10 Best Compatible Laptops for Hackintosh in 2021 (Expert Recommendation)

Are you looking for the best laptop for Hackintosh? Don’t worry; you are at the right place. Hackintosh is the modern norm in the digital world. We all know that Apple has been providing the most stable operating system for years. However, neither everyone could afford Apple gadgets, and nor every laptop gives the best hardware configuration. Therefore, numerous users prefer Hackintosh to experience the dual luxuries in non-Apple hardware.

If you are new to this page and don’t know about Hackintosh, then read further. The term “Hackintosh” is the combination of both “Hack” and Macintosh.” It’s a customized way of using macOS into non-Apple hardware. Although Apple produces outstanding inventions, they are costly, and they do not provide the best results.

Therefore, it might sound like a great idea to keep dolling out dollars if you are loyal. However, it doesn’t guarantee the optimal experience as a Windows or other OS would provide to users otherwise. Hence, instead of letting you experiencing continuous bad results, tech-enthusiasts have found a loophole.

If you are looking to buy a laptop for intense pentesting, check out my 7 best laptops of Kali Linux.

Best Laptops For Running Hackintosh

Now that you understand the value of Hackintosh, it’s time to show you another side of the coin. Hackintosh software cannot be run smoothly in ordinary hardware because not every operating system is perfect, and so the Hackintosh. However, running it on a laptop that isn’t meant to be then, you might face the following problems,

  • Power managing issues
  • Boot screen trouble
  • Kernel Panic issues
  • Mouse cursor lagging
  • Stuck when left

Just like this, professional developers were so troubles while searching for compatible best programming laptops.  Therefore, I spend hours of research to find the compatible and best laptops for Hackintosh. They are scientifically tested and recommended by experts. Please have a look at them.

ASUS VivoBook 15.6″
HP Pavilion Gaming 15-Inch Micro-EDGE Laptop
DELL XPS 13 9350
HP Spectre x360
Acer Aspire 7
Lenovo Thinkpad X1Extreme
ASUS ZenBook Flip 14
HP ProBook 450 G6
Acer Swift 3
Lenovo IdeaPad S540

1. ASUS VivoBook 15.6″:

Let’sLet’s begin with a fantastic VivoBook by Asus. It is one of the most suitable substitutes for running Hackintosh. As far you know, there isn’t any touchscreen interaction in MacBook, so in this regard, Asus VivoBook gets you cover perfectly. You get to enjoy numerous benefits in a minimal amount.

CPU:

We have an amazing robust CPU configuration installed in it. It comes with an Intel Core-I5 processor, which has a clock speed up to 3.6 GHz. It makes the system capable of operating Hackintosh and other projects smoothly.

RAM & Storage:

Now you get a dual boost setup without compromising the performance of your laptop. It comes with an 8 GB DDR4 RAM with 256 SSD storage capacity.  Unlike Kali Linux, you don’t have to buy a supercomputer with future-proof specs for Hackintosh.

GPU:

It contains an integrated UHD graphic card that provides you vividly vibrant colors flawlessly. With a 15.6″ FHD IPS display, you get more sharp and accurate details.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Touch screen Human Interaction
Cons
  • Restricted GPU

2. HP Pavilion Gaming 15-Inch Micro-EDGE Laptop:

If you are looking for a laptop that can deal with your intense multitasking, then here it is. Experts highly recommend HP Pavilion 15″ Micro-Edge laptop for an intense gaming experience. Along with that, it is proved as an excellent gadget for Hackintosh. The configuration features are accurately compatible with dual operating systems.

CPU:

It comes with a robust 9th generation Intel i5 Quad-core processor, which is the prime reason to grab it for Hackintosh. The entire CPU possesses excellent strength to handle macOS in non-Apple brands. You can boost up the clocking speed of this laptop up to 4.1 GHz.

RAM & Storage:

It comes with 8 GB DDR4 RAM, which is upgradeable with two memory slots that’s why multitasking is the USP of this laptop. Now you can operate dual OS, fast boot-up, and share files more quickly.

GPU:

Speaking of GPU, it has a dedicated 4 GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphic card that allows you to run heavy graphic applications and games smoothly, making it among the best gaming laptops. You also get a more crisp and clear image while working or watching your favorite movie.

Advance Cooling System:

Since multitasking and a dual operating system heats the laptop real quick, therefore, Pavillion Micro-Edge features a dual cooling system to eliminate heat and keep the temperature down.

Pros
  • Suitable for gaming
  • Ideal for Hackintosh
  • Sophisticated battery life
  • Lightweight
  • Reliable
Cons
  • Expensive

3. DELL XPS 13 9350:

Dell is known for making sturdy and durable laptops. Let me give you a spoiler, it’s a renewed model, and you got to make few replacements for running heavy applications. However, it is accurate for Hackintosh. Despite the classical model, it has perfect compatibility to run Hackintosh.

CPU:

It comes with a 6th generation Intel Core i7-6500U processor. It has a clock speed of 2.5 GHz, which can be up upgraded to 3.1 GHz. Despite the fact, it is an old flagship gadget, yet it complies with macOS Catalina. So, it is good to go.

