Apple Mac mini 'Core 2 Duo' 2.53 (Late 2009) Specs. Identifiers: Late 2009 - MC239LL/A - Macmini3,1 - A1283 - 2336 All Mac mini Models All 2009 Models Dynamically Compare This Mac to Others. Distribute This Page: Bookmark & Share Download: PDF Manual The Apple Mac mini 'Core 2 Duo' 2.53 (Late 2009. Catalina on (3) Late 2009 Mac mini's, buttery smoothly. Catalina on (1) Late 2009 iMac, buttery smoothly. Catalina on (1) 2011 MacBook Air 13″, buttery smoothly. Only 4GB's but works buttery smoothly.
The early 2009 version: This version has an Intel Core 2 Duo processor that runs at 2.0 GHz. It has 120 GB of storage and 2 GB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM installed in two modules. The mid 2009 version: This.
It's been 14 months since Apple introduced the 2008 Mac Pro, and the 2009 Mac Pro is a big step forward: every configuration uses quad-core Intel Xeon Nehalem CPUs for even more power. Each core has its own 256 KB Level 2 (L2) cache, and each quad-core CPU shares an 8 GB Level 3 (L3) cache.
Nehalem supports hyperthreading, which means each quad-core CPU can work like an 8-core CPU, and Turbo Boost technology allows CPUs to dynamically overclock themselves when circumstances permit – such as letting the 2.93 GHz Mac Pro go as high as 3.33 GHz.
All that power doesn't come cheap. For the first time, the least expensive Mac Pro configuration sells for $2,499 – $300 more than the previous entry-level model – which only makes the gap between the $599 base price 2.0 GHz dual-core Mac mini and the 2.66 GHz quad-core Mac Pro that much larger.
There are two base models, a single-CPU Mac Pro that ships with 3 GB of RAM and supports up to 8 GB, and a dual-CPU Mac Pro that ships with 6 GB of RAM and supports up to 32 GB. For best performance, you should install memory in sets of three matching modules, as the Nehalem CPU can access up to 3 channels of memory at once. With two or four modules installed, it falls back to 2 channel mode, which is less efficient. The single-CPU model is available at 2.66 and 2.93 GHz, while the dual-CPU can be obtained at 2.26, 2.66, or 2.93 GHz.
Nvidia GeForce GT 120 with 512 MB of video memory is the default graphics card, and you can add up to three more video cards. ATI Radeon HD 4870 is available as a build-to-order option.
Mac Pro 2009 Os
Oddly, no 'cheese grater' Mac Pro used anything faster than 3.0 Gbps SATA Rev. 2, even though the Early 2011 MacBook Pro models and the Mid 2011 iMac and Mac mini all supported 6.0 Gbps SATA Rev. 3 – and the SATA Rev. 3.0 specification had been ratified in August 2008 (but not finalized until May 2009)!
If one 18x SuperDrive (the fastest yet in a Mac) isn't enough, put in a second one for US$100 more. And you can upgrade from Apple's regular wired keyboard and Mighty Mouse to the wireless (Bluetooth) version.
Bluetooth 2.1+EDR is standard, but 802.11n AirPort Extreme remains optional.
A headphone jack, two USB 2.0 ports, and two FireWire 800 ports are located on the front of the Mac Pro for easy access, and there are more ports on the back. There are no FireWire 400 ports; FireWire 400 devices are supported using a FireWire 800-to-400 cable or adapter.
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
The AC power coming into your home or office is a sine wave, but some UPSes generate a square wave when you are operating from battery power. This is not good for the Mac Pro. Be sure you only use a UPS with sine wave output to avoid reducing the life of your Mac Pro.
Unsupported macOS
Although it is not officially supported, the Early 2009 Mac Pro can run macOS Sierra using Colin Mistr's Sierra Patch Tool. See our macOS Sierra page for more details and a link. (If you have done the firmware patch to make this model identify as MacPro5,1, you can run the standard Sierra installer.)
Intel-based Macs use a partitioning scheme known as GPT. Only Macintel models can boot from GPT hard drives. Both PowerPC and Intel Macs can boot from APM (Apple's old partitioning scheme) hard drives, which is the format you must use to create a universal boot drive in Leopard. Power PC Macs running any version of the Mac OS prior to 10.4.2 cannot mount GPT volumes. PowerPC Macs won't let you install OS X to a USB drive or choose it as your startup volume, although there is a work around for that.
