The best part about Apple products is that they keep getting better with each update release. It has been a long way for iMacs from the 2007’s Mountain Lion to the 2015-2021 Monterey, but where does that leave old iMacs like the 2009 models? Before you give up hope thinking that your Mac is too old, look at the possibility of updating it.
So, can a 2009 iMac be updated? The 2009 iMac can be updated to a certain extent, but it is limited by its hardware capabilities. The highest operating system that can be installed on a 2009 iMac is macOS X El Capitan (10.11), which was released in 2015.
While it is possible to install El Capitan on a 2009 iMac, it may not run as smoothly as it would on a newer device due to the iMac’s aging hardware. Additionally, newer software applications and updates may not be compatible with El Capitan, which could limit the functionality of the device.
If you are using a 2009 iMac and looking to upgrade its operating system, it is recommended to check the minimum system requirements for the operating system you are interested in installing. It is also recommended to back up your data before attempting any updates, as there is a risk of data loss or device failure.
The last update for the 2009 iMac is the High Sierra operating system, but it depends on your model. The later 27″ and 21.5″ can update from Mountain Lion and Mavericks to Yosemite, El Capitan, Sierra, and High Sierra. On the other hand, the 20″ and 24″ mid and early models can support up to the El Capitan update. While all the 2009 models fully support Mountain Lion and Mavericks, none of them are compatible with Mojave, the most recent Monterey, or any other MacOS in between.
Updating your Apple device rejuvenates it as it improves its performance. Although the 2009 Mac seems outdated to most users with the latest models, owners are still hopeful that they can update their Macs. The following are the supported macOS and Mac OS X for your 2009 iMac.
The 2009 iMac can update as far as High Sierra depending on your model but cannot support the latest macOS like Mojave up to Monterey. The 27″ (iMac11,1 and iMac 10,1) and 21.5″ late 2009 designs can update to High Sierra, Sierra, El Capitan, and Yosemite after Mountain Lion and Mavericks.
However, the mid-2009’s 20″ and early 24″ designs can only update to El Capitan. While the 2009 versions are fully compatible with the Mountain Lion and Mavericks, the other Mac OS and Mac OS X don’t have hand-off support.
Your 2009 iMac model’s ability to update depends on its version, and Apple has made four different versions. Two of them are the latest, while the rest are mid and early models, each in different sizes and specifications. All of them were the pioneers of the 10.8 Mac OS X Mountain Lion alongside the 2007 and 2008 versions, but they later upgraded to Mac OS X 10.9 Mavericks.
While two of them got four more later updates, the other two had support for Yosemite and El Capitan. The early 24” and mid 20” versions can update to Mac OS X 10.10 Yosemite and 10.11 El Capitan.
On the other hand, the two later versions can upgrade past the two upgrades to Sierra and High Sierra. The Core i5, i7, and Core 2 Duo 27″ and the 21.5″ displays can get upgrades to Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra and 10.12 Sierra.
High Sierra is the last operating system for the 2009 iMacs meaning that there is no support for all the other newer versions. Sadly, you cannot update any iMac to Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, or Monterey.
These new Mac OS are pretty demanding on the hardware, achievable by the more advanced computers. The best you can do for your iMac is to improve its performance by beefing up its specifications by replacing the SSD and improving other qualities.
Can You Upgrade Your 2009 iMac?
Sadly, the latest 2009 iMac can update to High Sierra, hence users cannot enjoy all the fantastic features of the Mojave version to Monterey. The only other way to benefit from your computer is to upgrade it, especially if you want to keep using it. However, is this possible with this make?
It is possible to upgrade a 2009 iMac to improve its performance and functionality. Here are some upgrade options for a 2009 iMac:
- RAM: The 2009 iMac has user-upgradable RAM slots, which can be used to increase the amount of memory in the device. Adding more RAM can improve the overall performance of the iMac, especially when running multiple applications or performing resource-intensive tasks.
- Hard drive: The 2009 iMac has a 3.5-inch SATA hard drive, which can be upgraded to a faster and larger-capacity hard drive or to a solid-state drive (SSD). An SSD can significantly improve the speed and responsiveness of the iMac, as it has no moving parts and can access data more quickly than a traditional hard drive.
- Optical drive: If the iMac has an optical drive, it can be replaced with a second hard drive or SSD using an adapter kit. This can provide additional storage space or allow for a faster boot drive.
