Should You Upgrade to macOS 13 Ventura from Monterey? [2024 Tips]

The latest macOS version, Ventura, has been a significant topic of interest. Initially announced at WWDC on July 11, 2022, the beta version is now available. However, the final release has yet to be rolled out, leaving a big question mark among Mac users.

This image is described in Chinese as: "macOS 13 Ventura".

The integration of new features and impressive alterations make Ventura appealing. However, reports suggest that some users have encountered multiple issues with the beta version, leading to concerns and confusion.

Is it worth upgrading to macOS Ventura? In this article, we'll compare macOS Monterey and Ventura (macOS 12 vs macOS 13) to help you understand the nuances of this question. After that, you can decide how to proceed!

Overview of Monterey and Ventura (macOS 12 and macOS 13)

To figure out which one is better for you, it's crucial to know more about them. For that, you need a detailed understanding of both operating systems – macOS Ventura and macOS Monterey.

Monterey is the name of a version of Apple's macOS operating system, translated in Chinese as "Monte Rey."

macOS Monterey is the 12th major release of macOS, succeeding macOS Big Sur. It brings several new features, such as Shortcuts for Mac, TestFlight, and Universal Control, which lets you use one mouse and keyboard across multiple iPads and Macs.

The operating system also supports the Apple Music Voice Plan subscription. It also brings active noise cancellation and portrait mode to apps like FaceTime. The lock screen integrates with Live Animoji and Memoji features. Additionally, it introduces Live Text and new toolbars in Preview and Finder apps.

The addition of Low Power Mode, which extends battery life when you need it, is particularly welcome. Other changes include the integration of a yellow privacy indicator to show when a webcam or microphone is in use. FaceTime and Time Machine have also been improved for greater efficiency.

Ventura is the name of a version of macOS.

macOS Ventura is the 13th and latest version of macOS. Although the final release is yet to be out, it promises exciting changes to its predecessor. It will succeed macOS Monterey. Some new features include Stage Manager, an all-new improved Safari, iCloud Shared Photo Library, and more. We can also guide you on how to download macOS 13 Ventura right here.

This image shows the logo for macOS Ventura.

Font Book has been visually redesigned, and Mail has seen many improvements. Even Spotlight has been enhanced to make searching effortless and frustration-free. Apps like Weather and Clock have been redesigned for smooth operation.

Another standout new feature is Freeform, an app that promises to boost productivity and collaboration. You'll also get AVIF support, an updated Siri, a redesigned System Preferences, and much more!

Monterrey and Ventura: What's the Difference?

There are, without a doubt, differences between macOS Monterey and Ventura. You need to know more to make the right decision. Here are some key distinctions. Let's dive in!

• Can you upgrade?
• Spotlight and Stage Manager
• Mail and Messages
• Safari
• System Settings

Can you upgrade to macOS Ventura or Monterey?

Before delving into the new features of Ventura, it's crucial to know its compatibility. Ensuring that your Mac is eligible for the upgrade to macOS Ventura is essential.

Here's the list of compatible devices or systems that can be updated to Ventura.

• MacBook Pro from 2017 or later
• MacBook from 2017 or later
• iMac from 2017 or later
• Mac mini from 2018 or later
• iMac Pro from 2017
• MacBook Air from 2018 or later
• Mac Studio from 2022
• Mac Pro from 2019 or later

Also, if your Mac update fails, try these steps:

Spotlight and Stage Manager in macOS Ventura and Monterey

Stage Manager is new in Ventura. You can think of it as an enhanced version of the Spaces and Finder features that were available in Monterey. With Stage Manager, you can work with multiple apps and windows at once. It appears on the left side of your screen, making it easy to switch between different apps as you work.

This is an image tag displaying an image titled "Ventura Spotlight Stage Manager" with a height of 308 pixels and a width of 588 pixels.

On the other hand, Spotlight is a long-standing Mac feature that gets a huge boost in Ventura. You'll be able to use it to search the web or find images in your iCloud Photo Library. The feature will also support Live Text.

Comparing Mail and Messages in macOS Ventura and Monterey

Mail and Messages apps have gotten better in Ventura. You can now unsend a message moments after sending it. The Messages app on the latest macOS supports SharePlay. In the Mail app, you can set reminders to check for new messages and schedule emails to be sent later.

