2009 · No longer updated
Download Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6
The first Intel-only release, and the one that added the Mac App Store (in 10.6.6). It's a key stepping stone: a Mac on 10.6.8 can download Lion and later.
- Version
- 10.6
- Released
- 28 August 2009
- Latest build
- 10.6.8
- Processors
- Intel
How to get Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6
Retail DVD (used market)
Snow Leopard came on DVD. Apple no longer sells it, so look for the retail disc (part number MC573Z/A) on the second-hand market. Grey OEM discs that shipped with a Mac usually only work on that model.
Search eBay for discsOpens a search for used Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 discs. Check the listing says “retail”, not a grey disc that came with a specific Mac.
Update to 10.6.8, then use the App Store
After installing from disc, run Software Update until you reach 10.6.8. The Mac App Store then lets you move on to newer versions.
Compatible Macs
Any Intel Mac with at least 1 GB of RAM.
Not sure which Mac you have? See which macOS your Mac can run.
Get help from Apple
discussions.apple.comApple: How to download and install macOSApple's guide to the App Store, disk image and Terminal download methods, with compatibility rules.support.apple.comWhat's new in Mac OS X Snow Leopard
- Intel-only, with 64-bit kernel support
- Mac App Store arrives in 10.6.6
- Last version with Rosetta for PowerPC apps
Questions
Can I still download Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 from Apple?
No. Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6 was only sold on physical discs and Apple doesn't offer it as a download. Retail discs are available on the second-hand market.
What is the latest version of Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6?
The final or latest build is 10.6.8, according to Apple's version list.
Which Macs can run Mac OS X Snow Leopard 10.6?
Any Intel Mac with at least 1 GB of RAM.