- Graphics card: The graphics card in the 2009 iMac cannot be upgraded, but it is possible to use an external graphics processing unit (GPU) with the device for improved performance in graphics-intensive tasks.
It is recommended to consult a professional technician or Apple authorized service provider for assistance with upgrading a 2009 iMac, as there are risks of data loss and device damage if not done correctly.
You can easily upgrade the hard drives in the 2009 iMac version to improve performance. Users adjust the SSD, Memory, fans, displays, and many other aspects, and there are several DIY improvements even for the not very tech-savvy. However, some services will require an expert opinion.
If you want to upgrade it yourself, it is imperative to be cautious; otherwise, you may mistakenly damage some internal components. Therefore, before enhancing the hard drives, the Other World Computing (OWC) will be handy to tell you your computer’s strength.
As with any other Apple product, upgrading your iMac 2009 voids your warranty, although none of the outdated computers are still under guarantee. You can improve the hard drives after watching tutorials, but it is advisable to seek expert advice if you have reservations. The 2009 iMac is an Aluminum Model for which you can swap most components. Many users attest that they have successfully replaced either the RAM or SSD.
With the help of OWC, you can select components that are compatible with the iMac. Otherwise, replacing with hardware that doesn’t match the computer’s strength can fail the entire system.
For instance, if you want to increase the RAM capability from four to sixteen GB, you must place a heat sensor cable compatible with the new feature. The fan should be fast enough to cool the computer efficiently.
With the new changes, the system may overheat if you use the old sensor but remember that replacing a better RAM may interfere with the smooth running of the computer. Additionally, you can upgrade the iMac’s storage depending on your graphics.
The lowest could be 320GB, but you can elevate it to more massive storage like 1TB. Enhancing the hard drives on your iMac will give you the ultimate computing experience now that there is no further upgrade after Higher Sierra.
Furthermore, you can replace the iMac’s display since it is simple to remove using suction cups to break the magnetic force holding the glass. Next, to upgrade from HDD to SSD, you may need an adapter to connect to the motherboard and ensure that the drive you want to use fits the tray, measuring 2.5 to 3.5 inches. If you are tech-savvy, all these processes will be very straightforward, but you can still pay a small fee for a professional to make the upgrades.
What Can I Do With an Old iMac?
Since the first iMac release, there have been several other better versions, and you may have an outdated version sitting somewhere in your room. Instead of leaving it redundant, you will be glad to know about amazing things you can do with it. Take a look at the following hacks.
There are several things you can do with an old iMac, even if it is no longer suitable for your daily use. Here are some ideas:
- Donate it: If your iMac is still in good condition, you can donate it to a school, non-profit organization, or community center. They can use it for educational purposes or to provide access to technology for those in need.
- Sell it: You can sell your old iMac online or at a local electronics store. Even if it is not worth much, you may be able to get some money for it, and someone else may be able to make use of it.
- Repurpose it: If your old iMac is still working, you can repurpose it for other uses, such as a media server, a home automation controller, or a backup device for your other computers.
- Recycle it: If your iMac is no longer usable, you can recycle it to prevent e-waste from ending up in a landfill. Many electronics stores and manufacturers have recycling programs that can dispose of your old iMac responsibly.
- Keep it as a backup: Even if you have a newer iMac or another computer, it can be useful to keep your old iMac as a backup in case of emergencies or for testing purposes.
Whatever you choose to do with your old iMac, it is important to erase all personal data from the device before disposing of it or giving it away.
There are various thoughtful ways to repurpose your old iMac; it can be an extra monitor for your gaming needs, a Network-attached System for additional storage of folders and media, or a Wi-Fi hotspot to extend the internet. Alternatively, you can install Linux to make it run on a viable and customizable OS, unlike the MacOS.
Other users also opt to clean their Macs and sell them online or in pawn shops, while others go for Apple’s Trade-in program for credits or cash. If broken, you can convert it into a DIY project, and Pinterest has several ideas for you.
If you wonder what you can repurpose an outdated iMac or MacBook lying around to, the following tips will come in handy.
- Extra Monitor
Thanks to their fine OLED display, a desirable aspect of the iMacs is their image output. They have high resolution, and their refresh rate can reach 144Hz, perfect for gamers. Besides using it as a screen by attaching it to your console, you can also use it with other Macs, and it helps that the setup process is straightforward.
