If you are using an old macOS version, you should upgrade to the latest one. The new version of macOS, which is Sonoma, just launched on September 26, 2023. It comes with amazing updates and features which will enhance the overall user experience. New features, enhanced functionality, and enhanced security are all brought about by Apple’s macOS releases. Many people are discussing the Ventura vs Sonoma comparison and whether it’s worthwhile to upgrade from macOS Ventura after the release of macOS Sonoma.

So, we thought why not provide you with a comprehensive comparison between macOS Sonoma vs macOS Ventura in terms of the features and upgrades?

Therefore, keep reading and exploring this amazing blog post to learn about the features and upgrades between Ventura and Sonoma. After reading this comparison, we hope you will come to know if it is worth upgrading your macOS version or not.

What is macOS Ventura?

Understanding the unique features of each operating system is necessary before comparing macOS Sonoma vs Ventura. When macOS Ventura was launched in October 2022, it brought with it several noteworthy improvements meant to improve the user experience.

Optimizing multitasking capabilities was the main goal of this version, which made it simpler for users to manage several activities at once and navigate between apps.

With significant enhancements to the programs you use daily, like as Mail, Messages, and Safari, macOS Ventura enhances the things you do most on your Mac.

If your Mac device has a permanent camera, you may employ any iPhone device as a webcam. Additionally, Stage Manager provides a whole new method for automatically positioning or arranging your windows.

Furthermore, Ventura presented new collaboration proficiencies that made it easier to collaborate with others in real-time, inspiring smooth communication and teamwork.

With better features intended to protect users’ data protection and privacy, Ventura also saw an increase in security, guaranteeing a safer computing world. Together, these developments sought to raise macOS users’ efficiency and efficiency. Now, we will discuss the newly launched macOS Sonoma before getting into the Ventura vs Sonoma comparison.

Also Read: How To Install pip3 on Mac, Windows And Linux Distributions

What is The New macOS Sonoma?

In the meanwhile, the September 2023 release of macOS Sonoma is packed with fantastic new capabilities that enable customers to achieve even more. The newest of these are desktop widgets, which let users turn their desktop into a location where they can easily access tools and information that help them keep current and expedite operations.

The better security features are among the main advantages of switching to Sonoma. The most recent security developments include extra privacy settings, strong malware defenses, and complex encryption protocols—all essential for keeping the data of your organization.

In addition, the update prioritizes gaming enhancements by providing improved visuals and performance to satisfy player needs. It includes improved graphics rendering and optimized frame rates.

Finally, Sonoma prioritizes better-quality energy efficiency to keep devices cool and makes careful use of the battery for any sort of device to extend hardware life and contribute to a more sustainable computing environment. Overall, the enhancements to Apple’s operating system are amazing.

Ventura vs Sonoma: Features Comparison

Now you know about what are both the macOS versions, we think it is the best time to compare both versions. So you can easily understand whether you should upgrade to the latest version or not. Here is the detailed Mac OS Ventura vs Sonoma comparison:

1. Performance

One distinctive feature of macOS Sonoma is its place in Apple’s Silicon transition timetable. The loop was completed in June 2023 with the release of the M2-powered MacBook. Consequently, the first significant macOS version after the changeover was finished is macOS Sonoma. Furthermore, it becomes logical to assume that the upgrade has been carefully tailored to provide better performance for Apple Silicon Mac versions.

However, several issues keep us from seeing how well the upgrade works on macOS Sonoma and how it stacks up against macOS Ventura.

The stable public version of macOS Sonoma is still not in our possession. Rather, the public beta versions serve as the basis for our testing. As you may expect, beta versions of the operating system function poorly.

Additionally, macOS Sonoma adds a few capabilities to enhance performance for particular workloads, such as gaming. For example, we must take into account Game mode, which will give priority to certain games to maximize their GPU and CPU resources. However, this point makes macOS Sonoma a clear winner in our Ventura vs Sonoma comparison.

2. Widgets

Widgets will undoubtedly be among the most readily identifiable elements that users of macOS Sonoma will see on their desktops. The Notification Center was once home to these engaging mini-apps, so they are not new. You may drag them to your desktop in Sonoma for quick and convenient access.

Thanks to Continuity, which has the ingenious function of instantaneously syncing whatever you do on the Mac version with the iPhone version, you can now add widgets for iPhone apps.

To improve user engagement and functionality, macOS Sonoma announces interactive widgets that can be used both directly on the desktop and within applications. On the other hand, macOS Ventura only has a limited number of widget options, mostly limited to the Notification Center.

Previously, Sonoma, in macOS Ventura, widgets were exclusively a component of the Notification Center. You could add and modify them in the previous OS version, but that was all.

Widgets have a clever design to decline out when you launch a fresh program, so you don’t have to worry about them captivating up your focus while you’re working.

3. Screensavers

In addition to the widgets, Apple’s emphasis on customization in macOS Sonoma also introduces new screensavers. The camera moves around breathtaking landscapes in these high-definition films, but when you relate with the Mac, it slows down and stops, making the sights static. It makes us think of the Apple TV’s screensavers. Since it’s little, it looks beautiful. Therefore, it is one of the biggest differences if we compare the features in our Mac Ventura vs Sonoma comparison.

When customers interact with their Mac, Sonoma’s new visually appealing screensavers change from high-definition visuals to stationary photos. These screensavers make the desktop experience more beautiful and individualized.

