Mac OS compatibility: what to choose for your device

Apple technology is one of the most reliable and, therefore, so popular. Those who have used a Mac at least once appreciate its performance and functionality. While on the market, Apple has released dozens of different Mac models with other operating systems. And it's no secret that each next device is supported for about seven years, after which experts recommend changing the computer to a new one.

In addition to new devices, the company often releases new operating systems. Each next one has some new features and an enhanced security system. Therefore, updating the operating system to the latest regularly is recommended. Suppose you don't know how Howly experts are always ready to help you with this task.

And despite this, some users like using previous operating system versions. If you are such a person, you can use the Mac OS compatibility checker for your device. In this article, you will learn which devices support different operating systems from Apple.

Why is the old operating system not suitable for new models of Apple devices?

The first and foremost reason is safety. Then older the operating system, the more likely hackers will crack it. Because with each iteration, changes are made. And you can find information about it on the Internet. And somebody can use their knowledge of weaknesses to hack a computer.

Apple has recently launched the Macbook M2 Pro with macOS Ventura. And it is the most up-to-date operating system. It has added many exciting features. Let's briefly analyze what it offers:

1. Stage manager. It makes it easier to work with different applications and open desktops. It is convenient if you need to work in several programs at once.
2. Using the camera for iPhone. An exciting feature that allows you to improve picture quality during video calls. You can connect your iPhone to your MacBook and use its camera.
3. Special features for sending emails and using iCloud. For example, you can delete sent messages, create a mailing schedule, or share photos in the vault with only selected family members.
4. The improved Spotlight search engine recognizes text in pictures, files, and videos, expanding your options.
5. An enhanced security system allows you to use Face ID and Touch ID to protect information.

These are just some new features, but they are already impressive.

MacOS Ventura can be installed on Macbook Pro 2017 or later, Macbook Air 2018 or later, and iMac 2014 or earlier. If you have a new Macbook Pro, check Mac PRO OS compatibility before installing it.

If you have difficulties or questions when installing a new operating system, contact Howly support and get qualified help.

Comparison of characteristics and features of different operating systems

If you are looking for the answer: “What version of macOS can I upgrade to?” or “What macOS can I run?”, here you will find some tips. So keep reading.

Features of the Monterey operating system

The older Monterey system still continues to work on different devices today, so we will briefly analyze its capabilities.

The developers paid particular attention to FaceTime, namely the ability to share a screen and transmit video and voice. These features are genuinely appreciated by those who work remotely and need a constant high-quality communication channel: Quick Mac commands and the ability to focus added convenience to work with the device.

The Monterey operating system is supported on the 2015 and newer iMac, 2015 MacBook Air, and 2013 MacBook PRO. So it is the new Mac operating system for 2015 devices.

Features of Big Sur

The Big Sur operating system appeared in 2020, and some Mac lovers prefer it. At the time of the release of this system, the main focus was on security and a new interface. Also in this operating system version, support for iOS and iPad OS appeared.

If you prefer Big Sur, devices released after 2013 support it.

Characteristics of Catalina

Catalina is one of the most popular Mac operating systems. When it was released, the company paid particular attention to the security system and the operation of various applications. As a result, for example, the work of Siri, FaceTime, and AppleTV has improved. MacOS Catalina has wide compatibility.

Catalina allowed different iPad models to use the second screen.

MacOS Catalina is compatible with MacBooks from 2012 and later, iMacs from 2017 and Macs from 2012. So if you looking, which is the latest OS for MacBook PRO mid 2012, it is Catalina.

Features of Mojave

This operating system, named after the Californian desert, made a difference: the ability to create a user interface. In addition, the developers paid a lot of attention to ease of use. For example, it became possible to collect files in piles, and tools for working with screenshots and multimedia were added. OS has been supported on Apple devices since 2012 and later. It is MacBook PRO 2009 latest OS.

Features of High Sierra

The High Sierra operating system did not feature any major changes. When it was first presented to users, they noted that the interface remained the same. The main difference from the previous operating system Yosemite was the interface of minor applications such as photos, notes, Safari, and mail.

During the development of this system, primary attention was paid to the "insides." For example, transferring information to a new file system. It affected the speed of information processing.

High Sierra is Mac OS for devices produced in 2010 and newer. Also, it is iMac 2011 latest OS and MacBook PRO 2011 latest OS.

Features of Yosemite

The main improvements of this operating system have touched on interface design and usability. The appearance of icons, windows, and applications has changed. They became flat and not as detailed.

Also, the iTunes player has been updated in Yosemite, which users especially liked. Yosemite is the iMac 2008 latest OS.

Characteristics of El Capitan

12 Apple's operating system is called El Capitan. It gave its users new features and ease of use. Some changes have been compared to the previous version, especially concerning the interface. It remained simple and elegant. This time the theme uses the new San Francisco font, which has not been used before.

Also, in the Safari browser, there are more flexible settings. And the developers were incredibly attentive to performance. Compared to previous versions, work speed has increased by almost two times. El Capitan has been supported on devices since 2012.

Features of Mavericks

The Mavericks operating system was the last, which was sold in the Apple Store and cost $19. It is compatible with all devices released after 2007. If you are a connoisseur of this version, you will need 8GB of free space for installation. It is the first 2013 Mac OS.

This system has an old OS X interface and may seem inconvenient to a modern user. However, since its release, there have been a lot of functional changes, as well as interface design changes.

If you are determined to install it anyway, Mavericks is not supported on all devices. Namely: Mac from 2008, iMac from 2007, and MacBook from 2008.

Characteristics of Mountain Lion

The Mountain Lion system came out in 2012. It was also paid and cost $15.99. And for installation, you need 8 GB of free memory. Mac OS compatibility with iOS was released for the first time. Compatible with devices from 2007.

If you love classic Apple and want to install any of the operating systems described, the Howly team can help you anytime.

How to understand which operating systems your device is compatible with?

To determine compatibility with a specific operating system, you must visit the official Apple website and select the operating system. There you will see on which devices this software is being installed. To find what system is installed on your computer, you can click on the Apple logo on your screen, see the About This Mac menu and find out the details.

Be careful because older versions of operating systems may not have the drivers for different applications to work correctly on the new device. Also, new operating systems are not always supported by older devices, and if your computer stops working, you will either have to buy a new one or find the problem.

If you encounter any problems, Howly experts are ready to help you.

Also, if you have the latest devices based on M1 and M2 chips, they will not support older operating systems, and you could notice problems with the keyboard, ports, or processor.