First, check that both iMacs are compatible with the thunderbolt cable. If so, you can connect them, then hit +F2 using the wire, and you should see the desktop on display.
- Linux Installation
Linux is an open-source OS with several programs famous for reviving old computers. It allows access to LibreOffice and GIMP and supports popular games like Minecraft, giving hope to owners with very old or slow MacOS. You will find this option viable because it is compatible with outdated computers and works perfectly with iMacs, operating the same as macOS but with more customizable features.
It will be faster than the most upgradable operating system on your old Mac, and there are very slim chances of your device acquiring malware. You are free to choose your preferred version from the various options like Linux Mint or Ubuntu. On the downside, it may be challenging to configure some aspects, and it doesn’t support peripheral devices like printers.
- Network-Attached System/Storage
Although this repurpose works better with MacBooks, it still operates with iMacs as long as there is sufficient space in the hard drive. Making it a NAS gadget provides additional storage for your folders and media.
The point is to use your home network through an internet connection to retrieve the files on your device, maybe another computer, iPhone, or iPad. It helps you free space on your iCloud allowing you to have remote access to essential data on your NAS. It is convenient because you can store shows there and stream them at home.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot
If you have a weak Wi-Fi connection at home or a spot that doesn’t get a signal, you may want to reconsider your Mac as an extra router. The old computer will be a handy signal extender if you rely on a wired internet connection.
Link the outdated computer with the Ethernet and put it where you want the signal. The next step is to tweak the settings for sharing and convert your iMac to a hotspot. You won’t have to buy a new Wi-Fi router with a few tweaks.
- Trade-in With Apple
As more and more devices became obsolete, Apple came up with the trade-in system that gives owners cash or benefits to use on the next purchase. You can do this with your desktop, laptop, phone, or any other Apple product and get something out of it. If you don’t know how much your Mac is worth, you can go to Apple’s Trade-in website.
Next, navigate to select your gadget, “Computer” in this case, enter its serial number in the provided slot, and click “Verify” to see how much your Mac is currently worth. However, note that most out-of-date Apple devices fetch low prices, and if your model is too ancient to earn credit, you can go for Apple Gift Cards.
The five methods above are the most creative ways to make your old Mac helpful again. However, if the computer is broken or you don’t want to use it for personal reasons, there are three other options. You can sell the gadget for buyers to use the hardware or recycle it through Apple if it is unusable. Many owners are also converting their iMacs into beautiful DIY objects.
Suppose you are creative and don’t want to trash your computer. In that case, you can convert it to a Wall clock, table, aquarium, or any other imaginative item, and you can get several ideas from Pinterest.
However, all these methods will depend on your iMac version’s age and design. Before you do anything with your Mac, it is imperative first to know whether or not you can update it and, if not, how to upgrade it. Otherwise, you may consider trading it in if it cannot serve you well.
Many iMac owners don’t know what to do with their devices. If you want to upgrade or dispose of your old computer, the following table is a compilation of various Macs by year of release, whether you can update them, and their worth if you choose to resell them.
| iMac Model | Description | Last update | Current value estimate |
| 2007 | 20” and 24” | Mac OS X 10.11 El Capitan | $100- $200 |
| 2008 | 20” and 24” | Mac OS X 10.11 El Capitan | $100- $250 |
| 2009 | 20” and 24” | Mac OS X 10.11 El Capitan | $200- $300 |
| 2009 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 10.13 High Sierra | $250- $300 |
| 2010 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 10.13 High Sierra | $150- $300 |
| 2011 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 10.13 High Sierra | $250- $400 |
| 2012 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 10.15 Catalina | $220- $500 |
| 2013 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 10.15 Catalina | $400- $500 |
| 2014 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 11 Big Sur | $350- $450 |
| 2015 | 21.5” and 27” | MacOS 12 Monterey | $250- $600 |
Finally
Apple guarantees nothing but the best quality products that maintain the great design even decades after new releases launch in the market. It explains why many still have their old iMacs and want to hold on to them longer.
If you have a 2009 model, you can update it to High Sierra but not Mojave or later updates. Luckily, you can still upgrade the Mac to improve its storage space and RAM for better performance.
If you have an old iMac, there are other creative ways to reuse it, regardless of it not receiving Apple updates. For instance, it can be an additional monitor, Network-attached System, or a Wi-Fi hotspot. You can also set up Linux software, trade it in with Apple, or sell it.
