What iMacs Will Stop Working in 2026
As we head into 2026, many iMac owners are asking the same question: Will my iMac still work next year?
The short answer is yes — but the more important question is whether your iMac will still receive macOS updates, security patches, and modern app support.
Apple has been steadily transitioning away from older Intel-based Macs and fully committing to Apple Silicon. As a result, several iMac models are effectively reaching the end of their useful lifespan in 2026 — especially if you care about performance, security, and long-term reliability.
This guide breaks down which iMac models are no longer recommended in 2026, which ones are barely hanging on, and which iMacs are still safe to buy Certified Used or Refurbished.
(Photo by Giulia Piccoli Trapletti, DensityDesign Research Lab)
Important Clarification: “Stop Working” Doesn’t Mean Your iMac Turns Off
Let’s clear up a common misconception first.
No iMac will suddenly stop turning on in 2026.
Your computer will still boot, run apps, and connect to the internet.
However, once an iMac stops receiving macOS updates, several things begin to happen:
- No new macOS versions
- Limited or discontinued security updates
- Increasing app incompatibility
- Higher security risks over time
- Rapid resale value decline
For most users, this is the real point where an iMac becomes impractical — especially for work, school, or daily use.
How macOS Update Works
Apple follows a predictable software support cycle for macOS that directly impacts how long an iMac remains secure, compatible, and fully functional. Understanding this cycle is essential—especially if you are buying a Certified Used or Refurbished iMac in 2026.
1. Annual Major macOS Release
Apple releases a new version of macOS every year (macOS 14, macOS 15, now macOS 26). BTW, Apple jumped the numbering from 15 to 26 this year to make it universal for all Apple OS (e.g. iOS 26, iPadOS 26). It’s also easier for users to remember, because Version 26 is planned for 2026. Personally, I really like this new numbering because of its simplicity.
An iMac must meet Apple’s hardware requirements to install the latest OS. If it doesn’t support the new release, it is getting close to End-of-Lifecycle status.
2. Feature Updates for 1 Year
Each major macOS version receives additional features and enhancements for about one year, until the next version is released. Devices supported by the newest macOS get:
- New system features
- UI improvements
- Performance upgrades
- Compatibility with new Apple frameworks
Older devices that miss the upgrade lose out on these improvements.
3. Security Updates for 2–3 More Years
After an iMac stops receiving the latest macOS version, Apple typically continues releasing security patches for the previous macOS versions—usually up to three supported versions (current + two prior).
This keeps older iMacs safe from major vulnerabilities, even without new system features.
4. End of Life: No More Security Updates
When Apple stops providing security updates, the iMac is officially End of Life (EOL). This is when risks increase:
- Browsers stop updating
- Apps become incompatible
- Security threats increase
- Online banking and secure sites may block older macOS
- Performance degradation becomes noticeable
This is when an iMac is effectively considered to have “stopped working” for modern use.
When macOS Support Ends
Apple’s macOS support lifecycle follows a predictable pattern, and understanding it helps you determine when an iMac is truly nearing the end of its usable life. An iMac is considered “supported” as long as it receives at least:
- The latest macOS version OR
- Ongoing security updates
Once both ends are reached, the device becomes functionally obsolete.
Stage 1: No Longer Supports the Latest macOS + Limited Security Updates
When an iMac cannot upgrade to the newest release (in this case, macOS 26), it enters a combined phase of:
- Missing new macOS features
- Missing performance and battery optimizations
- Receiving only security patches for 2–3 more years
In this stage, the iMac still works, but it begins showing limitations:
- Slower Safari performance
- Reduced app compatibility (especially pro apps like Adobe, Final Cut, Logic, etc.)
- Newer accessories or software may not be supported
- Some iCloud and ecosystem features may not function fully
- Hardware-level improvements from newer macOS versions are unavailable
This “limited support” stage is the warning sign that the device is beginning its end-of-life journey.
