Updating an old Mac or MacBook: which macOS is still possible?

Your old MacBook says there are no more updates, or apps complain that your macOS is too old. Can an old Mac still update, and to which version? This article explains how to find out, how to install the last version your Mac supports, and what you can do when your Mac really is at the end of its updates.

Blue Apple also repairs older MacBooks in Amsterdam. An old MacBook often lasts for years with a new battery and some maintenance, even without the newest macOS.

Step 1: which Mac and which macOS do you have?

Choose About This Mac in the Apple menu. You see the model and year, and the macOS version now running. Also see which MacBook do I have.

Step 2: up to which version can your Mac go?

Roughly, for MacBooks:

• Apple chip: the newest, macOS 27 Golden Gate.
• Intel, 2019-2020 (some models): up to macOS 26 Tahoe.
• Intel, 2018-2020 (others): up to macOS 15 Sequoia or 14 Sonoma.
• 2017: up to macOS 13 Ventura.
• 2015-2016: up to macOS 12 Monterey.
• 2013-2014: up to macOS 11 Big Sur.

The full overview is in macOS versions at a glance and on Apple's site.

Step 3: install the last version

1. First check System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions), Software Update. The Mac offers the newest version it supports.
2. If it does not appear, download the right version via the page with older macOS versions on Apple's support site. It opens the App Store or gives an installer file.
3. Make a backup first and make sure there is enough free space; a big update needs tens of gigabytes.

Sometimes you need an intermediate step: from a very old version first to a slightly newer one, and then further.

If the installation takes long or seems stuck, keep the Mac on the charger and wait; an update on an old Mac with a hard drive can take a few hours. Do not turn the Mac off halfway.

Your Mac really cannot go further

Then you have a few options:

• Keep using it for tasks that need little security, such as word processing, music or as a second computer. Use a browser that still gets updates.
• OpenCore Legacy Patcher to install a newer macOS on an unsupported Intel Mac. With risks. See OpenCore Legacy Patcher.
• Another Mac, new or refurbished. See buying a refurbished MacBook.

What does it mean when your Mac gets no more updates?

Your Mac keeps working, but without security updates it becomes more vulnerable over time. Online banking and e-mail are better done on a device that does get updates. Apps such as browsers, Office or your banking app may also stop supporting it at some point.

Making an old MacBook faster

An old MacBook is often not slow because of the macOS version, but because of the hardware: a worn battery that throttles the processor, a full or slow drive, or cooling full of dust. On older models a new battery or a faster SSD can make a big difference. See replacing an SSD or expanding storage and how long a MacBook lasts.

What we do at Blue Apple in Amsterdam

We check whether your old MacBook can last years more with a new battery, clean cooling or a faster SSD, and say honestly whether it is worth it. More on our page about MacBook repair in Amsterdam.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I see no update in Software Update?

Your Mac probably already has the newest version it supports.

Can I force an update?

Not through Apple. Only with tools such as OpenCore Legacy Patcher, with risks.

Is an old macOS dangerous?

Not immediately, but without security updates your Mac becomes more vulnerable over time. Be extra careful with downloads and links.