Mac OS is based on a BSD code base, while Linux is an independent development of a unix-like system. This means that these systems are similar, but not binary compatible. Furthermore, Mac OS has lots of applications that are not open source and are build on libraries that are not open source.

Which is better Mac OS or Linux?

Unquestionably, Linux is a superior platform. But, like other operating systems, it has its drawbacks as well. For a very particular set of tasks (such as Gaming), Windows OS might prove to be better. And, likewise, for another set of tasks (such as video editing), a Mac-powered system might come in handy.

Is Mac OS built on Linux?

You may have heard that Macintosh OSX is just Linux with a prettier interface. That’s not actually true. But OSX is built in part on an open source Unix derivative called FreeBSD. And until recently, FreeBSD’s co-founder Jordan Hubbard served as director of Unix technology at Apple.