Windows 11 vs. macOS: Addressing Common User Experience Shortcomings

Both macOS and Windows 11 have won legions of fans over the years, but even these tech titans aren’t immune to design missteps. When you scrutinize their core functionalities, certain quirks emerge that can disrupt even a seasoned power user’s workflow. In this article, we take a deep dive into four shared shortcomings between these operating systems—and how they might be remedied to better serve both casual users and experts alike.

1. File System GUI Limitations​

One of the most fundamental aspects of using your computer is navigating your files. Yet both macOS and Windows 11 reveal notable shortcomings in this arena.

A Tale of Two Navigators​

• Windows File Explorer:
  Windows’ built-in file explorer has its virtues, such as familiarity and simplicity. However, it falls short when it comes to modern conveniences. Lacking in color tagging, it fails to offer a visual system that can help users quickly distinguish between important file types or categories. Furthermore, the absence of “Quick Look” style previews makes it harder to quickly glance at file contents before opening them, and there is no built-in dual-pane navigation. This dual-pane view isn’t just a luxury—it’s a critical tool for power users who frequently move files between directories.
• macOS Finder:
  Apple’s Finder, on the contrary, incorporates some modern touches like Quick Look and color tagging. Yet, it too misses a trick: dual-pane navigation. For users accustomed to splitting their work between two directories seamlessly, this omission is a missed opportunity. While Finder’s search capability performs adequately in many instances, its lack of a true two-pane experience limits efficiency, particularly for advanced file management tasks.

Potential Improvements​

• For Windows 11:
  Imagine a future update that introduces native support for dual-pane file navigation and incorporates robust color tagging mechanisms. Even a “Quick Look” feature—a peek functionality to preview documents without a full double-click—would elevate the user experience. Enhanced search functionality, refining how File Explorer indexes and returns results, could further streamline workflows that presently feel sluggish and unintuitive.
• For macOS:
  A dual-pane option in Finder isn’t an overly radical idea for Apple to implement. Coupling this with improvements in other search functionalities could elevate Finder from simply "good enough" to a truly competitive file management system. After all, even a system acclaimed for its intuitive design can learn from the competition.

Summary: Both operating systems need a file management reboot. Enhancing the graphical user interface (GUI) by integrating features such as dual-pane navigation, color tagging, and improved preview functionalities stands to benefit power users and novices alike.

2. Settings Menus Mayhem​

Changing system configurations should be a straightforward affair, but here again, neither Windows nor macOS get it entirely right.

The Windows Dilemma​

Windows 11 is in the midst of a tumultuous transition from the age-old Control Panel to the modern Settings app. This duality creates confusion:

• Fragmented Control: Some settings linger in the familiar Control Panel, while others have migrated to the new Settings interface. Power users who enjoy the depth of the Control Panel are left searching through multiple interfaces.
• Navigation Woes: Even though the new Settings app boasts a more modern look, it suffers from a subpar search mechanism and isn’t as intuitive to navigate—an ironic twist given that much of the operating system’s design is premised on easing user access.

macOS Conundrum​

macOS, known for its streamlined design aesthetic, isn’t entirely immune to complaints either:

• Submenus Overload: While the System Settings (formerly System Preferences) in macOS presents a clean layout, the nested submenus and dropdowns can quickly overwhelm new users. The consolidation of settings into a single, fluid interface sometimes sacrifices depth for simplicity.
• Search Shortfalls: Paradoxically, the search functionality in macOS’s updated settings is far less potent than anticipated. Users expecting a comprehensive search that includes all installed application notifications or specific settings can be left searching literally and figuratively.

Fixing the Settings Puzzle​

• Unified Interface: Both platforms could benefit from a consolidated settings framework. A single, unified settings interface that doesn’t require users to jump between different applications (Control Panel vs. Settings on Windows) would be a step forward.
• Enhanced Search: A revamp of the search tool within these settings menus should be a priority. Smart filtering and predictive search that covers both major and nuanced settings would dramatically improve usability.
• User-Centric Organization: Instead of a one-size-fits-all design, both operating systems should consider user-adaptive layouts that can simplify interfaces for novices while offering expanded options for power users.

