Microsoft vs Apple for Business: Which Is the Better Choice?

Should Your Business Use Windows PCs, Apple Macs or a Mixture of Both?

Choosing computers for a business is no longer simply a decision between a traditional office PC and a Mac.

Modern organisations need to consider:

• Business application compatibility
• Microsoft 365
• Cyber security
• Device management
• Employee preferences
• Remote working
• Hardware costs
• Support requirements
• Replacement cycles
• Integration with mobile devices

Microsoft and Apple can both provide reliable and secure business technology.

The right choice depends on what your employees need to do, which applications your business relies on and how the devices will be managed.

For some businesses, Microsoft Windows will remain the most practical option.

For others, Apple Macs may provide a better employee experience or suit creative and mobile-focused work.

Many organisations may benefit from a mixed environment, providing Windows or Mac devices according to each employee’s role rather than applying one choice to everybody.

What is the difference between Microsoft and Apple?

Microsoft and Apple are not exact equivalents.

Microsoft develops Windows, Microsoft 365, Azure, Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Defender and many other business applications and cloud services.

Although Microsoft produces its own Surface computers, Windows is also available across devices made by manufacturers such as Dell, HP, Lenovo and others.

Apple takes a more integrated approach.

It designs the Mac hardware, Apple silicon processors, macOS operating system and many of the services that operate on the device.

This means a Windows business can choose from a very wide range of manufacturers, specifications and prices.

A Mac business selects from Apple’s more controlled range of MacBook and desktop products.

Neither model is automatically better. They offer different levels of choice, consistency and control.

Is Microsoft 365 only for Windows?

No.

Businesses can use Microsoft 365 on both Windows and macOS.

Microsoft provides Mac versions of applications including:

• Word
• Excel
• PowerPoint
• Outlook
• OneNote
• OneDrive
• Microsoft Teams

Microsoft currently supports Office for Mac on the three most recent major versions of macOS. As Apple releases a new macOS version, Microsoft removes support for the oldest of the previous three versions.

This means a business can use:

• Exchange Online email
• Microsoft Teams
• SharePoint
• OneDrive
• Microsoft 365 applications

without requiring every employee to use Windows.

However, the Windows and Mac versions of an application may not provide exactly the same functionality.

A business should test important templates, macros, add-ins and integrations before replacing Windows computers with Macs.

1. Business application compatibility

Application compatibility is often the most important consideration.

Many businesses depend on specialist software for:

• Accounts
• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Stock control
• Customer management
• Legal case management
• Healthcare
• Property management
• Telephone systems
• Remote access

Some applications are available through a web browser and work equally well on Windows and macOS.

Others provide dedicated versions for both platforms.

However, some specialist or older business applications are designed specifically for Windows.

This may apply to:

• Older accounting systems
• Microsoft Access databases
• Specialist engineering tools
• Industry-specific applications
• Software requiring a Windows service
• Legacy browser components
• Hardware configuration utilities
• Applications using Windows-only add-ins

Before purchasing Macs, ask each important software supplier:

• Is the application fully supported on macOS?
• Are all features available?
• Does it require Windows?
• Are printing and scanning supported?
• Do integrations and add-ins work?
• Can the supplier support a mixed environment?
• Does the web version provide the complete service?

A Mac may technically be capable of accessing an application through a virtual desktop or remote Windows server, but this introduces additional licensing, infrastructure and support requirements.

Which platform is better for application compatibility?

Windows is often the safer choice where the business relies on specialist, legacy or locally installed applications.

Macs can work very well where employees primarily use:

• Microsoft 365
• Web-based applications
• Cloud accounting
• Creative applications
• Communication tools
• Browser-based customer systems

The decision should be based on actual application requirements rather than personal preference alone.

2. Hardware choice

Windows provides a very wide range of hardware.

Businesses can choose:

• Low-cost office desktops
• Lightweight laptops
• Touchscreen devices
• Two-in-one laptops
• High-performance workstations
• Rugged devices
• Specialist engineering computers
• Devices with multiple built-in ports
• Equipment from several manufacturers

This makes it easier to select different devices for different job roles.

For example:

• A receptionist may need a basic desktop.
• A remote manager may need a lightweight laptop.
• An engineer may require a powerful workstation.
• A warehouse employee may need a rugged device.

Apple offers a more focused product range, including MacBook laptops and Mac desktop computers.

This narrower range can simplify purchasing and create a consistent employee experience.

