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Xps 13 9370 Hackintosh [best] May 2026

Installing macOS on Dell XPS 13 9370: A Hackintosh Guide

The Dell XPS 13 9370 is a powerful and compact laptop that has gained popularity among developers, designers, and tech enthusiasts. However, its limited operating system options may deter some users who prefer to run macOS. Fortunately, with a little effort, you can install macOS on your XPS 13 9370 using a Hackintosh setup. In this post, we'll walk you through the process and highlight the key steps to get macOS up and running on your Dell XPS 13 9370.

Hardware Specifications:

Software Requirements:

Preparation:

  1. Backup your data: Before you start, make sure to backup any important files on your XPS 13 9370. This process will erase your existing Windows installation and data.
  2. Create a macOS installation media: Download the macOS installation files from the App Store and create a bootable USB drive using a tool like TransMac or UNetbootin.
  3. Gather essential kexts: Collect the necessary kexts for your XPS 13 9370, including:
    • Intel UHD Graphics 620 kext
    • ALC2952 (or ALC298) audio kext
    • DW1560 (or DW1820A) Wi-Fi kext
    • Intel USB kext

Installation Steps:

  1. Prepare your XPS 13 9370: Enter the BIOS settings (F2) and:
    • Disable Secure Boot
    • Set the SATA mode to AHCI
    • Save and exit
  2. Boot from the macOS installation media: Insert the bootable USB drive and restart your XPS 13 9370. Enter the BIOS settings (F2) and set the USB drive as the first boot option. Save and exit.
  3. Install macOS: Follow the on-screen instructions to install macOS on your XPS 13 9370. When prompted, select the SSD as the installation destination.
  4. Configure the bootloader: Install Clover (or OpenCore) and configure it to boot macOS. You may need to create a config.plist file to specify the essential kexts and settings.

Post-Installation:

  1. Install essential kexts: Inject the collected kexts into your config.plist file or install them manually using the /Library/Extensions directory.
  2. Fix audio: Configure the audio kext to enable sound on your XPS 13 9370.
  3. Fix Wi-Fi: Install the DW1560 (or DW1820A) Wi-Fi kext to enable wireless connectivity.
  4. Fix graphics: Optimize the Intel UHD Graphics 620 kext for better performance.

Challenges and Limitations:

Conclusion:

Installing macOS on a Dell XPS 13 9370 using a Hackintosh setup can be a rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of hardware and software capabilities. However, it requires patience, technical expertise, and a willingness to troubleshoot. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to running macOS on your XPS 13 9370. Happy Hackintosh-ing!

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Warranty and support implications should be considered before attempting a Hackintosh installation.

The Dell XPS 13 9370 is a highly regarded "ultrabook" candidate for a Hackintosh build, largely due to its 8th Gen Intel hardware which matches the architecture of genuine Apple MacBook Pros from the same era Core Hardware Compatibility

: The Intel Core i7-8550U and UHD Graphics 620 are fully supported with full graphics acceleration using Lilu and WhateverGreen kexts.

: Both 1080p and 4K panels work well. The 4K variant supports multi-touch gestures and high-DPI scaling, making it one of the few ways to experience a 4K touchscreen "Mac".

: The Realtek ALC3271 (or ALC299 variant) works with AppleALC. Some users report minor issues with the internal microphone or the headphone jack combo which may require additional layout ID patching. Thunderbolt 3

: USB-C ports generally support data and charging. Thunderbolt hot-plugging can be temperamental; it often requires a warm boot or specific BIOS/ACPI patches to function reliably. Major Limitations & Hardware Swaps Wi-Fi/Bluetooth : The stock Killer Wi-Fi card is soldered to the motherboard and is not natively compatible with macOS. While some developers have created drivers ( xps 13 9370 hackintosh

), many users rely on a tiny USB Wi-Fi dongle for reliable internet. : The default Samsung PM981 SSD

is known to cause kernel panics and instability in macOS. It is highly recommended to replace it with a compatible NVMe drive like the WD Black SN750/770 for a stable experience. Biometrics Fingerprint sensor

does not work under macOS as there are no compatible drivers. Recommended Software Setup Bootloader

is the current standard, offering better security (SIP and FileVault support) and a cleaner "vanilla" installation compared to the older Clover. : Stable builds have been confirmed up through macOS Ventura (13.x)

. Newer versions like Sonoma or Sequoia may require updated EFI configurations to maintain Metal graphics support. MacBookPro14,1 MacBookPro15,4 to best match the 8th Gen Kaby Lake R architecture. Essential BIOS Settings

To ensure the installer boots, the following BIOS changes are typically required: tonyu124/DELL-XPS-13-9370-Hackintosh - GitHub

