Adjusting Screen Resolution for macOS Big Sur Installation on Legacy BIOS PCs

Yes, it is possible to change the screen resolution for the macOS installation process on a legacy BIOS PC, either by modifying the config.plist file (if you're using a bootloader like Clover or OpenCore) or through terminal commands in certain cases. Here's how you can do it:

Changing Resolution via config.plist:

  1. Locate and Edit config.plist:

    • This file is usually found in the EFI partition under EFI/CLOVER or EFI/OC (for Clover and OpenCore respectively).
    • You'll need a plist editor or a text editor capable of handling XML files.
  2. Modify Resolution Settings:

    • For Clover, look for the Graphics section and add or modify the Resolution key to your desired resolution (e.g., 1920x1080).
    • For OpenCore, navigate to the NVRAM section, then Add, and find 7C436110-AB2A-4BBB-A880-FE41995C9F82. Add a new key prev-lang:kbd and set your desired resolution as the string value.
  3. Save and Reboot:

    • After making changes, save the config.plist file and reboot your system.

Changing Resolution via Terminal (MacOS):

If you're already in macOS and need to change the resolution:

  1. Open Terminal:

    • You can find Terminal in the Utilities folder or use Spotlight to search for it.
  2. Use system_profiler:

    • Run system_profiler SPDisplaysDataType to see the available resolutions.
  3. Change Resolution:

    • Use a command like sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.windowserver DisplayResolutionEnabled -bool YES to enable additional resolutions (this may vary based on the macOS version and hardware).
  4. Reboot:

    • After executing the command, reboot your system.

Notes:

  • Ensure that the resolution you set is supported by your monitor and graphics card.
  • Making incorrect changes in config.plist can prevent your system from booting correctly, so it's advisable to have a backup of this file.
  • These methods are generally more effective with UEFI-based systems. Legacy BIOS systems might have more limitations.
  • The terminal method works only if you have access to macOS. For initial installation issues, modifying config.plist is the more applicable solution.

Remember, the exact steps might vary slightly depending on your specific bootloader version and hardware configuration. It's always a good idea to refer to the documentation for your bootloader for the most accurate and detailed instructions.

Is it possible to change resolution in config.plist or through terminal?

As in the title says.

I'm trying to install macOS Big Sur on my legacy BIOS PC but my monitor cannot support the resolution of macOS recovery or OC picker. So is there a way to change the screen resolution so i can install macOS?

Thanks in advance

submitted by /u/LeonplayerYT
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