Apple MacOS Big Sur

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Page last updated Aug 11, 2025

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MacOS Big Sur review

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Critic Reviews

Apple macOS Big Sur Review | PCMag

pcmag.com

macOS Big Sur redefines the Mac experience with a sleek interface overhaul and robust security enhancements that make it both beautiful and secure. Users will appreciate the new Control Center and a more informative Notification Center, streamlining navigation and function. However, this upgrade isn’t without its pitfalls: compatibility issues with third-party apps and the discontinuation of 32-bit support could frustrate some long-time users. While those dependent on legacy software might want to hold off, the overall improvements make Big Sur a compelling choice for most Mac users, particularly those embracing Apple's ecosystem.

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Apple macOS 11 Big Sur review: a long time coming - The Verge

theverge.com

macOS Big Sur makes a striking impression with its sleek redesign and a slew of long-overdue features, bringing a more iOS-like feel to Apple's desktop environment. While the aesthetic upgrades and improved apps like Safari and Messages are commendable, the touch-oriented updates may leave traditional users wanting more. Some elements, such as the Control Center, feel less intuitive on a laptop, and the transparency options can be problematic for older apps. Despite these drawbacks, Big Sur is stable and polished, offering a worthwhile upgrade for most users—especially those on recent Macs. Overall, it's a solid step towards a more unified Apple ecosystem, hinting at exciting possibilities ahead.

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macOS 11.0 Big Sur: The Ars Technica review - Ars Technica

arstechnica.com

Big Sur marks a significant update for macOS, bringing a fresh, iOS-inspired aesthetic and enhanced functionality, particularly with the Control Center and a revamped Messages app. However, it stumbles with reduced contrast in UI elements, making navigation less intuitive. The OS also drops support for older Macs more aggressively than necessary, frustrating users with legacy devices. Overall, while it propels the Mac experience forward, it does so with a mix of compelling features and notable drawbacks, making it a solid but imperfect upgrade.

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MacOS Big Sur review: The other half of the Mac's 2020 rebirth - CNET

cnet.com

MacOS Big Sur ushers in a new era for Apple's operating system with a sleek design and improved integration across devices. While the return of the classic startup sound and a more translucent interface are welcome, the jarring 3D icons feel like a step backward. Safari shines with significant enhancements in speed and usability, but the limited functionality of new widgets leaves much to be desired. Overall, Big Sur offers a fresh experience, yet it’s marred by some design missteps and a lack of widget functionality that may frustrate dedicated users.

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macOS Big Sur review: Entering the future of the Mac | Tom's Guide

tomsguide.com

macOS Big Sur ushers in a fresh aesthetic and enhanced features, notably transforming Safari with a slew of long-awaited improvements. The Control Center simplifies settings, and Messages now offers convenient features like pinned texts and GIF searches. However, the bold new design may challenge users accustomed to the classic interface, and some older Macs are left behind, limiting accessibility. While the fluidity of transparency in menus may irritate some, the overall upgrade feels like a step forward for Apple’s ecosystem. If you’re ready for change and have compatible hardware, dive in; just be wary of potential third-party app hiccups.

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macOS Big Sur Review: Third age of Mac – Six Colors

sixcolors.com

macOS Big Sur marks a bold transformation for the Mac, integrating iOS aesthetics while ushering in the era of Apple Silicon. The new design is ambitious, with high-contrast windows and revamped icons that promise a fresher user experience. However, some changes—like the distracting translucency of the menu bar—hinder readability, frustrating long-time users. While the introduction of the Control Center and improved Notification Center offers modern conveniences, the execution feels inconsistent. Big Sur undoubtedly breathes new life into the Mac, but it does so with a few rough edges that may take future updates to smooth out. Overall, it's a thrilling leap forward, albeit with some usability missteps.

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