The Silicon Alchemist: The Art and Complexity of the XPS 13 9370 Hackintosh

The "Hackintosh"—the act of installing Apple’s macOS on non-Apple hardware—has long been a cornerstone of enthusiast computing. Among the myriad of laptops targeted for this transformation, the Dell XPS 13 9370 stands out as a definitive case study. To transform this flagship Windows machine into a functional "MacBook Pro alternative" is more than a simple software installation; it is an exercise in silicon alchemy, requiring a deep understanding of ACPI patching, kernel extensions, and the delicate balance of hardware-software synergy. The Allure of the 9370 Framework

The Dell XPS 13 9370 is often cited as the "perfect" Hackintosh candidate due to its physical parity with Apple’s design philosophy. With its vibrant 4K InfinityEdge display, compact aluminum chassis, and dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, it mirrors the aesthetic and functional goals of the MacBook Pro line. For users, the motivation is clear: to combine Dell’s superior industrial design and port selection with the fluidity of the macOS ecosystem, all while avoiding the "Apple Tax." Technical Hurdles and Kernel Mastery

The path to a stable 9370 Hackintosh is defined by the transition from the older Clover bootloader to the modern OpenCore framework. The technical challenge lies in the "Blackbox" nature of Apple’s drivers. To make macOS "believe" it is running on native hardware, developers must create complex SSDT (System Secondary Description Table) patches.

The most significant hurdle for the 9370 specifically involves the Killer Wi-Fi card. Because macOS lacks drivers for many Atheros-based chips, users are often forced to choose between complex software workarounds or physically replacing the wireless card—a task made difficult by the 9370’s soldered components in some configurations. Furthermore, achieving "sleep/wake" stability and Thunderbolt hot-plugging functionality requires precise mapping of USB ports and power management profiles, transforming the user from a mere consumer into a systems debugger. The Community as a Catalyst

What makes the XPS 13 9370 Hackintosh viable is not a single genius, but a global collaborative effort. Platforms like GitHub and various enthusiast forums host "Golden Builds"—repository-based configurations that provide the necessary EFI folders and config.plist files. This open-source spirit allows a novice to stand on the shoulders of experts who have spent hundreds of hours troubleshooting I2C trackpad drivers or audio codecs. It is a rare example of "crowdsourced engineering" aimed at breaking down proprietary digital walls. Conclusion: A Lesson in Digital Sovereignty

Ultimately, the Dell XPS 13 9370 Hackintosh is a testament to user agency. It represents a refusal to be locked into a specific hardware-software vertical. While Apple continues to move toward its proprietary "Apple Silicon" (M-series chips), which effectively signals the eventual end of the Intel-based Hackintosh era, the 9370 remains a high-water mark for the movement. It proves that with enough community resolve and technical ingenuity, the boundaries of what a machine "should" do are limited only by the user’s willingness to tinker.

Dell XPS 13 9370 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. (Early 2018) remains one of the most popular laptops for "Hackintoshing" due to its 8th-generation Intel processor and MacBook-like aesthetic. While modern macOS versions like Ventura (13.x) are stable, the upcoming end of Intel support in macOS (likely by 2026) makes this a project for users who prioritize current utility over long-term software updates. 🖥️ Hardware Compatibility

The 9370 is highly compatible but has a few critical "roadblocks" you must address: Installing macOS on Dell XPS 13 9370: A

CPU/GPU: The Intel Core i7-8550U and UHD Graphics 620 work natively with full hardware acceleration using the MacBookPro14,1 SMBIOS.

Storage: Some units ship with Samsung PM961 or Intel 600p NVMe SSDs, which are notoriously incompatible with macOS and can cause kernel panics. Replacing them with a WD Blue SN570 or SN750 is recommended.

Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: The stock Killer 1435 card is soldered on some 9370 sub-models. If yours is soldered, you must use the AirportItlwm kext to make it work; if it's a standard M.2 slot, replacing it with a Broadcom card is the traditional path.

RAM: The memory is soldered and cannot be upgraded; ensure your model has at least 8GB (ideally 16GB) for a smooth experience. ✅ What Works vs. ❌ What Doesn't

Most core functions are achievable with a properly configured OpenCore EFI. Memory - XPS 13 9370 Setup and Specifications | Dell US

NOTE: : The memory is integrated on the system board from the factory and it cannot be upgraded later. My finally perfect XPS 13 Hackintosh :D (everything works!

The Dell XPS 13 9370 is a popular "gold standard" candidate for a Hackintosh because its 8th-gen Intel hardware closely mimics real MacBooks of that era. Core Compatibility

CPU/GPU: The Intel Core i7-8550U (Kaby Lake R) and integrated UHD Graphics 620 are natively supported.

