Apple’s latest operating system, macOS 26 “Tahoe” , and Microsoft’s Windows 11 represent two different visions of the modern desktop. Both deliver polished experiences, but they excel in different ways depending on what you need from your computer.
macOS Tahoe introduces a fresh Liquid Glass design , bringing translucency and depth across menus, sidebars, and app windows. Apple has added more customization options, from app icon tints to a redesigned Control Center where controls can be rearranged or added directly to the menu bar. A new Phone app brings call management and voicemail features to the Mac, while Live Activities from iPhone now show up on the desktop for seamless continuity. Spotlight search has also become smarter, letting users run actions directly and filter results more precisely. For gamers, Tahoe offers a Game Library, a new overlay, and support for MetalFX Frame Interpolation , aiming to smooth gameplay and boost performance on Apple silicon Macs. Importantly, Tahoe marks the final major update for Intel Macs , as Apple shifts entirely to its own chips.
Windows 11, on the other hand, continues to play to its strengths. It runs across a huge variety of hardware, from budget laptops to custom-built gaming PCs, offering unmatched compatibility and flexibility . Microsoft has invested heavily in gaming, with broad support for titles, accessories, and advanced technologies like DirectStorage. For businesses and enterprises, Windows 11 remains the leader with powerful management tools, extensive legacy app support, and mature security controls. Its Snap Layouts and multitasking features make it attractive to power users juggling multiple apps or displays. Microsoft has also leaned into AI, with Copilot integrated across the system, offering productivity shortcuts for those comfortable with cloud-based features.
So which is the “ultimate” desktop OS? If you live in Apple’s ecosystem, value design consistency, and want tight integration with your iPhone or iPad, macOS Tahoe is the natural choice—though be prepared to move away from Intel hardware. If you need flexibility, gaming support, or rely on legacy or specialized software, Windows 11 remains the more versatile platform. Both are excellent in their domains, and the right choice comes down to whether you prioritize Apple’s seamless ecosystem or Windows’ breadth of compatibility and customization.
Original source: https://www.pcmag.com/comparisons/macos-tahoe-vs-windows-11-deciding-the-ultimate-desktop-os
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