TL;DR
Check the exact Mac model against the requirements for each macOS release before updating.
- Apple compatibility pages identify supported computers.
- Some releases depend on model, chip, or port configuration.
- Check feature-specific requirements as well as installation compatibility; a supported Mac may not offer every feature.
Checking one Mac? Use our macOS compatibility checker. For supported models and system requirements by macOS version, use the release lists below.
All macOS Version System Requirements
How We Check Our Guides We use Apple’s support documents and current developer instructions to check the steps. Screenshots and menu names can differ between versions, so follow the branch for your Mac. Read our editorial process.
This guide lists the Mac models Apple supports for each macOS release. Compatibility depends on the exact model and, for some releases, chip or port configuration. Apple’s current compatibility pages identify supported computers.
Apple does not set one universal memory or free-storage minimum for every Mac; installer space depends on the release and upgrade path. Back up first, then open System Settings > General > Software Update to see which compatible upgrade Apple offers.
Apple’s model lists are more reliable than estimating support from a Mac’s age. If Apple does not list your exact model for a release, Software Update can show which compatible upgrade is available.
1. macOS 27 Golden Gate
As checked October 17, 2026, macOS 27 Golden Gate 27.0.1 is the latest macOS version listed by Apple. The major release arrived in September 2026. Apple says Macs with Apple silicon can upgrade.
For MacBooks, the list starts with the M1 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro from 2020 and includes MacBook Neo (13-inch, A18 Pro). The list below also covers Apple’s supported desktop Macs.
This is an exact-model list, not a blanket rule for every MacBook released since 2020. Check Apple’s full model list; older Intel MacBooks are not supported by macOS 27.
macOS 27 Golden Gate Compatible Models
Model lists checked against Apple’s macOS 27 compatibility page on November 1, 2026. For a laptop’s model year, see our MacBook models by year guide.
- MacBook Pro with Apple silicon: 13-inch M1 (2020), 13-inch M2 (2022), and the 14-inch and 16-inch models in Apple’s list
- MacBook Air with Apple silicon: M1 (2020) through the M5 models in Apple’s list
- MacBook Neo (13-inch, A18 Pro)
- iMac: 24-inch Apple silicon models from 2021, 2023, and 2024
- Mac mini: M1 (2020), 2023, 2024, and M6 or M5 Pro
- Mac Studio: 2022, 2023, 2025, and M5 Max or M5 Ultra
- Mac Pro (2023)
2. macOS Tahoe 26
Apple released macOS Tahoe 26 on September 15, 2025. It is the last major macOS release that supports some Intel Macs; macOS 27 Golden Gate supports Macs with Apple silicon.
The numbered compatibility lists below are based on Apple’s current Tahoe model page and macOS 27 compatibility page, checked October 17, 2026.
General Requirements for macOS Tahoe
Use Apple’s compatibility list to check your exact Mac model. Apple does not give one universal RAM and free-storage requirement for every Mac in this release.
macOS Tahoe Compatible Models
Apple lists the following Mac models for macOS Tahoe 26. The Intel exceptions are specific models, so check the model name and port count rather than relying on the year alone.
Here’s the compatibility list:
- MacBook Air with Apple silicon: M1 (2020) and the M2, M3, M4, and M5 models in Apple’s Tahoe list
- MacBook Pro with Apple silicon: 13-inch M1 (2020), 14- and 16-inch (2021, 2023, and 2024), 13-inch M2 (2022), and current Apple silicon models
- MacBook Pro with Intel: 16-inch (2019) and 13-inch (2020, four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Neo (13-inch, A18 Pro)
- iMac (2020 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (with Apple silicon, 2020 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Studio (2022 or later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
The only Intel Macs supported are those few recent models. Many older Intel Macs that were supported by macOS Sequoia are not supported by Tahoe.
3. macOS Sequoia
macOS Sequoia 15 was released on September 16, 2024. Apple’s compatibility page lists the exact supported models, including configuration-specific exceptions for some MacBook Pro models.
General Requirements for macOS Sequoia
Use Apple’s compatibility list to check your exact Mac model. Apple does not give one universal RAM and free-storage requirement for every Mac in this release.
macOS Sequoia Compatible Models
Apple lists these supported Mac model generations for macOS Sequoia:
- MacBook Pro (2018 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (2020 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (2019 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac mini (2018 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Studio (2022 or later)
- Mac Pro (2019 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
4. macOS Sonoma
macOS Sonoma, also referred to as macOS 14, was launched on September 25, 2023. This version brought new customization options, enhanced multitasking features, and various improvements to the built-in apps.
