There are reasons for waiting on a new macOS. Maybe you like the familiarity of the system you’re currently running. Maybe you want to wait for any potential bugs to shake out. There are also compelling reasons to upgrade, including getting access to the latest features and some nifty new apps. Whether or not you upgrade will depend on how old your Mac is, as well as your personal preferences.
Not all Macs are compatible with Mojave
Older Mac laptops and desktops that are still running strong might not be eligible for Mojave. Here’s Apple’s list of compatible machines:
MacBooks from early 2015 or laterMacBook Airs and MacBook Pros from mid 2012 or laterMac minis or iMacs from late 2012 or laterAll iMac Pros are eligible, as are Mac Pros from late 2013
Find your Mac model by clicking on the Apple menu and choosing “About This Mac.” You will see details about your computer and it will also show which version of the OS the machine is running.
For example, I own a MacBook Air from mid 2011. I’m currently running macOS High Sierra and I’m not able to upgrade to Mojave. I still get security updates from Apple, but my laptop is now more of a macOS time capsule. If you’re like me, then upgrading to Mojave is a moot point, but if your Mac is capable, then let’s look at why it might be a good idea.
Features that make macOS Mojave desirable
Two words: Dark Mode. Give your eyes a break with Apple’s new Dark Mode. It dials back the brightness of your entire desktop to make your screen time feel a lot more comfortable, especially at night or in a darkened room. Apple’s apps also jump on the trend with their own dark-mode designs that fit with the theme. Mojave’s Stacks feature lets you discover the life-changing magic of tidying up your Mac desktop. Your desktop files will gather together into neat stacks that you can then open up when you need to. You’ll feel like a digital Marie Kondo.
Mojave brings some iOS flair to the macOS with the additional of News, Stocks, Voice Memos and Home apps for your Mac. If you love the iOS experience, then you’ll enjoy having these apps available on your big computer. Dark Mode, Stacks and iOS apps are all compelling additions, but there’s still more to explore with Mojave. Tap or click here to learn about Mojave’s best new features.
Should you upgrade to Mojave?
While Mojave works on many older Macs, new operating systems don’t always run smoothly on outdated hardware. Anecdotal discussions online seem to show most owners of older eligible Macs are able to run the new operating system without problems. That’s a good sign. Apple has already issued updates to Mojave since releasing the system last year. If you’ve been holding out for any bugs or hiccups to be ironed out, then you’ve waited long enough. Bottom line: If your computer is cool with Mojave, then go ahead and move up to the latest macOS to take advantage of the new features and security upgrades.
Tips for a smooth Mojave upgrade
Back it up: Apple recommends backing up your Mac before updating to Mojave. Check out our Komando guide to backup storage options and using Apple’s Time Machine feature to protect your data. Give yourself some time: Moving up to Mojave requires spending a few minutes downloading and installing the OS. Make sure you’ve got a reliable internet connection and some breathing room so you don’t need to dash out the door with your MacBook in the middle of the upgrade process. Plug it in: If you’re upgrading a laptop, then be sure to plug into a power source. You can click here to go the macOS Mojave page in the App Store to get started. After that, it’s just a matter of following the prompts for the installation. Apple has enjoyed a pretty smooth rollout for Mojave and the new OS upgrades have been well-received. If you go ahead and get your Mac up to date, then you’ll have many months of Mojave enjoyment ahead before Apple introduces its next macOS.
