What Is a Hackintosh Computer?

Some non-Mac computers can run Apple's operating system

By
Mark Kyrnin
Mark Kyrnin
Writer
  • University of California, Berkeley
Mark Kyrnin is a former Lifewire writer and computer networking and internet expert who also specializes in computer hardware.
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Updated on July 20, 2021

A Hackintosh is any non-Mac computer that a user modifies to run the Apple operating system. Even though Apple doesn't support or advocate running macOS or OS X on a generic PC, it is possible with the proper hardware and enough determination. The term "Hackintosh" comes from the fact that you need to hack the software for it to run on the hardware. The hardware needs to be tweaked in some cases as well.

Computer being hacked

AndSim / iStock

Replace the BIOS

The biggest obstacle to most generic computers running the Mac operating system on their hardware has to do with UEFI. This system was developed to replace the original BIOS systems that allowed computers to boot up.

Apple uses specific extensions to the UEFI not found in most PC hardware. Over the past few years, this has become less of an issue as most systems adopt the new boot mechanisms for the hardware. A good source for lists of known compatible computers and hardware components can be found on the OSx86 Project site.

The lOSx86 Project lists are based upon the various versions of macOS and OS X because each has a differing level of support for hardware, especially with older computer hardware not being able to run newer versions of macOS or OS X.

Lower the Costs

One of the primary reasons people hack the Mac operating system onto generic PC hardware has to do with the cost. Apple is known for high prices for its hardware compared to equivalent Windows systems. Apple's prices have come down over the years to be closer to many comparably configured Windows systems, but there are still more affordable non-Apple laptops and desktops.

Most consumers are less likely to consider hacking a computer system to run the Mac operating systems when affordable alternatives with many of the desired properties are available. Chromebooks are an excellent example of this, as most of these systems can be found for less than half the cost of a basic MacBook.

Building a Hackintosh computer system typically voids any warranties with the hardware manufacturer. Modifying the software to run on the hardware violates copyright laws for Apple's operating system. For these reasons, no companies can legally sell Hackintosh systems.

FAQ
  • How do I build a Hackintosh computer?

    To install macOS on a PC and create a Hackintosh computer, you'd first create a bootable USB drive containing macOS. Next, you'll need to plug the macOS USB boot drive into your PC. Once you've installed macOS, run the free MultiBeast tool from Tonymacx86, which will configure the macOS installation to work seamlessly with your PC hardware.

  • Why did Hackintosh kill my computer?

    Apple introduced a custom-designed M1 chip in some of its new Macs to boost power and battery life. So, Hackintosh users may find that, since they can't put an M1 chip into their PC, they can't run macOS and its new and upgraded software on their Hackintosh machines.

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