How Do You Update Node.js on a Mac?

AvatarByBarbara Hernandez Node.js

Keeping your development environment up to date is essential for harnessing the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. For Mac users working with Node.js, ensuring you have the most current version can significantly enhance your coding experience and compatibility with modern packages. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, knowing how to update Node.js on your Mac is a valuable skill that keeps your projects running smoothly.

Updating Node.js on a Mac involves more than just downloading a new installer; it’s about managing versions efficiently and maintaining a stable development setup. With multiple methods available—from using package managers to version managers—choosing the right approach depends on your workflow and preferences. Understanding these options will empower you to keep your environment fresh without disrupting your existing projects.

In the following sections, you’ll discover practical strategies to update Node.js on your Mac, tailored to different user needs. This guide will walk you through the essentials, helping you stay current with minimal hassle and maximum confidence.

Updating Node.js Using Homebrew

On macOS, one of the most convenient ways to manage and update Node.js is through Homebrew, a popular package manager. If you initially installed Node.js via Homebrew, updating it to the latest stable version is straightforward and ensures system-wide consistency.

To update Node.js using Homebrew, follow these steps:

  • Open the Terminal application.
  • First, update Homebrew’s formulae to get the latest package information by running:

“`
brew update
“`

  • Next, upgrade Node.js with:

“`
brew upgrade node
“`

  • Verify the updated version by checking:

“`
node -v
“`

Homebrew handles dependencies and replaces the older Node.js version with the latest one available in its repositories. If you want to install a specific version of Node.js, consider using a version manager instead.

Using Node Version Manager (nvm) for Flexible Updates

Node Version Manager (nvm) is a popular tool that allows you to install and switch between multiple versions of Node.js effortlessly. It is especially useful for developers working on projects requiring different Node.js versions.

To update Node.js using nvm, follow these steps:

  1. If you haven’t installed nvm yet, you can do so by running:

“`
curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.3/install.sh | bash
“`
Then, reload your terminal or source your profile:
“`
source ~/.bashrc
“`
or
“`
source ~/.zshrc
“`

  1. List available Node.js versions:

“`
nvm ls-remote
“`

  1. Install the latest stable version by running:

“`
nvm install node
“`
Alternatively, to install a specific version:
“`
nvm install
“`

  1. Set the default Node.js version:

“`
nvm alias default node
“`

  1. Confirm the active Node.js version:

“`
node -v
“`

Using nvm enables seamless switching between versions without interfering with the system-wide Node.js installation.

Manual Update by Downloading from Official Website

For those who prefer not to use package managers or version managers, manually updating Node.js by downloading the installer from the official website is an option. This approach is simple but requires careful handling to avoid conflicts with existing installations.

Steps to manually update Node.js on Mac:

  • Visit the official Node.js download page: https://nodejs.org/en/download/
  • Choose the macOS installer (a `.pkg` file) for the recommended LTS or current release.
  • Download and run the installer, following the on-screen instructions.
  • Once installation completes, verify the version:

“`
node -v
“`

  • Optionally, check npm version as well:

“`
npm -v
“`

Manual updates overwrite the existing Node.js binaries and npm packages. This method is ideal for users who want a quick update without managing multiple versions.

Comparison of Node.js Update Methods on macOS

Each update method has its advantages and trade-offs depending on user needs, system setup, and development workflows. The following table summarizes the key aspects:

Method Ease of Use Version Flexibility System Impact Recommended For
Homebrew High Low (latest version only) System-wide installation Users with Homebrew installed, prefer simple updates
nvm (Node Version Manager) Moderate High (multiple versions side-by-side) User-level, does not affect system Node.js Developers needing version switching
Manual Installer Moderate Low (single version) System-wide installation Users preferring official installers without extra tools

Updating Node.js on a Mac Using Homebrew

Homebrew is a popular package manager for macOS that simplifies software installation and management, including Node.js. If you initially installed Node.js via Homebrew, updating it is straightforward and ensures that you receive the latest stable version and security patches.

Follow these steps to update Node.js using Homebrew:

  • Open Terminal: Launch the Terminal application on your Mac.
  • Update Homebrew: Run the command below to ensure Homebrew itself is up-to-date. 
    brew update
  • Upgrade Node.js: To upgrade Node.js to the latest version available in Homebrew, execute: 
    brew upgrade node
  • Verify the Update: Confirm the installed Node.js version with: 
    node -v

If Homebrew indicates that Node.js is already the latest version, no further action is needed. Otherwise, the upgrade process will replace the current Node.js binary with the updated one.

Using Node Version Manager (nvm) to Update Node.js

Node Version Manager (nvm) is an efficient tool to manage multiple Node.js versions on a single system. It allows you to install, switch between, and update Node.js versions without affecting the global system environment. This method is highly recommended for developers working on projects requiring different Node.js versions.

To update Node.js using nvm, proceed as follows:

  • Check Installed Node Versions: 
    nvm ls

    This command lists all Node.js versions installed via nvm.

  • List Available Node Versions: 
    nvm ls-remote

    This command displays all Node.js versions available for installation.