Operating Systems: Users have successfully run everything from macOS Mojave to macOS Ventura.

Success Rate: Most core features like the 4K touchscreen, sleep/wake, and Thunderbolt 3 can be made fully functional with the right OpenCore EFI configuration. Critical Hardware Hurdles Dell XPS 13 (9370) - ArchWiki

Dell XPS 13 9370 is widely considered one of the best "Hackintosh" ultrabooks because its hardware—specifically the 8th Gen Intel Core processors—closely matches contemporary real Macs. Users have successfully installed various macOS versions, including Mojave, Catalina, and Ventura, with many reporting a near-"perfect" experience where major features like power management and multi-touch gestures function correctly Hackintosh Compatibility & Performance

Transforming this 2018 ultrabook into a "Hackbook Air" offers a high-performance macOS experience on a budget compared to official Apple hardware. Processor & Graphics

: Most models use the Intel Core i7-8550U or i5-8250U, both of which are natively supported by macOS. The integrated UHD Graphics 620 provides full hardware acceleration, making the UI feel fluid. Trackpad & Keyboard : With the correct drivers (like VoodooPS2Controller.kext

), the trackpad supports native macOS gestures and smooth scrolling.

: Both the 1080p and 4K InfinityEdge displays work well. The 4K model requires specific scaling adjustments for a clean UI. Thunderbolt 3 Dell XPS 13 9370 Intel Core i5 or

features two full-speed 4-lane Thunderbolt 3 ports. While functional, hot-swapping USB devices on these ports can sometimes be temperamental depending on the specific mapping Key Challenges

Despite high compatibility, there are specific hardware hurdles to manage: Memory - XPS 13 9370 Setup and Specifications | Dell US

NOTE: : The memory is integrated on the system board from the factory and it cannot be upgraded later.

The Dell XPS 13 9370 is widely considered one of the best ultrabooks for a "Hackintosh" project due to its near-perfect hardware compatibility with macOS, particularly models using the Intel UHD Graphics 620 and 8th Gen Kaby Lake R processors. While the process requires technical patience, modern tools like the OpenCore Install Guide have made achieving a stable, daily-driver setup more accessible than ever. Hardware Compatibility & Specifications

The 9370's internal architecture closely mirrors the MacBook Pro 14,1 and 14,2 models, allowing for native power management and graphics acceleration.

CPU: 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8250U or i7-8550U (Fully supported).

GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 620 (Supports Metal acceleration and 4K output).

Display: Both the 1080p and 4K touch versions work, though 4K requires specific framebuffer patches for stability.

Audio: Realtek ALC3271 (Supported via AppleALC kext with layout ID 21 or 299).

The WiFi Hurdle: The stock Killer 1435/Qualcomm QCA6174A card is soldered to the motherboard and is not natively supported by macOS. You will need a compatible USB nano-dongle or use Android USB tethering for internet access. Essential BIOS Settings

Before installation, you must configure the XPS 13 9370 BIOS to ensure the OpenCore bootloader can hand off to macOS. SATA Mode: Set to AHCI (Crucial for macOS to see the SSD). Secure Boot: Set to Disabled. Fast Boot: Set to Thorough. Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX): Disabled.

Virtualization: Enable "Intel Virtualization Technology" but disable "VT-d" if you aren't using the DisableIoMapper quirk. Step-by-Step Installation Overview

While pre-built EFI folders exist on platforms like GitHub , it is highly recommended to build your own to ensure security and stability.

3.3 ACPI Tables (SSDTs)

The 9370 requires specific compiled SSDTs to tell macOS how to handle hardware:

  1. SSDT-PLUG: Enables CPU power management.
  2. SSDT-GPIO: Required for VoodooI2C to recognize the trackpad interrupt.
  3. SSDT-PNLF: Enables backlight control for the display.
  4. SSDT-XOSI: Redirects the Operating System Interface to convince hardware it is running Windows (for driver compatibility).
  5. SSDT-EC-USBX: Fixes the Embedded Controller and USB power properties.

4.5. Touchpad Fine‑Tuning

Edit VoodooI2C.kext/Contents/Info.plist → set Force Polling to true, because the XPS 9370 touchpad may not work in interrupt mode.

2.3 Input

Part 4: Post-Installation - Perfecting the Experience

Once you boot into macOS for the first time, the "Hackintosh" is rough. Here is how to polish it.

Part 3: Step-by-Step EFI Configuration for the 9370

This is the critical part. You cannot use a generic EFI. Here is what your config.plist needs specifically for the 9370.