However, it may offer less flexibility when the business requires a highly specialised specification, built-in touchscreen or unusual hardware configuration.

3. Initial cost

The cost of a business computer should include more than the purchase price.

A low-cost device may become expensive if it:

• Performs slowly
• Requires frequent repairs
• Has insufficient memory
• Cannot run Windows 11
• Needs to be replaced early
• Generates repeated support requests

Apple Macs may have a higher initial purchase price than many entry-level Windows devices.

However, comparing a MacBook with the cheapest available Windows laptop is not necessarily a fair comparison.

Businesses should compare devices with similar:

• Build quality
• Processor performance
• Memory
• Storage
• Battery life
• Display quality
• Warranty
• Expected working life

The total cost should also consider:

• Setup
• Management tools
• Support
• Repairs
• Accessories
• Software licensing
• Employee downtime
• Replacement value

Windows offers more opportunities to reduce the initial hardware cost.

Apple provides a more standardised range, but the business may need additional adapters, docking stations or accessories depending on how the employee works.

4. Employee experience

Employees can have strong preferences about the devices they use.

Some people are more productive on Windows because they have used it throughout their careers.

Others prefer macOS because they find its interface, trackpad, battery performance or integration with other Apple devices easier to use.

A sudden change of platform can initially reduce productivity.

Employees may need to relearn:

• Keyboard shortcuts
• File locations
• Window management
• Application settings
• Printing
• Screen sharing
• Troubleshooting
• Device security prompts

The best device is not always the one preferred personally by the business owner.

It should be the device that allows the employee to complete their work effectively and securely.

Some organisations offer an approved choice between Windows and Mac for roles where both platforms support the required applications.

This can improve employee satisfaction, but it also increases the number of configurations the IT team must document, secure and support.

5. Microsoft 365 integration

Both Windows and macOS can use Microsoft 365, but Windows naturally provides the closest integration with Microsoft’s wider platform.

Windows devices can be joined directly to Microsoft Entra ID and managed through Microsoft Intune.

Microsoft 365 Business Premium includes Microsoft Intune Plan 1, allowing eligible organisations to enrol, monitor and manage supported devices.

Business Premium also combines services such as:

• Microsoft Intune
• Microsoft Entra ID
• Microsoft Defender for Business
• Microsoft Defender for Office 365
• Microsoft 365 applications

Microsoft positions these services as an integrated productivity, identity, endpoint-management and security package for organisations with up to 300 users.

A Windows computer can provide an especially integrated experience for:

• Entra ID sign-in
• Windows Hello for Business
• Conditional Access
• BitLocker
• Microsoft Defender
• Intune compliance
• OneDrive
• Microsoft 365 Apps
• Windows update management

Macs can also access Microsoft 365 and be managed through Microsoft Intune.

Microsoft supports enrolling macOS devices into Intune, including automated enrolment through Apple’s business deployment services.

However, some Microsoft management and security features are designed primarily for Windows or provide different controls across macOS.

The business should confirm that its required policies are supported on both platforms.

6. Device management

Business devices should not be configured and maintained individually without central oversight.

The IT team should be able to:

• Apply security settings
• Install applications
• Enforce encryption
• Deploy updates
• Check compliance
• Remove company information
• Identify missing devices
• Restrict unsafe settings
• Managing Windows

Microsoft Intune can centrally manage Windows devices and integrate them with Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access and Defender.

A business can use it to apply policies covering:

• Antivirus
• Firewalls
• BitLocker
• Updates
• Applications
• Device compliance
• Administrator access
• USB storage
• Security baselines

Microsoft supports centrally managing BitLocker encryption through Intune, including silent encryption on suitable devices.

Managing Macs

Apple devices include a built-in framework that allows a device-management service to configure settings, deploy applications, send commands and receive device information.

Apple states that its device-management framework supports company-owned and employee-owned devices across macOS, iPhone, iPad and its other platforms.

Apple’s business deployment services can be connected to an MDM platform so compatible company Macs are automatically enrolled during their initial setup.

This can allow the IT team to:

• Apply security policies
• Install applications
• Configure Wi-Fi
• Enforce FileVault
• Manage updates
• Restrict features
• Remove company data
• Reassign returned devices

Apple provides management controls through its platform, but the business still needs a suitable MDM service.

This could include Microsoft Intune or a specialist Apple management platform.

Which is easier to manage?

Windows may be simpler where the organisation already uses Microsoft 365 Business Premium, Microsoft Intune and a mainly Windows environment.