Design:

Overall, it’s a 13.3″ laptop with QHD resolution. It’s a bit thick and heavy in size, which makes it bulky for traveling. However, it is sturdy and durable.

RAM & Storage:

It comes with an 8GB DDR3 RAM, which is not good enough to run Hackintosh, but you can upgrade it to 16 GB DDR4 RAM, unlike Apple. You will be able to modify it with more responsive and quick hardware.

GPU:

When it comes to graphics, it won’t give you expected results as it is also an old flagship component. It features an integrated Iris Graphics 620, which works accurately with Hackintosh, but it won’t perform well otherwise.

Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Reliable
  • Suitable for Hackintosh
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Heavyweight
  • Old flagship processor

4. HP Spectre x360:

When it comes to quality and excellent specs, HP is the user’s top choice. Since you are looking for a laptop for building Hackintosh, Spectre x360 has something brilliant to reveal to you. Let’s find them all in further.

CPU:

HP Spectre x 360 has a powerful Intel Core i7-8565U processor with a clock speed of up to 4.0 GHz processor. Like every other laptop in the list, Spectre x360 also uses an Intel i7 CPU. However, it complies with your budget.

RAM & Storage:

The 8 GB DDR3L-1600 SDRAM is very handy and hassle-free while using Hackintosh, QuickBooks, and other heavy applications. The 256 GB SSD drive allows you enough storage capacity for saving much data.

GPU:

It comes with Intel HD Graphics 520, which is unfortunately not a dedicated one. Therefore, you have to get UHD graphics for it. The 13.3″ FHD IPS display gives a 1080p resolution and consumes only 1 watt of power, enhancing its battery life up to 12 hours.

Pros
  • Powerful processor
  • Long battery life
  • Large storage capacity
  • Touch screen
Cons
  • No fingerprint scanner

5. Acer Aspire 7:

Acer is always known for making high-quality laptops at an affordable price. It can quickly stir with macOS and give a tremendous performance. The most appealing feature I found in it was the large display. Due to their exceptional display, Aspire series is one of the most prominent laptops for Zoom in 2021. 

Display:

One thing that is found common in both gamers and professional developers is the large display. Everyone does. Therefore, Aspire 7 gives you a 17.3 inch full HD IPS display to provide you with crispy and accurate visuals not to miss any detail.

CPU:

It has a powerful Intel Core i7 Hexa-core processor with a clock speed of 4.10 GHz. Throw away anything to it, and it won’t be a mess. While working on Hackintosh, users gradually observe speed reduction due to continuous intense tasking. However, it won’t be a trouble anymore.

RAM & Storage:

It is an absolute beast when it comes to performance. It features 16 GB RAM that makes your vital tasks smooth. While working on a dual operating system, you usually indulge in multitasking, so this laptop makes it easy for you. However, the 256 GB SSD storage is less for keeping heavy files, but they are upgradeable.

Pros
  • Powerful processor
  • Large display
  • Upgradeable RAM & ROM
  • Awesome price
Cons
  • Ordinary battery life
  • Heavyweight

6. Lenovo Thinkpad  X1 Extreme:

Thinkpad X1 Extreme is an absolute extreme beast for Hackintosh laptops. It comes with a robust hardware configuration that will give you an exceptional working experience. The dedicated RAM, CPU, and GPU make your multitasking smooth and fun.

CPU:

It comes with a powerful Core-i7 8750H processor with a clock rate of up to 4.1 GHz, making it an impressive laptop. Most of the Hackintosh users were found complaining that their system stuck when unattended. Hence, with this configuration setup, you will never face such trouble.

Display:

Lenovo has always prioritized HD display for intense gaming sessions. Therefore, the Thinkpad X1 Extreme comes up with a 15.6″ FHD IPS display for stunning visuals. Adding it up with dedicated GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics, you get more sharp details and vibrant colors.

RAM & Storage:

RAM & StorageStorage is another reason to adore this laptop. It comes with a 16 GB DDR4 RAM and 516GB SSD storage capacity to prove the real meaning of luxury computing.

However, you need to make specific changes to work accurately on Hackintosh. For instance, you won’t be able to use HDMI 2.0 because it is integrated with GPU and not Intel graphics. Similarly, Bluetooth will not also work.

Pros
  • Powerful configuration
  • Dedicated UHD graphics
  • Efficient
  • Stable performance
Cons
  • Bluetooth unavailable
  • Inaccessible HDMI 2.0

7.     ASUS ZenBook Flip 14:

ASUS Zenbook is a suitable option for Hackintosh. It offers sophisticated performance, which is ideal under an affordable price range. However, you might deal with some tweaks, but it is good to go for Hackintosh.

Display:

It’s a 14-inch wide-angle display laptop with thin bezels that provide you stunning visuals. It has a 1920 x 1080 p, which sharpens every aspect so clear that you would never miss any minor detail.

