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OpenCore Legacy Patcher (OCLP) can help some older Intel Macs run newer macOS versions, but there is no single upgrade target that works for every old Mac. Check your Mac’s exact Model Identifier against OCLP’s supported-model list before downloading or installing anything. OCLP does not support Apple Silicon or PowerPC Macs.
Check whether OCLP supports your Mac
- On your Mac, open Apple menu → About This Mac → More Info → System Report. In System Information, note the Model Identifier. Labels and paths can vary by macOS version.
- Open the OCLP Supported Models page and find that identifier. The project says an unlisted model is unsupported; check the individual model entry and its footnotes rather than assuming that every listed Mac supports every macOS release equally.
- Before using OCLP, update the Mac to the latest macOS version it supports natively. OCLP recommends this to ensure the machine has its highest available firmware.
The project says its supported install range runs from Big Sur through Tahoe, but that range is not a promise that every listed Mac can run every release. For current compatibility, consult your model’s entry and OCLP’s official releases before choosing a target.
Choose a macOS version for the hardware you have
Do not choose a target solely because it is the newest macOS listed by OCLP. Compare the exact model and release across the factors below; the result may be different for two Macs that appear to be the same age.
- Model support: Check the OCLP model entry for the release you want, including its notes on hardware behavior.
- Graphics: OCLP’s FAQ warns that non-Metal graphics can prevent some newer applications and macOS features, including Maps, from rendering correctly.
- Memory: OCLP says Sonoma and newer require at least 3 GB of RAM for installation. Its documentation says 2 GB models cannot install Sonoma or Sequoia through the ordinary path, and Sequoia may not boot on them. Check the individual model notes; this is not a blanket guarantee of compatibility for machines with 3 GB or more.
- Processor and apps: Some newer apps use AVX or AVX2 instructions. An older processor may not run an app even if OCLP allows macOS itself to boot.
- Other model-specific behavior: Review notes on USB and other hardware, then consider whether you need a newer macOS feature badly enough to accept a less mature or more constrained setup.
Prepare before installing
- Use the current official guide and release. OCLP changes over time, so follow its current documentation and release notes for your Mac and chosen macOS version rather than relying on old step-by-step instructions.
- Use USB installer media for a major upgrade. OCLP’s FAQ strongly recommends USB for moves between major macOS versions. The appropriate drive and configuration depend on the installer and workflow; the FAQ does not establish a universal capacity or guarantee that one drive suits every Mac.
- Make a backup. Keep a separate copy of important files before modifying the operating system. OCLP does not specify a particular backup method or storage device.
- Plan for post-install work. Some Macs need root patches for hardware support. OCLP says these patches must be reapplied after updates.
- Avoid betas for a routine upgrade. OCLP advises against beta macOS installs unless you accept possible incompatibility and the possibility of needing to reset the system.
Follow the model-specific installation path
The broad sequence is to identify the Mac, bring it to its latest native macOS, confirm its OCLP model entry, then use the current official OCLP guide and release to create installer media and install the selected macOS. Apply any root patches required for that model afterward. The exact choices and steps depend on the model and target version, so use the project’s current documentation rather than treating this overview as a substitute for its instructions.
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#1 Best Overall
FLEANE FM13A 256GB NVME SSD with DIY Tools for MacBook Air A1465 A1466 (2013-2017), MacBook Pro Retina A1398 A1502 (2013-2015), iMac A1418 A1419 (2013-2017)
- Write and Read: 256GB NVMe 3D TLC NAND PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD fast speed up to: Read 1700MB/S, Write 1300MB/S. 1: 1 design according to the original SSD interface, it provides a perfect upgrade solution for your Macbook Air/Pro/iMac without using any adapter card. (Different models of machines may test different read and write speeds.)
- Important note: macOS 10.13 High Sierra (or later OS) must be installed on the Mac before installing the new ssd. These OS versions include an EFI firmware update for your Mac. Without the update, the new SSD will not be recognized.
