Apple vs Android: Which is better for you?
If you are looking for a new smartphone or tablet, for the most part, you only have two options: Apple and Android. Therefore, you need to understand the differences between the two operating systems (OS) because you will feel the difference between the two OS on a daily basis. Knowing the differences lets you make an informed decision, in case you need to buy a new phone or you are looking to switch to a different operating system.
Price
If you are budget conscious, then Android phones are your best friend. There is so much variety when it comes to Android phones because different brands like Samsung make phones for all price levels. Hence, you get low-grade and mid-grade smartphones that offer exceptional value for their price. There is so much variety that you are bound to find something at a price that fits your budget. By contrast, iPhones tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. The most affordable iPhone on the market right now is the iPhone 7 which costs $720. Thus, if you are debating between Apple and Android, but want to save money, you are better off choosing Android.
Apps
We feel that the iPhone is the better choice for apps, but only by a slight margin. The iOS (iPhone OS) is a closed off system. Hence, if developers want their apps on the Apple Store they will have to meet Apple’s stringent standards. The result is an App Store with over 2 million apps but a consistent standard of high quality and a lucrative venture for developers.
By contrast, the Android is an open OS and developers don’t have to jump through as many hoops to get their apps on the system. However, the quality tends to vary significantly from good to poor. Android’s Google Play Store has over 3 million apps. Furthermore, due to intense competition, many apps are free, which means developers don’t make as much money on Android compared to iOS. If it is a choice between Apple and Android, we have to give the advantage to Apple because some of the best apps are on the OS and you can be assured that there are no low-quality apps on the store.
Support
Both Apple and Android smartphones have a ton of devices that work for years without any issues. But all devices break down at some point, and when that happens, you are going to need customer support to solve the problem. Customer support is where Apple has an advantage over Android. Due to the closed nature of iOS, Apple is the only company people can turn to for maintenance. This presents a simple scenario for customers because they know where to go to get their iOS device fixed.
However, it’s not very clear when it comes to customer support for Android phones. Due to the open nature of the OS, you can have several manufacturers and retailers with their customer support teams. Thus, it’s not clear to customers who can help them with their problems and who can’t.
Maintainance
When it comes to maintenance that will expand the phone’s lifespan, we have to give the advantage to Android phones. Many Android smartphones give you the option to expand storage (through a Micro SD card) and replace batteries. Thus, you can expand the lifespan of the Android phone relatively easy. By contrast, iOS smartphones don’t have the option to expand storage or replace batteries. The lack of options is due to Apple’s focus on simplicity and elegance over maintenance. If you are making a choice between Apple and Android,
Customisability
If you want to customise your smartphone, then Android should be your first choice. One of the biggest appeals of Android smartphones is the freedom to customise the interface, as you see fit. You can change the font, remove apps you don’t want and even redesign the home screen.
By contrast, iOS smartphones do not give as much freedom to customise the interface. For example, you cannot delete default apps from your smartphone, even if you do not use them. If you want a smartphone that gives you the freedom to customise the look and navigation of the smartphone, then Android phones should be your first choice.
Key takeaways
If you are thinking about getting a new smartphone or switching from one OS to another, then you need to know about the pros and cons of Apple and Android. Android is great for affordability, customisation, and maintenance. However, Apple has a superior selection of apps and better customer support. Both smartphone types have their pros and cons.
Therefore, it’s simply a question of what is most important to you and what you can live with. For example, if you value customisability and affordability, then Android is your first choice. On the other hand, if you want the best selection of apps, then consider iOS.
