System settings vs. System preferences on Mac
Are you wondering what the difference is between System Settings vs System Preferences on a Mac? It's a question we've seen posted on lots of Apple community forums.
If you've recently updated macOS and noticed System Settings instead of System Preferences, you're not imagining things.
Back with macOS Ventura, Apple renamed and redesigned System Preferences to System Settings. We'll break it all down and explain what's changed.
Is System Settings the same as System Preferences?
The name may have changed, but System Settings performs the same function as the previously named System Preferences.
You can think of it as a central hub that allows you to configure and manage various functions and settings on your Mac; here's a closer look at what's changed:
- Design. Now, it is sleeker and with a sidebar layout similar to the iOS setting.
- Search. It's got improved search functionality, so you can find things quicker.
- Grouping. There's a more logical grouping of items and settings; it takes a little getting used to.
Knowing where various settings are on your Mac is really important for keeping your device in top form, optimized, and running smoothly. Below, we've got a bonus tip for you on how to maintain a healthy Mac.
How to keep your MacBook in good shape
When it comes to looking after your Mac, regular cleanup and troubleshooting can save you a lot of headaches.
Use a tool like CleanMyMac to take care of laborious tasks, its Smart Care feature is a powerful tool that carries out an all-in-one health check, locating junk files, threats, performance issues, and more; here's how to get started:
- Install the seven-day free trial.
- Click Smart Care > Scan.
- Select tasks and click Run.
Now you know what System settings vs System preferences on Mac and how to keep your device in good shape.