- Compatible with: MacBook Air A1465 A1466 Mid2013-Mid2017, MacBook Pro A1502 A1398 Late2013-Mid2015, iMac A1418 A1419 Late2013-Mid2017.There is a very detailed table of supported models in the listing images. Please check carefully.The EMC number is the best way to match
- Order contains: 1 x PCIe NVMe High-Speed SSD(Pre-loaded with Catalina), 1 x16GB USB Bootable Installer (Big Sur), 2 xScrewdrivers (For removing the back panel and ssd screws), Very detailed SSD installation guide (scan the QR code on the label)
- About warranty: We provide 3-year worry-free warranty. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us, we will provide the most professional service.
Control macOS updates after installation
OCLP strongly recommends turning off automatic updates, including automatic downloads. Its FAQ explains that an update can be staged in a way that modifies the system volume before the full update is applied. In Ventura and newer, the documented path is System Settings → General → Software Update → Automatic Updates; labels may change in later releases.
For routine updates, OCLP says they are usually fine, but advises waiting a few days to see whether patches break and require fixes. After each update, reinstall any required root patches using the current OCLP instructions.
Rank #2
Bitsjour 256GB NVMe SSD Replacement for MacBook Air A1466 A1465 2013-2017, Apple MacBook Pro A1398 A1502 Retina 2013-2015, Mac Pro A1481 2013, iMac A1418 A1419, Mac mini A1347 2014, Mac Interfacce
- 【Perfect Match & Stable】This Replacement SSD for MacBook adopts original Mac interface (12+16 pins), no adapter needed, fit perfect, transfer faster and stable. It is the most cost-effective option for upgrading capacity and performance on Apple computers.
- 【New Life For Your Old Mac】This Bitsjour upgrade ssd drive for macbook uses original-factory particles, pcie gen 3x4 technology, read/write speed up to 2250MB/s / 1850MB/s, has a larger capacity. Speed and performance are better than original hard disk.
- 【Perfect Compatibility】This NVMe SSD disk is perfectly compatible with MacBook Air 11" model 𝐀𝟏𝟒𝟔𝟓 𝐞𝐦𝐜 𝟐𝟔𝟑𝟏/𝟐𝟗𝟐𝟒 (Mid 2013-Early 2015), MacBook Air 13" model 𝐀𝟏𝟒𝟔𝟔 𝐞𝐦𝐜 𝟐𝟔𝟑𝟐/𝟐𝟗𝟐𝟓/𝟑𝟏𝟕𝟖 (Mid 2013-Early 2015, Mid 2017), MacBook Pro Retina 13" model 𝐀𝟏𝟓𝟎𝟐 𝐞𝐦𝐜 𝟐𝟔𝟕𝟖/𝟐𝟖𝟕𝟓/𝟐𝟖𝟑𝟓 (Late 2013-Early 2015), MacBook Pro Retina 15" model 𝐀𝟏𝟑𝟗𝟖 𝐞𝐦𝐜 𝟐𝟔𝟕𝟒/𝟐𝟕𝟒𝟓/𝟐𝟖𝟕𝟔/𝟐𝟖𝟖𝟏/𝟐𝟗𝟎𝟗/𝟐𝟗𝟏𝟎 (Late 2013-Mid 2015), iMac 21.5" model A1418 emc 2638/2805/2889/3068/3069 (Late 2013-Late 2015, Early 2017), 27" model A1419 emc 2639/2806/2834/3070, Mac Pro 27" model A1481 emc 2630 (Late 2013). The model and emc must match exactly.
- 【Not Support Pre-macOS 10.13】Remember that the mac must be updated to the macOS 10.13 or later version before replacing the disk.
- 【Easy Installation Even For Newbies】This SDD already has macOS pre-installed. Replace, boot and everything is done! We provide customer with 5-Year Limited Warranty, Hassle-Free shopping!
