What are all the advantages and disadvantages of using the macintosh operating system?

I am thinking of getting a macintosh computer. I need a lot of convincing!

-all- ? seriously?

versus what other operating systems?
which versions of mac OS.. what kind of hardware platform, in what environment..

Really – a lot depends on what you are going to use it for.
The more modern MAC OS is based on the MACH kernel (links) – similar to FreeBSD, but with a MAC-specific GUI and system tools.
If you compare it to BSD, then your differences will be in the interface, the system tools, ease of use, and support options.

While the MAC OS is less-likely to have weaknesses similar to Windows; it does share vulnerabilities of other Linux/Unix operating systems.
Further – many "viruses" are built today to infect the programs or applications – not the OS. So if a virus attacks Flash – then it doesn’t make much difference which machine it runs on.

From the PAINTED-WITH-BROAD-STROKES department:
generally, Apple keeps a tight control on hardware and software development.
compared to Win/tel machines, this means higher costs, and less hardware – software available for the Mac user. It also means that less crap gets through, because it is not a free-for-all.
( choice – cheap vs cost – reliability)
Apple has always tended to target the creative-type , while Microsoft has gone after the production-seeker.
If you get a excellent computer from a solid brand, it should work just fine out of the box. A excellent computer is not cheap, but it doesn’t have to cost a years’ wage, either.
Apple tends to keep service in-house, too. While most technicians are capable of fixing either Windows – Unix – Apple hardware (most of it is nearly identical) .. Apple won’t even let the "genius" folks open a broken machine in the shop. It gets sent back to HQ for examination – and usually, a quick turn around. ..That is, as long as you buy the honestly costly "Care" package.
If you go cheap – even with Apple, then you are shooting yourself in the foot. Rent something rather really buying a cheap computer. Keep in mind that the software will cost you as much as the hardware – unless you are a huge open-source fan.

If you are comparing with Android, or Next, I don’t really know enough to give you an informed opinion.
Edit – I forgot the reference note

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