Details
- introduced 2009.03.03 at $2,499 with one 2.66 GHz 4-core CPU, $2,999 with one 2.93 GHz CPU, $3,299 with two 2.26 GHz CPUs, $4,699 with two 2.66 GHz CPUs, $5,899 with two 2.93 GHz CPUs (all CPUs are quad-core); one 3.33 GHz CPU BTO option added 2009.12 at $3,699. Replaced by 2010 Mac Pro.
Mac OS
- requires Mac OS X 10.5.6 Leopard through 10.11 El Capitan, macOS Sierra via patch tool – see macOS Sierra on Low End Macs. macOS 10.14 Mojave and later are not supported.
- Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard compatibility
- Grand Central Dispatch is supported.
- 64-bit operation is supported.
- OpenCL is supported.
- OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion compatibility
- AirPlay Mirroring is not supported.
- AirDrop is supported with AirPort Extreme card.
- Power Nap is not supported.
Core System
- CPUs: single CPU models use Intel Nehalem Xeon 3500, dual CPU models use Xeon 5500
- Bus: 1.6 GHz
- Performance, Geekbench 4:
- single core: 1993 (2.3 GHz 8 cores), 2329 (2.7 GHz 8 cores), 2396 (2.7 GHz 4 cores), 2466 (2.93 GHz 8 cores), 2578 (2.93 GHz 4 cores), 2854 (3.3 GHz 4 cores)
- multi-core: 7690 (2.7 GHZ 4 cores), 8233 (2.9 GHz 4 cores), 9238 (3.3 GHz 4 cores), 11645 (2.3 GHz 8 cores), 13496 (2.7 GHz 8 cores), 14026 (2.9 GHz 8 cores)
- RAM, single CPU: 3 GB, expandable to 8 GB using 1066 MHz DDR32 ECC SDRAM in 4 slots
- RAM, dual CPU: 6 GB, expandable to 32 GB using 1066 MHz DDR32 ECC SDRAM in 8 slots
- L2 cache: 256 KB per core
- L3 cache: 8 MB per CPU
Video
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GT 120 with 512 MB RAM (ATI Radeon HD 4870 optional)
Drives
- Hard drive bus: 3 Gbps SATA Rev. 2
- Hard drive: 640 GB Serial ATA 7200 rpm standard; 1 TB optional
- Optical drive bus: SATA
- 18x dual-layer SuperDrive writes DVD-R at up to 18x, DVD+R DL at 8x, reads DVDs at 18x; writes CD-R and CD-RW at up to 32x, reads at 32x
Expansion
- PCI Express: 3 open full-length slots – one x16 slot, two x4 slots
- SATA: 4 independent buses
- optional external 56k v.92 USB modem
- Microphone: standard 3.5mm minijack, compatible with line-level input, not compatible with Apple's PlainTalk microphone
- FireWire 400: none
- FireWire 800: 4 ports (2 on front, 2 on rear)
- USB: 5 USB 2.0 ports (2 on front, 3 on rear)
- Ethernet: 2 independent 10/100/gigabit ports
- WiFi: optional 802.11n AirPort Extreme
- Bluetooth: 2.0 with Enhanced Data Rate
- size (HxWxD): 20.1″ x 8.1″ x 18.7″ (51.1 x 20.6 x 47.5 cm)
- weight, single CPU: 39.9 lb. (18.1 kg)
- weight, dual CPU: 41.2 lb. (18.7 kg)
- Gestalt ID: n/a
- PRAM battery: 3.6V half-AA
- Part no.: MB871 (single CPU), MB535 (dual CPU)
Accelerators & Upgrades
- CPU upgrades are an option.
Online Resources
- The Classic Mac Pro, Not Dead and Certainly Not Forgotten, Jay, The House of Moth, 2018.05.06. Literally thousands of user still love and use the classic 'cheese grater' Mac Pro with its multitude of upgrade options.
