Should You Upgrade to macOS Big Sur in October 2021?

The decision to upgrade to macOS Big Sur in October 2021 is contingent on a few key factors. Primarily, this question hinges on whether you use any applications that will require Big Sur as a system requirement. If you're auser of Apple’s high-end media authoring programs like Logic Pro, Final Cut Pro, Motion, MainStage, or Compressor, or if you rely on third-party applications such as Adobe’s Creative Suite, the answer is likely to be yes.

Assessing Your Compatibility

Before you rush to upgrade, there are two critical questions you need to address:

Will your Mac run Big Sur? Will it still run essential software you depend on?

Since these are highly individual inquiries, I cannot provide a definitive answer for you. However, the good news is that Apple usually handles .0 releases with remarkable care. They have a solid track record of ensuring that major updates do not significantly disrupt workflows. Regardless of your concerns, I highly recommend evaluating your software dependencies before proceeding.

User Experience with Big Sur

I chose to upgrade to Big Sur on Saturday, just two days after its release, because I didn't have the time to do it on Thursday or Friday. This highlights that there's no hard and fast rule on when to upgrade. With Big Sur, you won't find the kind of extensive downtime or unforeseen issues that are often associated with major OS releases.

While some users have reported issues with certain applications, such as Pro Tools or specific music software, these problems mostly stem from the new signing requirements introduced in Big Sur. Fortunately, these issues are usually resolved swiftly. Most developers are already working on the necessary updates. For most users, the transition to Big Sur is smooth, with only minor inconveniences.

Here are a few observations and tips for those considering an upgrade:

Maintaining Software Compatibility

Apple Store Apps: If your primary software is available on the Apple Store, you're generally safe. Xcode, developer tools, Safari, Chrome, and other popular applications work flawlessly with Big Sur. Electron Apps: While there might be occasional issues, most Electron-based applications perform admirably, given the robust nature of the Electron framework. Proprietary Software: It's always advisable to visit the developer's webpage to check for any known issues related to Big Sur. Most reputable developers will provide updates and solutions if necessary.

My Personal Experience

I upgraded to Big Sur on Saturday, and I have not encountered any significant problems. The system has been stable, and the new features are genuinely impressive. Despite some initial concerns from YouTubers and other content creators, the reality is that Big Sur delivers a more efficient and intuitive user experience. Apple has prioritized an easy and seamless upgrade process for the majority of their users.

While I understand the hesitance of many to upgrade immediately, especially when faced with potential software conflicts, my advice is to proceed cautiously but confidently. If your primary software is up-to-date and supported, then upgrading to Big Sur is a worthwhile endeavor. As an early adopter, I can personally attest to the benefits and the ease of this process.

In conclusion, while there are risks involved with any software upgrade, the benefits of macOS Big Sur, particularly for high-end users, outweigh the potential drawbacks. Take the time to ensure that your workflow applications are compatible, and then you can enjoy the enhanced performance and new features that Big Sur offers.