MacOS Compatibility

Updated: January 09, 2025 Published: January 08, 2025

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Can your Mac handle the latest macOS update? With each release, compatibility can become a headache, especially if you're not sure which model or macOS requirements are needed. With our help, you’ll be able to check your macOS version and compatibility to avoid security risks or system glitches.

Before we start:

Before diving in, we recommend checking that your computer has plenty of storage space to ensure performance isn’t affected by slowness or excessive resource consumption. MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup is perfect for this: it can scan your device looking for junk files and unnecessary clutter to remove and help your Mac run smoothly.

Here’s how to use MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup:
Download MacKeeper.
Open the app, and in the left sidebar, click on Safe Cleanup.
Click Start Scan.
Once the scan is complete, tick everything you want MacKeeper to remove, and press Clean Junk Files.

In this article you will find the following:

What macOS versions are still supported by Apple

Apple still supports the latest macOS versions that include:

OS software	Date released
macOS 15 Sequoia	September 2024
macOS 14 Sonoma	September 2023
macOS 13 Ventura	October 2022
macOS 12 Monterey	October 2021
macOS 11 Big Sur	November 2020

However, before upgrading your software, we advise you to wait a few weeks in case any initial bugs are noticed and need to be fixed.

How to check your MacBook model

Before upgrading your macOS, we suggest checking your MacBook model by clicking the Apple icon and selecting About This Mac. This will display your model name, year, and serial number. For more information, you can also copy your serial number into checkcoverage.apple.com.

A question to ask yourself:

Is your laptop not performing at its best? It might be time to update your MacBook to the latest one, but not to worry—our dedicated blog piece will walk you through it step-by-step.

Via About This Mac

The easiest way to find out the model of your MacBook is to access the About This Mac information log that lists all the relevant information you need.

Here’s how to find the About This Mac so you can easily check your Apple model:

Click on the Apple icon.
From the list, select About This Mac.
A pop-up window will appear that lists your model, release year, and serial number.

To check your MacBook Model, by accessing the About This Mac window, firstly you need to click on the Apple icon. You’ll then see About This Mac as the first option in the list, click on it and a pop-up window will appear. — **Step 1. Press the Apple icon and choose About this Mac**

Step 1. Press the Apple icon and choose About this Mac — **Step 2. Your Apple model information will be displayed in a pop-up window**

With serial number

If you know your serial number, you can enter it into Apple’s coverage page online as another quick way to verify your model before upgrading your OS software.

Here’s how to use Apple’s coverage page to find out your Mac model:

You can find your serial number in the About This Mac pop-up window.
Then go to checkcoverage.apple.com.
Add your serial number and follow the on-screen prompts to get your exact device model and macOS compatibility verified.

Open the Apple coverage page and enter your serial number to find out your device name and compatibility information for the latest macOS updates. — **Add your device’s serial number to Apple’s coverage page to find out your model**

A hint from our team:

Not sure what the M1 vs M2 chip label means next to your model? It’s all about your laptop’s processor—read our supporting blog article to find out how these chips differ.

What macOS do you have

Once you know your MacBook model, it’s a good idea to check which macOS version it’s using. You shouldn’t be a long-term Mac user to get that this knowledge is a must to quickly check if the software is recent or needs an upgrade. Open the About This Mac from the Apple menu to see your OS version.

In the About This Mac pop-up window, look for where it says macOS. You’ll then be able to see the current version of the OS installed on your Mac. — **Open the About This Mac info window and look across to where it says macOS**

An extra piece of advice from us:

macOS is one thing, but Mac’s model also counts. You may notice a difference between MacBook Air and Pro when comparing the device specs, which is normal. Not sure how it can affect your user experience? Read our attached guide, where we’ve collected all their distinctions in device compatibility in one place.

How to check macOS compatibility

Are you thinking about upgrading your old macOS software to the newest version? We think it’s helpful to check your devices’ compatibility first to ensure it’ll run smoothly on your Mac. Here’s how:

Click on the Apple icon and press About This Mac.
Note down your device model and year.
Go to the Apple Support macOS compatibility list to check your device against the requirements for the available OS.

