I too have been using macOS since 2016 when macOS Sierra (macOS 10.12) was trending. So, I will do my best to answer this question. Comes with great apps which are useful for photo and video-editing, music making and editing, etc. Mac OS isn't designed with gaming in mind. You can play games on your Mac, but the performance is nothing compared to what you can get out of a Windows gaming machine, and the selection of games leaves a lot to be desired. This brings us to our next point. Up to and including Mac OS X v10.4 (Tiger), Apple's implementation was based on the X11 Licensed XFree86 4.3 and X11R6.6. All bundled versions of X11 feature a window manager which is similar to the Mac OS X look-and-feel and has fairly good integration with Mac OS X, also using the native Quartz rendering system.
Featuring the detailed comparison between the two popular OS, macOS and Windows along with their features, benefits, advantages and disadvantages.
Are you confused between macOS and Windows? Then this is the perfect platform to know which operating system is the best for you.
Apple's macOS and Microsoft Windows are two of the most popular operating systems in the world of desktop computers. Windows offers versatility; macOS offers quality and efficiency. Both have some amazing features as well as some serious disadvantages! So let's have a bird-eye view on these two operating systems. Then we will proceed to the difference between the two.
macOS
macOS is a series of ‘proprietary graphical operating systems' which are developed and marketed by Apple Inc since 2001. macOS is currently the primary operating system in Apple Mac computers. In the market of laptop, desktops computers and home computers, macOS is the second most popular operating system in the world, only behind Microsoft Windows.
macOS is the second major operating systems series of Macintosh Operating Systems. The first was classic Mac OS which was released in 1984, some months before the release of Microsoft Windows.
Advantages of macOS
- Mac OS is based on the Darwin core We already know that it operates stably on ARM architecture since it works perfectly well on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and other devices.
- I too have been using macOS since 2016 when macOS Sierra (macOS 10.12) was trending. So, I will do my best to answer this question. Comes with great apps which are useful for photo and video-editing, music making and editing, etc.
- Offers free useful productivity apps: A number of Apple-developed applications are already pre-installed in a Mac device or is available for download through Apple's App Store. Among these free apps, there are some office productivity applications like Numbers, Keynote and Pages. In the case of Microsoft, most of the essential applications, for example, Microsoft's Office Suit does not come pre-installed, and the user has to pay separately for these applications.
- Simple and better user interface as compared to Windows: In case of macOS, the user interface is straightforward for its user to use. Any user who has prior experience of using the iOS operating system in iPads and iPhones will find it easy to use macOS. Its applications are available for download in the App Store, and all the downloaded applications can be found in the launchpad.
- Dedicated features for multi-tasking: There are many multi-tasking features available for macOS users. The users can run multiple workspaces simultaneously, which is similar to operating various desktops at the same time. macOS has devices and keys specially dedicated to switching between different applications and workspaces.
- Software and Hardware and designed for better integrations: This is one of the best features about macOS. All the workspaces and applications run very smoothly, without any signs of hiccups or hanging. One of the primary reasons for this is that Apple designs both it's Hardware and software by itself, unlike many other companies and operating systems. In the case of Windows, Microsoft only develops the operating system and some essential applications. Other Hardware and software are generally the third parties. In the case of Apple and macOS, third party applications and Hardware are typically selected on some established criteria and undergo thorough tests and verifications for compatibility and security.
- Less vulnerability to malware and other security issues: The fact cannot be denied that Apple and macOS are vulnerable to Virus attacks by different hackers around the world. But, the risk is much less as compared to Microsoft Windows. Because of Windows' increased popularity across the globe, Windows users become an easy target to hackers and malware developers.
- Compatible with other Apple devices and Services: macOS is seamlessly compatible with other Apple devices using another operating system like iOS in iPhone and iPad. Moreover, the interface in macOS and iOS is very much similar to each other. This makes things very easy and convenient for users of macOS and iOS. Apart from the ease of use, the users can also synchronize their files and other data in iCloud and access/edit them using different Apple devices.