Apple can also be centrally managed effectively, but the IT provider must understand Apple deployment, Apple business services and macOS management.

A Mac should not be handed to an employee as an unmanaged exception simply because it is considered secure.

7. Cyber security

Both modern Windows PCs and Apple Macs include strong security capabilities.

Windows security

Modern Windows security can include:

• Secure Boot
• Trusted Platform Module
• BitLocker
• Microsoft Defender Antivirus
• Windows Hello
• Firewall protection
• Application controls
• Endpoint detection and response

Microsoft states that baseline Windows security uses technologies including Secure Boot, BitLocker, Microsoft Defender, Windows Hello and TPM 2.0 to provide hardware-backed platform protection.

Windows can also integrate with Microsoft Defender for Business, providing capabilities such as:

• Endpoint detection and response
• Threat and vulnerability management
• Automated investigation
• Attack surface reduction
• Central security alerts
• Apple security

Apple designs the hardware and operating system together.

Apple silicon includes a Secure Enclave that is separated from the main processor and designed to protect sensitive information and cryptographic operations.

macOS also provides features such as:

• Secure Boot
• FileVault
• Gatekeeper
• Application signing
• Built-in malware protection
• System integrity controls
• Touch ID on supported models
• Hardware-backed encryption

FileVault provides built-in encryption for data stored on a Mac. On Apple silicon and supported Intel Macs, encryption-key handling can use the Secure Enclave’s hardware security capabilities.

Are Macs immune to viruses?

No.

Macs can still be affected by:

• Malware
• Phishing
• Stolen passwords
• Malicious browser extensions
• Unsafe applications
• Unpatched vulnerabilities
• Compromised cloud accounts
• Social engineering
• Data theft

The idea that Macs do not require business security or management is dangerous.

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is available for macOS and can help organisations prevent, detect, investigate and respond to threats on managed Macs.

Whichever platform is selected, the business still needs:

• Security updates
• Managed antivirus or endpoint protection
• Multifactor authentication
• Restricted administrator access
• Encryption
• Backups
• Monitoring
• Employee training

Security depends on the complete configuration and management of the device, not only the logo on the computer.

8. Software updates

Windows and macOS both require regular updates.

Updates can correct:

• Security vulnerabilities
• Software faults
• Reliability problems
• Hardware compatibility issues
• Operating-system defects

Windows updates can be centrally managed through Microsoft Intune using update rings and feature-update policies.

These controls allow the IT team to define:

• Installation deadlines
• Restart behaviour
• Deferral periods
• Target Windows versions
• Gradual rollout groups

Apple software updates can also be deployed and enforced through device management.

Apple’s declarative device-management framework allows organisations to control aspects of the update process across managed devices.

The challenge is not whether either platform can be updated.

It is whether the business has created suitable policies and whether somebody investigates devices that fail to install those updates.

9. Encryption and lost-device protection

Business laptops may contain:

• Customer information
• Financial documents
• Employee records
• Saved credentials
• Confidential emails
• Business plans

If an unencrypted device is lost or stolen, this information may be exposed.

Windows supports BitLocker encryption, while macOS supports FileVault.

Both can be centrally managed when the devices are correctly enrolled.

The IT team should also confirm:

• Recovery keys are stored securely
• Employees cannot disable encryption
• Lost devices can be blocked or wiped
• Devices report their compliance status
• Access sessions can be revoked
• Company information is backed up

A laptop should not be considered secure simply because it requires a login password.

Full-disk encryption is an important control when devices leave the office.

10. Mobile-device integration

Apple provides close integration between Macs, iPhones and iPads.

Employees using several Apple devices may benefit from features such as:

• AirDrop
• Handoff
• iCloud Keychain
• Universal Clipboard
• Continuity Camera
• iPhone calls and messages on a Mac

These features can improve productivity, but they must be considered within the company’s security policies.

For example, the business may not want confidential documents transferred through personal iCloud accounts or uncontrolled AirDrop connections.

Windows integrates closely with Microsoft services and can also work with iPhone and Android devices through Microsoft applications and management tools.

If the business already provides iPhones or iPads, choosing Macs may create a more consistent Apple experience.

If it relies heavily on Microsoft Intune, Entra ID, Microsoft Defender and Windows applications, Windows devices may create a more consistent Microsoft environment.

11. Repair and support

Windows computers are available from many manufacturers.