- The 2009 Mac Pro value equation, Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2009.03.04. In terms of sheer power, the Nehalem-based Mac Pro is designed for heavy listing. But how much power do you really need?
- 27″ iMac issues, Windows 7 drives users to Apple, Flash support ending for G3 Macs, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.12.18. Also Macs again #1 in reliability, cleaning and disinfecting your Mac, OWC adds 32 GB upgrades for 2009 Mac Pro, MoFi 3G network router to go, and more.
- Danish cops use Macs, Mac Pro hits 3.33 GHz, data on problematic Late 2009 iMacs, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.12.11. Also Intel i3 specs leaked, dedicated keypad for Gmail users, HK's crystal speaker system, California may side with Apple on smoker's warranties, and more.
- The 64-bitness of Mac OS X 10.6 ‘Snow Leopard', Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2009.08.19. Although Apple is promoting ‘Snow Leopard' as a fully 64-bit operating system, it defaults to running in 32-bit mode.
- The Road Ahead: 64-bit Computing, Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2009.08.19. Personal computers started with 8-bit CPUs, Macs started out with a 24-bit operating system, and 32-bit computing is starting to give way to 64 bits.
- OS X 10.6 requirements, why Apple owns the high end, when to upgrade your Mac, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.08.14. Also Microsoft Word patent infringement, BackPack shelf for iMac and Cinema Displays, two updated Bible study programs, and more.
- OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard for $29, run Windows on your Mac for Free, Update Breaks Office 2008, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.08.07. Also getting your Mac ready for Snow Leopard, Time Capsule doubles capacity, Picasa 3 for Mac, Bodega Mac app store, and more.
- SSD in Mac Pro, Mac cloner opens store, Ubuntu vs. OS X, new Nvidia drivers, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.07.17. Also Classilla brings Firefox to OS 9, slow networking in OS X, iMac vs. Mac Pro, URL shortening software, Quicken update finally coming in 2010, and more.
- Apple tops in satisfaction again, slim profits on Mac mini, ultimate photo setup, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.07.02. Also tips for cloning hard drives and moving files from old Macs, Clickfree Transformer turns USB drive into a backup drive, maximum Mac Pro RAM, and more.
- Optimized Software Builds Bring Out the Best in Your Mac, Dan Knight, Low End Mac's Online Tech Journal, 2009.06.30. Applications compiled for your Mac's CPU can load more quickly and run faster than ones compiled for universal use.
- Snow Leopard Up-to-Date, 13 Mac browsers, run Windows 7 on your Intel Mac for free, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.06.19. Also Mac sales steady in May, Apple vs. low-bandwidth users, Opera Unite turns browser into a personal server, and more.
- Low cost doesn't equal value, OS X market share over 10%, 2009 Mac Pro ‘insanely fast', and more, Mac News Review, 2009.04.03. Also Safari and Firefox gain market share, WWDC dates announced, 2 TB My Book Mac Edition hard drive, free Car Art calendar, and more.
- Macs lose top reliability rating, eSATA doomed by USB 3, Mac mini Bluetooth and audio problems, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.03.27. Also an abandoned iMac in New York City, 17″ iMac still available to education, IT pros are demanding Macs, and more.
- New Mac mini and iMac benchmarked, FireWire 400-to-800 solutions, dual-band AirPort Extreme, and more, Mac News Review, 2009.03.06. Also new iMac and Mac mini dissected, OS X share still above 10%, fastest SATA boot drives for the Mac Pro, iMac keyboard loses numeric keypad, and more.
- Mac Pro beats HP and Dell at their own game: Price, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.05.16. Whether comparing the top-end or low-end of Mac Pro options, comparable models from Dell and HP cost more.
- Ubuntu Linux and Boot camp make it easy to create a triple boot Mac, Alan Zisman, Mac2Windows, 2008.12.24. Boot Camp makes it easy to install Windows on Intel Macs, and Ubuntu now makes it easy to install Linux to a virtual Windows drive.
- The ‘Better Safe Than Sorry' Guide to Installing Mac OS X Updates, Charles W Moore, Miscellaneous Ramblings, 2008.12.16. Most users encounter no problems using Software Update, but some preflight work and using the Combo updater means far less chance of trouble.
