macOS Sonoma (version 14) is better than macOS Ventura (version 13) for almost everyone. It adds desktop widgets, Game Mode, better video-call tools, and Safari profiles, and it runs well on the same Macs. But in 2026, the bigger question is whether to use either one. Apple usually provides security updates only for the latest macOS and the two versions before it. With macOS 27 released in September 2026, that means Tahoe (26) and Sequoia (15) are still in that window, while Ventura and Sonoma are likely no longer getting regular security updates. If your Mac can run a newer version, upgrade to it.
Below is a feature-by-feature comparison, which Macs run each version, and how to decide what to install.
Sonoma vs. Ventura at a glance
| macOS Ventura (13) | macOS Sonoma (14) | |
|---|---|---|
| Released | October 2022 | September 2023 |
| Headline features | Stage Manager, Continuity Camera, Passkeys, redesigned System Settings | Desktop widgets, Game Mode, Presenter Overlay, Safari profiles and web apps |
| Widgets | Notification Center only | On the desktop, including iPhone widgets |
| Gaming | Standard | Game Mode gives games priority on CPU and GPU |
| Video calls | Continuity Camera | Adds Presenter Overlay and gesture-triggered reactions |
| Safari | Passkeys, shared Tab Groups | Adds profiles, web apps in the Dock, locked private windows |
| Oldest supported Macs | 2017 iMac, 2017 MacBook Pro, 2017 MacBook | 2019 iMac, 2018 MacBook Air/Pro, 2018 Mac mini |
| Security updates in 2026 | Ended | Likely ended or ending |
What Ventura added
- Stage Manager groups your open windows into stacks on the side of the screen.
- Continuity Camera lets you use your iPhone as a high-quality webcam.
- Passkeys in Safari replace passwords on supported sites.
- System Settings replaced System Preferences with an iPhone-style layout.
- Mail got undo send, scheduled sending, and follow-up reminders.
- New Weather, Clock, and Freeform apps came to the Mac.
What Sonoma added
- Desktop widgets you can place anywhere, plus iPhone widgets through Continuity.
- Game Mode, which turns on automatically in full-screen games to reduce lag and improve controller and AirPods response.
- Presenter Overlay puts you in front of your shared screen in video calls, and hand gestures can trigger on-screen reactions.
- Safari profiles separate work and personal browsing, and web apps let you add any site to the Dock.
- Password and passkey sharing with trusted contacts.
- New slow-motion aerial screen savers that become your wallpaper, and a redesigned lock screen.
- AutoFill in PDFs and improvements to Notes, Messages, and autocorrect.
Performance and battery life
On Apple silicon Macs, both versions run smoothly, and Sonoma generally feels the same or slightly better. On older Intel Macs, newer versions can feel a little slower right after upgrading while Spotlight and Photos re-index, which usually settles within a day or two. Neither version has a major, consistent battery-life advantage.
Which should you use in 2026?
| Your Mac | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Apple silicon (M1 or newer) | Skip both. Install the newest macOS your Mac supports. |
| Intel Mac that supports Sequoia or Tahoe | Upgrade to Sequoia or Tahoe for security updates. |
| Intel Mac that tops out at Sonoma | Use Sonoma. It’s newer than Ventura, but plan to replace the Mac for long-term security. |
| Mac that tops out at Ventura (2017 models) | Stay on Ventura, keep apps and browsers updated, and be cautious online. |
macOS 27 is the first version that runs only on Apple silicon. Apple says Intel Macs will keep getting security updates for about three years through Tahoe.
How to check your macOS version and upgrade
- Click the Apple menu > System Settings > General > About to see your version number.
- Go to General > Software Update to see which upgrades your Mac can install.
- Back up with Time Machine before upgrading.
- Click Upgrade Now (or Update Now) and follow the prompts.
Related: How to Show a Clock on Your Mac Desktop.
Related: How to Stop Zoom From Opening on Startup on a Mac.
Frequently asked questions
Can I downgrade from Sonoma to Ventura?
Yes, but it’s involved. You’d need to erase your Mac and reinstall Ventura from a bootable installer or Time Machine backup made on Ventura. It’s rarely worth it.
Is Ventura still safe to use?
It still works, but without current security updates it’s more exposed to new threats. Keep your browser and apps updated, and upgrade if your Mac supports a newer version.
Will my apps work on Sonoma?
Most apps that worked on Ventura work on Sonoma. Check with the developer for older or specialized software, such as audio plug-ins or security tools.
How do I find out which macOS my Mac supports?
Check Software Update for available upgrades, or look up your Mac model on Apple’s compatibility pages for each macOS version.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.