Summary: The settings menus on both Windows and macOS can be confusing and inconsistent. A transformative approach to unify these interfaces while improving search and usability is essential for a more fluid user experience.

3. Software Update Woes​

Keeping your system secure and up-to-date is crucial. Yet the approach taken by each operating system leads to frustration and, at times, unintended consequences.

Windows Update Intricacies​

• Forced Updates: Microsoft’s insistence on pushing updates—albeit for security reasons—can feel overbearing. Power users appreciate the enhanced security, but when Windows 11 insists on updates that disrupt workflow, it often feels like an infringement on user control. Even though Windows offers a way to postpone updates, it is limited to a predetermined time frame.
• Bugs and Breakages: With every update comes the risk of bugs that potentially cripple core functionalities, leaving users grappling with work interruptions.

macOS Update Lulls​

• Lax Notification: On the flip side, macOS tends to adopt a laid-back approach with software updates. Users might find updates languishing in the queue, sometimes for weeks, which can create security vulnerabilities.
• Manual vs. Scheduled Updates: Apple’s “Tonight” option for automatic updates may not always deliver as expected. Users have reported scenarios where scheduled updates simply fail to install, requiring manual intervention—defeating the purpose of having an auto-update system.

A Balanced Approach to Updates​

• Greater Customization: Both operating systems could adapt a more user-centric model, allowing users to schedule updates at times that minimize disruption. For Windows, offering an extended deferment option without compromising security is a pressing need.
• A Gentle Nudge: macOS could adopt a more proactive notification system that not only alerts users of pending updates but also verifies that updates are indeed installed timely—even when set to automatic mode.
• Streamlined Rollouts: Implementing a phased rollout based on user control could significantly reduce the incidence of buggy updates, ensuring that only well-tested patches are deployed universally.

Summary: The dichotomy in update strategies between Windows and macOS—overzealous pushing versus overly lax notifications—illustrates a gap in optimizing the update process. A balance must be struck between user control and system security.

4. Account Management Quandaries​

The debate over account management continues, underscored by a trend toward heavier integration with online services. But this move has its pitfalls.

Windows and Its Microsoft Account​

• Forced Sign-Ins: New installations of Windows 11 now require a Microsoft account during setup. For many users who prefer a straightforward local account, this can feel like an unnecessary imposition.
• Complexity for Casual Users: Unless you’re comfortable with command prompts or seeking workarounds, the system nudges you firmly toward full integration with Microsoft’s cloud services. This can be particularly off-putting for those who value privacy or simply want to get started quickly without extra steps.

macOS and the Apple ID​

• Optional Yet Necessary: macOS allows users to initially skip creating an Apple ID. However, many core functionalities—such as access to the App Store or continuity features across devices—will eventually require signing in, which may feel like a trap for the less tech-savvy.
• User Device Management: One redeeming quality, though, is that macOS offers a relatively user-friendly approach to managing and de-registering devices linked to your account. This is a refreshing contrast to the more cumbersome process on Windows.

Possible Enhancements​

• Local Account Freedom: A clear path to using local accounts without hindrance should be available on both platforms. For Windows, preserving and supporting the workaround for local accounts is essential to give users a genuine choice.
• Streamlined Online Integration: Instead of forcing an account upon first boot, offering the ability to defer or choose selective integrations based on the user’s needs could be beneficial.
• Transparency and Control: Both operating systems should aim for clarity when it comes to how your account data is used, making it easier to manage privacy settings and linked devices.

Summary: Account management in both Windows and macOS currently walks a fine line between enhancing connectivity and imposing unwanted integrations. A shift toward more flexible account management policies would empower users to take control of their computing experience without unnecessary friction.

Conclusion: Bridging the Gaps Between Innovation and Usability​

In an era where operating systems are expected to cater to a wide spectrum of users—from casual browsers to professional power users—the shortcomings in file management, settings navigation, software update processes, and account management are not mere annoyances; they are areas ripe for innovation. While both Windows 11 and macOS have made significant strides in creating intuitive, modern interfaces, the persistent issues suggest that a one-size-fits-all approach may be falling short.
The key is balance. For instance:

• Enhancing file management with features like dual-pane navigation and improved tagging can bridge functionality gaps.
• Streamlining settings menus into more coherent, easily searchable interfaces can significantly uplift the overall user experience.
• Offering flexible yet secure update options can protect users without compromising on workflow efficiency.
• Allowing true user choice in account management by supporting local accounts robustly can restore a sense of privacy and autonomy.

