The question of whether Mojave is better than High Sierra is a common one among Mac users, especially those with older machines or those hesitant to upgrade to the latest operating systems. Both macOS versions offer distinct features and improvements, but the best choice depends largely on your specific needs and hardware. In this article, we’ll dive deep into a comparison of Mojave and High Sierra, analyzing their performance, features, compatibility, and security, ultimately helping you decide which OS is the better fit for you in 2024.
Performance And Compatibility: A Tale Of Two Systems
Performance is a key consideration when choosing an operating system. Both Mojave and High Sierra aimed to improve upon their predecessors, but their strengths lie in different areas.
High Sierra: Stability And Refinement
High Sierra (macOS 10.13) was largely focused on refining the underlying architecture of macOS. It introduced the Apple File System (APFS), a modern file system designed for flash storage and offering better performance and security than the aging HFS+. It also brought improvements to video encoding with HEVC (H.265) support. High Sierra generally runs well on older hardware, often feeling snappier than its predecessor, Sierra.
Older machines, particularly those with traditional hard drives, benefited significantly from the transition to APFS. The OS was optimized to work seamlessly with existing hardware, resulting in noticeable performance boosts in many common tasks. This made it a popular choice for users seeking stability and a performance increase without the need for a hardware upgrade.
Mojave: Modern Features And Metal Graphics
Mojave (macOS 10.14) introduced a redesigned user interface with Dark Mode, a new Stacks feature for desktop organization, and improvements to Finder. It also included Metal 2, the latest version of Apple’s graphics API, which further enhances graphics performance, especially in games and professional applications. Mojave optimized for more modern hardware and utilizes graphical processing power more efficiently.
However, Mojave officially dropped support for certain older Macs. This means that some machines that could run High Sierra would not be able to upgrade to Mojave, making compatibility a crucial factor for some users. For supported hardware, Mojave’s Metal 2 API and performance optimizations delivered improvements in gaming and graphical applications.
While High Sierra provided a stable and refined experience, Mojave’s Metal 2 often resulted in better graphical performance on compatible hardware. The choice between the two ultimately hinges on the specific hardware you’re using and the tasks you perform most often. Consider your specific needs: are you focused on general productivity and stability on older hardware, or are you prioritizing graphical performance and access to newer features on a supported machine?
Feature Face-Off: Mojave’s Innovations Vs. High Sierra’s Reliability
Beyond performance, the feature sets of Mojave and High Sierra differ significantly, appealing to different user preferences.
High Sierra: Core Improvements And Enhanced Functionality
High Sierra focused on enhancing the core functionalities of macOS. It introduced improvements to Safari, including Intelligent Tracking Prevention, which protects users from cross-site tracking. It also improved the Photos app with better editing tools and face recognition. Mail received performance enhancements, and Notes gained table support.
These enhancements, while not revolutionary, contributed to a more polished and efficient user experience. High Sierra prioritized stability and refinement over radical new features, making it a solid choice for users who value a dependable and familiar operating system.
Mojave: Dark Mode, Dynamic Desktop, And More
Mojave brought a wave of new features and visual enhancements. The most noticeable change was Dark Mode, which provides a system-wide dark interface option. Dynamic Desktop changes the desktop wallpaper based on the time of day. Finder received improvements, including Gallery View and Quick Actions. Continuity Camera allows you to take pictures or scan documents with your iPhone or iPad and have them appear instantly on your Mac.
Mojave also introduced stricter security and privacy features, requiring user permission for apps to access the camera, microphone, and user data. These enhancements significantly improved the security posture of the OS.
The new features in Mojave offered a more modern and visually appealing user experience. Dark Mode, in particular, was a popular addition, reducing eye strain and offering a more immersive experience, especially in low-light environments. Mojave’s new features made it a compelling upgrade for users seeking a more modern and feature-rich operating system.
Security And Privacy: Protecting Your Data
Security is paramount in today’s digital landscape. Both Mojave and High Sierra offer security features, but Mojave takes it a step further.
