macOS Version List 2025: Best macOS & Latest Tahoe 26

macOS has come a long way since the early Mac OS X days. Each new version brings design changes, new features, and compatibility updates. Whether you’re trying to figure out what version you’re running, what’s the latest release, or which macOS is best for your Mac, this guide has you covered.

Latest macOS Version: macOS 26 Tahoe

Release Date: September 15, 2025

Notable Features:

• Liquid Glass design — translucency, refreshed UI, new folder/app icon aesthetics.
• Enhanced Spotlight, improved Shortcuts with deeper AI/automation integration, Live Activities on Mac, new Phone continuity app.
• Expanded Apple Intelligence (AI) tools — smarter writing, image generation, and task automation — with on-device privacy protections.
• “Repair Assistant” feature for supported Macs (Apple silicon) enabling independent repairs calibration.

Compatibility / Support:

• All Macs with Apple silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4) from 2020 onward are supported.
• Selected Intel Macs are supported (16-inch Pro 2019; 13-inch TB3 2020; iMac 2020; Mac Pro 2019).

💡Important: macOS 26 Tahoe is the final major release to support Intel Macs. Future macOS versions will require Apple silicon.

Quick macOS Version Timeline

Here’s the complete timeline of recent macOS versions, with their release years and highlights:

Version / Codename	Release Date	Notable Features
macOS 26 Tahoe	Sep 2025	Liquid Glass UI, Apple Intelligence upgrades, Live Activities, new Phone app, last Intel-supported macOS.
macOS 15 Sequoia	Sep 2024	iPhone Mirroring, updated AI features, improved Continuity.
macOS 14 Sonoma	Sep 2023	Desktop widgets, Game Mode, Presenter Overlay.
macOS 13 Ventura	Oct 2022	Stage Manager, Continuity Camera, Freeform app.
macOS 12 Monterey	Oct 2021	Universal Control, AirPlay to Mac, Shortcuts app debut.
macOS 11 Big Sur	Nov 2020	Major design refresh, Control Center, first Apple silicon support.
macOS 10.15 Catalina	Oct 2019	Dropped 32-bit apps, Sidecar, Apple Arcade.
macOS 10.14 Mojave	Sep 2018	Dark Mode, Dynamic Desktop, Desktop Stacks.
macOS 10.13 High Sierra	Sep 2017	APFS file system, HEVC/HEIF support, VR improvements.
macOS 10.12 Sierra	Sep 2016	Siri on Mac, Auto Unlock with Apple Watch, Apple Pay on the web.
OS X 10.11 El Capitan	Sep 2015	Split View multitasking, Metal graphics, improved Notes.
OS X 10.10 Yosemite	Oct 2014	Flat design overhaul, Continuity & Handoff, iCloud Drive.
OS X 10.9 Mavericks	Oct 2013	First free OS X update, Finder Tabs, iBooks, Maps.
OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion	Jul 2012	Notification Center, Messages, Game Center.
OS X 10.7 Lion	Jul 2011	Launchpad, Mission Control, full-screen apps.
OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard	Aug 2009	Performance-focused, 64-bit support, Grand Central Dispatch.
OS X 10.5 Leopard	Oct 2007	Time Machine, Spaces, Boot Camp.
OS X 10.4 Tiger	Apr 2005	Spotlight search, Dashboard widgets, Automator.
OS X 10.3 Panther	Oct 2003	Exposé, FileVault, Fast User Switching.
OS X 10.2 Jaguar	Aug 2002	Quartz Extreme graphics, Address Book, iChat.
OS X 10.1 Puma	Sep 2001	Performance and usability improvements.
OS X 10.0 Cheetah	Mar 2001	First release of Mac OS X with Aqua interface.

The best macOS version: Tahoe 26

Choosing the “best” macOS depends on your Mac model and workflow. If you’re on Apple Silicon, macOS Tahoe is a top-tier pick thanks to:

• Its AI-driven assistant tools
• Enhanced productivity features
• Seamless iPhone integration

On a side note, for Intel Macs, macOS Sequoia still holds strong as a stable and performance-friendly version with modern design and key security upgrades.

The worst macOS version: Catalina

While it introduced many security upgrades and broke from 32-bit apps, Catalina remains one of the most criticized versions:

• Dropped 32-bit app support without transitional options
• App permission issues and privacy prompts were overwhelming
• iTunes was split into 3 apps, confusing many users
• Reports of instability and performance drops

Catalina may have paved the way for future improvements, but its rollout was rocky for many.

How to choose the right macOS version

• Want the latest features and design? → Go for macOS 26 Tahoe.
• Running an older Intel Mac? → Tahoe will be your last major upgrade — or stick with Sequoia if you want extra stability.
• Prioritize app compatibility and stability? → Staying on Sonoma or Ventura may be a safe choice if your apps aren’t yet fully optimized for Tahoe.
• Rely on legacy 32-bit apps? → Do NOT update beyond Mojave. This continues to impact users with specialty or old apps.

Always check your Mac’s compatibility using Apple’s official list.

How to check which macOS version you have?

Not sure which macOS version is installed on your Mac? There are two main ways to check your macOS version: using the graphical interface or the Terminal.

