Microsoft’s official end-of-support date for Windows 10 is drawing near, signaling a seismic shift for hundreds of millions of device owners around the globe. On October 14, 2025, one of the most beloved and widely deployed operating systems in history will be officially abandoned: no more security updates, no bug fixes, and no technical support unless users pay extra for what Microsoft now calls “Extended Security Updates” (ESUs). This looming deadline has ignited impassioned debate among Windows loyalists and has spurred a new round of consumer soul-searching — do you invest in new Windows 11 hardware, continue paying to keep old PCs safe, or leap into the arms of an alternative, notably Apple’s macOS?
Marking the End: Windows 10 Support Deadline Sparks Dilemma
For many, Microsoft’s decision to sunset Windows 10 after more than a decade — an OS that powered everything from home laptops to countless enterprise fleets — feels like the end of an era. Windows 10, released in 2015, quickly became a fan favorite for its blend of performance, relative stability, and flexibility. With an estimated installed base of over one billion devices as of early 2025, it’s been the foundation for work, creativity, and learning in nearly every corner of the world.
Yet, the end-of-support policy is not new. Microsoft’s consistent approach relies on encouraging customers to move to the latest platform to provide better security and innovation. But with Windows 11’s hardware requirements — demanding at least Intel 8th Gen Core or AMD Ryzen 2000-series CPUs, and support for TPM 2.0 — an astonishing 240 million existing PCs worldwide are not eligible for this “free” OS upgrade. For those left out in the cold, the options are stark: purchase a new PC, pay for ESUs (expected to start at $50 per year for consumers and much higher for businesses), or try something else entirely.
The Extended Security Update Upsell — A Bitter Pill to Swallow?
Microsoft’s ESUs for Windows 10 mirror the program previously offered for Windows 7, providing a bridge for those not ready or able to upgrade. But for many, the idea of paying an ongoing fee to keep a computer safely usable feels like a punishment — especially as many of these machines remain perfectly functional for everyday tasks like browsing, email, and light productivity.
More galling to some is the perceived contradiction: Microsoft, still among the world’s most profitable tech giants, is charging for security essentials, while continuing to push users toward new hardware purchases — an approach that raises environmental and ethical questions as well.
Environmental and Financial Impacts
The requirement to replace entire PCs for compliance with Windows 11 standards threatens to create one of the largest waves of e-waste in history. The United Nations estimates that globally, 50 million metric tons of electronic waste are produced annually, and the forced obsolescence of hundreds of millions of otherwise functional Windows 10 computers could significantly increase that figure. For consumers, especially those with older but still capable devices, the prospect of shelling out hundreds or thousands of dollars for new hardware — or $50 or more per year for support — is a tough pill to swallow.
macOS as an Alternative: A Tempting But Costly Proposition
Against this backdrop, Apple’s macOS emerges as a possible escape route. For those unenthused by Microsoft’s hard sell, switching to a Mac is increasingly plausible — and for some, highly attractive. Apple’s modern Mac lineup, especially machines powered by “Apple Silicon” (the company’s own ARM-based M-series chips), has consistently garnered praise for its stunning performance-per-watt, build quality, and seamless integration across the Apple ecosystem.
Apple’s loyalists — and some converts — highlight several core advantages to the macOS platform:
- Minimalist, “Out-of-the-Way” User Experience: macOS has long been championed for its clean interface, absence of in-built advertising, and a general philosophy of letting users get on with their work without pestering them with forced features or frequent system prompts.
- Integration with the Apple Ecosystem: For those already using iPhones or iPads, macOS offers unmatched continuity — from AirDrop file sharing to Universal Clipboard, seamless SMS and phone call relay, and a growing list of cross-device features.
- Hardware Reliability and Longevity: Macs, particularly since the Apple Silicon transition, have set new benchmarks for battery life, thermal performance, and silent operation. The hardware is robust, with anecdotal tales of old MacBooks booting after years of neglect — or even after mishaps like drops and screen damage.
The Downsides: Upfront Costs and Support Realities
Yet, this glowing narrative comes with several substantial caveats. First and foremost:
price. Apple hardware is, by all measures, among the most expensive on the market. Entry-level Macs often ship with comparatively low RAM and storage, pressuring buyers to pay hefty sums for desired “upgrades” at the time of purchase, as many components are soldered and cannot be upgraded afterward.
Additionally, Apple’s support lifecycle, while generally straightforward, is not as generous as Microsoft’s. Since 2013, macOS upgrades themselves have been free — a plus — but Apple typically only offers security updates for the current and two previous macOS versions. In practice, this means a supported Mac is generally guaranteed about three to four years of OS-level security updates from the initial release, and often a bit longer as the base hardware remains compatible with new macOS versions. Still, this is less than the typical decade-plus users saw with Windows 10.
Further, if you rely on specialized Windows-only software, or are a dedicated PC gamer, macOS remains a limited proposition. Game libraries are thinner, high-end AAA titles rarely launch for Mac, and many business or creative applications (especially certain engineering, medical, or scientific tools) are still Windows-exclusive.
