What is the most optimal OS for MacBook Pro M1 Max and iMac M1?

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Level 1

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What is the most optimal OS for MacBook Pro M1 Max and iMac M1?

I have a MacBook Pro M1 Max (2021) and an iMac M1 (2021). Everything is still running fast and smoothly on them. I have avoided upgrading the last few OS updates. I didn't want to upgrade and have them start lagging or not running optimally. The last update I did was for Ventura 13.6.9. Would it be best to just keep it at this OS? or would I benefit from continuing to upgrade to the newest OS? Thanks

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MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 13.6

Posted on Feb 17, 2025 2:55 PM

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Answer 1

VikingOSX

Level 10

122,310 points

Feb 18, 2025 7:23 AM in response to FM/AR

I upgraded my 16-in 2021 M1 MacBookPro M1 Pro (32 MB) from Sonoma 14.7.3 to Sequoia v15.3.1 and the latter seems faster on it. There have been a ton of fixes to the operating system releases since Ventura 13.6.9…

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Answer 2

Feb 17, 2025 3:01 PM in response to FM/AR

I would upgrade to the current macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 without hesitation. That is what is currently running on my 2021 M1 iMac. It has always run the latest macOS available with no issues.

See: How to upgrade to macOS Sequoia - Apple Support

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Answer 3

Feb 17, 2025 8:40 PM in response to FM/AR

Ventura is still getting current versions of Safari – but you have to update to at least Sonoma if you want to install the latest versions of Pages, Numbers, and Keynote.

If Apple sticks to the same release schedule they have followed for the last 10 years, Sequoia's successor should come out some time in September, October, or November. Ventura will no longer be one of the most recent three and you'll need to update if you want to run current software from the likes of Microsoft or Adobe.

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What is the most optimal OS for MacBook Pro M1 Max and iMac M1?

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