Disadvantages of macOS
- Limited availability of Applications: This is one of the most significant drawbacks of macOS. Although there are many applications of Apple available free of cost in the Apple store, the number is still considerably less as compared to Windows. In Windows, you can get almost any software free of charge. macOS is also not ideal for those who love playing video games. Another thing which is worth mentioning is that Windows devices are far more accessible than Mac Devices. And this is one of the primary reasons why the developers of different software tend to develop software keeping in mind the Windows operating system. Windows can provide you with a far larger share of the market.
- Difficulty in upgrading or replacing Hardware: Although this problem not so severe, it is still worth mentioning. Mac devices have limited options available to improve the Hardware. For example, CPU or RAM of a MacBook cannot be easily replaced. This is because the Hardware is deeply integrated into the whole system. This is not the case in Windows. You can replace Hardware in most of the cases without facing much trouble. Hence Windows provides a better level of upgrades and customization.
- Very Expensive: One cannot deny that Windows is very expensive. But this is far cheaper than Apple devices. The devices released by Apple are costly as compared to methods of any other company with similar or better specification. And it is worth noting that macOS can only run in Apple devices and the operating system is costly on its own too.
- Lack of options for hardcore gamers: Are you a hardcore gamer? Then macOS is undoubtedly not for you. Firstly, macOS has limited number of variety in games, and limited options to upgrade or customization of Hardware to play heavy games like Call Of Duty, FIFA, Prince of Persia. Although, top quality macOS devices may have Hardware capable of running such heavy games, the variety of heavy games available in the Apple store is close to nothing! And another thing, Windows-based devices are far less expensive with the same hardware capabilities and more variety. This is one of the reasons why macOS keeps hardcore gamers and game developers away from itself. And to be honest, macOS is not at all marketed for gamers.
Windows
Gato (1984) mac os. Microsoft Windows is commonly known as Windows. Windows is a group of ‘proprietary graphical operating system' families, and these are developed and distributed by Microsoft.
Windows was introduced by Microsoft in 1985, some month after the introduction of classic macOS. Microsft Windows was quickly able to dominate the world market for desktop computers operating system. On desktop computers, Windows is still the most popular operating system by a distance. It has around 90% share in the world market of Desktop Computer's operating system.
One thing is worth noting that both macOS and Windows have lost to Linux and in the market share of operating systems in servers, and supercomputers. In the case of a mobile phone operating system, Linux's derivative Android is leading the market share.
The most recent version of Windows is Windows 10, which was released in 2015.
Advantages of using Windows
- Easy to use: Users who are familiar to the older version of Windows can still use the latest versions very comfortably. This is because ever since the release of the first version of Windows, Microsoft has not made many changes in the interface of its operating system in the later versions. This is one of the primary reasons why Windows users are often reluctant to switch their operating systems to Linux or macOS.
- Wide range of software availability: Since Windows has almost 90% market share in desktop computer's operating system, most of the software developing companies develop software keeping in mind the users of Windows. Hence the chances are very high that you may find any type of Windows compatible software you want. This is not the case with other famous operating systems like macOS and Linux.
- Support for new Hardware: Akost all the hardware manufacturing companies offer support for Windows. Suppose you have to go out to purchase particular Hardware to replace the older one, the chances are high that almost all the Hardware in the market are compatible with the latest version of Windows. Moreover, Windows also lets its users upgrade and customize the Hardware. This feature is not available with macOS.
- Games: If you are a hardcore gamer, then Windows is the best option for you without any doubt! Almost all famous computer games are compatible with Windows. All the renowned computer games developing companies develop games keeping in mind the users of Windows. This is because of the considerable share of the market in desktop computer operating system. At the same time, Windows also allows you to modify Hardware according to the game you want to play. Moreover, most of the gaming hardware is Windows compatible.
Disadvantages of using Windows
- Inadequate Security: Because of its massive popularity among desktop users across the globe, Windows has become an easy target for the developers of malware and other hackers. Another thing, it is safe to say that the in-built security system is incompetent to save its users from viruses and other malware. And thanks to this incompetence and massive vulnerability to virus attacks, people who are involved in the anti-virus industries can make millions of dollars every year! Installing an anti-virus is a must for Windows users nowadays. This is not the case with other operating systems.