General Requirements for macOS Sonoma
Use Apple’s compatibility list to check your exact Mac model. Apple does not give one universal RAM and free-storage requirement for every Mac in this release.
macOS Sonoma Compatible Models
Apple’s Sonoma model list includes MacBook Pro models beginning in 2018 and iMac models beginning in 2019. The earlier 2016 MacBook Pro and 2017 iMac generations are not supported by Sonoma.
- MacBook Pro: listed 2018–2023 models
- MacBook Air: listed 2018–2024 models
- iMac: listed 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023 models
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac mini: 2018, M1 (2020), and 2023
- Mac Studio: 2022 and 2023
- Mac Pro: 2019 and 2023
Use Apple’s exact model list rather than treating these ranges as a promise that every newer Mac can install Sonoma. A Mac introduced later can require a newer macOS.
5. macOS Ventura
macOS Ventura, also known as macOS 13, was released on October 24, 2022. It introduced Stage Manager for improved multitasking, along with other productivity features and enhancements.
General Requirements for macOS Ventura
Apple’s archived page lists the Mac models compatible with this release, but does not give one general RAM or available-storage minimum. Check the exact model in Apple’s compatibility list.
macOS Ventura Compatible Models
Apple’s archived Ventura model list includes these generations. MacBook Pro support begins with the 2017 models, not 2016.
- MacBook Pro: listed 2017–2023 models
- MacBook Air: listed 2018–2023 models
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, 2017)
- iMac: listed 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021 models
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac mini: 2018, M1 (2020), and 2023
- Mac Studio: 2022 and 2023
- Mac Pro: 2019 and 2023
Check the exact model on Apple’s page. Models introduced after Ventura can require a later macOS, even when their family appears above.
6. macOS Monterey
macOS Monterey, or macOS 12, arrived on October 25, 2021, bringing exciting features and improvements to Mac users.
To see if your Mac can run Monterey, identify your model and year from the About This Mac section.
Did You Know? ❓Some macOS features are only available on newer Mac models. For example, macOS Monterey introduced Universal Control, but it requires a Mac from 2016 or later.
Always check for feature-specific requirements to avoid missing out!
General Requirements for macOS Monterey
Apple’s archived page lists the Mac models compatible with this release, but does not give one general RAM or available-storage minimum. Check the exact model in Apple’s compatibility list.
macOS Monterey Compatible Models
These are the historical starting generations for Monterey. Later Macs are supported only where Apple’s release-specific list names them; a newer Mac may require a newer macOS:
- MacBook (Early 2016 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Early 2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Early 2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Late 2014 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Late 2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac Pro (2017 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Studio (2022)
- Mac Pro (2013 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
7. macOS Big Sur
macOS Big Sur, also known as macOS 11, was released on November 12, 2020. It brought a refreshed design and numerous new features to Mac users.
General Requirements for macOS Big Sur
- OS X 10.9 or later
- 4GB of memory
- 35.5 GB free if upgrading from Sierra or later, up to 44.5 GB if upgrading from earlier
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
macOS Big Sur Compatible Models
The following models are compatible with macOS Big Sur:
- MacBook (2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (2013 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Late 2013 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (2014 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (2014 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac Pro (2017 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (2013 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
8. macOS Catalina
Released on October 7, 2019, macOS Catalina (macOS 10.15) introduced significant updates and new capabilities.
General Requirements for macOS Catalina
- OS X 10.9 or later
- 4GB of memory
- 12.5GB from OS X El Capitan 10.11.5 or later; up to 18.5GB from earlier releases
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
macOS Catalina Compatible Models
The compatibility list for macOS Catalina is as follows:
- MacBook (Early 2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Mid 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid-2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Late 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Late 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac Pro (Late 2013 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
9. macOS Mojave
macOS Mojave (macOS 10.14) was released on September 24, 2018, and it featured a system-wide dark mode and other notable improvements.
General Requirements for macOS Mojave
- OS X 10.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 12.5GB from OS X El Capitan 10.11.5 or later; up to 18.5GB from earlier releases
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
macOS Mojave Compatible Models
Check the exact model against Apple’s Mojave specifications.
The compatible Mac models for macOS Mojave include:
- MacBook (Early 2015 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Mid 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid-2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Late 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Late 2012 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac Pro (2017)
- Mac Pro (Late 2013; Mid-2010 and mid-2012 models with recommended Metal-capable graphics cards)
10. macOS High Sierra
macOS High Sierra (macOS 10.13), released on September 25, 2017, brought improvements to core technologies and refined features.
General Requirements for macOS High Sierra
- OS X 10.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 14.3GB of available storage to perform upgrade
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
macOS High Sierra Compatible Models
The following Mac models are compatible with macOS High Sierra:
- MacBook (Late 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Late 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
11. macOS Sierra
macOS Sierra (macOS 10.12) arrived on September 20, 2016, introducing Siri integration and other enhancements.