- Why You Should Partition Your Mac's Hard Drive, Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2008.12.11. 'At the very least, it makes sense to have a second partition with a bootable version of the Mac OS, so if you have problems with your work partition, you can boot from the 'emergency' partition to run Disk Utility and other diagnostics.'
- The Long Term Value of a High End Mac, Andrew J Fishkin, Best Tools for the Job, 2008.11.21. Low-end Macs are more affordable up front, but the flexibility and upgrade options of a top-end Mac can make it the better value in the long run.
- Virtualization shootout: VMWare Fusion 2 vs. Parallels Desktop 4, Kev Kitchens, Kitchens Sync, 2008.11.20. Both programs do the same thing, but one runs Windows XP smoothly alongside Mac apps, while the other bogs down everything but Windows.
- Anticipating Macworld: Nehalem, Snow Leopard, and updated desktops, Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2008.11.18. Intel's Core i7 CPU has to make it way into the next Mac Pro, Nvidia GeForce graphics will drive the iMac and Mac mini, and ‘Snow Leopard' will unleash the animal within.
- Debunking the Apple Tax, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.10.31. '…no one else is offering the quality of computer construction that Apple offers in the same price range.'
- One OS to rule them all, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.10.29. With Fusion or Parallels letting you run Windows at full speed, Mac OS X gives you the best of both worlds.
- Economic crunch may slow Mac sales, a recycled Cube, ToCA Race Driver 3 for Mac, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.10.10. Also don't buy RAM from Apple, customize your Mac's appearance, MacTribe expanding into print, My Apple Space social networking, and more.
- How to clone Mac OS X to a new hard drive, Simon Royal, Tech Spectrum, 2008.10.07. Whether you want to put a bigger, faster drive in your Mac or clone OS X for use in another Mac, here's the simple process.
- The cost of moving to Small Business Server vs. moving to Leopard Server, Andrew J Fishkin, Best Tools for the Job, 2008.10.06. Upgrading the existing SBS 2003 Server would cost less, the the server will run up against hardware limitations long before a Mac Pro does
- OS X and Safari shares grow in September, toxic Mac Pro?, green hard drives, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.10.03. Also Vista terrible as Mac market grows, CrossOver Mac Pro reviewed, SimpleTech Pro Drives, and a new toolkit for working on computers.
- CodeWeavers brings Google's Chrome browser to Intel Macs, Alan Zisman, Zis Mac, 2008.10.02. Google's new Chrome browser uses separate processes for each tab and brings other changes to Windows users. Now Mac fans can try it as well.
- Apple Trumps Microsoft in Making the 64-bit Transition Transparent to Users, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.09.18. To use more than 4 GB of RAM under Windows, you need a 64-bit PC and the 64-bit version of Windows. On the Mac, OS X 10.4 and later already support it.
- SATA, SATA II, SATA 600, and Product Confusion Fatigue, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.09.08. In addition to the original SATA specification and the current 3 Gb/s specification, SATA revision 3.0 is just around the corner.
- Does running OS X system maintenance routines really do any good?, Charles W Moore, Miscellaneous Ramblings, 2008.08.26. Mac OS X is designed to run certain maintenance routines daily, weekly, and monthly – but can't if your Mac is off or asleep.
- Simple Mac security in the age of malware, Kev Kitchens, Kitchens Sync, 2008.08.13. Unlike Windows PCs, at this point Macs can't become infected simply from being on the Internet, but you still need to be careful about your downloads.
- Free VirtualBox for Mac now a virtual contender, Alan Zisman, Mac2Windows, 2008.07.21. A year ago, the Mac version of VirtualBox lacked some essential features. Over the past year, it's grown into a very useful tool.
- Mac Pro overclocking, Windependence with Darwine, Blu-ray for Macs, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.07.04. Also more on running Leopard on non-Apple hardware, Ubuntu on a Mac mini, the first autofocus webcam with Zeiss optics for Macs, and more.
- Win the depreciation game by buying on the low end, Charles W Moore, ‘Book Value, 2008.06.24. The worst depreciation afflicts high-end models. By buying a less powerful version, choosing certified refurbished, or picking up a used computer, you'll come out ahead.