To see if your device is compatible with the latest macOS, or a different version that is still available to download, head to Apple’s macOS support page. You’ll find a list of compatibility requirements, like space and device year, that you can check with your laptop. — **Find out if your device can run your preferred OS software**

All macOS versions and compatibility

Apple has released multiple macOS versions, each release offering new features and security updates of its own to improve your daily activities.

We’ll now share the compatibility and minimum requirements for the following macOS…

macOS 15 Sequoia compatibility
macOS 14 Sonoma compatibility
macOS 13 Ventura compatibility
macOS 12 Monterey compatibility
macOS 11 Big Sur compatibility
macOS 10.15 Catalina compatibility
macOS 10.14 Mojave compatibility
macOS 10.13 High Sierra compatibility
macOS 10.12 Sierra compatibility
macOS 10.11 El Capitan compatibility
macOS 10.10 Yosemite compatibility
macOS 10.9 Mavericks compatibility
macOS 10.8 Mountain Lion compatibility

macOS 15 Sequoia compatibility

Apple’s latest release, macOS 15 Sequoia, aims to boost system performance and improve your daily activities by seamlessly integrating advanced AI tools, window-tiling features, and screen mirroring.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: M1 chip or newer
RAM: 8GB (16GB recommended)
Storage: 20GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (M1, 2020 and newer)
MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020 and newer)
iMac (2021 and newer)
Mac mini (M1, 2020 and newer)

The new macOS 15 Sequoia version boasts the latest developments in multi-tasking capabilities. You can easily have more than one window open an in view at once, as well as now being able to screen-mirror iPhone devices. This software update is compatible with Apple devices 2020 and newer. — **macOS 15 Sequoia makes your daily activities easier with its new multitasking features**

macOS 14 Sonoma compatibility

macOS 14 Sonoma is treasured by many Mac users thanks to its personalization and app integration. Sonoma gives you access to smart widgets, Game Mode, and enhanced video tools, making it a solid choice for casual and professional use.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or Apple M1 chip
RAM: 8GB (16GB recommended)
Storage: 20GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (2018 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2018 and newer)
iMac (2019 and newer)
Mac Mini (2018 and newer)
Mac Pro (2019 and newer)

The popular macOS 14 Sonoma is compatible with most Apple laptops and computers that are slightly older, but still made 2018 or newer. This means the latest models are not necessary to be able to install this macOS version for game and work features. — **macOS Sonoma is great for professional and casual Mac users with slightly older computers**

macOS 13 Ventura compatibility

Apple’s macOS 13 Ventura was designed to support you with your everyday tasks while still maintaining its compatibility with a range of devices. It focuses primarily on the Stage Manager, Continuity Camera, and Passkeys features.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or Apple M1 chip
RAM: 8GB (16GB recommended)
Storage: 12GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

iMac Pro (2017)
Mac (2017 or newer)
MacBook (2017 or newer)
MacBook Pro (2017 or newer)
MacBook Air (2018 or newer)
Mac Mini (2018 or newer)
Mac Pro (2019 or newer)
Mac Studio (2022 or 2023)

macOS 13 Ventura is still available to download and install on many Apple devices, typically for laptops and computers that are 2017 and newer. — **Ventura is a widely accessible macOS that is still available to download**

macOS 12 Monterey compatibility

With its focus on seamless connectivity, macOS 12 Monterey introduces features like Universal Control helping you manage multiple Apple devices more easily and apply Focus Mode to reduce distractions. The Shortcuts apps can also streamline workflow, all while still being compatible with different Apple laptops.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or Apple M1 chip
RAM: 4GB (8GB recommended)
Storage: 12GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

Mac Pro (2013 and newer)
Mac Mini (2014 and newer)
MacBook Air (2015 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2015 and newer)
iMac (2015 and newer)

