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Privacy Alternatives

Best macOS Alternatives That Respect Your Privacy

Looking for a privacy-respecting replacement for macOS? We have researched and ranked the top alternatives based on their privacy practices, features, pricing, and ease of migration. Each alternative listed below has been evaluated for its data collection policies, encryption standards, and business model to help you make an informed choice that protects your personal information.

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Why Switch from macOS?

macOS poses significant privacy risks for journalists. Their data collection practices include tracking usage patterns, storing personal information, and sharing data with third parties. Switching to a privacy-focused alternative is essential for journalists to protect sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.

Top 5 Alternatives Ranked

Each alternative has been independently evaluated based on privacy practices, features, usability, and value. Privacy scores reflect the amount and sensitivity of data collected, encryption standards, open-source status, and the company's business model.

OUR PICK
#1

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is an excellent macOS alternative for journalists. It provides robust privacy protections, strong encryption, and a user-friendly experience tailored for journalists.

Cross-platformNo adsNo phone number requiredNo tracking
Pricing: FreemiumMigration: Easy
94Privacy Score
#2

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is an excellent macOS alternative for journalists. It provides robust privacy protections, strong encryption, and a user-friendly experience tailored for journalists.

Anonymous signupNo trackingCross-platform
Pricing: $4.99/moMigration: Easy
86Privacy Score
#3

Fedora

Fedora is an excellent macOS alternative for journalists. It provides robust privacy protections, strong encryption, and a user-friendly experience tailored for journalists.

Metadata protectionOffline capableNo adsForward secrecy
Pricing: $4.99/moMigration: Moderate
75Privacy Score
#4

Elementary OS

Elementary OS is an excellent macOS alternative for journalists. It provides robust privacy protections, strong encryption, and a user-friendly experience tailored for journalists.

Offline capableMetadata protectionEnd-to-end encryptionForward secrecyZero-knowledge encryption
Pricing: $3.99/moMigration: Moderate
75Privacy Score
#5

Tails

Tails is an excellent macOS alternative for journalists. It provides robust privacy protections, strong encryption, and a user-friendly experience tailored for journalists.

Zero-knowledge encryptionMetadata protectionNo phone number required
Pricing: FreemiumMigration: Advanced
58Privacy Score

Our Recommendation

Linux Mint

Linux Mint is our top recommendation for journalists because it combines industry-leading privacy protections with the features and reliability needed for journalists.

Try Linux Mint

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