OK, here goes.
I bought an Apple II when they first came out, and then worked on Microsoft machines at my jobs. I ended up with a Microsoft operating system (windows 98) on my previous laptop. But I had problems with some of the software and wanted to be able to program things to my needs.
I investigated LINUX, which is an alternative operating system to Microsoft Windows and Apple OS, etc.
First, it is free. Second, it can be run parallel to either your Apple or Windows operating systems. Third, you will be overjoyed at the number of programs that are available (at no cost) that will help you in your specific area.
That said, there are some downsides, too, of course. You do have to learn more about your computer, but not to the extent of becoming a geek.
My suggestion is to download the Ubuntu distribution (which is free) and can be downloaded onto a CD. You can test drive the operating system from your disk drive and even install it without removing your other operating system. And you should review your particular software needs (usually just by searching for “ubuntu [insert software for your specialty]” in a search engine).
My computer is now more powerful as I can get it to do things (math, graphics, etc.) that would cost much more than $0.00 were I to rely solely on Microsoft or Apple software.
I enjoy my computer more now that it is a Ubuntu/Linux machine, but I do not “hate” either Apple or Microsoft, as seems often the case with users of one or the other of those systems.
I use Solaris X for x86 in my Dell Precision 490. Absolutely love it, and it too is free. It is also without the support issues that is a part of Ubuntu.