This provides choice, but the support experience can vary according to:

• Manufacturer
• Warranty
• Device range
• Supplier
• Availability of replacement parts

Business-grade Windows devices can be purchased with:

• Next-business-day warranties
• On-site repairs
• Extended warranties
• Accidental damage cover
• Spare-device services

Apple provides its own hardware support options and authorised repair network.

The organisation should consider:

• How quickly repairs are required
• Whether on-site service is available
• Whether loan devices are provided
• How far employees must travel for repair
• Whether data must remain on-site
• Whether spare computers are held

A device may have excellent reliability but still cause significant disruption if it takes a week to repair and no replacement is available.

12. Creative and specialist work

Apple Macs are widely used in areas such as:

• Graphic design
• Video production
• Audio
• Photography
• Marketing
• Software development

This does not mean creative work cannot be completed on Windows.

High-performance Windows workstations can also run professional design, video and audio applications.

The decision should consider:

• The employee’s preferred applications
• Required plugins
• File compatibility
• Graphics performance
• External displays
• Storage requirements
• Collaboration with customers
• Supplier support

For some creative roles, a Mac may provide the preferred workflow.

For engineering, manufacturing or specialist industry software, Windows may be more practical.

13. Remote working

Both Windows and Mac devices can support remote and hybrid employees.

They can access:

• Microsoft Teams
• Microsoft 365
• SharePoint
• OneDrive
• Web applications
• Virtual desktops
• Remote support tools
• VPN connections

The more important question is whether the device can be securely managed away from the office.

The business should be able to:

• Enrol it remotely
• Apply security policies
• Deploy applications
• Install updates
• Check compliance
• Support the employee
• Remove company information
• Investigate security threats

Windows and Mac can both support these requirements when they are connected to suitable cloud-management services.

The device should not require an employee to return to the office every time an application or security policy needs updating.

14. Gaming and personal use

Gaming should rarely be the main consideration when choosing a business computer.

However, employees sometimes request a particular device based on how they use computers personally.

A personal preference may not reflect:

• Business application requirements
• Security policies
• Management capabilities
• Support skills
• Repair arrangements
• Company standards

The device should be selected for the employee’s job.

Allowing every employee to choose any computer they want can increase support costs and create inconsistent security.

A sensible approach is to define several approved models for different roles.

15. Mixed Windows and Mac environments

A business does not necessarily need to choose only one platform.

A mixed environment may provide:

• Windows devices for employees using specialist applications
• Macs for creative or development teams
• Windows desktops for fixed office roles
• MacBooks for employees already working in the Apple ecosystem

This can provide flexibility, but it also creates additional work.

The IT team must manage:

• Two operating systems
• Different security settings
• Different update processes
• Different application packages
• Separate troubleshooting procedures
• Additional employee training
• Different hardware accessories

The business should avoid unmanaged exceptions.

If Macs are approved, they should be included in:

• Device inventory
• MDM enrolment
• Encryption policies
• Endpoint protection
• Update management
• Backup planning
• Conditional Access
• Support procedures

Microsoft Intune supports enrolling and managing Windows and macOS devices, and Defender for Business supports protection across Windows, Mac, Android and iOS or iPadOS.

This means an organisation using Microsoft security and management services does not necessarily need to exclude Macs.

Which is more secure: Microsoft or Apple?

Neither platform is automatically secure simply because it has been purchased.

A well-managed Windows computer can provide strong protection.

A well-managed Mac can also provide strong protection.

A poorly managed device on either platform may expose the business.

The important controls include:

• Supported hardware and operating systems
• Prompt security updates
• Disk encryption
• Managed endpoint protection
• Restricted administrator access
• Multifactor authentication
• Device compliance
• Security monitoring
• Tested backups
• Employee awareness

Macs should not be treated as immune to cyber attacks.

Windows computers should not be assumed to be unsafe simply because they are more widely used.

Security should be based on configuration, monitoring and user behaviour rather than platform stereotypes.

Which is cheaper: Windows or Mac?

Windows generally provides a wider range of initial purchase prices.

A business can select from budget, mid-range and premium devices from several manufacturers.

Apple provides fewer models and a more controlled hardware range.

The overall cost will depend on:

• Device specification
• Expected lifespan
• Warranty
• Support time
• Repairs
• Accessories
• Application licensing
• Management tools
• Replacement value
• Employee productivity

The cheapest initial purchase can become the most expensive option if the computer is slow, unreliable or unsuitable for the employee’s applications.

Businesses should compare the total cost over the device’s expected working life.

Which is easier to support?