The macOS 12 Monterey compatibility list is extensive and still widely accessible for Apple users- making it a great OSX version. — **Monterey boasts many smart features and tools that can be used by many Mac users**

macOS 11 Big Sur compatibility

In 2020, Apple released macOS 11 Big Sur featuring a sleek redesign, further enhancing the interface. It improved privacy control and sophisticated system notifications. The macOS supported devices still include Intel-based Macs and models with m-series chips.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or Apple M1 chip
RAM: 4GB (8GB recommended)
Storage: 35GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (2013 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2013 and newer)
Mac Pro (2013 and newer)
iMac (2014 and newer)
Mac Mini (2014 and newer)
MacBook (2015 and newer)
iMac Pro (2017 or later)

The macOS 11 Big Sur version, compatible with intel-based mac's and M1 chip models makes it a reliable software patch for many Apple users. It can still be downloaded on the App store on devices that are 2013 and newer. — **macOS Big Sur is used across older generation devices that use both intel or M chips**

macOS 10.15 Catalina compatibility

The 2019 release of macOS 10.15 Catalina marked the end of supporting 32-bit apps, in favor of 64-bit, to improve overall performance and user experience. This software version also introduced the revamped Music App. With all those changes, you can expect the macOS requirements also modified.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or better
RAM: 4GB (8GB recommended)
Storage: 12GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (2012 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2012 and newer)
iMac (2012 and newer)
Mac Mini (2012 and newer)
Mac Pro (2013 and newer)

In the 2019 version of macOS, Catalina saw a bunch of app updates both external and internal. The iTunes app was upgraded and apps no longer ran on 32-bit. — **macOS Catalina users saw the newly updated Music App replace iTunes among other changes**

macOS 10.14 Mojave compatibility

The release of macOS 10.14 Mojave in 2018 introduced several enhancements, like Dark Mode and Finders Gallery View. This version also emphasized privacy, with new features boasting greater control over your data.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core i5 or better
RAM: 4GB (8GB recommended)
Storage: 12GB of free disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (2012 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2012 and newer)
iMac (2012 and newer)
Mac Mini (2012 and newer)
Mac Pro (2013 and newer)

macOS Mojave added alot of usable features to existing apps, like the Gallery view in Finder and the ability to put your device into Dark Mode. These features still come in handy and run well on Macs that are 2012 and newer. — **Mojave added a lot of features to apps and gives its user more control over their data**

macOS 10.13 High Sierra compatibility

Apple’s macOS 10.13 High Sierra focused on performance and efficiency, introducing features like the Apple File System for better data management and improved graphics. It also provided support for virtual reality applications.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: 64-bit Intel processor
RAM: 2 GB
Storage: 14.3 GB of available disk space

Supported devices:

MacBook Air (2012 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2012 and newer)
Mac Mini (2012 and newer)
iMac (2012 and newer)
Mac Pro (Late 2013 and newer)
MacBook (2015 and newer)

The macOS 10.13 High Sierra has a long list of devices and models that can still run and use this version of software. Whilst it did introduce some key aspects, it is now dated compared to newer OS versions. — **High Sierra has a wide compatibility list, but its features are now outdated compared to newer OS**

macOS 10.12 Sierra compatibility

The macOS 10.12 Sierra, optimized the user experience by introducing Siri for Mac and adding the ability to unlock your device using an Apple Watch. It was known for its security features, but it no longer receives security updates.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: 64-bit Intel processor
RAM: 2 GB
Storage: 8.8 GB of available disk space

Supported devices:

iMac (2009 and newer)
MacBook Pro (2010 and newer)
Mac Mini (2010 and newer)
Mac Pro (2010 and newer)
MacBook Air (2012 and newer)
MacBook (Early 2015 and newer)

Apple no longer supports security patches updated to the macOS 10.12 Sierra version of OS so downloading it is not advised as it could put your security and device at risk of threats. — **macOS 10.12 Sierra is an old version that can no longer support new security updates**

macOS 10.11 El Capitan compatibility

The macOS 10.11 El Capitan focused on improving your system performance and experience with features like Split View, Mission Control, and Spotlight Search making Mac performance run smoother.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: 64-bit Intel processor
RAM: 2 GB
Storage: 6 GB of available disk space

