Apple Apfs vs Mac Os Extended: A Comparison of Two File Systems

For over three decades, HFS+ has been the default file system used on Macs. Introduced in 1985 with the Mac System 2 operating system, it has undergone several updates and improvements since then. However, Apple has now introduced a new file system called APFS (Apple File System), which is designed to provide better performance and efficiency.

In this article, we will compare APFS with HFS+ and explore the benefits of each file system. We will also discuss how to convert between APFS and macOS Journaled, as well as when to choose between the two.

HFS+: The Legacy File System

HFS+ is a journaling file system that provides several benefits, including crash protection and snapshots. It was designed for optimal performance on traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) and has been the default file system used on Macs since its introduction in 1985.

However, HFS+ has some limitations. For example, it is not optimized for use with solid-state drives (SSDs), which are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, HFS+ does not provide strong encryption, which can be a concern for users who need to protect their data.

APFS: The Modern File System

APFS is a modern file system that was introduced by Apple in macOS 10.13 High Sierra. It is designed to provide better performance and efficiency on SSDs and flash storage devices. APFS provides several benefits, including crash protection, snapshots, space efficiency, stronger encryption, and faster performance.

One of the key features of APFS is its ability to make read-only snapshots of the file system at any point in time. This allows users to easily restore their files in case of a crash or data corruption. Additionally, APFS uses space more efficiently than HFS+, which helps reduce the overall size of files on disk.

APFS also supports native encryption at the file system level, which provides stronger protection for user data. Operations like copying files, opening applications, shutting down, and booting up are much faster with APFS compared to HFS+.

How to Convert Between APFS and macOS Journaled

Converting between APFS and macOS Journaled is relatively simple. To convert an HFS+-formatted drive to APFS, you can use the built-in Disk Utility app on your Mac. Simply select the drive, click the 'Erase' button, and choose the APFS file system.

To convert an APFS-formatted drive to HFS+, you can also use Disk Utility. Select the drive, click the 'Erase' button, and choose the HFS+ file system.

Choosing Between APFS and macOS Journaled

When choosing between APFS and macOS Journaled, it depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are using an SSD or flash storage device, APFS is likely the better choice due to its optimized performance and space efficiency.

However, if you are still using a traditional HDD, HFS+ may be a better option due to its familiarity and compatibility with older software. Additionally, some users may prefer the stronger encryption provided by HFS+.

Should I Use APFS or macOS Journaled for a New Mac?

If you are buying a new Mac, it is recommended to use APFS as your default file system. APFS is designed to provide better performance and efficiency on SSDs and flash storage devices, which are becoming increasingly popular in modern computers.

Additionally, APFS provides stronger encryption and faster performance compared to HFS+, making it a more secure and efficient option for users who need to protect their data.

In conclusion, Apple's Apfs vs Mac Os Extended is a comparison between two file systems that have been used on Macs for over three decades. APFS is the new file system introduced by Apple in macOS 10.13 High Sierra, designed for optimal performance and efficiency on SSDs and flash storage devices. While HFS+ has its own benefits and limitations, APFS provides stronger encryption and faster performance, making it a more secure and efficient option for users who need to protect their data.

Apple apfs vs mac os extended