that you enjoyed on your older software. Though it is imperative to keep your security up to date, sometimes you may want to hold onto your old software for a little bit longer.

Though it’s also optimal to upgrade to the latest software, we are going to break down the key features and differences to make sure you know exactly what you are getting into with a new software update.

Catalina vs Big Sur

As of now, macOS Catalina is the current software available on macOS.

Some of the most significant features to be available on Catalina included the introduction of Sidecar, which allows your iPad to be a second display, Siri Shortcuts, which can optimize Siri and use it for various convenience features, and more.

With Catalina, macOS looked the same. There were no significant design changes, and this update was somewhat streamlined and understated compared to other operating system releases.

However, macOS Catalina has still been well-received by users, as it is seen as a positive iteration in the Mac operating system lineup. Catalina offered small but welcome upgrades and features that made it a compelling reason to update your software.

As far as Catalina vs Big Sur, some definite upgrades are worth mentioning. Big Sur does bring a whole new redesign, alongside more security features and privacy enhancements that make it a compelling upgrade.

Between the two, both offer excellent performance on a Mac. However, there are some key differences to look out for. Let’s get into the differences between Catalina and Big Sur.

Big Sur Key Features

Some of the most significant operating system features that Big Sur brings include a nearly complete redesign of macOS, a new control system that allows you to access information similarly to an iPhone quickly, and more customizing in Safari alongside new privacy features.

At first, these changes seem exciting. A new look to macOS is always a great way to change things up, and this software update is no different. Big Sur brings bright colors and a more minimalist and modern approach to the user interface.

Big Sur reflects a relationship between iOS and macOS, further blurring the lines between the two. Since the iPhone and the Macbook tend to work in harmony, with most users owning both, Apple decided to create something seamless and further connected the mobile device and the laptop.

The last couple of software versions, such as Mojave and Catalina, didn’t disturb the correct user interface as much as Big Sur has.

For example, Mojave brought Dark Mode to the Macbook, which was a feature in high demand for many years. However, this was not a big dramatic change and still allowed users to carry on with their usual Macbook uses.

Though Big Sur doesn’t fundamentally change macOS, it may offer new tips and tricks that users may want to learn. Here’s how to figure out if Big Sur is the right operating system for you.

Reasons to Upgrade to Big Sur

If you are unsure about upgrading to Big Sur, here are some compelling reasons why you should take the plunge and download the new software.

You’re Immersed in the Apple Ecosystem

If you are rooted in the Apple World, then Big Sur will make you feel right at home. With features that come straight from the iPhone, such as Control Center, better syncing, and more privacy on Safari, Big Sur keeps the continuity across devices seamless.

You Want More Productivity Features

If you use your Macbook as your daily work machine, then Big Sur offers a lot in the world of productivity through the new Sheets features and third party widget integration. This allows you to set reminders and use various apps to get that work done.

You Are a New Macbook Owner

If you are unfamiliar with macOS, then Big Sur is probably the more inviting version of the operating system. With Big Sur’s iOS-like aesthetic, you will feel right at home if you are a newbie.

Reasons to Stay on Your Current Software

Of course, you may not want to upgrade to the latest and greatest software. Here are some reasons why you may want to stay away from the upgrade to Big Sur and stay put.

You Do Not Have a Compatible Machine

macOS Big Sur supports the Macbook Pro and Air from 2013 or later, so if you are rocking a 2012 or older, you will not be able to upgrade. Big Sur also only supports iMacs from 2014 or later and Macbooks from 2015 or later.

You Don’t Want an iOS Feel

macOS Big Sur brings a more iPhone-like feel to macOS. If that’s not your jam, consider staying on your correct macOS version.

Your Machine May Have Performance Issues

You know the phrase, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” well, in this case, if you have an older machine that is running perfectly fine on older software, you may not want to rock the boat. With newer software comes newer bugs, and sometimes these can wreak havoc on older machines.

The Best Operating System For You

From features, use cases, and compatibility, there are a lot of use cases as to why to upgrade or not upgrade your software.

Hopefully, this software guide will help you decide on what operating system is best for you and your needs. If you love technology, then stick around, our website offers guides and the latest information in tech.

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