Updated October 19, 2026

How to Set a Wallpaper on Mac

On a Mac, open System Settings, Wallpaper, then Add the downloaded image. You can also right-click the file in Finder and choose Set Desktop Picture.

  1. 1. Download a desktop or MacBook file

    Use the Mac or desktop download. A MacBook screen is usually a 16:10 ratio, so a 16:9 image will crop slightly on Fill.

  2. 2. Set it from Finder

    Right-click the image and choose Set Desktop Picture. macOS applies it to the current desktop.

  3. 3. Adjust the fit

    Open System Settings, Wallpaper, select the picture, and choose Fill, Fit, or Stretch. Fill is the usual choice. On a Mac with more than one display, set each screen from the same panel.

Questions

Can I set a different wallpaper on each Mac display?

Yes. In System Settings, Wallpaper, select the display thumbnail first, then choose the picture for that screen.

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