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Useful links

Trusted tools, references, news sites and shops for everything macOS. Every link goes to the original site.

Download tools

Free tools for getting macOS installers and firmware straight from Apple.

MistFree, open-source Mac app that downloads any macOS installer or Apple silicon firmware Apple offers. Get the latest .pkg from the Releases page.github.comMr. MacintoshLong-running databases of every macOS build, with direct links to InstallAssistant.pkg files on Apple's servers.mrmacintosh.comIPSW DownloadsApple-signed firmware restore images, including IPSW files for restoring Apple silicon Macs.ipsw.meApple ConfiguratorApple's free app for reviving or restoring an Apple silicon Mac from another Mac over USB-C.apps.apple.com

Running newer macOS on older Macs

Community projects. Apple doesn't support these, so read the documentation first.

OpenCore Legacy PatcherLets many unsupported Intel Macs run newer versions of macOS. Excellent documentation and a large community.dortania.github.ioOpenCore Legacy Patcher releasesDownload page for the latest OpenCore Legacy Patcher app.github.com

Mac reference

Databases and guides for identifying Macs and their specs.

EveryMacThe most complete specs database for every Mac ever made, with an Ultimate Mac Lookup by serial, model or EMC number.everymac.comEveryMac Ultimate Mac LookupIdentify a Mac by serial number, model number, EMC number or order number.everymac.comMacFinder Mac LookupQuick Mac identification tool from the UK refurbisher MacFinder.www.macfinder.co.ukMactrackerFree app with detailed information on every Apple computer, OS and device.mactracker.caAppleDBCommunity database of every Apple OS version and build number.appledb.devLow End MacProfiles, guides and history for older and vintage Macs.lowendmac.comThe Eclectic Light CompanyHoward Oakley's in-depth macOS articles and free utilities like SilentKnight.eclecticlight.co512 PixelsStephen Hackett's Apple history writing and the archive of every macOS wallpaper.512pixels.net

Buy a used or refurbished Mac

Where to buy a used or refurbished Mac

Apple Certified Refurbished Worldwide
Refurbished by Apple with a new battery and outer shell, a one-year warranty and full AppleCare eligibility. Usually the safest choice.
Back Market US, UK, Europe & Australia
Marketplace for professionally refurbished Macs, graded by condition, with a minimum one-year warranty.
CeX UK, Ireland & other countries
High-street chain that tests and grades used Macs and sells them with a 24-month warranty in the UK.
MacFinder UK
UK specialist in refurbished Macs, with warranties and stock going back to older Intel models.
Swappa US
Peer-to-peer marketplace that checks every listing's serial number before it goes live.
Search eBay Your local eBay
The biggest choice and lowest prices, but check the seller's feedback and that the listing shows the exact model.

Before you buy, check the model in our Mac lookup to see which macOS it can run.

Mac news

Where to follow new macOS releases, updates and Mac hardware.

MacworldNews, reviews and how-to guides for the Mac since 1984.www.macworld.comMacRumorsDaily Apple news, release tracking and buyer's guides.www.macrumors.com9to5MacBreaking Apple news and macOS coverage.9to5mac.comCult of MacApple news, how-tos and deals.www.cultofmac.comAppleInsiderNews, reviews and a Mac price guide.appleinsider.comSix ColorsThoughtful Apple analysis from Jason Snell and Dan Moren.sixcolors.com

Get help

Communities where you can ask questions about macOS and Mac hardware.

Apple Support CommunitiesApple's official user-to-user forums.discussions.apple.comMacRumors ForumsBusy forums with sections for every Mac and macOS version.forums.macrumors.comr/macReddit's main Mac community.www.reddit.com