- Additional expenses: After setting up your Windows operating system in your desktop, you may still require to splash out some cash to pay for some essential software or applications like the whole Microsoft Office Suite. Office Suite consists of Word, PowerPoint, Excel Sheet etc. Apart from that, you also have to purchase anti-virus software which is mandatory for those who use the internet regularly. This is undoubtedly not the case with macOS and Linux, where most of the applications, atleast all the essential applications are freely available.
- Slow Performance: This is one of the worst disadvantages of Windows. Even minimal use of the device can make it agonizingly slow for its users. Moreover, the source code is not available for its general users. Because of this, you are required to find and fix the bugs using hit and trial methods, which is not always right. In the case of Apple macOS, the performance rarely goes down because of speed. This is because Apple gives particular emphasis on integrating its software and Hardware to make the speed better.
Difference between macOS and Windows
macOS | Windows |
macOS based devices are generally less vulnerable to security issues like virus threat and hacking. This is usually because of the small market share of Apple macOS and massive domination of Windows computers. Also, the in-built defence system of Apple is comparatively better than Windows. | Windows PCs are far more vulnerable to security issues as compared to macOS. This is of the large market share of Windows and incompetent defence system of Windows. Windows users are required to use anti-virus software. |
Most of the essential applications in macOS devices are available free of cost. The users can download and install these devices from the Apple Store. | Most of the essential applications are not free. And you are required to splash out a lot of cash for these applications. Such primary applications include Office Suite and anti-virus. |
macOS is not a good option for gamers. First of all the general macOS devices don't have compatible Hardware for heavy games like Call Of Duty and Prince of Persia. And second, a large number of famous games do not run in macOS. This is because macOS does not have right enough market share. | Windows is the best operating system when it comes to gaming. All the famous vide game developing companies develop video games keeping in mind the users of Windows because of its market dominance. At the same time, Windows allows it's users to upgrade the system hardware to make them compatible for certain video games. |
macOS only runs on Apple devices, and we all know Apple devices are extremely costly. | Windows can run on the Hardware of any other company. And the cost of these devices is far less as compared to Apple devices with the same specification. |
macOS devices are generally designed to run smoothly. The users rarely experience hiccups while working. Disk defragmentation is usually not required. | This is the most frustrating thing about Windows. The Windows devices generally get slow, even with minimal use. Disk defragmentation is usually very important. |
Because of security and performance-related issues, Apple does not include too many third-party applications. Because of this, there is less variety of software available to its users. | Almost all the major software developing companies develop software, especially for Windows. The chances are high that any practically any type of software you want is compatible with Windows. |
Repair costs of macOS based devices are too high. | The repair cost of Windows-based devices is relatively less. |
Well, now I hope you can clearly decide which operating system is the best for you. If you want quality and are ready to splash the cash, then Apple macOS is the best choice for you. If you are looking for a pocket-friendly operating system with a wide range of software and games availability, then I advise you to go for Windows.
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Summary :
How much do you know about APFS vs Mac OS Extended? Which Mac file system should you choose? How to format hard drive for Mac? If you have similar questions on your mind, please read this page carefully to find answers; the main differences between APFS and Mac OS Extended file system and several ways to format a hard drive (internal/external) on Mac will be introduced.
Quick Navigation :
Mac (formerly known as Macintosh) refers to the personal computers that are designed, manufactured, and sold by Apple Inc. MacOS is one of the most popular operating systems in the world; it's the main competitor of Windows.
Common Mac file system includes:
- APFS (Apple File System): the default file system used in macOS 10.13 and later versions.
- Mac OS Extended: the file system used in macOS 10.12 and earlier versions.
- FAT (MS-DOS) and exFAT: the system systems that are supported by both Mac & Windows.
The following content first discusses on APFS vs Mac OS Extended; after that, it will tell you how to format a hard drive for Mac in several different ways.
Part 1: Introduction to APFS and Mac OS Extended
Featuring the detailed comparison between the two popular OS, macOS and Windows along with their features, benefits, advantages and disadvantages.
Are you confused between macOS and Windows? Then this is the perfect platform to know which operating system is the best for you.
