How to download and install Discord on Mac

Before you download

Discord has one installer that runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel Macs, so there is no version to choose. It needs macOS 12 Monterey or later. On an older Mac, use Discord in the browser at discord.com/app.

Download Discord only from discord.com. Fake «Discord» installers and «free Nitro» links are a common way to steal accounts.

How to install Discord

1. Open Discord.dmg in your Downloads folder.
2. In the window that opens, drag Discord to the Applications folder.

3. Eject the Discord disk: click the eject button next to it in the Finder sidebar.
4. Open Discord from Applications and click Open when macOS asks about an app downloaded from the internet.
5. Wait for Discord to download its update, then sign in or scan the QR code with the Discord app on your phone.

What to set up after the first launch

macOS asks for each permission the first time Discord needs it. If you clicked Don’t Allow by mistake, turn it on in System Settings › Privacy & Security:

• Microphone and Camera: turn on Discord for voice and video.
• Screen & System Audio Recording: turn on Discord to stream your screen, then quit and reopen Discord.
• Input Monitoring: turn on Discord if push to talk should work while another app is in front.
• Opening at login. If you don’t want Discord to start with your Mac, remove it in System Settings › General › Login Items.

If Discord won’t install or open

• Discord is stuck on «Checking for updates». Quit it, check your connection and open it again. A VPN or firewall can block the update.
• Others can’t hear you. Check Microphone above and pick the right input device in Discord’s Voice & Video settings.
• Nothing helps. Remove Discord completely, its cache included, and install it again: see how to uninstall Discord on Mac.

Alternatives to Discord

• SlackBuilt for work teams and their tools.
• TelegramFast messenger with large groups and channels.
• WhatsAppChats and calls with your phone contacts.