macOS alternatives: 4 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave macOS: only runs on Apple hardware; current release needs Apple silicon, and smaller game library than Windows. We ranked 4 alternatives by how directly each one replaces macOS, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Windows currently ranks first.
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Show all 4 alternativesThe best macOS alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best macOS alternative for most people
WindowsRuns on far more hardware at every price and has the biggest game and business app library.
Best macOS alternative for a free option
UbuntuFree Linux desktop that runs on almost any PC, with a large community and long-term support releases.
Best macOS alternative for open source
Linux MintBeginner-friendly Linux with a familiar desktop layout, a good free option on older or cheaper PCs.
Best macOS alternative for Windows
WindowsRuns on far more hardware at every price and has the biggest game and business app library.
Best macOS alternative for Linux
Fedora LinuxUp-to-date, polished GNOME desktop that suits developers used to a Unix environment on Mac.
macOS alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to macOS?
Windows ranks first right now. Runs on far more hardware at every price and has the biggest game and business app library. Ubuntu and Linux Mint follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to macOS?
Yes. Ubuntu (open source), Linux Mint (open source) and Fedora Linux (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to macOS?
Yes: Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Fedora Linux.
Which macOS alternatives work on Linux?
Ubuntu, Linux Mint and Fedora Linux run on Linux.
Why do people switch from macOS?
The complaints we hear most: only runs on Apple hardware; current release needs Apple silicon; smaller game library than Windows; limited control over hardware upgrades and repairs.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces macOS, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.