The Windows 11 Shift: Who’s Left Behind?
The strict hardware requirements that arrive with Windows 11 are widely seen as Microsoft’s attempt to drag the global PC ecosystem toward better security and modern standards. Features like TPM 2.0 support, Secure Boot, and improved virtualization are absolutely beneficial — reducing potential vectors for ransomware, supply chain exploits, and advanced persistent threats.
However, millions of Windows 10 PCs shipped as late as 2017-2018 are cut off due to CPU or firmware limitations. According to Microsoft’s guidance, any device running an Intel 7th Gen or older processor, or an AMD Ryzen 1000-series or older, is officially unsupported, though some early adopters have found ways to install Windows 11 on these older systems — with varying degrees of success and no guarantee of updates or support.
Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool is available to help users determine whether their current hardware meets the necessary requirements. But for those whose machines don’t make the cut, the message is clear: upgrade or pay.
User Experience: Ads, AI, and the Case for “Moving On”
A key component of the Windows versus Mac debate in 2025 is the evolving experience of using each platform. In recent years, Microsoft has slowly introduced more advertising and product promos (for services like Microsoft 365, Edge, Copilot, and Bing) directly into Windows 10 and, even more so, Windows 11. This commercialization of the operating system is increasingly unpopular among tech enthusiasts. Complaints about obnoxious recommendations, contextually-injected ads in the Start Menu, and nudges for Microsoft’s AI “Copilot” have only intensified.
One of the most cited usability benefits of macOS is its relative refusal to interrupt. With no forced ads, minimal onboarding prompts, and rarely any interruptions for system updates or “new feature tours,” Apple makes a strong case for the frictionless computing promised since the dawn of personal computers.
Of course, for users heavily invested in Microsoft’s Office ecosystem, Teams, or proprietary Windows-based business software, the migration to macOS is not without friction. Many keyboard shortcuts, file management conventions, and even deep-rooted habits must be re-learned — something longtime Mac converts say is worth the effort, but which skeptics find daunting.
Software Compatibility: macOS Makes Strides, But Niche Barriers Remain
Historically, a major reason to avoid the Mac has been the software gap. Some industries have relied for decades on Windows-only applications or custom tools. However, in recent years, thanks to the rise of web-based apps, Microsoft’s genuine cross-platform commitment (with Office for Mac becoming feature-rich, and cloud versions narrowing the gap), and the general popularity of iOS/macOS among developers, the differences have narrowed considerably.
For the overwhelming majority of daily use cases — web browsing, streaming, writing, spreadsheets, video chat, and creative pursuits — macOS is essentially at parity with Windows. However, power users of Excel (those using macros, complex VBA scripting, or esoteric add-ins), engineers, architects, and high-end gamers will encounter gaps, as will anyone dependent on software that only runs on Windows or relies on Windows-specific drivers and hardware.
The Cost Comparison: Premium Hardware vs. Forced Replacement
One of the most contentious comparisons remains the cost. Apple machines are rarely discounted and never cheap, with the MacBook Air starting above $1,000 USD before upgrades. Windows laptops, by contrast, span an enormous range — from budget devices under $400 to luxury ultrabooks and powerful gaming rigs.
Yet, with the impending Windows 10 deadline, some Windows users are forced to buy new PCs to remain secure, effectively facing a choice between paying for continued security on “old” hardware or paying even more for entirely new devices. While Apple’s initial outlay is higher, advocates argue that Macs’ resale value, longer battery life, and durable construction offset this to some degree. Furthermore, Apple's free OS upgrades over the last decade are a plus, though offset by their more abrupt hardware cutoffs.
Microsoft’s extended support may cushion the transition for those unwilling or unable to buy new, but it comes at a monetary and philosophical cost — paying rent, in effect, for a patch that keeps your otherwise working computer out of harm’s way.
Environmental Considerations: E-Waste and the Upgrade Cycle
Perhaps the most concerning side-effect of Microsoft’s hardware requirements is the likely surge in electronic waste. With nearly a quarter-billion machines potentially rendered obsolete overnight, the environmental cost is real and alarming. While newer machines invariably bring efficiency and reduced energy consumption, the ecological footprint of manufacturing, shipping, and ultimately disposing of millions of PCs is not trivial.
Some experts and advocacy groups have called on Microsoft to extend support for older machines, if not for security and ethical reasons, then as a public good to slow the march of built-in obsolescence.
Surface and the Windows Ecosystem: A Rising Contender
It’s worth noting Microsoft’s own Surface lineup has improved dramatically. Designed to showcase the best of Windows, the Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, and Surface Studio all deliver premium builds, touch integration, advanced stylus support, and — in the case of the latest Surface models — compatibility with Windows 11. These machines are positioned to rival Apple in innovation and design, though, like Apple, they command a premium price and are best viewed as flagship offerings rather than budget saviors.