- Mac sales up 50% in May, OS X on any PC with USB dongle?, share up to 5 USB devices, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.06.20. Also intimidating people with a Mac, CherryPal's inexpensive green ‘cloud' computer, quad-core G5 YDP PowerStation, Radeon HD 3870 announced, and Nolobe Iris claims to be ‘the ultimate image editor for OS X'.
- 5 business essentials for ‘The Switch', Jason Packer, Macs in the Enterprise, 2008.06.06. If you're planning a migration from Windows to Macs, these five steps will help you succeed in making the switch.
- 5 reasons Macs are right for business, 10.5.3 improves GeForce 8800 performance, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.06.06. Also 3.06 GHz iMac ‘packs a wallop', convertible keyboard for Macs, free open source virtualization software, hard drive rescue software, and more.
- Why Dell and HP do (or don't) beat Mac Pro pricing, Frank Fox, Stop the Noiz, 2008.05.23. Readers weigh in on why the Mac Pro is an even better value – or a worse one.
- SheepShaver brings Classic Mac OS to Intel Macs and Leopard, Alan Zisman, Mac2Windows, 2008.05.20. Mac OS X 10.5 doesn't support Classic Mode. Neither does Leopard. But SheepShaver lets you emulate a PowerPC Mac and run the Classic Mac OS.
- Windows on Macs: Three paths for integration, Jason Packer, Macs in the Enterprise, 2008.05.14. Mac users have three routes for running Windows apps: Run Windows using Boot Camp or virtualization, or use a compatibility layer such as WINE.
- Prosumer Mac suggestions, bring back the 12″ ‘Book, Pismo displays, and more, Dan Knight, Low End Mac Mailbag, 2008.05.06. Readers offer more thoughts on a midrange Mac, the need for a new 12″ ‘Book, using F-keys as F-keys in OS X, and lid closed video mode for Pismo.
- 50% Mac sales growth is only the beginning, Dan Knight, Mac Musings, 2008.05.02. Apple has a great line of computers and an awesome operating system, but a prosumer model could make last quarter's growth seem normal.
- Overpriced Macs, 4-core Mac Pro value, USB for G3 PowerBooks, and more, Dan Knight, Low End Mac Mailbag, 2008.04.24. Also reader feedback on running a keyboard through the dishwasher, tips for using external DVD drives, and 8 GB partition issues with the Classic Mac OS on the beige G3.
- Safari 3.1 fastest browser?, Macs smash sales record, Mac Pro reviews, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.03.21. Also should Mac users run antivirus software?, AirPort Express gets 802.11n, one-touch TV for Macs and iPods, security update for Tiger and Leopard, and more.
- Mac users are snobs, Mac freeware, 5x the range with AirPort Extreme, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.02.22. Also make room for 4 more drives in the 2008 Mac Pro, basic ethernet for PCI Express, MacSpeech Dictate software shipping, problems installing Leopard when SideTrack is present, and more.
- Safari 3.1 will be ‘crazy fast', OS X 10.5.2 update, 20x SuperDrive from $35, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.02.15. Also Security Update for Tiger, Graphics Update for Leopard, Mac mini 'as powerful as a larger desktop', TechTool Deluxe update, and more.
- Mac's record market share expected to double, Safari ‘solid third' in browsers, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.02.08. Also the future is 'Apple, open source, and green', the fastest Mac ever, and SuperDuper upgraded for Leopard support.
- Leopard on a PC without hacking, KDE comes to OS X, new Mac Pro benchmarked, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.02.01. Also saying good-bye to .mac, a review of Apple's aluminum keyboard, and how to disinfect your keyboard, mouse, and trackpad.
- New Mac Pro benchmarked, OS X killing Linux?, a hardened Mac mini, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.01.18. New Mac Pro architecture reduces memory bottleneck for better performance, Mac Pro Developer Note posted, and NewerTech's USB 2.0 Universal Drive Adapter.
- Most powerful Mac Pro and Xserve ever, dishwashers great for cleaning keyboards, and more, Mac News Review, 2008.01.11. Also a look at the new video cards for the Mac Pro, running Classic on Intel Macs, AppleCare costs more in Canada, New User's Guide to the Mac, and more.