1. Check macOS Version Using the Graphical Interface (About This Mac)

This is the easiest and most common method, suitable for all users:

• Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
• Select About This Mac from the dropdown menu.

A window will appear showing:

• The macOS name (e.g., Tahoe, Sequoia) at the top.
• The version number below the name (e.g., 14.5, 15.0).
• Your Mac model and chip type (Apple Silicon M1/M2/M3/M4 or Intel).

This window also provides quick access to Software Update if you want to check for or install the latest macOS version.

2. Check macOS Version Using the Terminal

For power users or those comfortable with command-line tools, the Terminal provides a quick way to check detailed macOS version information:

• Open Terminal (found in Applications > Utilities or search via Spotlight).
• Type the following command and press Enter: sw_vers

The output will display three pieces of information:

• ProductName: macOS
• ProductVersion: 26.0
• BuildVersion: 24A335

Here, ProductVersion shows the exact macOS version number. Note that this command does not show the marketing name (like “Sequoia” or “Sonoma”), only the version number.

You can also get just the major and minor version (e.g., 15.0) with: sw_vers -productVersion | cut -d ‘.’ -f 1,2

Additional Tips

The macOS version number follows a major.minor.patch format. For example, in version 14.5.1:

• 14 = major version (Sonoma)
• 5 = minor update
• 1 = patch or security update

If you want to check for available macOS updates via Terminal, use: softwareupdate -l

To install updates via Terminal, use: sudo softwareupdate -i -a

How to upgrade or clean install macOS

Upgrading macOS

• Back up your data using Time Machine or another backup method.
• Open System Settings > General > Software Update.
• If an update is available, click Download and Install.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.

Clean Install (Fresh Start)

A clean install erases your Mac and installs a fresh copy of macOS. This can solve persistent issues or improve performance. Steps:

• Back up your Mac thoroughly.
• Create a bootable USB installer for the desired macOS version (see Apple’s official guide).
• Restart your Mac and hold the Option (⌥) key during startup.
• Select the USB installer from the boot menu.
• Open Disk Utility and erase your startup disk.
• Install macOS from the USB installer.

Warning: Clean installs delete all your data. Make sure your backup is complete.

What if your Mac can’t run the latest macOS?

If your Mac is too old to support Tahoe or Sequoia, don’t worry. You can continue using the latest compatible version for your hardware, such as Mojave, High Sierra, or Catalina, but be aware that older versions may no longer receive security updates.

Advanced option: Some users use community tools like OpenCore Legacy Patcher to install newer macOS versions on unsupported Macs. This is not officially supported by Apple and can be risky.

Troubleshooting macOS upgrades

Not enough free space?
Free up storage by deleting large files or moving data to an external drive.

Installer won’t launch?
Check your Mac’s date and time settings, and try re-downloading the installer.

Mac stuck on black screen during install?
Reset NVRAM or try booting in Safe Mode (hold Shift during startup).

Slow upgrade process?
Ensure a stable internet connection and avoid using your Mac during installation.

For detailed fixes, see our macOS upgrade troubleshooting guide.

macOS version FAQs

What’s the latest macOS version?

→ macOS 26 Tahoe, released September 15, 2025.

Is macOS 26 Tahoe free?

→ Yes, like all recent macOS updates.

Is this the last Intel macOS?

→ Yes. macOS 26 Tahoe is the final Intel-supported version. Future releases will be Apple silicon only.

How do I check if my Mac can run Tahoe?

→ Go to Apple Menu > About This Mac, then compare your model against the compatibility list above.

Is it possible to continue using an earlier version of macOS?

→ Certainly, if your Mac hardware supports it, you can still use an earlier version of macOS. However, Apple may discontinue offering security upgrades and bug fixes for older mac operating system versions, possibly leaving them susceptible to security risks.

Can I install macOS on any Mac?

→ No. Each macOS version supports specific Mac models. Older Macs may not support the latest versions due to hardware limitations. Always check compatibility before upgrading.

Can I downgrade macOS if I don’t like the new version?

→ Yes, but downgrading requires erasing your Mac and reinstalling an older macOS version. Always back up your data before attempting.

How often does Apple release new macOS versions?

→ Apple typically releases a major new macOS version annually, usually in the fall, alongside new hardware announcements.

Is it safe to upgrade to the latest macOS right away?

→ While most upgrades are smooth, it’s wise to wait a few weeks after release to ensure any bugs are fixed. Always back up your data before upgrading.

Can I run Windows or Linux alongside macOS?

→ Yes. Macs support dual-booting or virtualization software like Parallels Desktop, allowing you to run Windows or Linux alongside macOS.

Final thoughts: the ever-improving macOS

macOS continues to evolve toward a smarter, more unified, and privacy-focused experience. Whether you’re looking for peak performance, modern features, or compatibility with your existing setup, knowing the full macOS landscape helps you make the right upgrade choice.

At TheSweetBits, we spotlight hidden gems and tools that shine brightest on the best versions of macOS. Stay tuned for app recommendations, optimization tips, and AI-powered enhancements to keep your Mac experience smooth and powerful.

Related reads:

• Best Mac System Monitor Apps
• macOS Upgrade: Not Enough Free Space Fix
• Best Mac Optimization Software for 2025
• The Ultimate Guide to Mac Backup

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