Apple's macOS and Microsoft Windows are two of the most popular operating systems in the world of desktop computers. Windows offers versatility; macOS offers quality and efficiency. Both have some amazing features as well as some serious disadvantages! So let's have a bird-eye view on these two operating systems. Then we will proceed to the difference between the two.
macOS
macOS is a series of ‘proprietary graphical operating systems' which are developed and marketed by Apple Inc since 2001. macOS is currently the primary operating system in Apple Mac computers. In the market of laptop, desktops computers and home computers, macOS is the second most popular operating system in the world, only behind Microsoft Windows.
macOS is the second major operating systems series of Macintosh Operating Systems. The first was classic Mac OS which was released in 1984, some months before the release of Microsoft Windows.
Advantages of macOS
- Mac OS is based on the Darwin core We already know that it operates stably on ARM architecture since it works perfectly well on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and other devices.
- I too have been using macOS since 2016 when macOS Sierra (macOS 10.12) was trending. So, I will do my best to answer this question. Comes with great apps which are useful for photo and video-editing, music making and editing, etc.
- Offers free useful productivity apps: A number of Apple-developed applications are already pre-installed in a Mac device or is available for download through Apple's App Store. Among these free apps, there are some office productivity applications like Numbers, Keynote and Pages. In the case of Microsoft, most of the essential applications, for example, Microsoft's Office Suit does not come pre-installed, and the user has to pay separately for these applications.
- Simple and better user interface as compared to Windows: In case of macOS, the user interface is straightforward for its user to use. Any user who has prior experience of using the iOS operating system in iPads and iPhones will find it easy to use macOS. Its applications are available for download in the App Store, and all the downloaded applications can be found in the launchpad.
- Dedicated features for multi-tasking: There are many multi-tasking features available for macOS users. The users can run multiple workspaces simultaneously, which is similar to operating various desktops at the same time. macOS has devices and keys specially dedicated to switching between different applications and workspaces.
- Software and Hardware and designed for better integrations: This is one of the best features about macOS. All the workspaces and applications run very smoothly, without any signs of hiccups or hanging. One of the primary reasons for this is that Apple designs both it's Hardware and software by itself, unlike many other companies and operating systems. In the case of Windows, Microsoft only develops the operating system and some essential applications. Other Hardware and software are generally the third parties. In the case of Apple and macOS, third party applications and Hardware are typically selected on some established criteria and undergo thorough tests and verifications for compatibility and security.
- Less vulnerability to malware and other security issues: The fact cannot be denied that Apple and macOS are vulnerable to Virus attacks by different hackers around the world. But, the risk is much less as compared to Microsoft Windows. Because of Windows' increased popularity across the globe, Windows users become an easy target to hackers and malware developers.
- Compatible with other Apple devices and Services: macOS is seamlessly compatible with other Apple devices using another operating system like iOS in iPhone and iPad. Moreover, the interface in macOS and iOS is very much similar to each other. This makes things very easy and convenient for users of macOS and iOS. Apart from the ease of use, the users can also synchronize their files and other data in iCloud and access/edit them using different Apple devices.
Disadvantages of macOS
- Limited availability of Applications: This is one of the most significant drawbacks of macOS. Although there are many applications of Apple available free of cost in the Apple store, the number is still considerably less as compared to Windows. In Windows, you can get almost any software free of charge. macOS is also not ideal for those who love playing video games. Another thing which is worth mentioning is that Windows devices are far more accessible than Mac Devices. And this is one of the primary reasons why the developers of different software tend to develop software keeping in mind the Windows operating system. Windows can provide you with a far larger share of the market.
- Difficulty in upgrading or replacing Hardware: Although this problem not so severe, it is still worth mentioning. Mac devices have limited options available to improve the Hardware. For example, CPU or RAM of a MacBook cannot be easily replaced. This is because the Hardware is deeply integrated into the whole system. This is not the case in Windows. You can replace Hardware in most of the cases without facing much trouble. Hence Windows provides a better level of upgrades and customization.
- Very Expensive: One cannot deny that Windows is very expensive. But this is far cheaper than Apple devices. The devices released by Apple are costly as compared to methods of any other company with similar or better specification. And it is worth noting that macOS can only run in Apple devices and the operating system is costly on its own too.
