Mac OS X Leopard vs. Windows Vista

With new PC operating systems from both Apple and Microsoft now on the market with this weekend’s release of Mac OS X v. 10.5 “Leopard”, how do they stand up to each other? Windows Vista has been largely criticized for its numerous problems, with include(but are not limited to) slow file operations, hardware requirements, software protection, and cost. But is Apple’s new system any better? Let’s find out.

Leopard contains many new features to the Mac operating system(over 300), such as the Time Machine, which allows users to restore files previously deleted, Safari 3, the latest version of Apple’s web browser, and numerous iChat enhancements. Vista contains many new features as well-Windows DVD Maker, improved searching features, and Windows Flip 3D(a feature which allows the user to flip through open tabs on Vista like a CD rack, much like the iPod Touch and iPhone do) are just some of the additions and improvements to Microsoft’s operating system. But the stated goal of Windows Vista was to improve security in the Windows system, as previous versions of Windows were suspectible to viruses and hackers. This it does well, with numerous additions and upgrades to security making the computers of Vista users safer then ever before. Unfourtunately, there are so many hardware problems with Windows Vista, that the new features are often eclipsed by them.

Another important factor in the battle between the operation systems is cost- basic Windows Vista goes for about $200 in the U.S., while Mac OS X Leopard goes for about $130. Vista’s price hurts its sales, becaue Vista’s predecessor, Windows XP, does many of the same things Vista does, and in fact does some things better then Vista does. Microsoft is even offering a downgrade back to Windows XP for those who want it. The price for the Leopard is much less, and with the relativeley poor reception Vista has gotten, Leopard has the potential to dominate the market.

Overall, who wins between Leopard and Vista? Let’s review:

1. Security: Vista
2. Price: Leopard
3. Hardware Compatibility: Leopard
4. New Features: Leopard
5. Display: Vista
6. Innovation: Tie

Winner: Mac OS X Leopard

Is Mac’s new OS really better? You’ll have to decide for yourself-test out the systems if you get the chance. This is Kolametal, signing off.