Why I Switched From Linux to macOS for Development and AI Workloads
After 25 years of relying on Linux, I reached a point where constant tweaking, compatibility challenges, and frustrating downtime became too much. I needed a workstation environment that just works. That led me to explore macOS, starting with the affordable Mac Mini lineup. But once I compared specs, I decided to invest in the more powerful Mac Studio M4 Max base model with 36 GB of memory.
Looking back, that was a game-changer. The Mac Studio’s performance allows me to run MLX-optimized local large language models (LLMs) up to 20 GB effortlessly, completely offline and without cloud dependency. It’s become the ultimate machine for AI workloads and developer productivity.
Applications That Transformed My Workflow
Right after setting up the Mac Studio, I installed several key apps that reshaped how I work:
- The Affinity Suite (Photo 2, Designer 2, Publisher 2) replaced my older design tools with a snappy, integrated creative environment.
- Pixelmator Pro took over from GIMP, impressing me especially with its one-click instant background removal feature, which speeds up graphic design tasks dramatically.
- For local WordPress development, LocalWP effortlessly replaced my old LAMP stack. This app is a masterpiece of simplicity and power, revolutionizing my workflow.
- Virtual machines were something I hadn’t anticipated needing on macOS. Then, I discovered UTM. It blew me away. Bridged networking setup is just a single checkbox, a far cry from the tedious configurations on Linux’s virt-manager. The ease of use here saved me hours and frustration.
Consolidating My Environment: Homebrew, PHP, and GhostBSD
Planning to finally ditch my three Dell PCs, I installed Homebrew on macOS to bring back Apache, PHP, and other Linux utilities. But in my exploration, I also found GhostBSD, a compelling Unix-like OS that amazed me even more than macOS for programming tasks.
Features like middle mouse button paste, which I’d long taken for granted, gave GhostBSD an edge as my development hub. Eventually, I moved all my coding work there and freed over 2 GB of space on the Mac by uninstalling Homebrew and related apps.
Open Source Powerhouses That Stayed
Despite macOS commercial apps replacing open source tools, a few irreplaceable essentials remain:
- VSCodium remains my coding editor of choice. It’s fast, powerful, and familiar, a perfect fit for macOS and my workflow.
- LMStudio became indispensable. Running local LLMs offline during two recent internet outages, it proved the Mac Studio’s power for AI productivity without cloud interruptions.
Splitting My Time: Mac Studio and GhostBSD for Best of Both Worlds
GhostBSD with XFCE offers a faster, more efficient workflow than macOS, so I balance my time between the Mac Studio for AI and creative work and my Dell GhostBSD machine for programming. Still, macOS delights with touches like Apple Mail’s automatic 2FA code filling and email deletion, a subtle feature that makes everyday use smooth and secure.
Final Verdict After Three Months
I am completely satisfied with the Mac Studio M4 Max. It handles heavy AI workloads while staying cool and silent, with zero stability issues. Yes, macOS has a few quirks. Previewing multiple images is clumsy, and Safari’s color profile differs from Brave and Firefox. But the hardware’s blistering speed and polished software ecosystem consistently impress.
For those switching from Windows or Linux, a Mac Mini is a great entry point, but the Mac Studio’s extra power makes it truly future-proof for demanding AI, creative, and development workflows. And if you seek a Unix-like alternative to Linux that’s fast and stable, GhostBSD deserves a look.