Stage 2: Security Updates Stop — Fully End of Life
Once Apple stops releasing security updates for the macOS version your iMac is stuck on, the device becomes officially obsolete for modern use.
This is when the iMac effectively “stops working” from a practical standpoint:
- Safari stops supporting modern websites
- Chrome and Firefox stop updating
- Banking and secure sites may block your device
- App developers discontinue support
- Increasing security vulnerabilities
- iCloud and ecosystem services may malfunction
- Some apps (Messages, Photos, etc.) may break or behave unpredictably
At this point, upgrading is no longer optional—it’s necessary to stay safe, compatible, and productive.
Recent macOS Versions & macOS 26
With the release of macOS 26 (macOS Tahoe), Apple now maintains multiple macOS versions at the same time—each receiving different levels of support. Understanding which versions still get updates today helps you see where your iMac stands in Apple’s lifecycle.
As of late 2025, these macOS versions are actively receiving updates:
Supported macOS Versions (as of January 2026)
| Major Version | Release Date | Last Version Number | Last Update |
|---|---|---|---|
| macOS Tahoe (macOS 26 - newest) | Sep 15, 2025 | macOS Tahoe 26.2 | Dec 12, 2025 |
| macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) | Sep 16, 2024 | macOS Sequoia 15.7.3 | Dec 12, 2025 |
| macOS Sonoma (macOS 14) | Sep 23, 2023 | macOS Sonoma 14.8.3 | Dec 12, 2025 |
| macOS Ventura (macOS 13) | Oct 24, 2022 | macOS Ventura 13.7.8 | Aug 20, 2025 |
These versions represent the currently supported OS family:
- macOS 26 Tahoe — Full feature updates + security updates
- macOS 15 Sequoia — No new features, receives security updates only
- macOS 14 Sonoma — No new features, receives security updates only
- macOS 13 Ventura — Expected to reach the end of security support soon
Everything older than macOS Ventura has already entered end-of-life, meaning no security updates and rapidly declining app support.
With macOS 26 setting the new baseline for 2026, any iMac unable to install it—or even unable to stay within the supported versions listed above—is at immediate risk of becoming obsolete.
🚫 iMac Models That Are Outdated in 2026 (No Security Updates)
The following iMac models, along with any prior models, are considered fully outdated by 2026. Even if they technically still power on, they are no longer safe or sensible for most users, because they don’t support the new macOS version and aren’t receiving any security updates.
| Model | Series | Release Year | CPU | Screen Size | Initial macOS | Final macOS | Final Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iMac 2013 | iMac | 2013 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | OS X Mountain Lion | macOS 10.15 Catalina | Jul 2022 |
| iMac 2014 | iMac | 2014 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | OS X Mavericks | macOS 11 Big Sur | Sep 2023 |
| iMac 2015 | iMac | 2015 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | OS X Yosemite | macOS 12 Monterey | Jul 2024 |
⚠️ iMac Models Barely Hanging On in 2026 (Security Updates Only)
These models are in a gray area. Apple may still provide limited security updates, but they don’t support the newest macOS 26 and are no longer future-proof.
| Model | Series | Release Year | CPU | Screen Size | Initial macOS | Final macOS | Last Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iMac 2017 | iMac | 2017 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | macOS 10.12 Sierra | macOS 13 Ventura | Aug 2025 |
| iMac Pro 2017 | iMac Pro | 2017 | Intel Xeon W | 27-inch | macOS 10.13 High Sierra | macOS 15 Sequoia | Dec 2025 |
| iMac 2019 | iMac | 2019 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | macOS 10.14 Mojave | macOS 15 Sequoia | Dec 2025 |
✅ iMac Models That Still Work Well in 2026 (Support macOS 26)
The following models support the latest macOS 26 and are receiving security updates from Apple. Their software is actively covered by Apple. If you are considering buying one in 2026, we recommend the following. In addition, you may want to choose the ones with Apple chipsets (e.g. M1, M2, etc.), because Apple tends to provide longer support for its own chipsets.
