Use iMessage on Mac without signing into iCloud in System Preferences? I would like to use my iMac without iCloud syncing and backup turned on.
The only app that I do use between my iPhone and iMac is Apple Messages with family.
Before I begin toggling switches on my iMac, thought I would ask:

Can I sign into Messages with my Apple ID (Preferences &gt; Accounts) while not signing in System Preferences &gt; iCloud?
Would Messages be enabled?
You can sign into Messages separately to iCloud through Messages → Preferences → Accounts as you mention. You won't be able to use Messages in iCloud unless you also sign into iCloud.