Windows may be easier for organisations whose applications, processes and IT provider are already built around Microsoft technology.

Mac may be straightforward where:

• Most applications are web based
• Employees already understand macOS
• The devices are centrally enrolled
• The IT provider supports Apple
• The company uses a consistent Mac model range

Problems arise when Macs are introduced informally without:

• Application testing
• Device management
• Security tools
• Documentation
• Support arrangements

Before approving Apple devices, confirm that your IT provider can properly manage and support them.

The answer should be more than:

“We can probably work it out.”

Questions to ask before choosing

Before selecting Windows or Mac, ask:

• Which business applications must the employee use?
• Are those applications fully supported?
• Does the employee require specialist hardware?
• Will the device be enrolled into central management?
• Can our endpoint security protect it?
• Can we enforce encryption?
• How will updates be managed?
• Can our IT provider support the device?
• What happens when it fails?
• Are appropriate spare devices available?
• Does the employee genuinely need this platform?
• How long do we expect to keep the computer?
• Will the platform create additional software costs?

The answers may be different for each department.

When should a business choose Microsoft Windows?

Windows may be the better option when:

• The business relies on Windows-only applications
• Employees use complex Excel macros or add-ins
• A wide choice of hardware is required
• The business needs specialist workstations
• Existing management is designed around Windows
• Employees require touchscreen or two-in-one devices
• The organisation has significant Windows support expertise
• Initial hardware cost needs to be tightly controlled

Windows is also a natural choice for businesses that want the closest integration between Windows 11, Microsoft 365, Intune, Entra ID and Microsoft Defender.

When should a business choose Apple Macs?

Macs may be the better option when:

• Employees use cloud and browser-based applications
• Creative applications are central to the role
• The workforce already understands macOS
• Integration with company iPhones and iPads is important
• The business wants a consistent hardware range
• The applications and peripherals have been confirmed as compatible
• The organisation has suitable MDM and support arrangements

Apple states that business Macs can be deployed through its business services and managed using the built-in device-management framework with a chosen MDM solution.

The benefit depends on using those management capabilities rather than treating every Mac as an individually configured consumer device.

When should you use both?

A mixed environment may be appropriate when different teams have genuinely different requirements.

For example:

• Finance and operations use Windows.
• Design and marketing use Macs.
• Managers receive an approved choice.
• Specialist production computers remain Windows.
• Developers use the platform suited to their work.

A mixed environment should be a planned standard, not a collection of individual exceptions.

Both platforms should receive equivalent levels of:

• Security
• Monitoring
• Encryption
• Updates
• Support
• Backup
• Documentation
• Microsoft vs Apple: which is best for business?

There is no universal winner.

For many small and medium-sized businesses, Windows remains the most practical default because of its broad hardware choice, specialist software compatibility and close integration with Microsoft’s management and security services.

Apple Macs can be an excellent choice for employees whose applications support macOS and whose work benefits from Apple hardware and integration.

Our view is that a business should not select one platform based only on branding or personal preference.

The decision should be based on:

• Employee role
• Application compatibility
• Security
• Management
• Support
• Cost
• Business continuity

In some cases, the correct answer will be Windows.

In others, it will be Mac.

For a growing number of businesses, the right answer may be a carefully managed mixture of both.

• How can Hamilton Group help?

At Hamilton Group, we help businesses select, secure and manage both Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac devices.

We can assist with:

• Windows and Mac device reviews
• Microsoft 365
• Microsoft Intune
• Apple business device enrolment
• Mac and Windows application compatibility
• Microsoft Defender for Business
• Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on macOS
• BitLocker and FileVault encryption
• Conditional Access
• Device compliance
• Security updates
• Computer replacement planning
• Remote working
• Employee onboarding and offboarding
• Managed IT support

We can review your employees’ requirements and help answer questions such as:

• Do our applications support Mac?
• Should everyone use the same platform?
• Can Macs be managed through Microsoft Intune?
• Are all devices encrypted?
• Are ourWould a mixed environment create unnecessary support costs?
  Which device specification does each employee need?
  How will the computers be repaired and replaced?
  Are personal Apple IDs being used for company information?

At Hamilton Group, we aim to make first contact on IT support requests within 15 minutes, whether an employee is using Windows or macOS.

The right business computer should allow the employee to work effectively while giving the organisation the security, management and support it requires.

Contact Hamilton Group to discuss the right Windows, Mac or mixed-device strategy for your organisation.

Call us on 0330 043 0069 or book an appointment with one of our experts.