iMac (21.5-inch, 2017)
Our verdict
Revive it.
Apple’s updates ended on macOS Ventura 13. The community’s didn’t.
I
Give it a new OS
OpenCore Legacy Patcher runs macOS Tahoe 26 on this machine — a modern browser and current patches, unofficially. OpenCore Legacy Patcher ↗
II
Give it a job
A single-purpose desk machine — music, photos, a second screen with history.
III
Or let it go
Apple parts availability is winding down (vintage status). Trade-in value is modest — selling privately usually beats the quote.
VintageTops out at macOS Ventura 13 — or macOS Tahoe 26 with OpenCore.
The record
Introduced
2017
Model identifier
iMac18,1
Chip
Intel Core i5 Kaby Lake
Architecture
Intel
Latest official release
macOS Ventura 13
With OpenCore Patcher
macOS Tahoe 26 · official patcher site
Security updates
Ended — macOS Ventura received its final security update in 2025 (last release 13.7.8 (2025-08-20)).
Apple hardware status
Vintage — parts winding down
Data confidence
high
Common questions
What is the newest macOS for the iMac (21.5-inch, 2017)?
The iMac (21.5-inch, 2017) officially tops out at macOS Ventura 13. The community’s OpenCore Legacy Patcher can take it to macOS Tahoe 26, unofficially.
Is the iMac (21.5-inch, 2017) still getting security updates?
No. Ended — macOS Ventura received its final security update in 2025 (last release 13.7.8 (2025-08-20)).
Can the iMac (21.5-inch, 2017) run a newer macOS than Ventura 13?
Officially, no. Unofficially, yes: OpenCore Legacy Patcher runs macOS Tahoe 26 on this machine — a modern browser and current patches. It’s unsupported territory, so back up first.
Is the iMac (21.5-inch, 2017) vintage or obsolete?
Apple classifies it as vintage: parts and service are winding down but may still be available.
Same shelf