MacBook, Windows or Chromebook: which laptop fits you?
The operating system shapes your daily experience more than the processor. A clear comparison of the three main choices.
Before comparing specifications, decide which operating system you want. It determines your apps, your accessories and how the laptop feels every day.
Windows
The most flexible choice, available at every price from many manufacturers.
- Runs the widest range of software, including most engineering, accounting and gaming programs
- Huge choice of designs: 2-in-1s, gaming laptops, business machines
- Quality varies a lot between models, so reviews matter
macOS (MacBook)
Apple's laptops pair their own chips with macOS.
- Excellent battery life and build quality across the range
- Strong for creative work and development
- Works seamlessly with iPhone and iPad
- Some specialist Windows software and many games are unavailable; upgrades after purchase are not possible
ChromeOS (Chromebook)
Built around the Chrome browser and web apps, with Android apps on many models.
- Simple, fast and secure, with automatic updates
- Often very affordable — great for schoolwork, writing and browsing
- Limited for software that needs full desktop programs
- Check the model's automatic update expiry date before buying
A quick guide
- Need specific desktop software or games? Windows.
- Creative work, long battery life, already use an iPhone? MacBook.
- Browsing, documents and video on a budget? Chromebook.
Ask your course or employer
Universities and companies sometimes require particular software. Checking that list first can save an expensive mistake.
The bottom line
Choose the operating system your work requires, then find the best laptop within it.