Is It Worth Upgrading Your Mac to macOS High Sierra?

Released in September 2017, upgrading to macOS High Sierra can be a worthwhile move depending on your specific needs and the hardware you are using. This article will explore the key features and considerations that will help you decide whether the upgrade is beneficial for you.

Key Features of macOS High Sierra

APFS Apple File System: High Sierra introduced APFS, which improves file system performance, especially for SSDs. This feature ensures faster read and write speeds, leading to improved overall system performance. Enhanced Graphics: Support for Metal 2 allows for better graphics performance and improved support for external GPUs. This is particularly useful for developers working with 3D graphics and video editing. Safari Improvements: Enhanced privacy features such as Intelligent Tracking Prevention and performance improvements make Safari more secure and efficient. This is especially important for users who are concerned about their online privacy. Photos App Enhancements: New editing tools, improved organization, and better integration with third-party apps make managing your photos even easier. This feature is a game-changer for photographers and photo enthusiasts. Virtual Reality Support: If you're into VR development, High Sierra adds support for VR applications. This is a significant boost for developers working in this field.

Considerations Before Upgrading

The decision to upgrade macOS High Sierra involves several considerations. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

Compatibility

Firstly, check if your hardware supports macOS High Sierra. Generally, Macs from 2009 and later are compatible. Upgrading to High Sierra may not be an option for older Macs, so it’s essential to assess your current hardware.

Software Needs

Ensure that your essential applications are compatible with High Sierra. Some older software might not work, and it's crucial to check the requirements before proceeding with the upgrade.

Performance

If you have an older Mac, the upgrade might slow down your system, especially if it's already running at near capacity. It’s important to evaluate whether your machine can handle the upgrade without compromising performance.

Security

Upgrading can improve security as newer OS versions receive security updates and patches. This is a significant consideration, as staying up-to-date helps protect your system from potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

If your Mac is compatible and you can benefit from the new features, upgrading to macOS High Sierra can be a good move. However, if you are satisfied with your current OS and it meets your needs, you might not find it necessary to upgrade. Always back up your data before performing an OS upgrade to safeguard your files.

While you kind of have to with Apple, you have no choice. If you want continued support, you must keep your system up to date. Make sure you know where to get the High Sierra installer now unless you already have the updated version in your Applications folder.