How to Upgrade to macOS Ventura

Now that it's officially available for everyone

By

Updated on November 17, 2022

What to Know

Open Apple menu and select About This Mac to check compatibility (typically 2017 and newer).
Open System Preferences > Software Update > look for the macOS Ventura prompt > select Update Now.

This article explains how to upgrade to macOS Ventura, including how to check compatibility and how to download and install the new operating system. Find out below if your Mac can handle the upgrade, and how to download and install Ventura if your Mac is up to the task.

macOS Ventura Compatibility

Recent versions of macOS like Catalina and Monterey maintained compatibility with Macs built within the last decade or so prior to their respective release dates, but Ventura is compatible with a narrower range of hardware. If your Mac was built within the last few years, it will work with Ventura. If you have an older Mac, then make sure to check the compatibility list, because there’s a good chance you’ll have to stick with Monterey for the time being.

Click the Apple icon > About This Mac to see what model you have.

Here are the Macs that can upgrade to Ventura:

MacBook Air: 2018 and newer
MacBook Pro: 2017 and newer
Mac Mini: 2018 and newer
iMac: 2017 and newer
Mac Pro: 2019 and newer
MacBook: 2017 and newer
iMac Pro: 2017
Mac Studio: 2022

How to Update to macOS Ventura

Upgrading to macOS Ventura (so long as your Mac is compatible) is a very simple process. Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner and open System Preferences > Software Update. Then look for the macOS Ventura update option and select Update Now to start the download. Make sure you have enough space available (Apple recommends at least 12.5 GB), and remember that OS updates can take a lot of time to complete.

Download macOS Ventura from the App Store and open the installer.

You can also update macOS to Ventura by selecting the Apple icon > select About This Mac > Software Update > Upgrade Now.
Click Continue.
Click Continue.
Click Agree.
Click Install.

If you’re installing on a Macbook, make sure you’re plugged into power throughout the installation process to avoid damaging your computer by running out of power during the installation.
Enter your password or authenticate with Touch ID.
Click Download.
Click Continue.
Click Agree.
Click Agree.
Click Continue.
Enter your password, and click Unlock.
Wait for macOS to install.
When it finishes, your Mac will reboot into macOS Ventura.

FAQ

Which Macs are compatible with macOS Ventura?

Not every Mac is compatible with this version of macOS. It works with 2017 and newer iMacs, iMac Pros, MacBooks, and MacBook Pros; MacBook Airs and Mac Minis from 2018 and later; 2019 and up Mac Pros; and the Mac Studio.
Why won't my Mac upgrade?

The main reason you can't upgrade macOS is that your machine isn't compatible with the new version. If it is on the list, try restarting your machine and trying the install again.

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