MacOS Market Share in the US Plummets 27% in 2024 as Windows Gains 13%

While Windows 11 has faced challenges in achieving substantial market share compared to previous Windows versions, Microsoft Windows remains the US’s most widely used operating system. Stocklytics.com reports a 13% increase in Windows’ market share, while MacOS’ market position has declined by nearly 30% in the US.

The site’s financial analyst, Edith Reads, comments:

In times of high inflation and increased living conditions, Macs and their operating systems, which are tentatively pricer, are declining. Moreover, Microsoft Windows’s flexibility in working with other hardware makes it relevant even in today’s unraveling market.

Stocklytics financial expert, Edith Reads

Windows Vs. Mac US Market Share

By the end of November 2023, Windows held only 52% of US market shares, a 3% plunge from the previous month. However, as of July 2024, Microsoft’s US market holdings had quickly escalated to almost 60%, while MacOS’ shares dropped starkly to 23.33% from 31.75% in November 2023, marking a 27% drop. 

Mac’s premium pricing has played to Apple’s disadvantage, as multiple consumers prioritize affordability, and inflationary pressures weigh on them.

Moreover, MacOS’ exclusivity to Apple’s ecosystem makes it challenging for Apple to gain more market shares in an elevated hardware market. Desktop manufacturers like Dell and Lenovo control 18% of the cumulative market, while HP holds 14%. These three desktop makers command 50% of cumulative market holdings, leaving Apple Macs to contend with only 18%. 

Microsoft’s Troubles With Windows 11

Microsoft’s current market performance relies mainly on its previous Windows operating systems, as Windows 11’s usage has declined. Since February 2024, Windows 11’s market share has dropped below 26%, while Windows 10 has captured over 70% of Microsoft’s total market share.

Nearly three years after its launch, many users still don’t find the new operating system appealing. They argue that its features resemble those of other Windows versions and neither enhance nor improve their experience, leading to a lack of interest in switching from their familiar setup.

Although Microsoft has been working on Windows 11 24H2, an enhancement to the current system, some users are not too happy about the new set update. Some claim Microsoft failed to listen to their issues about the existing Windows 11. Moreover, the latest update will focus on new AI-based features that some claim they don’t need. However, with Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, users may have to switch to the latest Windows 11.