Why I prefer macOS over Windows or Linux for web development

Like most people these days, I have a preference for which operating system to use as my daily driver. In my case, I prefer using macOS. In this article, I will go over the reasons why I prefer macOS over other available operating systems.

macOS is UNIX-Based

Probably the most important reason for me as a developer is that macOS is UNIX-based (just like Linux). This gives me access to a powerful terminal, just like Linux-based servers have. It provides me with essential tools like SSH, Git, and package managers like Homebrew. I also find that using Node is a lot less troublesome on macOS. Node specifically gave me many headaches when I used Windows, and it still causes issues the few times I help others with Windows PCs.

The Apple Ecosystem

The Apple ecosystem simplifies my life. As a big user of focus modes, I appreciate that these settings sync between my iPhone and Mac. I only had to set it up once, and it automatically switches to the correct mode on all my devices.

Another convenience is that whenever I need to hop into a quick video call, my AirPods Pro automatically connect. There's no hassle with Bluetooth or struggling to connect devices.

Simply put: it just works.

The User Experience

The entire system feels intuitive to use, which is something I have always missed with Windows and Linux, at least out-of-the-box. All the controls are where I expect them to be and work as I anticipate.

Even though with a lot of tweaking, Windows and Linux can be closely matched, in my opinion, they never quite reach the level of refinement that Apple has achieved.

Another thing to add is that I like the design. While it doesn’t directly enhance my workflow, it’s a nice bonus.

The Hardware It Comes With

While not technically part of the operating system, the hardware is worth mentioning. With my daily driver being a MacBook Pro, I find the screen and trackpad incomparable to any other laptop. They’re simply amazing.

Does It Really Matter?

Even though I prefer macOS and believe it is the best choice for web developers, both Linux and Windows (especially with WSL) are fine. It’s a matter of preference. All operating systems can get the job done. Just make sure you configure it properly for your use case, which can be a bit more difficult on some operating systems.