macOS 10.15 Catalina is the highest supported version on several models of Macs.
macOS 10.15 Catalina, released by Apple in October 2019, marked a significant turning point for the Mac operating system. One of its most notable changes was the complete removal of 32-bit app support, making Catalina the first macOS version to run exclusively 64-bit software. This move enhanced overall performance and security but also rendered many older apps unusable, prompting users and developers to update or replace legacy software. Catalina also introduced a more modular architecture, splitting iTunes into three separate apps: Music, Podcasts, and TV, aligning the Mac experience more closely with iOS and iPadOS.
Catalina brought several new features aimed at increasing productivity and user security. Sidecar, for instance, allowed users to extend their Mac desktop to an iPad, using it as a second display or input device with Apple Pencil. Enhanced security measures were another cornerstone of Catalina, with a read-only system volume and increased permissions requirements for apps, helping to isolate critical system files from potential threats. Additionally, Apple introduced Activation Lock for Macs with the T2 security chip, making stolen Macs significantly harder to re-use or resell.
Accessibility also received a boost with the introduction of Voice Control, allowing users to control their Macs entirely with voice commands, opening up new possibilities for users with physical limitations. Catalina further improved screen time management and brought Screen Time to the Mac for the first time, allowing users to track and limit their device usage across Apple platforms. Although the transition to Catalina was bumpy for some due to software compatibility issues, it laid essential groundwork for a more unified, secure, and efficient macOS ecosystem.
If you’re running MacOS 10.15, we have the answers to all your questions below.
TABLE OF CONTENT
What Machines support macOS 10.15?
MacBook
MacBook (Early 2015 or newer)
MacBook Air
MacBook Air (Mid 2012 or newer)
MacBook Pro
MacBook Pro (Mid 2012 or newer)
Mac mini
Mac mini (Late 2012 or newer)
iMac
iMac (Late 2012 or newer)
iMac Pro
iMac Pro (2017 or newer)
Mac Pro
Mac Pro (Late 2013 or newer)
What web browsers are supported under 10.11?
✅ Chromium Legacy on macOS 10.15 Catalina:
✔️ What It Is:
Chromium Legacy is a fork of Chromium (the open-source base for Chrome, Brave, Edge, etc.) maintained by developers in the Mac PowerPC and Vintage Apple communities.
It brings newer Chromium features and security patches to unsupported macOS versions like 10.11 to 10.15, which are no longer supported by Google Chrome itself.
💡 Benefits on Catalina:
Works on macOS 10.15 even after Google Chrome dropped support (at version 114, in late 2023).
Keeps receiving updates and patches via the community, unlike official Chrome.
Supports modern websites, extensions, and developer tools.
No tracking or telemetry by default—unlike Google Chrome.
🛠️ System Requirements:
macOS 10.9 to 10.15
Intel 64-bit Mac
At least 2 GB of RAM recommended
Safari
Last version for Catalina: Safari 15.x
Still usable but no longer updated, which can lead to compatibility issues with modern websites.
Mozilla Firefox
Supported through Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release).
As of 2025, Firefox ESR 115 is the last major version to support Catalina. Security updates will continue until September 2024, after which support ends.
Highly recommended for secure browsing on Catalina.
LibreWolf
A privacy-focused fork of Firefox, based on ESR versions.
Works on Catalina if you download the correct version.
Support mirrors Firefox ESR, so Catalina users are still covered—for now.
⚠️ Partially Supported / May Require Older Versions:
Google Chrome
Last supported version: Chrome 117 (released September 2023).
Support officially ended in Fall 2023.
Older versions still run, but no longer receive updates or security patches.
Not recommended for sensitive tasks unless upgraded to a newer OS.
Microsoft Edge
Support for Catalina ended around the same time as Chrome—late 2023.
Can still install and use Edge 117 or earlier.
No current updates or security patches.
❌ No Longer Supported or Not Recommended:
Opera: Support ended for Catalina in late 2023; newer versions require macOS 11 Big Sur or newer.
Brave: Similar to Chrome; support ended in late 2023, with Brave v1.60 being one of the last working builds on Catalina.
Vivaldi: May still run older versions, but current releases require at least macOS 11.
What is the highest version of Microsoft office supported under 10.15?
✅ Microsoft Office 2021
Fully supported on macOS 10.15 Catalina.
Includes: Word 2021, Excel 2021, PowerPoint 2021, Outlook 2021, and OneNote.
One-time purchase; not subscription-based like Microsoft 365.
✅ Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365)
Still supports Catalina with updates through the version 16.x series.
However, as of late 2023, Microsoft announced end of support for macOS 10.15 Catalina:
Users can continue to use Office apps already installed.
No new features or security updates will be provided on Catalina.
Microsoft 365 updates now require macOS 11 Big Sur or later.
What is the highest version of Adobe Creative Suite supported on macOS 10.15?