High Sierra: Solid Foundation With Regular Updates
High Sierra received regular security updates from Apple during its active support period, patching vulnerabilities and protecting users from emerging threats. The introduction of APFS also enhanced data security with its built-in encryption capabilities.
High Sierra provided a reasonably secure environment, but it lacked some of the more advanced security features introduced in later macOS versions. While High Sierra was generally secure, it’s important to ensure you’re running the latest security updates to protect against vulnerabilities.
Mojave: Enhanced Privacy Controls And Security Enhancements
Mojave introduced stricter privacy controls, requiring user permission for apps to access sensitive data and hardware components. It also included enhancements to Safari’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention, further protecting users from online tracking.
Mojave also implemented stricter code signing requirements, making it more difficult for malicious software to infiltrate the system. These security enhancements significantly improved the overall security posture of macOS.
Mojave’s enhanced privacy controls and security features made it a more secure operating system than High Sierra. The stricter permission requirements and improved tracking prevention offer greater protection against privacy breaches and malware.
Application Compatibility: Ensuring Your Software Works
Application compatibility is a crucial factor when choosing an operating system. Older operating systems may not support the latest software versions, while newer operating systems may have compatibility issues with older applications.
High Sierra: Wide Range Of Compatibility
High Sierra generally offers good compatibility with a wide range of applications, including many older programs. It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit applications, ensuring that most software will run without issues.
However, support for older applications is gradually diminishing as developers focus on newer operating systems. While High Sierra offers decent compatibility, some newer applications may require a more recent macOS version.
Mojave: Focus On 64-bit Applications
Mojave marked a significant shift towards 64-bit applications. It was the last macOS version to support 32-bit applications. Starting with Catalina, 32-bit applications are no longer supported. This means that some older applications may not run on Mojave.
While this may be a drawback for some users, the focus on 64-bit applications allows for better performance and security. 64-bit applications can access more memory and utilize modern processor features more efficiently.
Mojave’s focus on 64-bit applications ensures better performance and security, but it may require users to update or replace older software. Consider your existing software library and ensure that your critical applications are compatible with Mojave before upgrading.
The Verdict: Which MacOS Is Right For You?
Ultimately, the choice between Mojave and High Sierra depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you prioritize stability, compatibility with older hardware, and a familiar user experience, High Sierra may be the better choice. It offers a refined and dependable operating system that runs well on a wide range of Macs.
However, if you prioritize a modern user interface, enhanced security features, and better graphical performance on compatible hardware, Mojave is the clear winner. Its new features and security enhancements make it a compelling upgrade for users seeking a more modern and secure operating system.
Here’s a summary to help you decide:
- Choose High Sierra if: You have an older Mac, value stability and compatibility, and don’t need the latest features.
- Choose Mojave if: You have a supported Mac, want a modern user interface (including Dark Mode), need enhanced security, and prioritize graphics performance.
Before making a decision, check Apple’s official compatibility list to ensure that your Mac is supported by Mojave. Also, consider backing up your data before upgrading to any new operating system. Assess the applications you regularly use, and check that they are compatible with the operating system you are intending to use. Taking all these steps will help to ensure a smooth and successful upgrade.
Is MacOS Mojave Or High Sierra Better For Older Macs In 2024?
For older Macs, High Sierra is generally the better choice in 2024. While Mojave introduced some user interface improvements, the performance hit on older hardware can be significant. High Sierra is typically more responsive and less resource-intensive, leading to a smoother overall experience on machines that are already struggling with newer software demands. Consider the specifications of your machine and the tasks you’ll be performing regularly.
Ultimately, compatibility with software is another crucial factor. While Mojave supports some newer applications that High Sierra doesn’t, many older applications may run better or be fully compatible with High Sierra. Research the specific software you rely on and check its compatibility with both operating systems before making a decision. Weigh the performance benefits of High Sierra against the potential limitations in software compatibility.
Will I Receive Security Updates For Mojave Or High Sierra In 2024?
