How to Change Desktop Background on a Mac: An Updated Guide

Updating the desktop background on your Mac can greatly enhance your computing experience, making your workspace more enjoyable and personalized. This article will guide you through the process in detail, ensuring that you can quickly and easily change your desktop background on both old and new macOS versions.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Changing Desktop Background

MacOS Earlier Versions (System Preferences Approach)

For macOS versions prior to Ventura, you can change your desktop background by going to the System Preferences and selecting the Desktop Wallpaper option. From here, navigate to the image you prefer and select it to apply it as your desktop background. This straightforward method allows you to choose from a variety of built-in options.

MacOS Ventura and Later (System Settings Approach)

System Settings is the recommended method for macOS Ventura and later versions. Here’s how you can change your desktop background:

Click on the Apple menu in the upper left of the screen to open the System Settings. Scroll down the list box on the left side until you find the Wallpaper option, and click on it. From here, you can browse through the available desktop pictures or use the Search field to find specific images. Once you find the image you want, click on it to apply it as your new desktop background.

Quick Shortcut: Apple Menu Desktop Screen Saver Panel

For a faster approach, Steve LaFave suggests using the Apple Menu. Here’s how you can do it:

Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences. Click on Desktop Screen Saver. Select the Desktop tab if necessary. A window will open for each connected monitor. Choose a new desktop photo or a solid color, and adjust the scale to better fit your monitor.

Right-click Method

Another effective way to change your desktop background is by right-clicking on the desktop:

Right-click on the desktop. Select Personalize. In the new window, choose any theme you like. Once your wallpaper has been changed, you can use the NEXT BACKGROUND OPTION to access additional theme choices.

Changing Desktop Background Images

For those who want to use a custom image as their desktop background, follow these steps:

Right-click on the current background and select Change Desktop. Ensure the folder with your desired image is visible. If it's not, click on the Choose Folder button and navigate to the containing drive folder, then select the photo. From the drop-down menu, choose the desired display option (Fill, Stretch, or another option). For images from an external drive, make sure the new photo does not revert back to a default Mac image.

Accessing Additional Apple Wallpapers

ActionFinder offers a handy shortcut to change your desktop to an Apple wallpaper:

Open System Preferences. Select Desktop Screen Saver. For a custom image, double-click on the current wallpaper and select Change Wallpaper (the final option).

Conclusion

Changing your desktop background is a simple process that enhances your Mac's visual appeal. Whether you prefer the System Preferences method or the Apple Menu approach, the options to personalize your workspace are within easy reach. Use these steps to get the perfect look for your Mac desktop background.