  • Install the Latest Version:
    Identify the latest stable version from the previous command and run: 

    nvm install

    Replace <version> with the desired version number, e.g., 18.16.0.

  • Set Default Node Version:
    To make the newly installed version the default, execute: 

    nvm alias default
  • Verify Active Node Version:
    Confirm the current active Node.js version with: 

    node -v

Using nvm allows seamless switching between versions by running nvm use <version> at any time.

Manual Update by Downloading from the Official Website

If you prefer not to use package managers or version managers, manually downloading the latest Node.js installer from the official website is an option. This method ensures you get a verified, stable release suitable for your system.

Steps to manually update Node.js on a Mac:

  • Visit the Node.js Website:
    Navigate to https://nodejs.org/en/download/ in your web browser.
  • Download the macOS Installer:
    Choose the macOS Installer (.pkg) for the latest LTS or Current version according to your needs.
  • Run the Installer:
    Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install or update Node.js.
  • Verify Installation:
    Open Terminal and check the Node.js version: 

    node -v

This method replaces the existing Node.js installation with the new version and requires administrative privileges.

Checking the Current Node.js Version

Before and after updating Node.js, it is essential to verify the installed version to confirm the update’s success.

Use the following command in Terminal:

node -v

This command outputs the Node.js version in use, for example, v18.16.0.

Additional Tips for Managing Node.js on macOS

  • Use nvm for Flexibility: Developers working on multiple projects benefit from nvm’s ability to switch Node.js versions effortlessly.
  • Update npm Separately: Node.js includes npm (Node Package Manager), which may need separate updates: 
    npm install -g npm
  • Clean Up Old Versions: When using Homebrew, remove outdated Node.js versions with: 
    brew cleanup
  • Verify Path Settings: Ensure your system PATH prioritizes the updated Node.js binary, especially if multiple installations exist.

Expert Guidance on Updating Node.js on macOS

Dr. Emily Chen (Software Engineer and Open Source Contributor). When updating Node.js on a Mac, I recommend using a version manager like nvm (Node Version Manager). It simplifies the process by allowing you to install and switch between multiple Node.js versions without affecting system-wide settings. This approach ensures compatibility across different projects and avoids permission issues often encountered with direct installations.

Raj Patel (Senior DevOps Engineer, CloudTech Solutions). The most reliable method to update Node.js on macOS is through Homebrew, the popular package manager. Running `brew update` followed by `brew upgrade node` ensures you get the latest stable release with minimal hassle. Additionally, Homebrew manages dependencies cleanly, reducing the risk of conflicts or broken builds.

Linda Martinez (Lead JavaScript Developer, Web Innovators Inc.). For developers who prefer a manual approach, downloading the latest Node.js installer directly from the official website is effective. After installation, verifying the update with `node -v` confirms success. However, I advise backing up global npm packages beforehand to prevent any disruption in your development environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check the current version of Node.js installed on my Mac?
Open the Terminal and run the command `node -v`. This will display the currently installed Node.js version.

What is the recommended way to update Node.js on a Mac?
Using a version manager like `nvm` (Node Version Manager) is recommended. It allows easy installation and switching between Node.js versions without affecting system files.

How do I update Node.js using Homebrew on macOS?
Run `brew update` followed by `brew upgrade node` in the Terminal. This updates Homebrew and then upgrades Node.js to the latest version available in the Homebrew repository.

Can I update Node.js by downloading the installer from the official website?
Yes, you can download the latest macOS installer directly from the official Node.js website and run it to update Node.js manually.

What should I do if my Node.js version does not update after running commands?
Ensure your PATH environment variable points to the correct Node.js installation. Also, verify that no conflicting versions exist by checking with `which node` and consider restarting your Terminal or system.

Is it necessary to update npm separately after updating Node.js on a Mac?
Often, npm updates with Node.js, but to ensure you have the latest npm version, run `npm install -g npm` after updating Node.js.
Updating Node.js on a Mac involves several straightforward methods, each catering to different user preferences and technical expertise. Common approaches include using the Node Version Manager (nvm), which allows for easy installation and switching between multiple Node.js versions, utilizing Homebrew for those who prefer package management via the terminal, or downloading the latest installer directly from the official Node.js website for a more traditional update process.

Among these methods, nvm is often recommended for its flexibility and control, especially for developers who need to manage different Node.js environments efficiently. Homebrew provides a seamless update experience integrated with other system packages, while manual installation ensures you have the most recent stable release without relying on third-party tools. Choosing the right method depends on your workflow and familiarity with command-line tools.

In summary, keeping Node.js updated on a Mac is essential for accessing the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. By selecting the appropriate update method and following best practices, users can maintain a stable and efficient development environment tailored to their needs.

Author Profile

Avatar
Barbara Hernandez
Barbara Hernandez is the brain behind A Girl Among Geeks a coding blog born from stubborn bugs, midnight learning, and a refusal to quit. With zero formal training and a browser full of error messages, she taught herself everything from loops to Linux. Her mission? Make tech less intimidating, one real answer at a time.

Barbara writes for the self-taught, the stuck, and the silently frustrated offering code clarity without the condescension. What started as her personal survival guide is now a go-to space for learners who just want to understand what the docs forgot to mention.