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ChristianZhao's avatar
ChristianZhao
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2025

How Can I Create bootable usb install for macbook pro 2012 on a PC?

Hi all, I bought a refurbished MacBook Pro 2012 without OS on it. It is very old and unable to use the Internet recovery for reinstalling macOS. How can I create bootable usb install for Macbook Pro...
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Tomilsonw's avatar
Tomilsonw
Iron Contributor
Jan 14, 2025

Alas, I have encountered a similar situation before! The old MacBook Pro 2012 has no system, and the network recovery can't be used. It's really a headache. But don't worry, you can still use Windows PC to create a bootable USB install for MacBook Pro 2012.

My method:

  1. Download macOS image: Go online to find the .dmg file of macOS Sierra or El Capitan. These two versions are most suitable for 2012 machines.
  2. Use UltraDMG to make a bootable disk:
  3. Install UltraDMG on Windows (free trial version available).
  4. Insert a 16GB or larger USB.
  5. Right-click the USB, select "Restore with Disk Image", load the downloaded macOS image, and wait for completion.
  6. After making it, plug the USB into the MacBook Pro, hold down the Option key when starting up, and select USB boot to install the system!

It works personally, don't worry about the old model, as long as you operate it correctly, you can get it done! 🎉

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