- Lack of options for hardcore gamers: Are you a hardcore gamer? Then macOS is undoubtedly not for you. Firstly, macOS has limited number of variety in games, and limited options to upgrade or customization of Hardware to play heavy games like Call Of Duty, FIFA, Prince of Persia. Although, top quality macOS devices may have Hardware capable of running such heavy games, the variety of heavy games available in the Apple store is close to nothing! And another thing, Windows-based devices are far less expensive with the same hardware capabilities and more variety. This is one of the reasons why macOS keeps hardcore gamers and game developers away from itself. And to be honest, macOS is not at all marketed for gamers.
Windows
Gato (1984) mac os. Microsoft Windows is commonly known as Windows. Windows is a group of ‘proprietary graphical operating system' families, and these are developed and distributed by Microsoft.
Windows was introduced by Microsoft in 1985, some month after the introduction of classic macOS. Microsft Windows was quickly able to dominate the world market for desktop computers operating system. On desktop computers, Windows is still the most popular operating system by a distance. It has around 90% share in the world market of Desktop Computer's operating system.
One thing is worth noting that both macOS and Windows have lost to Linux and in the market share of operating systems in servers, and supercomputers. In the case of a mobile phone operating system, Linux's derivative Android is leading the market share.
The most recent version of Windows is Windows 10, which was released in 2015.
Advantages of using Windows
- Easy to use: Users who are familiar to the older version of Windows can still use the latest versions very comfortably. This is because ever since the release of the first version of Windows, Microsoft has not made many changes in the interface of its operating system in the later versions. This is one of the primary reasons why Windows users are often reluctant to switch their operating systems to Linux or macOS.
- Wide range of software availability: Since Windows has almost 90% market share in desktop computer's operating system, most of the software developing companies develop software keeping in mind the users of Windows. Hence the chances are very high that you may find any type of Windows compatible software you want. This is not the case with other famous operating systems like macOS and Linux.
- Support for new Hardware: Akost all the hardware manufacturing companies offer support for Windows. Suppose you have to go out to purchase particular Hardware to replace the older one, the chances are high that almost all the Hardware in the market are compatible with the latest version of Windows. Moreover, Windows also lets its users upgrade and customize the Hardware. This feature is not available with macOS.
- Games: If you are a hardcore gamer, then Windows is the best option for you without any doubt! Almost all famous computer games are compatible with Windows. All the renowned computer games developing companies develop games keeping in mind the users of Windows. This is because of the considerable share of the market in desktop computer operating system. At the same time, Windows also allows you to modify Hardware according to the game you want to play. Moreover, most of the gaming hardware is Windows compatible.
Disadvantages of using Windows
- Inadequate Security: Because of its massive popularity among desktop users across the globe, Windows has become an easy target for the developers of malware and other hackers. Another thing, it is safe to say that the in-built security system is incompetent to save its users from viruses and other malware. And thanks to this incompetence and massive vulnerability to virus attacks, people who are involved in the anti-virus industries can make millions of dollars every year! Installing an anti-virus is a must for Windows users nowadays. This is not the case with other operating systems.
- Additional expenses: After setting up your Windows operating system in your desktop, you may still require to splash out some cash to pay for some essential software or applications like the whole Microsoft Office Suite. Office Suite consists of Word, PowerPoint, Excel Sheet etc. Apart from that, you also have to purchase anti-virus software which is mandatory for those who use the internet regularly. This is undoubtedly not the case with macOS and Linux, where most of the applications, atleast all the essential applications are freely available.
- Slow Performance: This is one of the worst disadvantages of Windows. Even minimal use of the device can make it agonizingly slow for its users. Moreover, the source code is not available for its general users. Because of this, you are required to find and fix the bugs using hit and trial methods, which is not always right. In the case of Apple macOS, the performance rarely goes down because of speed. This is because Apple gives particular emphasis on integrating its software and Hardware to make the speed better.