CPU:

It features an Intel Core i5-8250U processor for fast and responsive operation. Hackintosh is easy to install on an average laptop, but it is crucial to have some decent specs for continuous smoothness. Hence, ZenBook Flips is the one.

RAM & Storage:

Speaking of RAM and Storage, we have memories for both 8 GB and 16 GB RAM. On the other hand, we have a 512 GB SSD storage capacity. It’sIt’s pretty much enough for Hackintosh. However, there is an upgradable option available.

Design:

It’sIt’s a 0.5-inch sleek laptop made of pure aluminum and weighs only 3.3 lbs, making it the perfect traveling companion. It offers a built-in fingerprint login facility for security. It can be used in two modes i-e laptop and tablet (By flipping back the keyboard).

Pros
  • Great build
  • Robust processor
  • Large storage capacity
  • Wide-angle display
  • Two modes usage
Cons
  • Ordinary speakers

8. HP ProBook 450 G6:

If you are looking for something that can assist you well in multitasking, you should check out HP ProBook 450 G6. It comes with a dynamic hardware configuration that will give you the ultimate computing experience.

CPU:

To begin with, it comes with an Intel Core i5-8265U processor with a clock speed of 1.6 GHz. Though the clocking speed is low yet this quad-core processor is way better than Core i6 and i7.

RAM & Storage:

One thing that makes me a huge fan of HP is the enormous amount of RAM and Storage. It comes with 16 GB DDR4 RAM, due to which it handles your intense multitasking easily. 512 GB SSD storage capacity allows you to store massive files, heavy games, and movies conveniently.

Design:

Speaking of design, it isn’t that appealing as compared to other laptops. It’sIt’s slightly thick and weighs 3.56 pounds. Even though it’s a bit bulky, but it’s sturdy and durable. Overall, ignoring some hiccups and this laptop is good to consider.

Pros
  • Outstanding processor
  • Superior configuration
  • Affordable
  • Compact
  • Sturdy
Cons
  • Unavailable UHD graphics

9. Acer Swift 3:

Acer is one of the most affordable laptop brands that can be used for Hackintosh. In my opinion, this can fulfill all the essential requirements that a dual operating system demands.

CPU:

We have integrated Core i5-8250U that efficiently handles your dual OS, reboot, and similar intense tasks smoothly at CPU. It has a clock frequency of 3.4 GHz that helps you to perform long sessions seamlessly.

RAM & Storage:

The 8 GB DDR4 RAM can handle intense multitasking such as rebooting, QuickBook, Spreadsheets, etc. You don’t even observe a hiccup while working. Similarly, It has a 256 GB SSD which is a point to be noted. If you have massive files, then it might fell short.

Display:

The 14″ IPS display gives the sharpest and vibrant colors with an integrated UHD 620 graphics that tremendously glorify the image.

Pros
  • Sleek and portable
  • Affordable
  • Efficient configuration
  • Suitable for Hackintosh
Cons
  • Unavailable fingerprint sensor

10. Lenovo IdeaPad S540:

If you want the most compatible alternative to MacBook then, get Lenovo IdeaPad S540. It has almost similar features but comes at a low price. It provides the top of line performance without burdening your wallet.

CPU:

It has an 8th generation Intel Core i7 with a clock speed that can be boosted to 3.9 GHz. Due to its exceptional performance, Lenovo is among the best 8 laptops for accounting.

GPU:

On the other hand, the GPU is not dedicated; however, UHD Graphics works well for macOS Catalina.

RAM & Storage:

When it comes to RAM, we have 12 GB DDR4 RAM, which is comparatively better than the above-listed laptops. You can perform intense tasks or play heavy games without lagging. Storage might be short for you, i-e 256 GGB SSD, but it can be upgradable.

Pros
  • Dual storage capacity
  • Long battery life
  • Versatile feature
  • Exceptional performance
Cons
  • The unavailable touch screen support

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Choose Hackintosh?

Most tech-enthusiasts choose Hackintosh for several reasons if you cannot afford to purchase MacBook (which is costly) or are not satisfied with the hardware.

Can Every Laptop Install Hackintosh?

Not every laptop is reliable when it comes to installing Hackintosh. You have to consider some aspects like RAM, CPU, Storage, and GPU.

Are Hackintosh Laptops Sound?

Yes, these laptops possess future-proof features which are good enough to install and run Hackintosh smoothly. Moreover, your high-tech gaming laptop is also compatible with Hackintosh. Hence, it’s the specs that matter.

Will It Be Costly To Build A Hackintosh Laptop?

Not exactly. It depends upon the type of specs you want to integrate with macOS. However, it will still be an affordable option than MacBook.

Conclusion:

Hackintosh laptops are continuously uplifting the market since the tech-enthusiasts have initiated for a better experience. If you are new to this, you might get inconvenient to searching for the best laptop in the market. However, the list we created above is significantly better and affordable for you.

Keep one thing in mind while using Hackintosh i-e always create a backup for safety. I hope this article would have been proving helpful to you and I hope you will get the most suitable laptop for yourself.

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