For a long time, the age-old question has been whether Mac operating systems or Windows PCs are better for video games. Ever since the 1980s, players have leaned heavily in favor of Windows.
In fact, this question was a no-brainer courtesy of a massive platform of compatible games tailored to Windows systems. Plus, the quality graphics cards and comparatively low costs drove video game players towards Windows Operating Systems.
The beautiful thing about technology is that it’s constantly evolving, with innovative solutions released into the mainstream. Apple Inc. now rivals Microsoft Windows operating systems as the best in the world.
The gaming community owes a debt of gratitude to Apple Silicon. The debate has been turned on its head; it’s no longer a one-sided affair. Video gamers, particularly those who demand high-octane performance from their gaming hardware and software, are now giving macOS a long, hard look.
The M1 chip was a big part of the paradigm shift. A dazzling performer, this powerful chip turned the tables on Windows operating systems. Efficient, powerful, and performance-oriented, M1 was a game changer. Soon thereafter, Apple released the enhanced M3 chip with upgraded features, functions, and capabilities.
From a purely performance-based perspective, Apple Silicon delivers. It’s great for players who want to play a high-performance strategy game, a scintillating MMO RPG game, or a casual game online. The Apple M2 Ultra with the Mac Studio is among the top-ranking Mac systems.
Introducing macOS Sequoia
Now, we also have Mac Sequoia available. It brings iPhone Mirroring, Apple Intelligence, and other features to the Mac universe. It represents the latest upgrade to the world’s premier desktop OS. With powerful video and conferencing updates, coupled with built-in backgrounds, unique colors, gradients, and image sharpening capabilities, it’s also fused with Apple Intelligence.
Consider that several high-caliber games will run natively on Mac in 2025. The state of Mac-based gaming has undoubtedly changed, as evidenced by the opinions of avid gamers worldwide. It’s a real thing. The Mac Studio M2 – the M series of Macs – is ranked among the best in the business.
They are sublime MacBooks, and gaming developers are frantic to get on board. Folks enjoy the MacBook Pro 16-inch M3 Max system for maximum torque in resource-intensive video games. Now, let’s turn our attention to the performance of various MacBooks in FPS (frames per second):
| MacBook Model | GAME 1 (Strategy) | GAME 2 (Action-Adventure RPG) | GAME 3 (Action-Adventure RPG) |
| 16″ MacBook Pro M3 Max | 57 FPS @ 2234p | DNR | 119 FPS @ 1200p |
| 16″ MacBook Pro M2 Max | 57 FPS @ 1200p | 91.7 FPS @ 1200p | DNR |
| 16″ MacBook Pro M1 Max | 46.1 FPS @ 1080p | 73.8 FPS @ 1200p | DNR |
| 13″ MacBook Pro M1 | 38.2 FPS @ 900p | 25.7 FPS @ 900p | DNR |
Key Notes
- GAME 1 demonstrates strategy-based gameplay, running consistently across models and benefiting from enhanced graphics resolutions on newer chips.
- GAME 2 represents a dynamic action-adventure RPG, with performance markedly improved on higher-end processors.
- GAME 3 (DNR = “Did Not Run”) highlights compatibility or performance issues on older systems and showcases optimization in newer iterations.
The Pros & Cons for Video Gaming
It’s important to point out that high-quality Mac M4 MacBook Pros are expensive and not necessarily better than the Windows equivalent. However, what we see taking place, which is significant, is that the gap between Mac and Windows has narrowed considerably. In a market dominated by Microsoft Windows for decades, Mac is now on par with the best of what Windows offers.
Of course, if we consider Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips, MacBooks can provide a much-improved performance over Windows. Often, it boils down to your games of choice and the system requirements in question. While quantitative differences certainly exist, there are also quantitative concerns in the form of costs. Mac tends to be the more expensive option, albeit a high-quality selection.
Regarding gaming, PCs generally offer more options and better value than Macs. Entry-level Macs like the Mac Mini start at around $599 but may struggle with demanding 3D games due to less powerful hardware. For a more capable gaming experience on a Mac, you’re looking at models like the MacBook Pro 16-inch or Mac Studio, which start at $,1599 and $1,999, respectively.
In contrast, a gaming PC with higher-end components—such as an Intel Core i7 processor and an NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics card—can be purchased for about $1,999. And, PC gamers often benefit from lower game prices and frequent sales on platforms like Steam, making gaming on a PC more affordable. It boils down to personal preferences.
Players in the Mac camp are fiercely loyal to the brand!