These improvements aren’t just tweaks—they represent fundamental shifts in how we interact with our devices. The future of operating systems may very well hinge on this kind of user-focused evolution, driving a convergence of innovation and seamless usability.
For Windows enthusiasts, these challenges underscore the need for a more adaptive and customizable ecosystem. The same applies to macOS users, who yearn for a system that marries simplicity with powerful functionality. It’s an exciting prospect for the next wave of software updates on both platforms.
In the end, while rivalry between Microsoft and Apple continues, their shared challenges offer a roadmap for the future—a future where both operating systems might one day learn to do everything well, leaving users with nothing less than the best of modern computing.

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Source: XDA Developers 4 things that neither Windows nor macOS do well (and how they could fix them)

 

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The evolution of operating systems has long been a captivating tug-of-war between familiarity and innovation. For a longtime Windows user who recently shifted to macOS full time for work, the experience has been as enlightening as it has been frustrating. While macOS presents a cleaner, less intrusive environment, there remain a few compelling productivity features in Windows 11 that are difficult to overlook.

The Lure of Nostalgia and Productivity​

For decades, Windows has been marinated in a concoction of nostalgia, familiarity, and reliable (if sometimes temperamental) productivity. Even though some aspects of early Windows versions date back to the days of Windows 3.1—and there’s even evidence that legacy features from Windows 95 still echo in Windows 11—this familiarity has its merits.

• Windows users know how to troubleshoot issues quickly.
• Decades of familiarity provide a confidence that new systems rarely deliver.
• The ability to rely on trusted features acts as a psychological safety net.

Yet, nostalgia alone is not enough to anchor users amid constant advancements on both sides of the platform divide. The transition to macOS may free users from legacy quirks, but for many, the productivity boosts in Windows 11 have left a mark.

What Was Left Behind on macOS​

Intrusive Prompts and the Battle of Defaults​

One of the immediate differences noticed upon switching from Windows 11 to macOS is the absence of persistent ads and nagging invitations from the operating system. Windows 11 has, on multiple occasions, felt like a platform that’s actively trying to nudge users toward Microsoft’s ecosystem—be it through pop-ups urging you to set Microsoft Edge as the default browser or notifications hinting at a foray into Games Pass and upcoming Copilot features. Compare that with macOS, where suggestions from Apple are considerably more subdued and easier to bypass.
Key observations include:

• Default application annoyances:
  • On Windows 11, even if you explicitly set Chrome as your default browser, the system can override your preference in various contexts (from Start menu links to Windows settings).
  • In contrast, macOS respects the default app settings once you’ve made your choice, letting you enjoy your preferred browser without collateral interruptions.
• Advertisement fatigue:
  • Windows’ encouragement to engage with military-grade “intelligent” features like Copilot often feels like an unwanted intrusion.
  • Apple’s ecosystem nudges are far less aggressive, leading to a cleaner overall experience.

These differences are not just cosmetic; they represent a deeper philosophy in design and user empowerment that many find more appealing on macOS.

A Cleaner, More Focused Environment​

macOS offers a less cluttered, more streamlined user experience by design. The operating system quietly promotes its ecosystem without overwhelming the user, making everyday tasks feel less like a minefield of subtle coercions. This clean slate is a breath of fresh air for professionals who prefer to keep distractions at bay.
In summary, for those who long for an environment free from incessant prompts and needless ads, macOS stands out. However, as the following sections reveal, it does so at the cost of some delightful, productivity-enhancing features.

The Productivity Engine Under the Hood: Windows 11’s Clever Conveniences​

Despite the broader frustrations with Windows 11’s invasive habits, there are some features that truly drive day-to-day productivity—an area where macOS, even in its polished state, tends to lag behind.