No, neither macOS Mojave nor High Sierra receive regular security updates from Apple in 2024. Both operating systems are considered legacy and no longer supported with security patches addressing newly discovered vulnerabilities. Continuing to use them exposes your system to potential security risks from malware and other threats.
While some third-party security solutions may offer limited protection, these are not a substitute for the official security updates provided by Apple. For better security, consider upgrading to a newer, supported macOS version if your hardware allows. If upgrading isn’t possible, carefully weigh the security risks against the benefits of sticking with your current operating system and limit online activities.
Does Mojave Offer Any Features Not Found In High Sierra That Are Essential In 2024?
Mojave introduced Dark Mode, a system-wide visual theme that many users find more comfortable to use, especially in low-light environments. It also brought the Dynamic Desktop feature, which changes the desktop picture based on the time of day, adding a dynamic element to the user experience. These visual features are not available in High Sierra.
Another key difference is the updated Finder in Mojave, which includes Gallery View and enhanced Quick Actions. These additions aim to improve file management and workflow efficiency. However, whether these features are “essential” depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize visual aesthetics and streamlined file management, Mojave might offer some advantages, but consider if those advantages outweigh potential performance issues on older hardware.
How Does Application Compatibility Compare Between Mojave And High Sierra In 2024?
Application compatibility is complex, with no straightforward answer. Generally, High Sierra might be preferable for older, legacy applications designed before macOS Mojave’s release. Some of these applications may not function correctly or at all on Mojave due to changes in the underlying system architecture. Check application compatibility carefully before making a switch.
Conversely, some newer applications released after Mojave might not be fully compatible with High Sierra, as developers often target more recent operating systems. Many applications are frequently updated to take advantage of the latest features available on newer macOS versions. To ensure the best experience, check the system requirements of the applications you intend to use and choose the operating system that offers the broadest compatibility.
What Are The Hardware Requirements For Mojave Vs. High Sierra?
Both macOS Mojave and High Sierra have similar hardware requirements, but it is important to understand the minimum specifications for each. Mojave requires at least 2GB of RAM and 12.5GB of available storage (or up to 18.5GB to upgrade from OS X Yosemite or earlier). You also need a Metal-compatible graphics card for certain features like Dynamic Desktop and Continuity Camera.
High Sierra also requires at least 2GB of RAM and 14.3GB of available storage. However, High Sierra’s general performance is notably better on older hardware compared to Mojave. If your Mac barely meets the minimum requirements, High Sierra will likely provide a more fluid user experience. Ultimately, it is important to confirm that your Mac is officially supported by both operating systems before attempting an installation.
Can I Dual-boot Mojave And High Sierra On The Same Mac In 2024?
Yes, it is possible to dual-boot macOS Mojave and High Sierra on the same Mac in 2024. This involves partitioning your hard drive and installing each operating system on a separate partition. This allows you to choose which operating system to boot into when you start your Mac, providing access to both environments.
However, dual-booting requires some technical expertise and carries the risk of data loss if not done carefully. It is essential to back up your data before attempting to partition your drive and install a second operating system. While possible, dual-booting also takes up considerable storage space on your machine, especially if you plan on using different applications on each operating system. The process itself can be a time-consuming task. Before proceeding, consider whether virtualization software might better suit your needs.
If I Need To Upgrade, Is It Better To Upgrade Directly From High Sierra To A Newer MacOS Or Go To Mojave First?
Directly upgrading from High Sierra to a newer, supported macOS version is generally the better approach. Installing Mojave as an intermediate step adds unnecessary complexity and time to the upgrade process, and doesn’t offer any significant benefits if the ultimate goal is to be on a more current operating system.
However, before upgrading to a newer OS, check your hardware compatibility, particularly the graphics card. Upgrading directly simplifies the process, reducing the risk of errors or compatibility issues during the transition. Make sure to check compatibility information for all the software you intend to use with the newer version of macOS and perform a full backup before proceeding.