iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017)
Our verdict
Revive it.
Apple’s updates ended on macOS Ventura 13. The community’s didn’t.
I
Give it a new OS
OpenCore Legacy Patcher runs macOS Tahoe 26 on this machine — a modern browser and current patches, unofficially. OpenCore Legacy Patcher ↗
II
Give it a job
A single-purpose desk machine — music, photos, a second screen with history.
III
Or let it go
Apple parts availability is winding down (vintage status). Trade-in value is modest — selling privately usually beats the quote.
VintageTops out at macOS Ventura 13 — or macOS Tahoe 26 with OpenCore.
The record
Introduced
2017
Model identifier
iMac18,3
Chip
Intel Core i5/i7 Kaby Lake
Architecture
Intel
Latest official release
macOS Ventura 13
With OpenCore Patcher
macOS Tahoe 26 · official patcher site
Security updates
Ended — macOS Ventura received its final security update in 2025 (last release 13.7.8 (2025-08-20)).
Apple hardware status
Vintage — parts winding down
Data confidence
high
Common questions
What is the newest macOS for the iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017)?
The iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) officially tops out at macOS Ventura 13. The community’s OpenCore Legacy Patcher can take it to macOS Tahoe 26, unofficially.
Is the iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) still getting security updates?
No. Ended — macOS Ventura received its final security update in 2025 (last release 13.7.8 (2025-08-20)).
Can the iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) run a newer macOS than Ventura 13?
Officially, no. Unofficially, yes: OpenCore Legacy Patcher runs macOS Tahoe 26 on this machine — a modern browser and current patches. It’s unsupported territory, so back up first.
Is the iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) vintage or obsolete?
Apple classifies it as vintage: parts and service are winding down but may still be available.
Same shelf