For buyers with the means, Surface devices represent a compelling Windows-native alternative, blending the familiarity of Microsoft’s software with increasingly refined hardware.
Learning Curves and the Intangible Factor
For anyone contemplating a switch, the learning curve is real. Keyboard shortcuts change, apps look and behave differently, and features like Finder (the macOS file manager) can cause frustration for longtime Windows users. However, anecdotal satisfaction reports are high among those who stick out the transition, with many Mac newcomers citing a “just works” experience over years of daily use.
Conversely, those who are embedded in Windows’ particular ways often struggle to adapt, especially when workflows or muscle memory are deeply ingrained.
Security, Updates, and Longevity — How Do They Compare?
Windows 10:
- Provided more than 10 years of mainstream and extended support — a long runway by any standard.
- Final end-of-life (EOL) scheduled for October 14, 2025, unless the user pays for ESUs.
- ESUs expected to cost $50 per device for the first year for individuals, much more for enterprises; traditionally, prices increase annually.
- No guarantee of new features, only security fixes.
- No obligation for third-party drivers or hardware vendors to offer continued support.
macOS:
- Free annual upgrades since 2013.
- Security patches typically provided for the current and previous two releases: effectively about three years from the latest version’s release date, with some older Macs occasionally supported for a year or two longer.
- No paid “ESU” type program; older Macs running unsupported macOS versions must fend for themselves, similar to Windows post-EOL.
- Hardware support cycle can be abrupt; Apple may drop older models from new macOS compatibility with little notice.
Critical Analysis: Is the Grass Greener — Or Just Different?
Both Microsoft and Apple are implementing policies that serve their business interests — and, arguably, the broader security needs of their respective user bases. Microsoft’s shift aims to accelerate adoption of security-focused hardware, but leaves many users forced to choose between financial outlay and risk. Apple, on the other hand, leverages its premium positioning to provide security and performance at a cost, but is equally unsentimental about cutting off older Macs from new OS features and protections.
Notable Strengths
- Security: Both Apple and Microsoft are (rightly) prioritizing security, but in different ways. Microsoft’s drive to enforce modern standards like Secure Boot and TPM is a big win for fighting ransomware and firmware attacks. Apple’s walled-garden approach and tight hardware-software integration minimize attack surfaces and reduce third-party risk.
- Integration and Ecosystem: Apple’s seamless continuity across devices is second to none. Microsoft’s cross-device initiatives are getting better, but lag on user experience, especially outside the Surface family — though Android “Phone Link” features are closing the gap.
- OS Performance and Updates: Apple Silicon Macs boast the best power efficiency and performance in consumer laptops, with smooth, annual upgrades. Microsoft’s Windows 11 brings improved gaming, accessibility, and productivity features, as well as a renewed push for ARM-based Windows machines.
Potential Risks
- Cost and Accessibility: Both upgrade paths cost money, but Apple’s up-front premium is higher. For users whose daily computing needs are simple, the prospect of paying $1,000+ for a Mac just to browse the web, versus keeping an old PC on paid ESU life-support, is hard to justify.
- Planned Obsolescence: Microsoft’s cutoff threatens a new tsunami of e-waste at a time when sustainability should be top-of-mind. Apple’s OS support cycle, while straightforward, is not immune to similar claims, as perfectly working Macs can lose update eligibility abruptly.
- Software Compatibility: Neither solution is perfect for users with specialized needs. Gamers, engineers, and niche professionals may still find themselves hamstrung by incompatibilities or lack of support on Mac, while Windows users may feel trapped by ongoing upgrade demands.
What Should Users Do Now?
As the 2025 Windows 10 EOL approaches, all users should:
- Check Your Compatibility: Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check or third-party tools to determine if your current device can run Windows 11.
- Plan for Security: Weigh the cost and risk of running unsupported Windows 10, paying for ESUs, or upgrading your device.
- Explore Alternatives: If your computing needs align — and you’re ready for a learning curve — consider macOS, ChromeOS, or even a modern Linux distro for an eco-friendly new lease on life for older hardware.
- Back Up and Prepare: Whatever your migration path, keep your data backed up and ensure your critical software is supported on your “next” OS.
Final Thoughts: A Fork in the Road, with No Universal Answer
The looming end of Windows 10 support is as much a cultural moment as it is a technical one. For some, it’s a welcome push toward better security and exciting new technology. For others, it’s a cause for nostalgia and frustration — or a catalyst to leave old habits and perhaps even the Windows platform behind. Each path has its strengths and trade-offs: Apple may be “more enjoyable” for some, but it’s no panacea — and Microsoft, for all its commercial strings, remains the backbone of the world’s computing landscape.
As October 2025 nears, one thing is certain: there’s never been a more consequential (and potentially confusing) time to reconsider what powers your digital life. Whether you double down on Windows, join the Apple ecosystem, or strike out in a new direction, the decision is distinctly personal — and will shape how you work and play for years to come.
Source: NZ Herald
Peter Griffin: It’s the end for Windows 10, maybe it’s time to consider a Mac