The gorgeous slow-motion screen saver replaces your desktop background when you check in. The screen saver will play slowly on your screen when your computer is not in use. You may select from a variety of screensavers, such as underwater video, cityscapes, and landscapes.

Also Read: Siri vs Alexa: Which Assistant Reigns Supreme?

4. Video Conferencing

Another area that has become much more intriguing with macOS Sonoma is video conferencing. Although Ventura previously had this function, Sonoma adds a few more elements that give your video calls a more polished and well-organized look.

Now that the Presenter Overlay function puts you in the limelight, you may stand in front of your shared screen and seem like a professional conference speaker. As an alternative, you may place a little bubble above your shared screen to see how you seem when presenting.

A major upgrade has also been made to Continuity Camera, a feature that was initially introduced with macOS Ventura and allows you to use your iPhone’s sophisticated camera system for video conferences.

These improvements will allow you to switch between your iPhone’s imaging devices, i.e., camera, zoom in, and reset yourself. Sonoma is worth a try if you appreciate HD video conferencing.

5. Compatibility

The additional features and capabilities of macOS Sonoma can require more advanced hardware or other specific configurations. Before switching to Sonoma, make sure it works with your Mac. It’s possible that the previous version, Ventura, works with more Mac machines.

Another frequent issue that arises when customers wish to upgrade their system is: how can I update my Mac if it indicates that there is no update? Make sure your Mac is compatible with macOS Sonoma. The following Mac models are compatible with macOS 14 Sonoma:

• 2017’s iMac Pro
• 2018 and subsequent models of the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac mini
• 2019 and subsequent models of the iMac and Mac Pro
• Later, in 2022, Mac Studio

6. Improved Meetings

There is another big difference between Mac Ventura vs Sonoma. Additionally, macOS Sonoma offers some capabilities to enhance your overall meeting and presentation management. First, you may select overlays, which will display a portrait version of your movie on the front and the screen content on the back. Two, you may display a live video of yourself during the presentation in a variety of ways.

Another new feature in macOS Sonoma is called Reactions, which you may activate with a variety of motions. These may greatly enhance virtual meetings and will function natively. Furthermore, Apple Silicon Macs now provide better screen-sharing features, including the ability to share material from numerous windows and programs.

Also Read: The Impact of M1 Chip on Software Performance on MacBook

7. Security Features

The security of every OS version was already excellent since macOS is a closed-source operating system. Because active security patches ensure that there are no vulnerabilities for unscrupulous actors to exploit, Ventura users won’t have any problems with OS security.

Nevertheless, macOS Sonoma still makes a few enhancements, like Lockdown Mode and Communication Safety.

On the one hand, Communication Safety offers protection and content warning for third-party applications and messages. Sensitive images and movies are automatically blurred by the OS, which also alerts you before viewing them. However, Lockdown Mode has improved defenses against online threats, keeping your Mac safer than before.

Ventura vs Sonoma: Comparison Table

Here is an overview of the comparison table for your better understanding:

Should You Upgrade to macOS Sonoma?

When choosing whether to update your Mac to macOS Sonoma, there are several factors to consider.

First, you should think about compatibility and security. Maintaining a more recent version of macOS on your Mac is more sensible than sticking with an older one. Consequently, we must advise everyone to switch from macOS Ventura to macOS Sonoma. However, productivity and performance are two distinct things.

You should check something, though, if you want the optimum performance. We think that an M1/M2 Mac is the only way to get the most out of macOS Sonoma. The total battery life of MacBook’s running macOS Sonoma would be similar.

If you value improved multitasking features and sophisticated video conferencing, think about switching to macOS Sonoma. Additionally, it’s a fantastic option if you value gaming performance or want more customization choices and a better energy economy in Safari.

However, if your Mac doesn’t seem to be compatible with Sonoma, you might wish to continue with macOS Ventura.

Conclusion

Comparing Sonoma to its previous version, macOS Ventura, highlights its intriguing new features and enhancements. Sonoma’s enhanced performance makes it a worthwhile update for Mac users. Upgrades need to be completed one at a time.

Make a full backup of your Time Machine before updating your operating system. To make an educated choice, assess your nonprofit’s unique requirements and upgrade preparedness. Get in touch with your managed cloud services provider for a one-on-one session if you require help.

Depending on your objectives, you may choose between macOS Ventura vs Sonoma. For the majority of customers, Sonoma is an appealing update because of its sophisticated features, improved performance, and energy economy. However, sticking with Ventura is a sensible choice if your Mac is incompatible or if you’re happy with what Ventura has to offer. Comment below if you find this blog post informative or if you want to ask any related queries.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which is better, Ventura or Sequoia?

Sequoia incorporates improvements to the way apps load and run on the system. Applications launch more quickly than Ventura, especially those that need a lot of resources, like the Adobe Creative Suite or Final Cut Pro.

Should I upgrade to macOS Sonoma 2025?

Always check compatibility with your particular Mac model before upgrading, and be aware of potential compatibility issues with older applications. Most users should think about upgrading to macOS Sonoma because it generally offers improved performance, more secure features, and new productivity tools, which makes it a good choice for most Mac users.

Is Ventura more recent than Big Sur?

Yes, Ventura is newer than Big Sur. Big Sur is an earlier version of macOS, whereas Ventura is the current version.

Does Sonoma use more RAM?

Although 16 GB of RAM is advised, Mac OS X Sonoma requires a minimum of 8 GB. The number of tabs open in a browser and the apps running determine how much RAM a computer needs.