Description
NOTE: This article only applies to employees in the Suffolk Region.
This article lists the requirements a Mac computer needs to run a currently supported version of macOS, and the specifications CCE Suffolk recommends when purchasing a new Mac. Unlike Windows, Apple does not publish a single processor, memory, and storage minimum. Compatibility is determined by Mac model and year, so this article is organized around Apple's current transition to Apple Silicon.
Apple's Current macOS Compatibility
- macOS support is based on model and year, not a shared specification sheet. To find yours: Apple menu > About This Mac.
- Apple has completed its transition away from Intel processors. The upcoming macOS 27 (Golden Gate), expected fall 2026, drops support for all Intel-based Macs and requires an Apple Silicon chip (M-series).
- The current release, macOS 26 (Tahoe), supports all Apple Silicon Macs plus a small number of 2019 to 2020 Intel models. Security-only updates continue for macOS 15 (Sequoia) and macOS 14 (Sonoma) on older supported hardware.
- Any Mac purchased new today ships with Apple Silicon and is unaffected by the Intel phase-out.
CCE Suffolk Recommended Minimums
Note: Because Apple no longer sells Intel-based Macs, all new purchases should be Apple Silicon by default. The specifications below apply to that hardware.
- Chip: Apple M-series (M1 or later). Any current Apple Silicon chip meets CCE Suffolk's needs for standard office work.
- Memory: 16 gigabytes of unified memory minimum. Apple Silicon Macs share memory between the processor and graphics, so Apple's own guidance recommends higher totals than a traditional Windows computer for the same workload. 8 gigabytes is Apple's lowest configurable option on some models but is not recommended for a multi-year staff workstation.
- Storage: 256 gigabytes minimum. Matches the Windows recommendation and leaves adequate room for system files, updates, and local documents.
- Additional note for staff using Siri's newer voice and dictation features: these require an M3 chip or later and at least 12 gigabytes of memory; standard staff workstations are not required to meet this higher bar unless the role specifically needs it.
Notes
- macOS updates are free and released roughly once per year. New purchases and reimages should be kept on the current or immediately prior release to remain within Apple's security-update window.
- These specifications apply to standard staff workstations. Roles with specialized needs, such as video editing or design work, may require higher specifications than listed here.