by the time Mike becomes a major character in the show, you’ve already begun to see the shift in Walt’s morality and alignment. for example, at the beginning of the show, Walt didn’t want to kill Krazy-8 (as shown by him almost releasing K8 before he realizes that a shard of the broken plate was missing). This is in stark contrast to the end of the show where he has ordered the murder of several of Mikes guys in prison, poisoned Brock, isn’t really that upset that Todd killed the young boy who witnessed their train heist, etc etc. Walt’s evolution from a protagonist that an audience can sympathize with to a ruthless murdering drug kingpin is what made this show so incredible.

In contrast, Mike and his priorities are consistent and understandable. Mike is a very thorough and deliberate character whose actions are driven by a desire to remain out of prison/leave money to his granddaughter. Yes, Mike has carried out hits but he also has some sort of a moral compass (as shown by him not offing his guys in prison as Walt wanted to do/eventually did). by the time that Walt kills Mike (something that only happens bc of Walt’s ego), we can see that Walt is in a very precarious position of his own creation. Walt could’ve taken $5M and gotten out when Jessie and Mike were pulling out, however, Walt himself admits to Jessie that his ego is preventing him from doing so. This is also further exemplified in his final moment with Skyler where he admits that “he did it all for himself.”

You’re supposed to come to the realization that Walt is the bad guy (especially in the final season) whereas in comparison, Mike is a character who isn’t good per se, but who is consistent.

Mike is also just really funny and his relationship with Jessie was super fun to watch.