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Adriano Haller

Install mac OS Big Sur on older Macs


There are good reasons why a current Mac operating system should be updated. The main reason is security that these new operating systems offer, they protect against cyber attacks and of course Apple's support for security updates.


Another factor that is underestimated is that our older Macs are equipped with Intel processors, which allows working in a native Windows environment, using Boot Camp or an existing virtualization such as VM Ware Fusion or Parallels.


Unfortunately, in everyday life, every user is forced to update their aging mac OS. Think of your banking software, or rental software providers such as Microsoft with Office 365 or Adobe with their web applications, require at least mac OS Catalina 10.15.x.


Last but not least, for many private individuals or small businesses, a large investment in a new device is simply not possible during the pandemic.



It doesn't always have to be the latest!



As is well known, Apple said goodbye to its processor supplier Intel and developed its own processors for its Macs with the M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max and M1 Ultimate. The mac OS runs on these from version 11.2 Big Sur and newer. All programs that you have bought and use for an Intel-based Mac only work on the M1 Socs with Rosetta 2. An emulator that allows the Intel code of the programs to be run.



Is my Mac too old for an update?

Here you will find Apple's compatibility list, which devices are supported with the current mac OS Monterey (12.x):


  • MacBook models from early 2016 or later

  • MacBook Air models from early 2015 or later

  • MacBook Pro models from early 2015 or later

  • Mac mini models from 2014 or later

  • iMac from 2015 or later

  • iMac Pro (all models)

  • Mac Pro models from late 2013 and later



Here you can find Apple's compatibility list, which devices are supported with mac OS Big Sur (11.x):


  • MacBook models from early 2015 or later

  • MacBook Air models from 2013 or later

  • MacBook Pro models from 2013 or later

  • Mac mini models from 2014 or later

  • iMac models from 2014 or later

  • iMac Pro (all models)

  • Mac Pro models from 2013 or later





Here you can find Apple's compatibility list, which devices are supported with mac OS Catalina (10.15.x):


  • MacBook models from early 2015 or later

  • MacBook Air models from mid-2012 or later

  • MacBook Pro models from mid-2012 or later

  • Mac mini models from late 2012 or later

  • iMac models from late 2012 or later

  • iMac Pro (all models)

  • Mac Pro models from late 2013




From today's perspective, we clearly advise against updating to Mojave (10.14.x). Too much software is no longer compatible and the security updates from Apple are no longer coming.


The next mac OS is in the starting blocks from October 2022, so an update to mac OS Catalina would still work for around 6 months. We recommend you consider updating to mac OS Big Sur.




Our recommendation:

If you have a Mac built in 2012 or newer and you have a fast SSD as hard drive storage, you can have mac OS Big Sur installed by a professional. Installing mac OS Big Sur on a conventional hard drive would be possible, but would not be fun during operation.




Why through a professional?

Because we have experience in it. Basically there are 2 different "Hackintosh" variants, which one comes into question for you, this must be found out in a conversation beforehand.




What do I need for a Hackintosh?

Your Mac, an empty 16GB USB stick (USB 3.0) and an appointment with us.









What costs should I expect?

Since this installation is much more complex than a "normal" installation for supported devices, we also need some time. (First, an installation medium must be created on your USB stick). Only then does the actual installation begin. For a speedy installation with adjustments you would have to reckon with approx. CHF 500.-.

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