Difference between macOS and Windows
macOS | Windows |
macOS based devices are generally less vulnerable to security issues like virus threat and hacking. This is usually because of the small market share of Apple macOS and massive domination of Windows computers. Also, the in-built defence system of Apple is comparatively better than Windows. | Windows PCs are far more vulnerable to security issues as compared to macOS. This is of the large market share of Windows and incompetent defence system of Windows. Windows users are required to use anti-virus software. |
Most of the essential applications in macOS devices are available free of cost. The users can download and install these devices from the Apple Store. | Most of the essential applications are not free. And you are required to splash out a lot of cash for these applications. Such primary applications include Office Suite and anti-virus. |
macOS is not a good option for gamers. First of all the general macOS devices don't have compatible Hardware for heavy games like Call Of Duty and Prince of Persia. And second, a large number of famous games do not run in macOS. This is because macOS does not have right enough market share. | Windows is the best operating system when it comes to gaming. All the famous vide game developing companies develop video games keeping in mind the users of Windows because of its market dominance. At the same time, Windows allows it's users to upgrade the system hardware to make them compatible for certain video games. |
macOS only runs on Apple devices, and we all know Apple devices are extremely costly. | Windows can run on the Hardware of any other company. And the cost of these devices is far less as compared to Apple devices with the same specification. |
macOS devices are generally designed to run smoothly. The users rarely experience hiccups while working. Disk defragmentation is usually not required. | This is the most frustrating thing about Windows. The Windows devices generally get slow, even with minimal use. Disk defragmentation is usually very important. |
Because of security and performance-related issues, Apple does not include too many third-party applications. Because of this, there is less variety of software available to its users. | Almost all the major software developing companies develop software, especially for Windows. The chances are high that any practically any type of software you want is compatible with Windows. |
Repair costs of macOS based devices are too high. | The repair cost of Windows-based devices is relatively less. |
Well, now I hope you can clearly decide which operating system is the best for you. If you want quality and are ready to splash the cash, then Apple macOS is the best choice for you. If you are looking for a pocket-friendly operating system with a wide range of software and games availability, then I advise you to go for Windows.
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Summary :
How much do you know about APFS vs Mac OS Extended? Which Mac file system should you choose? How to format hard drive for Mac? If you have similar questions on your mind, please read this page carefully to find answers; the main differences between APFS and Mac OS Extended file system and several ways to format a hard drive (internal/external) on Mac will be introduced.
Quick Navigation :
Mac (formerly known as Macintosh) refers to the personal computers that are designed, manufactured, and sold by Apple Inc. MacOS is one of the most popular operating systems in the world; it's the main competitor of Windows.
Common Mac file system includes:
- APFS (Apple File System): the default file system used in macOS 10.13 and later versions.
- Mac OS Extended: the file system used in macOS 10.12 and earlier versions.
- FAT (MS-DOS) and exFAT: the system systems that are supported by both Mac & Windows.
The following content first discusses on APFS vs Mac OS Extended; after that, it will tell you how to format a hard drive for Mac in several different ways.
Part 1: Introduction to APFS and Mac OS Extended
In this part, I'll first introduce APFS and Mac OS extended to you. Then, I'll compare these two file systems used on Mac for you in brief. You may ask what are the differences between APFS and Mac OS Extended, right?
APFS vs Mac OS Extended
APFS refers to Apple File System, which is a proprietary file system used by Mac devices running macOS 10.13 or later. Mac OS Extended is a journaling file system used by macOS 10.12 or earlier. APFS is best for solid state and flash drives while Mac OS Extended is best for mechanical drives, or drives used on older macOS.
What Is APFS Format
APFS (the full name is Apple File System) is a proprietary file system released by Apple Inc. It can be used on different devices running macOS High Sierra (10.13) and later, iOS 10.3 and later, all versions of iPadOS, watchOS 3.2 and later, or tvOS 10.2 and later. APFS is a new file system which was originally designed by Mac to fix core problems of Mac OS Extended.
What Is Mac OS Extended (Journaled)
Mac OS Extended, also known as HFS+, HFS Plus or HFS Extended, is actually a journaling file system released by Apple Inc. It was released in 1998 to replace HFS (Hierarchical File System, also known as Mac OS Standard or HFS Standard), which is the previous primary file system in Apple computers. Two main advantages of HFS+ when compare to HFS are: a. it gives support to much larger files; b. it uses Unicode for naming items.