- The gaping hole in Apple's desktop line, Tommy Thomas, Welcome to Macintosh, 2007.07.13. $599 for a Mac mini with very limited expandability, $999 for an iMac with limited expandability, or $2,200 for a the very expandable Mac Pro.
- Pre-2006 Software: The Big Reason You Shouldn't Buy an Intel Mac in 2006, Ted Hodges, Vintage Mac Living, 2006.11.09. If you work with software that predates the Intel transition, you may be better off sticking with PowerPC Macs. And if you use classic apps, you definitely want to avoid Intel.
- Mac Pro (Early 2009) – Technical Specifications, Apple
Keywords: #2009macpro #early2009macpro #macpro2009 #unsupportedsierra
Short link: https://goo.gl/UeVmSl
searchword: macpro2009
Which Mac operating system is the best is a topic of numerous debates among Apple fans.
Since the mission of this blog is to refute myths and legends around Macs, it's time for me to provide my 2 cents about the issue on hand. While everything below is just my opinion, as a long-time Mac user and veteran software engineer, I hope my opinion worth something.
The best Mac OS version is the one that your Mac is eligible to upgrade to. In 2020 it is macOS Big Sur. However, for users that need to run 32-bit apps on Mac, the best macOS is Mojave. Also, older Macs would benefit if upgraded at least to macOS Sierra for which Apple still releases security patches.
How to Tell Which macOS You Are Running
To find out which macOS is currently running on your Mac, follow these steps:
- Click on Apple logo in the top left corner of the menubar
- In the dropdown click on the first item: About This Mac
- The first line in the Overview tab is the name of the current OS.
What Version of OS Can My Mac Run?
Not all Macs can be upgraded to the latest OS version. For instance, old Macs powered by PowerPC CPUs cannot run OS intended for Intel-based computers. Also, some versions have hardware limitations.
For instance, Mojave cannot be installed on MacBook Pro earlier than Mid 2012 model.
Check below to know exactly what version of OS your Mac can run.
Which OS is Best for my Mac
Anytime someone asks me which OS is best for them I always suggested going with the latest. Things have changed recently, however.
Should I Upgrade to macOS Catalina or Big Sur?
While personally I like macOS Big Sur and have it installed on my MacBook Pro, it comes with serious breaking changes.
The first issue is compatibility.
Big Sur is a transition OS which is designed to help Apple to move from Intel processors to their own chips on ARM.
After I installed Big Sur on my MacBook Pro mid 2020 (pre-Silicon), most of my apps, including Microsoft Office, were working as expected.
However, my VMWare Fusion 11 does not start anymore, so I have to purchase a new license if I want to keep using it (or roll back to Catalina). Luckily, I took a full backup before the upgrade.
The second breaking issue is the lack of 32-bit app support.
macOS Catalina and Big Sur can only run 64-bit apps.
If you wondering whether you should upgrade to macOS Catalina or Big Sur, first verify that you don't have any 32-bit apps. But first, take a back up, so you can go back in case something breaks after the upgrade.
For instance, I had to remove uTorrent after upgrade. And I didn't know that uTorrent is 32-bit!
How to Know If App is 32-bit or 64-bit
To find out whether the app on your Mac is 32-bit or 64-bit follow these steps:
- Click on Apple logo in the top left corner of the Mac screen
- Click on About This Mac option
- Click on System Report button in Overview tab (first one)
- Scroll down to Software -> Applications
- Find the app and check Kind
Which macOS Should I Use
If you have an older Mac which is not eligible to upgrade with some latest software or hardware, I'd suggest upgrading at least to Sierra (or better High Sierra) for the following reasons:
- Sierra is still supported by Apple, and it gets security updates
- APFS file system is available
- It supports Siri
- Significant security improvements
The most important point when choosing the best OS is the ability to get security updates. While Apple generally does not announce the OS end of life dates, it is possible to know when they stop releasing security updates from this page.
For instance, according to the page, the last security update for OS X Yosemite was released on September 12, 2017. The last update for OS X El Capitan was in July 2018, and Carnegie Mellon University confirmed that El Capitan's end of life date was August 2018.
Snow Leopard Myth
I know that some users on forums believe that the best OS version for Macs was Snow Leopard. But that is a myth. And I know how such myths get created.