The Clipboard Paste Feature: A Game Changer​

One of the standout innovations in Windows 11 is the Clipboard Paste feature. Rather than simply hitting CTRL + V, Windows users can press Windows key + V to summon a small, integrated menu displaying a detailed history of copied items. This isn’t just a neat trick; it’s a serious productivity booster:

• Quickly access previous snippets without relying on memory or external tools.
• Effortlessly switch between multiple copied items, thereby streamlining multitasking.
• Reduce workflow interruptions with an intuitive, built-in interface.

While macOS users have tried third-party tools to replicate this capability, none have managed to capture the integrated simplicity of Windows 11’s solution.

Window Snapping: Made for Multitasking on the Go​

Another feature that makes Windows 11 indispensable for many is its enhanced window snapping functionality. Multitasking on smaller screens becomes significantly easier thanks to the ability to quickly drag a window to the left or right edge of the screen, automatically adjusting its size to occupy half the display. The convenience doesn’t stop there:

• Use the Windows key + arrow keys for precise, keyboard-driven snapping.
• Easily view and select alternate open windows for a fluid, dual-screen experience on a single display.
• Quickly maximize a window by dragging it to the top of the screen, ensuring maximum use of available space.

Even though macOS’s Sequoia update has made strides in window management, many users still find Windows 11’s implementation more natural and fluid—an indispensible trait for professionals juggling multiple applications and documents.

Stability Versus Flexibility: A Double-Edged Sword​

The stability of an operating system can be a matter of both design philosophy and hardware diversity. Windows 11, though celebrated for its many innovative features, often suffers from instability due to the vast range of hardware configurations it must support. When issues do arise, a seasoned Windows user might know exactly how to resolve them, but that does little to soften the blow of unexpected glitches.

• Windows 11’s extensive device compatibility means that different hardware makes for variable performance.
• The singular ecosystem of macOS, controlled entirely by Apple, ensures a more consistent and dependable performance, albeit with fewer customization options.
• For professional users, the trade-offs can be significant: stability in macOS versus the inventive shortcuts and productivity hacks in Windows 11.

This dichotomy reflects a broader industry trend, where the balance between openness and controlled environments continues to shape user experiences.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Microsoft and Users?​

The ongoing debate between Windows and macOS hinges on more than just aesthetics—it’s about the evolution of productivity features versus the user experience free from intrusive nudges. With Windows 10’s End of Life approaching in October 2025, Microsoft faces an opportunity to redefine its appeal to an audience that is increasingly discerning about what their operating system should offer.
Microsoft could take a cue from the success of simple, effective tools like the Clipboard Paste feature and robust window snapping:

• Focus on refining these user-centric features rather than relying solely on AI gimmicks like Copilot.
• Prioritize respecting user preferences (especially regarding default application settings) to build trust and long-term loyalty.
• Balance innovation with reliability by addressing the underlying bugs and compatibility issues across diverse hardware setups.

For longtime Windows aficionados, these improvements could be the key to winning back users who might otherwise drift into macOS or even Linux territory. After all, when the irksome defaults and intrusive messages are set aside, the core productivity enhancements of Windows 11 continue to provide undeniable benefits.

Concluding Thoughts​

The experiment of switching from Windows 11 to macOS underlines a fundamental truth in technology: user experience is a multi-faceted beast. While macOS offers a more harmonious and focused environment, certain Windows 11 features—especially the Clipboard Paste and superior window snapping functions—indeed make a compelling case for staying rooted in the Microsoft ecosystem.
For IT professionals, gamers, and everyday users alike, the decision ultimately comes down to what features can make day-to-day tasks feel effortless. Microsoft's task now is to refine these strengths without overwhelming users with unwanted interventions. As we look ahead, the battle for user affection will undoubtedly continue, fueled by not just the flash of modern design, but by the subtle, effective conveniences that truly enhance productivity.
In the end, whether you choose Windows 11 for its hidden gems of functionality or macOS for its refined simplicity, the tech landscape is richer when diverse user experiences are celebrated. After all, it’s the little details that often make the biggest difference.

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Source: TechRadar I started using a Mac full time for work – but these are the things I missed from Windows 11 that made me switch back