macOS System Requirements

Minimum and recommended hardware requirements for major macOS versions, including CPU, RAM, storage, and supported Mac models.

Overview

macOS system requirements vary significantly depending on the version and hardware generation. Apple gradually raises
requirements to support new features, security models, and hardware capabilities. This page lists the core requirements
for each major macOS release from OS X to modern Apple Silicon versions.

macOS 11 Big Sur

First macOS version to support Apple Silicon. Also supports select Intel Macs.

  • CPU: Intel (2014+) or Apple M1
  • RAM: 4 GB minimum
  • Storage: 35 GB free (Intel), 13 GB free (Apple Silicon)
  • Supported Models:
    • MacBook (2015+)
    • MacBook Air (2013+)
    • MacBook Pro (Late 2013+)
    • Mac mini (2014+)
    • iMac (2014+)
    • iMac Pro (2017)
    • Mac Pro (2013+)

macOS 12 Monterey

Improved performance and feature set for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs.

  • CPU: Intel (2015+) or Apple Silicon
  • RAM: 4 GB minimum
  • Storage: 26 GB free
  • Supported Models:
    • MacBook (2016+)
    • MacBook Air (2015+)
    • MacBook Pro (2015+)
    • Mac mini (2014+)
    • iMac (2015+)
    • iMac Pro (2017)
    • Mac Pro (2013+)

macOS 13 Ventura

Introduced Stage Manager and major UI changes. Dropped support for several Intel models.

  • CPU: Intel (2017+) or Apple Silicon
  • RAM: 4 GB minimum
  • Storage: 25 GB free
  • Supported Models:
    • MacBook Air (2018+)
    • MacBook Pro (2017+)
    • Mac mini (2018+)
    • iMac (2017+)
    • iMac Pro (2017)
    • Mac Pro (2019+)
    • All Apple Silicon Macs

macOS 14 Sonoma

Added Game Mode, desktop widgets, and improved screen sharing. Further reduced Intel support.

  • CPU: Intel (2018+) or Apple Silicon
  • RAM: 4 GB minimum
  • Storage: 25 GB free
  • Supported Models:
    • MacBook Pro (2018+)
    • MacBook Air (2018+)
    • Mac mini (2018+)
    • iMac (2019+)
    • iMac Pro (2017)
    • Mac Pro (2019+)
    • All Apple Silicon Macs

macOS 15 Sequoia

Introduced iPhone Mirroring, Passwords app, and major security enhancements.

  • CPU: Intel (2019+) or Apple Silicon
  • RAM: 4 GB minimum
  • Storage: 30 GB free
  • Supported Models:
    • MacBook Pro (2019+)
    • MacBook Air (2020 Intel or M1+)
    • Mac mini (2018+)
    • iMac (2019+)
    • Mac Pro (2019+)
    • All Apple Silicon Macs

macOS 16 Redwood

Optimized for Apple Silicon with expanded AI features and enhanced Secure Enclave operations.

  • CPU: Apple Silicon only (Intel support dropped)
  • RAM: 8 GB minimum recommended
  • Storage: 30 GB free
  • Supported Models:
    • All M1, M2, M3, and newer Apple Silicon Macs

General Hardware Requirements (All Modern macOS Versions)

  • Display: 1280×800 minimum resolution
  • Networking: Wi‑Fi or Ethernet
  • Storage Format: APFS required for macOS High Sierra and later
  • Firmware: Latest Boot ROM and SMC versions recommended
  • Apple ID: Required for iCloud, App Store, and Continuity features

Feature-Specific Requirements

  • Sidecar: 2016+ Macs and compatible iPads
  • Continuity Camera: macOS Ventura+ and iPhone XR or newer
  • Universal Control: macOS Monterey+ and supported iPads
  • iPhone Mirroring: macOS Sequoia+ and Apple Silicon
  • Neural Engine features: Apple Silicon only

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