This TOTALLY depends on the field you have chosen to pursue a PhD in.
Computers and Operating Systems are simply tools. A Doctorate Degree is not a fashion show, a game, or a popularity contest. It’s a lofty and daunting goal. One requiring extraordinary commitment, mountains of work, and long term tenacity. Also, students are not typically wealthy… so money positively does matter.
So… What does all that mean? It means that just like any carpenter or plumber, you choose the best tools for the job, and you don’t spend more than you must!
Again… What is your chosen field? If your course of study is in a STEM field, there is a good chance it may require software that only runs on Windows. If so - why would you blow the extra money for an Apple? Contrariwise, if you want to get a doctorate in almost anything programming related, you will likely want a Macbook. You may not *need* it - and yes, it’s freaking $$$ expensive, but spending the money may actually be justifiable since that Mac will easily run MacOS and Windows, both.
If you are into any area that requires 3D or video or other editing, or something else that takes serious computing/video power, a laptop may not cut it. You may need a full tower, with a real graphics card - and 2–3 screens - which usually leads you right back to Windows. Or perhaps Linux.
And guess what? If your chosen field is History or Music or Anthropology, or Math, or English Lit, or hundreds of other disciplines that do not require specific special programs, or massive computing power… then you can EASILY get that PhD with a Chromebook.
And if you can, you positively should.
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For PhD work, Windows is usually the safer default for maximum software compatibility, while macOS is often nicer for stability, battery life, and Unix‑style tools; the best choice depends on your field and the programs you must run.
When Windows is better?
Many lab instruments, statistics packages, engineering tools (for example ANSYS, some CFD software, some proprietary psychology/biology tools) run only on Windows, so using Windows avoids compatibility headaches.
If you need flexibility (games, niche apps, older software) and more hardware options at lower price, a Windows laptop gives more choice and easier upgrades.
When macOS is better?
MacOS works very well for writing, literature review, coding, and general data analysis, and its Unix base is convenient if you do programming or light computational work.
MacBooks (especially Air/Pro with Apple Silicon) are praised for long battery life, quiet operation, and durability, which helps during long days in the lab or library.
How to decide for your PhD?
List the exact software you will need (stats, simulation, reference managers, any instrument-control programs) and check official sites to confirm whether they support macOS, Windows, or both; if anything critical is Windows‑only, choose Windows or plan a dual‑setup (Windows laptop or a lab PC plus a Mac).
If all key tools are cross‑platform and budget allows, choose based on practical factors: price, keyboard/trackpad comfort, battery life, and whether you prefer the Windows ecosystem or Apple ecosystem for phones/tablets.
If you share your subject (for example, mathematics, mechanical engineering, psychology) and budget, a more precise recommendation (Windows vs Mac and 2–3 concrete laptop models) can be given.
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