macOS versions: Reveal the evolution and choose the best for you

If you’re an Apple user, you probably know thatmacOS is the operating system that powers your Mac . But did you know that there are actually different versions of macOS, each with its own unique features and benefits? Trying to understand what each version has to offer can be overwhelming, especially if you’re considering upgrading to a new version or you’re simply curious about how macOS has evolved over the years.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you get a clear overview of the different macOS versions and their features. We’ve included a clear overview of which devices will still be supported in 2023/2024, so you can make an informed decision about which device best suits your needs. And of course, we’ll keep you up to date with the latest macOS updates and upgrades.

The different macOS versions and their features

Here's an overview of the different macOS versions and their key features:

1. Mac OS X 10.0 "Cheetah" (2001):

   • The very first version of the Unix-based operating system for Mac computers. It introduced the Aqua user interface and brought stability and performance improvements.

2. Mac OS X 10.1 "Puma" (2001):

   • An update that introduced improvements and bug fixes over Cheetah. It also added new features such as better performance and the ability to burn CDs and DVDs.

3. Mac OS X 10.2 "Jaguar" (2002):

   • Jaguar brought improvements in speed, performance and functionality. New features include Quartz Extreme (graphics acceleration) and the introduction of the Mail app.

4. Mac OS X 10.3 "Panther" (2003):

   • Panther introduced the Finder with a sidebar, Exposé (window management), and FileVault for data encryption. It also made improvements to the search system (Spotlight).

5. Mac OS X 10.4 "Tiger" (2005):

   • Tiger brought widgets, Spotlight search functionality, the Safari web browser, and the integrated iChat AV image editor. It also introduced Automator for automated tasks.

6. Mac OS X 10.5 "Leopard" (2007):

   • Leopard introduced Time Machine for data backup, Spaces for virtual desktops, Boot Camp for running Windows, and a revamped Finder. The graphical interface was also updated.

7. Mac OS X 10.6 "Snow Leopard" (2009):

   • Snow Leopard focused primarily on performance improvements and stability. It also introduced support for 64-bit applications and Exchange integration in the Mail app.

8. OS X 10.7 "Lion" (2011):

   • Lion marked the transition to the name "OS X". New features included Mission Control (window and app management), Launchpad (app launcher), and the Mac App Store .

9. OS X 10.8 "Mountain Lion" (2012):

   • Mountain Lion built on Lion, bringing iCloud integration, Notification Center, and Gatekeeper (a security feature). It also brought some iOS -like features to the Mac.

10. OS X 10.9 "Mavericks" (2013):

    • Mavericks introduced Finder Tabs, Tags for file organization, and improved multi-window support. It also marked a shift toward offering OS X updates as free downloads.

11. OS X 10.10 "Yosemite" (2014):

    • Yosemite brought a redesigned user interface with brighter colors and flat elements. It also introduced Continuity, allowing Macs to work better with iOS devices.

12. OS X 10.11 "El Capitan" (2015):

    • El Capitan focused on performance improvements and stability. New features include Split View (window management) and improvements to apps like Safari and Mail.

13. macOS 10.12 "Sierra" (2016):

    • Sierra introduced Siri to the Mac, universal clipboard, and Auto Unlock, which allowed an Apple Watch to be used to automatically log into a Mac.

14. macOS 10.13 "High Sierra" (2017):

    • High Sierra brought the new Apple File System (APFS), Metal 2 (graphics technology), and improvements to apps such as Safari , Photos, and Mail.

15. macOS 10.14 "Mojave" (2018):

    • Mojave introduced Dark Mode , Dynamic Desktop, Stacks for desktop organization, and the ability to bring iOS apps to the Mac.

16. macOS 10.15 "Catalina" (2019):

    • Catalina marked the end of support for 32-bit apps and introduced Sidecar , which allowed an iPad to be used as a second display . iTunes was replaced with separate apps for Music, Podcasts, and TV.

17. macOS 11.0 "Big Sur" (2020):

    • Big Sur brought a completely redesigned user interface with improved notifications, widgets, and a new Control Center. It was also the first macOS version to feature the M1 chip .

18. macOS 12 "Monterey" (2021):

    • Monterey brought new features like Universal Control for seamless control of multiple devices, AirPlay to Mac, and Live Text for interacting with text in images. Learn more about using Monterey here .
19. macOS 13 " Ventura " (2022):
    
    
    • Ventura brought two new apps: Weather and Clock. With various improvements for Focus mode, accessibility and built-in apps. Named after a beach town in California ë.
20. macOS 14 "Sonoma" (2023):
    
    
    • Sonoma brought a moderate update to Mac. It brought new screensavers, widgets, and several innovations for gaming and video calling . The final release took place last September.

How can Leapp help you further?

At leapp, we understand that choosing the right macOS version is an important decision. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make an informed choice. But we do more than just provide information.

Once you’ve decided which macOS version best suits your needs, we can help you upgrade your device. We offer a wide range of refurbished Macs that have been upgraded to the latest macOS versions, so you can benefit from the latest features and security updates.

And if you ever run into any issues with your device, we’re here to help. We have a team of Apple-certified technicians who can help you with everything from simple software issues to complex hardware problems. Our goal is to help you get the most out of your Apple devices.

So what are you waiting for? Visit our website today and discover how leapp can help you get the most out of your macOS experience.