Part 2: Which Is Better, APFS or Mac OS Extended
APFS vs HFS+ vs HFS:
APFS file system was announced in June 2016 to replace HFS+ (also known as HFS Plus or Mac OS Extended); the latter was used on all Mac computers as the primary file system since 1998 to replace the previous HFS.
Choose APFS for SSDs & Flash Storage Devices
When compared to Mac OS extended, APFS has been optimized a lot in terms of encryption, so it's more suitable for flash and solid-state drive storage. APFS becomes the default file system for both for SSDs (Solid State Drives) and flash drives.
- In 2016, APFS was first released by Apple to replace Mac OS Extended (the previous default file system on Mac); it carries all sorts of benefits you can found in Mac OS Extended.
- A partial specification for APFS was published by Apple in September 2018 to allow the read-only access to APFS drive on even unencrypted and non-Fusion storage devices.
But don't worry, you can still use the APFS on mechanical and hybrid drives.
To gain quality but free USB data recovery service, you should use MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free Edition; this post tells you how to recover USB data.
There are two main highlights in APFS.
1st: fast speed. Copying and pasting a folder on APFS drive can be finished in an instant since the file system points to basically the same data twice.
- There are huge improvements in metadata so that many actions can be performed quickly; for example, confirming how much space the target file/folder takes up on an APFS drive.
- The reliability is also improved a lot. Users don't encounter corrupted files as often as they used to.
2nd: reverse compatibility. If you are running 2016's macOS Sierra or the later versions of macOS, congratulations, you have both read and write access to APFS, HFS +, and HFS file system. However, for users who run an older Mac (or a Windows operating system), they are not allowed to write to APFS-formatted drives.
Pros & Cons of APFS
Main advantages of APFS:
- It's able to create point-in-time snapshots for users.
- APFS allows users to encrypt the full disk by using a single or multi-key so as to enhance the security.
- The checksums are used to ensure the integrity of metadata.
- It creates new records, instead of overwriting the existing ones, in order to avoid metadata corruption; the records may be corrupted because of system crash or other reasons.
- The storage management of APFS is more efficient than HFS+, resulting in helping users get additional free space.
- Users don't need to write changes twice by choosing APFS over HFS+; this will increase the system performance on some devices.
- The clones or multiple copies of the same file are allowed; it will only store the changes as deltas. This helps to reduce storage space greatly when users copy files, make revisions, or do other things.
- The APFS drive is generally more stable and reliable than the previous HFS+ or HFS drive.
Feed a hole mac os. Main disadvantages of APFS:
- Compression is not allowed on an APFS drive.
- It gives no support to the Fusion drives.
- The NVRAM (Non-volatile Random-access Memory) can't be used even for data storage.
- The Checksums used are only available for ensuring integrity of metadata (that of user data can't be guaranteed).
- You can only access the encrypted volumes from another other computer which runs macOS High Sierra.
- The biggest disadvantage of all seems to be: APFS wasn't compatible with Time Machine for a long time in the past. Users of older Mac versions are told to make backups on Mac OS Extended drive unless they use a third-party backup tool rather than the built-in Time Machine.
Choose Mac OS Extended Journaled for Mechanical Hard Disks
Mac OS Extended (HFS+) is the default file system for all Macs from 1998 to 2017, until the new APFS replace it. Till now, it's still the default file system for both mechanical and hybrid hard drives. You should keep it unchanged while you install the macOS or format external hard drive Mac. The HFS+ is a better choice than APFS on even current mechanical and hybrid hard drives.
Besides, you should definitely choose Mac OS Extended when you reformat external hard drive Mac considering that it may be used on older Macs running El Capitan or earlier versions of macOS. As you know, the new APFS file system is not compatible with these old macOS versions.
Pros & Cons of HFS+
Main advantages of HFS+:
- It gives support to the Fusion drives (which can't be supported by APFS).
- It gives support to all versions of Mac OS X and macOS.
- You can encrypt volumes and then access them from any version of Mac OS X and macOS.
Main disadvantages of HFS+:
- There's no point-in-time snapshot for users.
- The nanosecond standard is not used for Timestamps.
- The native file support for other file systems is too limited.