| Model | Series | Release Year | CPU | Screen Size | Initial macOS | Support macOS 26 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iMac 2020 | iMac | 2020 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9 | 21.5-inch, 27-inch | macOS 10.15 Catalina | Yes |
| iMac 2021 | iMac | 2021 | M1 | 24-inch | macOS 11 Big Sur | Yes |
| iMac 2023 | iMac | 2023 | M3 | 24-inch | macOS 13 Ventura | Yes |
| iMac 2024 | iMac | 2024 | M4 | 24-inch | macOS 15 Sequoia | Yes |
Final Verdict — Which iMacs Stop Working in 2026?
Effectively obsolete: iMac 2015 and prior models
Barely usable (security updates only): iMac 2017–2019 and iMac Pro 2017
Fully working (supports the newest macOS): iMac 2020 and later
If you’re upgrading in 2026, we recommend buying the iMac 2021 (M1) or later model because of its Apple chipset. A Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Silicon iMac will last years longer, run faster, and stay secure.
FAQ — What iMacs Stop Working in 2026
1. What does “stop working” mean for an iMac in 2026?
“Stop working” does not mean the iMac will suddenly power off. It means the device no longer receives macOS updates or security patches, which leads to app incompatibility, browser issues, higher security risks, and declining usability for modern tasks.
2. Will my iMac still turn on in 2026 even if it’s unsupported?
Yes. Unsupported iMacs will still boot and run basic functions. However, without macOS updates or security patches, they become increasingly unsafe and incompatible with modern software and websites.
3. Is it safe to use an iMac that only receives security updates?
Temporarily, yes. iMacs receiving security updates only (but not the latest macOS) are still usable for basic tasks. However, this is a transition phase, and these models are approaching end-of-life. Buying one in 2026 is not recommended.
4. Which iMac models are fully outdated in 2026?
iMac models from 2015 and earlier are fully outdated in 2026. They no longer receive macOS updates or security patches and are considered end-of-life for modern use.
5. Which iMac models are barely usable in 2026?
The following models are in the “security updates only” phase and are nearing obsolescence:
- iMac 2017
- iMac 2019
- iMac Pro 2017
These models still function but are no longer future-proof.
6. Which iMac models still fully work in 2026?
iMac models that support macOS 26 and remain fully viable in 2026 include:
- iMac 2020
- iMac 2021 (M1)
- iMac 2023 (M3)
- iMac 2024 (M4)
7. Does Apple Silicon matter when buying an iMac in 2026?
Yes. Apple Silicon (M1, M3, M4) iMacs receive longer software support, better performance, and stronger long-term compatibility. Intel iMacs are being phased out and should be avoided unless already owned.
8. Is an Intel iMac still worth buying in 2026?
No. Even if an Intel iMac technically supports macOS 26, Apple’s long-term roadmap is focused on Apple Silicon. Intel models will lose support sooner and decline faster in resale value.
9. How long does Apple usually support iMacs with security updates?
After an iMac stops receiving the latest macOS version, Apple typically provides security updates for 2–3 additional years. Once those updates end, the device is officially end-of-life.
10. What happens when security updates stop completely?
Once security updates stop:
- Browsers stop updating
- Banking and secure sites may block access
- Apps lose compatibility
- Security vulnerabilities increase
- iCloud and ecosystem features may malfunction
At this stage, the iMac is no longer suitable for modern use.
11. Should I buy a Certified Used or Refurbished iMac in 2026?
Yes — but only Apple Silicon models. Certified Used or Refurbished iMacs with Apple chips offer the best balance of price, performance, longevity, and security.
12. What is the best iMac to buy in 2026 for value?
The iMac 2021 (M1) remains the best value choice in 2026. It supports macOS 26, offers strong performance, and is widely available Certified Used or Refurbished at a significant discount.