What to expect from OCLP support
OCLP is a community project, not a guarantee that an older Mac will behave like a natively supported machine. Its README states: “This project is offered on an AS-IS basis, we do not guarantee support for any issues that may arise.” Read the project README and current release notes before proceeding; the releases page displayed version 2.4.1 when checked, and release details can change.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
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S SHARKSPEED SSD 256GB NVMe Replacement for MacBook Air A1465 A1466(2013-2015,2017), MacBook Pro A1502 A1398(Retina 2013-2015), iMac A1418 A1419(2013-2017), M.2 PCIe Gen3.0x4
- 【Blazing Fast Performance – Up to 2500MB/s】Boost your Mac’s performance with NVMe PCIe Gen3.0 x4 & 3D NAND technology. Achieve read speeds up to 2500MB/s and write speeds up to 2000MB/s – ideal for 4K video editing, large file transfers, and faster boot times. No adapter needed; fits original Apple interface.
- 【Exact Model Compatibility – Check Your EMC & Year】Compatible with MacBook Air A1465/A1466 (Mid 2013–2015, 2017), MacBook Pro Retina A1502/A1398 (Late 2013–2015), iMac A1418/A1419 (2013–2017), Mac Mini A1347 (Late 2014), Mac Pro A1481 (2013).Note: EMC must match: See list below (e.g., MacBook Pro 13″: 2678,2835,2875). If EMC/year not matched, SSD will not work.
- 【Compatible With MacBook EMC Number】MacBook Pro 13"（2678, 2835, 2875）, MacBook Pro 15" (2674, 2745, 2876, 2881, 2909, 2910), MacBook Air 11" (2631, 2924), MacBook Air 13" (2632, 2925, 3178), iMac 21.5" (2638, 2805, 2883, 2889, 3068, 3069), iMac 27" (2639, 2806, 2834, 3070), Mac Mini (2840), Mac Pro (2630).
- 【Reliable Data Protection & Easy DIY Upgrade】Built with ECC, bad block management, S.M.A.R.T., and TRIM for data integrity. Intelligent temperature control + low power consumption prevent overheating during heavy use. Replace your old SSD in under 10 minutes. No special tools required for most models. Includes a step-by-step installation guide and cloning instructions.
- 【Critical macOS Requirement – Read Before Buying】You must upgrade to macOS 10.13 High Sierra, 10.14 Mojave, or 10.15 Catalina or newer before installing. These versions include the required EFI firmware update. Without this update, your Mac will NOT recognize the new SSD.
Rank #3
S SHARKSPEED SSD 1TB NVMe Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina 13" A1708 (Late 2016, Mid 2017) EMC 2978/3164 Non-Touch Bar Models M.2 PCIe Gen3.0x4 (MAC Original Interface)
- 【IMPORTANT NOTE】Before installing this new Macbook SSD, must upgrade your Mac to macOS 10.13 High Sierra (or 10.14 Mojave or 10.15 Catalina) or later macOS. These OS versions include an EFI firmware updates for Mac. Without the update, the new SSD will not be recognized.
- 【HIGH SPEED & ORIGINAL INTERFACE】S SHARKSPEED's SSD replacement for Apple computer uses NVMe PCIe Gen3.0X4 3D NAND flash technology, with read speeds up to 2500MB/s and write speeds up to 2000MB/s. This provides faster data access, PC boot up, and file transfer speeds, improving overall system responsiveness and enabling quick upgrades for your Apple laptop. Apple computers original interfaces, and there is no need to use any adapters.
- 【COMPATIBLE WITH APPLE MODELS YEAR】The Mac SSD, designed specifically for Mac system upgrades, is compatible with the following models: MacBook Pro 13" A1708 (2016-2017), EMC number: 2978/3164. Note: It only supports Non-Touch Bar models. Note:Please refer to our detailed list of image supported models for more information. The models and EMC number must both match, or not, the SSD will not work.
- 【OUTSTANDING RELIABILITY AND DATE PROTECTION】The internal solid state hard drive features intelligent temperature management and a reliable thermal design, achieving excellent heat dissipation and low power consumption. It adopts error correction code (ECC) technology, garbage collection, bad block management, S.M.A.R.T., and TRIM functions, enhancing the reliability and security of data transfer, thereby extending the lifespan of the SSD.
- 【EXCELLENT QUALITY】S SHARKSPEED's Macbook ssd has top-level reliability in the industry, with thorough quality checks and reliability testing, ensuring excellent quality and performance. Note：We have pre-installed the macOS for the A1708 SSD.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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