MacOS – Remove macOS and Install Windows 10 Only

bootcampmacoswindows

How do I remove macOS completely from my MacBook Air 2015 and install Windows 10 only after?

I have tried formatting my drive to GPT and tried booting a Windows Installation USB however I'm stuck at the installer not being able to find any drives.

Best Answer

Most people are going to assume that you are going the boot camp route. However, have you tried a fully UEFI Windows 10 install? Your update does not detail very much so it is important to possibly include pics since command line output will be limited preinstall. This is also treading along as unsupported but if you want to get your hands dirty it is an EXTREMELY good learning experience.

I've managed to do this quite a few times (albeit keeping macOS without boot camp). Here is a rough outline of what you need to do:

  1. Make sure your disk is labelled GPT. GPT is a disklabel not a formatting type. I believe you have done this, so it should be ok.

  2. Create a USB install of Windows 10 that is UEFI compatible.

  3. Insert the USB drive and hold down option. The bootloader should detect a Windows USB disk. Be sure to select the USB as the boot medium.

  4. This step is highly dependent on what happens next. If your macbook does not boot into the windows install screen, then you need to figure out why it can't load. Any errors would be helpful.

If you are able to get into the Windows install prompt, then you may run into issues with the installer detecting the hard drive. You may need to have a windows equivalent driver that you load via the installer to ensure your hardware is supported. Again it is dependent on what you see.

  1. Select the disk available. Format the drive/create partitions, allow install to finish.

  2. Reboot and let the installer finish the windows install.

  3. Install all boot camp drivers manually.

Lots of info is available. Most people will tell you to go the boot camp route, but I've found that the UEFI method results in MUCH quicker boot time. Let me know if you need anything.

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