Once I worked in the company, which was selling a 20-year old product. And customers were still using and didn't want to switch to new versions, because the old one was rock solid.
I then talked to the engineer who worked on the project, and he revealed that the product was a total disaster when it was first deployed. Engineers had to work on-site for almost a year in order to fix all bugs.
After five or so years of polishing the product, it becomes virtually bug-free, and nobody now remembers how bad it was when it was first rolled out. A similar thing happened Snow Leopard, and it was recognized as best mac os version after some time.
How to Update to the Latest Version
There are two ways to update to the latest OS version on Mac: Caan i pair alexa echo to my mac.
- From the Software Update section in System Preferences
- Use a download link
Using Software Update
This is by far the best option, but it only available if you have Yosemite, or later OS installed already. If you enabled automatic updates, then Mac will inform you that the next macOS is available.
Just open System Preferences, go to Software Update and click on the Upgrade Now button.
This method is also best if wondering how to check if you have the latest version of OS installed on your Mac. Only the version compatible with your hardware will appear here.
For instance, my the latest version for Mac Mini 2012 is Mojave, I can't install anything newer than that.
Using download links
For older systems or in case you need to downgrade, you have to download a standalone installer in DMG format. DMG stands for disk image, similar to ISO, just different formats.
After downloading the installer, just double click on it and follow instructions. Again, do not forget to take a backup before the upgrade.
Mac OS Comparisons: Requirements, Features, Compatibility, Download Links
Following is a high-level description of all Mac operating systems as early as Mountain Lion.
You can refer to those descriptions when deciding which operating system is best for your iMac, Mac Pro, Mac mini, or MacBook.
With each OS description, I included a list of Macs supported. However, you can use Mac OS compatibility checker for more detailed information.
macOS 11 Big Sur
macOS v11 (codename Big Sur) is the latest version of the operating system for Apple computers.
Release date: October 13, 2020
Hardware Requirements: RAM requirement 4GB. Big Sur is the first OS to support new Macs using ARM technology (in the future).
Features
- The biggest design refresh since macOS X.
- Support for new ARM processors.
- Safar improved performance and power consumption.
- Time Machine supports backup to APFS volumes.
- One-click translation for 7 languages.
- Redesigned maps
Software Compatibility Issues
Only 64-bit apps are allowed to run on Big Sur.
How to install
There are two ways to install Big Sur: enable automatic updates in System Preferences or download by using the following link.
List of Apple computers compatible with macOS Big Sur
- MacBook (2015 and later)
- MacBook Air (2013 and later)
- MacBook Pro (2013 and later)
- Mac mini (2014 and later)
- iMac models (2014 and later)
- iMac Pro (2017 and later)
- Mac Pro (2013 and later)
macOS 10.15 Catalina
Release date: October 7, 2019
Hardware Requirements: RAM requirement increased from 2GB to 4GB.
Features
- Introduced Sidecar, which allows for Macs to use an iPad as an external display.
- iTunes was replaced by separate apps: Music, Podcasts, and TV.
- Find My Mac and Find My Friends have merged into one app.
Software Compatibility Issues
macOS Catalina is the first Mac operating system that does not support 32-bit applications. Only 64-bit apps are allowed to run on Catalina.
How to install
There are two ways to install Catalina: enable automatic updates in System Preferences or download by using the following link.
List of Apple computers compatible with macOS Catalina
- MacBook (Early 2015 or later)
- MacBook Air (Mid 2012 or later)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2012 or later)
- Mac mini (Late 2012 or later)
- iMac models (Late 2012 or later)
- iMac Pro (All models)
- Mac Pro (Late 2013)
macOS 10.14 Mojave
Release date: September 24, 2018
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 18.5GB free space on disk
Features
- The main feature of Mojave is 'Dark Mode'
- FaceTime adds group feature which allows chatting with up to 32 people
- News, Stocks, Voice Memos, and Home apps were ported from iOS to Mac.
How to install
If your Mac is eligible to update to Mojave, then the easiest way to install it is by enabling automatic updates. Downloading a standalone Mojave installer could be a little tricky.
