Hackintoshing a Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book - Big Sur Installation Guide

Embarking on a Hackintosh project with devices like the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book can be an exciting challenge, but it comes with specific considerations. Here's a guide to help you get started and address some of your queries:

Guide Step by Step:

1. Compatibility Check:

   • Research the compatibility of Surface Pro 4 and Surface Book hardware with macOS Big Sur. Typically, Surface devices have mixed compatibility due to their unique hardware configurations.
   • Key components to check include the CPU, GPU, Wi-Fi card, and touchscreen functionality.

2. Gather Necessary Information:

   • Identify the exact specifications of both devices, including CPU model, GPU, RAM, and storage.
   • This information will be crucial for determining the correct drivers (kexts) and configurations.

3. Bootloader Selection:

   • Choose a bootloader like OpenCore or Clover. OpenCore is recommended for newer versions of macOS like Big Sur.
   • Familiarize yourself with the bootloader's documentation and setup process.

4. Creating the Bootable Installer:

   • Download the macOS Big Sur installer from the App Store on a Mac.
   • Use a tool like balenaEtcher or createinstallmedia to make a bootable USB drive with the Big Sur installer.

5. Prepare EFI Folder:

   • Configure your EFI folder with the necessary kexts, SSDTs, and config.plist tailored to the Surface hardware.
   • Key kexts might include VoodooI2C for touch input, appropriate Wi-Fi kexts, and others based on hardware compatibility.

6. BIOS Settings:

   • Access the UEFI firmware settings on the Surface devices.
   • Disable Secure Boot as macOS cannot boot with Secure Boot enabled.

7. Installation Process:

   • Boot from the USB drive and follow the standard macOS installation process.
   • Expect some trial and error during this stage, especially with driver compatibility.

8. Post-Installation Setup:

   • Once macOS is installed, transfer the EFI folder from the USB to the EFI partition of the installed macOS.
   • Install additional kexts or patches as needed for full hardware functionality.

9. Dual Boot Considerations:

   • If you want to maintain a dual-boot setup with Windows, partition the internal drive accordingly.
   • Install macOS on a separate partition. Use a bootloader that supports both Windows and macOS, like OpenCore.

10. Touchscreen and Peripheral Support:

    • Surface devices' touchscreen functionality may not be fully supported in macOS. Research specific kexts or patches that might enable this feature.
    • Check compatibility for other peripherals like the Surface Pen or detachable keyboard.

11. Community Support:

    • Engage with the Hackintosh community forums for advice specific to Hackintoshing Surface devices.
    • Share your device specs and any issues you encounter for more tailored support.

12. Legal and Risk Considerations:

    • Be aware of the legal implications and potential risks of installing macOS on non-Apple hardware. Apple's software license agreement prohibits installing macOS on non-Apple hardware.

Remember, every Hackintosh project is unique, and Surface devices can present specific challenges due to their hardware design. Patience, research, and community support are key to a successful Hackintosh journey.