Should You Upgrade to macOS Catalina or Big Sur?

If you're wondering whether you should upgrade to macOS Catalina or Big Sur, there are a few things to consider before making a decision.

Firstly, it's essential to verify that you don't have any 32-bit apps on your Mac. Both macOS Catalina and Big Sur can only run 64-bit apps, which means that if you have any 32-bit apps installed, they will no longer be compatible with the new operating systems. Unfortunately, this is a common issue many users face when upgrading to a newer version of macOS.

Another breaking change in both Catalina and Big Sur is the lack of support for 32-bit apps. If you're used to running older software that's only available in 32-bit format, you may need to find alternative versions or upgrade your apps to 64-bit compatibility.

I recently upgraded my Mac to Big Sur and encountered a few issues with my virtual machine software, VMWare Fusion 11. Unfortunately, the software is no longer compatible with the new operating system, which means I'll need to purchase a new license if I want to continue using it or roll back to an earlier version of macOS.

Despite these challenges, I personally prefer Big Sur and have installed it on my MacBook Pro. The transition to ARM-based processors will likely bring significant improvements in performance and security to Macs.

When deciding which operating system is best for your Mac, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you should check the compatibility of your apps with the new version of macOS. If you're used to running older software that's only available in 32-bit format, you may need to find alternative versions or upgrade your apps to 64-bit compatibility.

Another thing to consider is hardware limitations. Not all Macs can be upgraded to the latest version of macOS, so it's essential to check which version your Mac is eligible for. For example, some older MacBooks may only be compatible with earlier versions of macOS.

To find out which version of macOS your Mac can run, simply follow these steps: click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of the menu bar, select 'About This Mac,' and then click on the 'Overview' tab. The first line will display the name of the current operating system.

In conclusion, while upgrading to a newer version of macOS can bring significant benefits, it's essential to carefully consider the compatibility of your apps and hardware limitations before making a decision. Ultimately, the best Mac OS version is the one that your Mac is eligible for, so be sure to check which versions are compatible with your device.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the author's personal experience and opinion. It's not intended as a substitute for official Apple documentation or professional advice.

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