Written by
Yuri ZhangSummary: This article offers a tutorial on accessing Startup Options on a Mac with Apple Silicon through the Apple logo key and Power button.
Startup Options is the Swiss army knife for maintaining our Apple Silicon Mac. Whether we're installing macOS, performing disk repairs, or recovering lost files, learning this boot method empowers us to take control of Mac's health and data.
This guide walks through every step, includes helpful tips, and highlights, especially if you're new to macOS. Now let's dive into how to access Startup Options on Apple Silicon Mac M1/M2/M3/M4.
Note: If your Mac is unresponsive or misbehaving, Startup Options is the gateway to Recovery Mode and other essential utilities.
What are Startup Options on Apple Silicon Macs?
Startup Options is a special boot interface introduced with Apple Silicon. It allows us to:
- Start up from different volumes or disks.
- Access macOS Recovery.
- Run disk diagnostics and repairs.
- Restore macOS from Time Machine
- Use advanced system tools
Unlike Intel-based Macs that use Command + R for Recovery, Apple Silicon Macs utilize a different method. Share and continue to see the essence of this article.
How to access Startup Options on an Apple Silicon Mac
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Shut down your Mac. If your Mac is on, click the Apple logo > Shut Down.
Step 2: Press and hold the Power button. Hold it for at least 10 seconds, don't let go too early.
Step 3: When you see "Loading startup options...", release the button. You'll enter the Startup Options interface.
Step 4: Choose an option:
- Macintosh HD: Boot your Mac normally.
- Options > Continue: Enter macOS Recovery to troubleshoot.
- Shut Down or Restart
What you can do in macOS Recovery (Under “Options”)
Once inside Recovery Mode, you'll have access to these tools:
- Disk Utility: Check or repair your internal/external drives.
- Reinstall macOS: Download and reinstall the latest compatible macOS.
- Restore from Time Machine: Roll back your Mac to a previous state.
- Safari (Get Help Online): Access Apple's support site.
- Terminal: Advanced command-line tool for troubleshooting.
Warning: Some actions, like disk erasure or OS reinstallation, can lead to data loss. Always back up before proceeding.
Also read How to enable system extensions on Apple Silicon M1/M2/M3/M4 Mac
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