Supported devices:

iMac (Mid 2007)
MacBook Pro (Mid 200)
Mac Pro (Early 2008)
MacBook Air (Late 2008)
MacBook (Early 2009)
Mac Mini (2009)

The El Capitan version of macOS is now very dated and, to run it on a newer device may not be possible without downgrading your software. — **Mac’s El Capitan is very dated and won’t be advised to run on newer devices**

macOS 10.10 Yosemite compatibility

Longer-term Mac users may remember macOS 10.10 Yosemite, which introduced a refreshed screen design and enhanced features to improve integration across Apple devices. However, it’s not available for new Mac users.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo or newer
RAM: 2 GB or more
Storage: 8 GB of available storage

Supported devices:

iMac (2009)
MacBook Air (2012)
MacBook Pro (2012)
Mac Mini (2012)
Mac Pro (2013)
MacBook (2015)

The 10.10 Yosemite macOs version is outdated and unsupported by Apple anymore. It cannot be downloaded or installed as it's been replaced by many more compatible software releases. — **macOS 10.10 Yosemite is outdated software that Apple no longer supports**

macOS 10.9 Mavericks compatibility

Going even further back, macOS 10.9 Mavericks is another outdated software release that originally boasted new support features and improved battery management. However, downloading Mavericks now on a new device wouldn't be possible.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo or newer
RAM: 2 GB or more
Storage: 15 GB of available storage

Supported devices:

iMac (2007)
Mac Pro (2008)
MacBook (Late 2009)
MacBook Air (2012)
MacBook Pro (2012)
Mac Mini (2012)

The Mavericks macOS compatibility list, was extensive until 2022 when support for the software would no longer be continued or updated. Newer Mac users cannot download Mavericks as it can only be used on older Macs with it pre-installed. — **macOS 10.9 Mavericks ran well on older devices but would not run now on the latest devices**

macOS 10.8 Mountain Lion compatibility

Finally, let’s not forget about macOS 10.8 Mountain Lion, a now-unsupported release that focused on enhancing user experience with features like Notification Center and improved security measures.

Minimum requirements:

Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo or newer
RAM: 2 GB or more
Storage: 8 GB of available storage

Supported devices:

iMac (Mid 2007 or newer)
MacBook Pro (2007 or newer)
Mac Pro (2008)
MacBook Air (2008 or newer)
MacBook (2008/2009 or newer)
Xserve (2009)
Mac Mini (2009)

Apple's macOS Moutain Lion came out in 2012 but was available to Mac users to install until 2013 when security updates were and support was stoped in favour of more sophisticated operating software. — **macOS 10.8 Mountain Lion is another unsupported version of OS due to newer releases**

A helping hand from our experts:

Need guidance on understanding the different requirements for the many macOS versions? Check out our relevant article to find the best fit for your Mac.

Last stroke to maximizing your macOS performance

Getting your head around all the versions and OS X compatibility requirements can be tricky, but we hope our guide has helped clarify things. After all, keeping your Mac updated with the right OS ensures an uninterrupted and secure performance. To keep operations running smoothly, we advise keeping plenty of RAM free. MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup can give you a hand in clearing out unnecessary files and optimizing performance.

Here’s a reminder of how to use MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup feature:

Open MacKeeper and select Safe Cleanup.
Click Start Scan.
After the scan, select anything you want MacKeeper to declutter.
Finally, press Clean Junk Files and Confirm to free up space.

To get a helping hand with freeing up space on your Mac begin by opening the MacKeeper app. Select the Safe Cleanup tool and press Start Scan. — **Step 1. Open MacKeeper and click on Safe Cleanup**

After MacKeeper has scanned your device, you'll be able to see a list of all the digital junk that is eating away at your disk and RAM space. Now you can highlight everything you want to remove and click Clean Junk Files and Confimr to rid your device of digital clutter. — **Step 2. Press Start Scan and then tick everything you want MacKeeper to remove**

With MacKeeper’s help, you’ll be able to keep your device in top shape and enjoy a smoother, more efficient experience with your compatible macOS. Try it yourself.

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