On macOS 10.15 Catalina, the highest version of Adobe Creative Suite / Creative Cloud supported depends on whether you’re referring to the perpetual license Creative Suite (CS) or the subscription-based Creative Cloud (CC).
🔹 Adobe Creative Suite (CS) — Not Supported
Adobe Creative Suite CS6 and earlier are not compatible with macOS Catalina because they are 32-bit applications.
Catalina only supports 64-bit apps, and CS6 is largely 32-bit.
Attempting to run CS6 or earlier will result in errors or the apps not launching at all.
✅ Workaround: You can run CS6 using macOS Mojave (10.14) or earlier, or via virtualization/emulation.
📌 Important: Starting with Creative Cloud 2022, Adobe apps require macOS 11 Big Sur or later, so 2021 versions are the last fully supported versions on Catalina.
✅ Summary:
Highest supported version:Adobe Creative Cloud 2021 suite
CS6 and earlier: ❌ Not supported on Catalina due to 32-bit limitation.
Adobe apps installed through Creative Cloud can still be used and activated, but updates beyond 2021 are not available without upgrading macOS.
What is the highest supported version of Avid can I run on macOS 10.15?
✅ Avid Media Composer 2021.9
Released: September 2021
macOS 10.15.7 Catalina is officially supported in this version.
This is the last major release before Avid dropped Catalina support in favor of macOS 11 Big Sur and later.
What is the highest supported version of Final Cut can I run on macOS 10.15?
✅ Final Cut Pro 10.5.4
Released: June 2021
Fully compatible with macOS 10.15.6 and 10.15.7 Catalina
Last version that officially supports Catalina before Apple moved on to Big Sur and later.
What is the highest supported version of Logic can I run on macOS 10.15?
✅ Logic Pro 10.6.3
Released: June 2021
Fully compatible with macOS 10.15.6 and 10.15.7 Catalina
This version includes many features and performance improvements while still supporting Catalina users.
What is the highest supported version of Pro Tools can I run on macOS 10.15?
✅ Pro Tools 2021.7
Released: July 2021
Fully compatible with macOS 10.15.6 and 10.15.7 Catalina
Last version to officially support Catalina before Avid shifted minimum requirements to macOS 11 Big Sur.
What is the highest supported version of Traktor can I run on macOS 10.15?
✅ Traktor Pro 3.8.0
To install Traktor Pro 3.8.0 on macOS 10.15 Catalina, follow these steps:
Activate Traktor: Open Native Access, log in with your Native Instruments account, and register your Traktor Pro 3 serial number.Community+3Community+3Community+3
Install Traktor Pro 3.8.0: Once activated, Native Access will allow you to install Traktor Pro 3.8.0.Community
⚠️ Important Considerations
Native Access Compatibility: Ensure you’re using Native Access version 3.5.3, as newer versions may not support macOS 10.15. Community
Hardware Compatibility: Ensure your DJ hardware is compatible with macOS 10.15 Catalina. Some devices may require specific drivers or firmware versions for optimal performance.
System Updates: It’s recommended to keep your macOS 10.15.7 updated to the latest security patches to ensure stability and security when using Serato software.
What is a good source for software that runs on macOS 10.15?
A great source for software that runs on macOS 10.15 Catalina includes both official and trusted third-party sites that offer compatible versions, especially since many developers have moved on to requiring macOS 11 or later. Here are some reliable options:
1. Mac App Store
The safest place to find apps compatible with Catalina.
You can filter and check the app requirements to ensure Catalina support.
Many popular apps and utilities are still maintained for 10.15 compatibility.
2. Developer Websites
For apps like Adobe Creative Cloud 2021, Avid Media Composer 2021.9, Final Cut Pro 10.5.4, and others, it’s best to download directly from official developers to get the correct versions compatible with Catalina.
Examples:
Adobe (via Creative Cloud desktop app)
Native Instruments for Traktor legacy installers
Serato official downloads page
3. Macintosh Garden
A well-known community-driven archive specializing in classic and legacy Mac software.
Good for finding older apps and utilities specifically compatible with macOS 10.15 and earlier.
Check version notes carefully to ensure compatibility with macOS 10.15.
Always back up your system before installing new or legacy software.
For discontinued apps, look for legacy or older versions directly on developer forums or official legacy download pages.
What options do I have to run newer software?
If you’re using macOS 10.15 Catalina, Denver Mac Repair provides patching services that can assist select Macs in upgrading to newer macOS versions beyond Catalina. Since this upgrade process has specific criteria and limitations, we recommend contacting us to see if your Mac is eligible and if this solution meets your needs.
We also offer a variety of affordable used Macs from different model years, perfect for anyone looking for dependable hardware that runs macOS 10.15 Catalina or later. Get in touch with Denver Mac Repair to find the ideal Mac for your setup.