Comparing Safari in macOS Ventura and Monterey

There isn't much new in Safari for Ventura, but what's there is better and more polished, making it the world's fastest browser. The introduction of Shared Tab Groups is an evolution of Tab Groups from Monterey.

System Settings in macOS Ventura and Monterey

In Ventura, System Preferences, as it was known in Monterey, has been overhauled and is now called System Settings, with a different look that almost makes it seem like an app from the iOS world. It gains a sidebar that shows various settings categories.

Should You Upgrade to Monterey or macOS Ventura?

Are you on the fence about upgrading to macOS Ventura? Well, let's dive in for a deeper discussion.

There are several reasons to upgrade from Monterey to Ventura. For starters, you get access to new features like Stage Manager, Passkeys, and Continuity Camera. Additionally, many existing features and apps have been improved.

macOS Ventura is more secure and reliable than its predecessors. Apple works continually to eliminate vulnerabilities, so the latest version is the safest.

However, there are some reasons why users might hesitate to upgrade. Chief among them is the possibility of bugs and glitches in the new version. Apple needs time to assess feedback and address these issues. Additionally, there may be apps that are incompatible with Ventura.

If you're eager to upgrade to Ventura for its new features, you might want to hold off, as Apple has announced that some of them won't be available when the release is final, but will come in later software updates.

That is why it is recommended to wait a few months for a stable release. Now, you can have all the features listed without the fear of something breaking.

But before you install macOS Ventura, there are a few things you should do to prepare.

1. Ensure that your existing system is compatible with the operating system. To do this, refer to the list of supported devices available. 2. Check that the applications you need are compatible with Ventura, as they might encounter issues if they aren't. 3. Free up at least 20-25 GB of space on your Mac for a smooth installation, download, and running of Ventura. 4. Before opting to upgrade, you can create a backup of important data using [Time Machine backups](/recoverdata/mac-time-machine-backup.html). 5. Make sure your Mac is fully charged before starting the upgrade process. As a precaution, keep the charger connected during the update. 6. Verify your internet connection to ensure stability and reliability. Any problems during the process could interrupt the update or cause issues in the new operating system.

Final Award

macOS Ventura is the latest version of the operating system for Mac computers, succeeding Monterey and introducing an array of new features. It includes significant enhancements to existing functionalities like Spotlight and Safari, as well as the addition of new features such as Stage Manager and Freeform.

Before deciding to upgrade, make sure your system is compatible. Then, review the new features and determine if you need them immediately. It's usually advised to wait a few months after the final release, so you can get all the available novelties later.

Frequently Asked Questions about Monterey and Ventura

Before making your final decision, get more information. The more you know, the better you'll be able to move forward. To that end, browse the questions and answers below –

Should I upgrade my macOS from Monterey to Ventura?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to whether you should upgrade your macOS from Monterey to Ventura. Undoubtedly, the latest iteration brings numerous new features. However, initial public releases may come with issues like glitches, bugs, and system problems. If you're not in a hurry to upgrade or don't need the new features immediately, it's advisable to wait a few months before installing the new macOS.

**How can I update my macOS from Monterey to Ventura?** To update your macOS from Monterey to Ventura, follow these steps: 1. Ensure that your Mac meets the system requirements for upgrading to macOS Ventura. You can check the compatible Mac models and minimum system requirements on Apple's official website. 2. Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network to ensure a smooth download process. 3. Open "System Preferences." 4. In "System Preferences," click on "Software Update." 5. The Software Update window will check for available updates. If a macOS Ventura update is available, it will be displayed there. 6. Click the "Update Now" button to start downloading the update. The download may take some time, depending on your internet speed. 7. Once the download is complete, click the "Install" button. You might need to enter your administrator password to authorize the update. 8. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Your Mac might restart and display a progress bar. 9. After the installation is finished, your Mac will automatically log in to the new operating system version — macOS Ventura. It's always a good idea to back up your data before updating, using Time Machine or another backup solution, just in case any issues arise.

After running the installer, you'll need to go to "System Preferences." From there, you'll see "Software Update." Clicking "Update" will allow you to download the latest macOS. After that, you'll need to follow the on-screen instructions to install Ventura.

3. How to Downgrade from macOS Ventura?

There are three different methods to downgrade from macOS Ventura.

Method 1: Downgrade Using Time Machine Method 2: Downgrade with macOS Recovery Method 3: Downgrade Using a Bootable Installer