ADVICE Macbook Pro mid 2012 which OS to install

MB Pro 8.2 Core i5, 12Gb of RAM, SSD, Currenly running Success' href='/2020/12/install-macos-catalina-on-supported-pc.html'>Catalina but i need something more recent so i can use a few programs that require at least Big Sur.

So im wondering which version to install? whats the most stable and still decently responsive OS that runs on this machine? i want smooth performance that doesnt lag when opening or switching between apps...

Author: @sidgallup