List of Apple computers compatible with macOS Mojave
- MacBook (Early 2015 or later)
- MacBook Air (Mid 2012 or later)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2012 or later)
- Mac mini (Late 2012 or later)
- iMac (Late 2012 or later)
- iMac Pro (All models)
- Mac Pro (Late 2013 and 2010-2012 models with upgraded GPU)
macOS 10.13 High Sierra
Release date: September 25, 2017
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 14.3GB free space on disk
Features
- APFS (Apple File System) becomes the default file system in High Sierra. It's a significant upgrade from the older HFS+ in terms of speed, size, and security
- iCloud support of Messages which allows sync messages of the account across multiple devices
- Mail app uses 35% less storage space due to optimizations
List of Apple computers compatible with macOS High Sierra
- MacBook (Late 2009 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
- Mac mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
- iMac (Late 2009 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
How to install
Here is a High Sierra download link.
macOS 10.12 Sierra
This is the first macOS version. Previous OS versions for Macs were called OS X (X stands for 10).
Release date: September 20, 2016
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 8GB free space on disk
Macbook Late 2009 Os
Features
- Siri was introduced to Macs
- Optimized storage with iCloud sync
- Auto-lock feature allows unlocking MacBook with paired Apple Watch
- APFS preview available
- Disk Utility can manage RAID sets again
- Significant security improvements
How to install
Here is a Sierra download link.
List of Apple computers compatible with macOS Sierra
- MacBook (Late 2009 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
- Mac mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
- iMac (Late 2009 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Mid 2010 or newer)
OS X 10.11 El Capitan
Last OS X version.
Release date: September 30, 2015
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 8GB free space on disk
Features
- System Integrity Protection – a security feature that protects even when the root user executes the process
- Performance improvements: open PDF files four times faster, Mail is twice faster, launching apps 40% faster
- Notes app similar to the app in iOS
Macs compatible with OS X El Capitan
same as OS Mountain Lion.
How to install
Here is El Capitan download link.
OS X 10.10 Yosemite
Release date: October 16, 2014
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 8GB free space on disk
Macs compatible with OS X Yosemite
Same as OS Mountain Lion. Java code editor for mac.
Features
- Major user design overhaul
- Introduction of Handoff and Continuity features
- Photos app replaced iPhoto and Aperture
How to install
Here is Yosemite download link.
OS X 10.9 Mavericks
First free Mac OS. Previous OS versions vary from $19.99 to $129.
Release date: October 22, 2013
Hardware Requirements: 2GB RAM and 8GB free space on disk
Features
- Compressed Memory feature automatically compresses inactive apps when approaching maximum memory capacity
- Timer coalescing is a feature that reduces CPU usage by up to 72 percent
- App Nap puts apps that are not currently visible to sleep
Macs compatible with OS X Mavericks
Same as OS Mountain Lion.
How to install
OS X Mavericks installer is not available on Apple Site. Follow instructions here to install Mavericks.
OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion
Must be purchased. Fixed many bugs introduced in OS X Lion.
Release date: July 25, 2012
System Requirements: 2GB RAM and 8GB free space on disk
Features
- New apps: Notification Center, Notes, Messages, Game Center
- AirPlay mirroring allowed to mirror Mac screen to Apple TV
- Application updates automatically install from the App Store
List of Apple computers compatible with OS X Mountain Lion
- iMac (Mid-2007 or newer)
- MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum, or Early 2009 or newer)
- MacBook Air (Late 2008 or newer)
- MacBook Pro (Mid/Late 2007 or newer)
- Mac mini (Early 2009 or newer)
- Mac Pro (Early 2008 or newer)
- Xserve (Early 2009)
How to install
Mountain Lion installer is not available on Apple Site. Follow instructions here to install OS X Mountain Lion.
List of older Mac OS Versions
Following Mac OS versions are still running on older Macs, but Apple does not support them anymore, and there is no point to upgrade (or downgrade) to them:
2009 Mac Pro Os
- OS X 10.7 Lion
- OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard
- Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard
- Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger
- Mac OS X 10.3 Panther
- Mac OS X 10.2 Jaguar
- Mac OS X 10.1 Puma
- Mac OS X 10.0 Cheetah