General Requirements for macOS Sierra
- OS X 10.7.5 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 8.8GB of available storage
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
macOS Sierra Compatible Models
The compatible Mac models for macOS Sierra are:
- MacBook (Late 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Late 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (Mid-2010 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
12. OS X El Capitan (10.11)
Released on September 30, 2015, OS X El Capitan introduced several enhancements and performance improvements. To determine if your Mac meets the requirements for OS X El Capitan, consider the following specifications.
General Requirements for OS X El Capitan (10.11)
- OS X v10.6.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 8.8GB of available storage
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
OS X El Capitan Compatible Models
Check the exact model against Apple’s El Capitan specifications.
Here are the OS X El Capitan compatible models:
- MacBook (Early 2015)
- MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum or Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid/Late 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Air (Late 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- iMac (Mid 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (Early 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Xserve (Early 2009)
13. OS X Yosemite (10.10)
OS X Yosemite, released on October 16, 2014, brought a visually refreshed interface and tighter integration with iOS devices.
General Requirements for OS X Yosemite (10.10)
- OS X v10.6.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 8GB of available storage
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
OS X Yosemite Compatible Models
Do not use Yosemite’s Handoff or AirDrop hardware list as its installation-compatibility list. In Apple’s Yosemite technical specifications, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro “2012 or newer” entries belong to Handoff, Instant Hotspot and AirDrop with iOS devices. They are feature requirements, not a general minimum model year for installing Yosemite.
For an older Mac, identify the exact model and check its original Apple specifications and supported software before choosing an installer. The memory, storage, and previous-OS requirements above must also be met.
A newer Mac cannot necessarily install an older operating system.
14. OS X Mavericks (10.9)
Released on October 22, 2013, OS X Mavericks introduced several new features and performance improvements.
General Requirements for OS X Mavericks (10.9)
- OS X v10.6.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 8GB of available space
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
OS X Mavericks Compatible Models
The compatible models for OS X Mavericks are:
- iMac (Mid 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum or Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid/Late 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Xserve (Early 2009)
- MacBook Air (Late 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (Early 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
15. OS X Mountain Lion (10.8)
OS X Mountain Lion, released on July 25, 2012, focused on further integrating iOS features into the Mac environment.
General Requirements for OS X Mountain Lion
- OS X v10.6.8 or later
- 2GB of memory
- 8GB of available space
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
OS X Mountain Lion Compatible Models
The following Apple computers are compatible with OS X Mountain Lion:
- iMac (Mid 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum or Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- MacBook Pro (Mid/Late 2007 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Xserve (Early 2009)
- MacBook Air (Late 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac mini (Early 2009 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
- Mac Pro (Early 2008 and later models listed by Apple for this release)
16. OS X Lion (10.7)
Released on July 20, 2011, OS X Lion introduced a range of new features and a more streamlined user interface.
General Requirements for OS X Lion
- Mac computer with an Intel Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, or Xeon processor
- 2GB of memory
- OS X v10.6.6 or later (v10.6.8 recommended)
- 7GB of available space
- An Apple ID for some features
- A compatible internet service provider for some features
Apple’s technical specifications list the original general requirements for this release.
OS X Lion Compatible Models
Apple’s Lion requirements specify an Intel Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, or Xeon processor, together with the memory, storage, and previous-OS requirements above.
The model-year list under AirDrop on that page describes AirDrop support; it is not the installation list for Lion.
Check the exact older Mac’s processor and original software support. PowerPC Macs and the original Intel Core Duo or Core Solo processors do not meet that processor requirement. Apple silicon Macs cannot run Lion.
Final Thoughts
When considering upgrading your Mac’s operating system, ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements. However, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind to optimize your experience:
- Ensure enough free storage before updating macOS.
- Back up important files before system updates.
- Declutter your Mac by removing unnecessary files and apps before upgrading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my Mac to the latest macOS version if it doesn’t meet the system requirements?
Use Apple’s compatibility list for the exact Mac model.
If the model is absent from that release’s list, Apple does not list it as compatible.
On a supported Mac, System Settings > General > Software Update shows compatible upgrades available for that computer.
Are the system requirements the same for all Mac models within a particular year?
No. Compatibility can differ by model, chip, and sometimes port configuration, even within a year.
Match the Mac’s exact model against Apple’s list for the macOS release.
For older macOS releases, Apple’s archived technical specifications may also state a minimum memory, storage, or previous-OS requirement.
Where can I find the official and most up-to-date information on macOS system requirements?
Use Apple’s macOS version index for current version numbers, then open that release’s compatibility page and check the exact Mac model.
For older releases, consult the linked Apple technical specifications. On the Mac, About This Mac identifies the installed system.
System Information shows hardware details, and System Settings > General > Software Update shows upgrades offered for that computer.
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