- The support to Mac OS Extended will be stopped on February 6, 2040.
- No checksum is used for metadata integrity or user data integrity.
- You can't have concurrent access to the file system by a process.
Please ask yourself the following questions when you choose between APFS and Mac OS Extended:
Downside Mac Os Download
- Are you formatting the internal disk or the external hard drive on your Mac?
- Which macOS are you running? Do you prepare to install macOS High Sierra or later?
- Is the Time Machine backup or bootable installer included in your daily schedule?
- Are you preparing to use the disk on another Mac or even Windows computer?
Bonus Tip: Choose exFAT for Hard Drives Used on Both Mac & Windows
Though the file system of main system drive on Mac is confined to APFS and Mac OS Extended, you can still consider exFAT (or the older FAT) when you format an external hard drive on Mac.
The most obvious benefit of using exFAT is that it can work with both Windows and macOS computers (you have both read and write access to the exFAT drive). Although there are solutions to read Mac formatted drive on Windows or read a Windows formatted drive on Mac, formatting drives to exFAT is still a convenient thing and an economical choice.
Part 3: How to Format Hard Drive for Mac
Users shouldn't reformat the disk that built-in Mac causally unless they have special needs and they are professional enough. So this part will focus on how to format external hard drive for Mac by using the snap-in tool: Disk Utility (it can be used to format & manage both internal and external hard drives as well as disk images).
Downside Mac Os Download
How to format an external hard drive for Mac? Please follow this guide.
Step 1: open Disk Utility on your Mac.
Go to the Applications -> select Utilities folder -> double click on Disk Utility.
Step 2: choose View -> Show All Devices.
Please click on the View icon in the upper left corner of Disk Utility window. After that, please select Show All Devices from the drop-down list.
Step 3: erase/wipe the target disk.
Please connect the external hard disk in advance and make sure it's appeared on Mac. Then, select the disk that you want to format from the left sidebar. After that, you should click on the Erase button in the right pane.
- Give the disk a Name (the maximum length is 11 characters).
- Select a proper file Format.
- Choose a proper Scheme.
- Click on the Security Options to choose how you'd like the drive to be formatted (optional).
- Click on the Erase button.
- Wait for the process to be finished.
- Click on the blue Done button to close the window.
You can now start to use the formatted disk. Please click here to know how to format a disk for Windows computers in Disk Utility on Mac.
The file formats available for you to choose are:
- APFS
- APFS (Encrypted)
- APFS (Case-sensitive)
- APFS (Case-sensitive, Encrypted)
- Mac OS Extended (Journaled)
- Mac OS Extended (Journaled, Encrypted)
- Mac OS Extended (Case-sensitive, Journaled)
- Mac OS Extended (Case-sensitive, Journaled, Encrypted)
- MS-DOS (FAT)
- ExFAT
Click here to know more about the differences between these file formats.
That's how to reformat a disk on Mac by using Disk Utility (the steps to reformat MacBook Pro are the same). Of course, there are also many third-party tools you can download to format the disk on your Mac.
Downside Mac Os X
How to Recover Formatted Hard Drive on Mac
Data recovery from mac formatted external hard drive:
- Download Stellar Data Recovery for Mac.
- Follow the wizard to install it properly.
- Launch the software right after installation.
- Make sure the formatted drive is connected to your Mac.
- Define the file type that you want to recover; you can select all types by enabling Recover Everything.
- Click on the Next button to continue.
- Choose the formatted disk/drive and click on the Scan button (enable Deep Scan to find more files).
- Wait until the scan is finished.
- Browse the scan results and choose what you want to recover.
- Click on the Recover button and select a safe place to store the recovered data.
Extended reading:
Final Thoughts
Both APFS and Mac OS Extended are popular file systems supported by Mac computers. If you don't know which one is more suitable for you, please read part 1 and part 2 carefully (the advantages & disadvantages of these two Mac file systems are included). Part 3 teaches you how to format a hard drive for Mac by using the snap-in Disk Utility; besides, it offers an easy method for recovering data from a formatted drive on Mac. Hope this can help you decide which one to choose: APFS or Mac OS Extended, and prevent your important data from getting lost.