Let's just be honest: Macs are so good. They look great, have a simple setup, and do not involve much work.
But what happens when you need to run a Windows-only application on your beloved Mac?
StatCounter has frustratingly shown in one of their recent investigations that approximately 73.5% of the global desktop OSs are Windows-based.
I can still remember how I had to switch between my Mac and an old PC just to use a single piece of software – talk about being less productive!
However, what if I told you that there is perfect software for running Windows on Mac; thereby giving you the best of both worlds in one machine?
Keep reading because I have got some insights on the ideal solution.
Top 5 Best Software To Run Windows on Mac
Here are our team’s top choices for running Windows on a Mac:
#1. Parallels Desktop
Ever wanted to run Windows apps on your Mac without the need to reboot?
That’s where Parallels Desktop comes in.
This program can create a virtual machine (VM) on your Mac which is like having another computer that runs Windows.
You can use Windows programs just as you would any other Mac software.
Key Features:
- Run Windows applications
- Play Windows games
- Use professional, graphics-intensive Windows apps
- Develop, automate, and test software in multiple operating systems
- Transfer files and data between Windows and Mac
We have used parallels to switch back and forth between Excel for Windows and Final Cut Pro on a Mac seamlessly. It’s pure magic!
Why Do We Recommend It?
When it comes to running Windows on a Mac, we always recommend Parallels Desktop.
Here’s why.
Firstly, Microsoft has given its official permission to use Parallels Desktop to allow the installation of macOS 11.
As such, Microsoft tested it thoroughly hence assuring Apple users of its performance if they decide to go this route. It therefore implies that you will never be worried by the system’s performance since it has been tried out before.
What else makes this program stand out?
We have used Parallels Desktop, and the integration is so smooth, it’s like having the best of both worlds.
- Microsoft verification: Guarantees dependability on M-Series Macs.
- Mac feature incorporation: Use Touch ID and the camera seamlessly.
Simply put, Parallels Desktop is your best option for running Windows on a Mac with reliability and seamless integration.
Who Is It Meant for?
For a Mac user who only occasionally needs to use Windows software, Parallels Desktop is one’s new best buddy.
It is designed to be appealing to a broad range of users:
- Switchers: Individuals making a shift from using Windows to Mac yet still relying on some Windows programs.
- Professionals: Engineers, designers, etc. who apply industry-standard Windows programs
- Gamers: Those who would like their Macs to support PC-only games.
- Students: Requiring specific Windows applications due to course curriculum.
- General Users: Anyone needing just one program in Windows; for example, just once in a while.
We found Parallels invaluable when we needed to run some Windows apps without leaving macOS. It helps merge work with leisure activities by allowing users to operate all these activities under a single hood including playing games seamlessly within an office environment.
Pricing
The pricing for Parallels Desktop comes at $99.99 per year for an Individual. The alternative of trying it out at no cost also exists.
Find below the available plans and prices:
Individual
- Standard Edition (Subscription) – $99.99 per year.
- Pro Edition (Subscription) – $119.99 per year.
- Standard Edition (1-Time Purchase) – $129.99.
NOTE – For the one-time purchase, there is no guarantee that it will be compatible with future versions.
Business Edition
- $149.99 per year.
Students & Educators
Students and educators can get a 50% discount for Parallels Desktop's Standard and Pro Editions. You should use your school's email address to get this discount.
- Standard Edition – $49.99 per year.
- Pro Edition – $59.99 per year.
Overall Thoughts
- Picture yourself running any kind of Windows app right within your computer without strain.
- Setting up CrossOver on your machine is as smooth as jazz playlist transitions; literally!
- Have you ever heard about Coherence Mode? This magic lets everything look and feel like native-made Mac apps—even surprising!
So concise?
Parallels Desktop nails it.
#2. Crossover Mac
Key Features
CrossOver Mac enables you to operate your preferred Windows software easily from your Apple computer without being required to install a heavy Windows emulator.
It translates Windows commands into Mac commands so that you can run Windows software as if it were designed native to Mac.
CrossOver works with all kinds of software – productivity software, utility programs, and games.
Unlike emulators or virtual machines, this software does not require a Windows license or take up a lot of hard drive space.
Why Is It Recommended?
One thing that makes CrossOver Mac to be one of the best is its ability to run Windows programs without needing a full version of Windows. This saves users a lot of money, especially if they do not have any other license for running Windows applications.
- No Windows License Needed: Money and stress saved.
- Faster Than Emulators: Uses your Mac’s own commands instead of those of Microsoft making the process much faster in performance terms than typical emulation methods employed by most installations on macOS platforms.
CrossOver Mac was very efficient in our hands. For example, when we needed to use a certain Windows utility tool, it was launched instantly without any lags from usual emulators.
If you’re looking for something inexpensive and fast, look no further than CrossOver Mac.
Who Is It Meant for?
Mac users who need some Windows programs but are too lazy to set up full Windows should definitely consider using CrossOver Mac.
The following kinds of people would find such an app useful:
- Casual Users: People who need just one program in Windows once in a while rather than going through overheads associated with emulators/virtual machines.
- Students: Requiring specific Windows applications due to course curriculum but cannot afford buying separate licenses.
- Gamers: Who want to play different Window-only games without dedicating their HDDs to dual OS installation.
- Productivity Enthusiasts: Using utility programs and productivity software seamlessly on their Macs.
We have found CrossOver perfect when we had little time before us and we needed to quickly launch our favorite Windows utilities without our Mac’s performance being affected.
Pricing
Here is the pricing for CrossOver Mac:
CrossOver Free
- 14 Day Trial – $0
CrossOver +
- 12 Months Support – $74
CrossOver Life
- Lifetime Support – $494
Overall Thoughts
For me who does multitasking using different software for various things, CrossOver Mac has really been a game changer. We can work on our Macs without cluttering it up and still be able to use any other Windows programs.
#3. VMWare Fusion
Key Features
VMware Fusion enables you to run several operating systems on your Mac without restarting the computer.
Here is what makes VMware unique:
- Supports Diverse Operating Systems: For instance, Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- 3D Graphics: It comes with DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.3 support which are perfect for graphics-based apps.
- Seamless Integration: This app works perfectly with all the features of macOS.
VMware Fusion is ideal for testing software across different OS environments.
If you’re an avid tech enthusiast or a developer or even a designer, then its flexibility could come in handy.
Why Is It Recommended?
However, we recommend VMware Fusion since it essentially makes Mac compatible with Windows fully.
In our experience, VMware Fusion is a great choice when needing multiple operating systems on one’s Mac.
Who Is It Meant for?
VMware Fusion is designed specifically for professionals within the tech sector who regularly switch between multiple operating systems without encountering difficulties.
Here are its advantages:
- Developers: Test software across different OS environments seamlessly.
- Designers: Run graphics-intensive Windows apps easily on your Mac computer system.
- Students: Access educational software that’s Windows-only.
Pricing
The yearly cost of VMware Fusion stands at about $120 per year.
Overall Thoughts
VMware Fusion can do everything as a Swiss Army Knife on your Mac. Pertaining to individuals who want to run multiple operating systems without any hassle, then VMware Fusion is perfect.
This is your go-to tool if you’re a professional who has to switch between different OS environments.
#4. Boot Camp
Key Features
Boot Camp allows you to use Windows on your Mac seamlessly and completely.
What it does:
- Splits Your Hard Drive: Allocates separate space for Windows.
- Dual Boot: Switch back and forth between macOS and Windows by restarting the computer.
- Full Hardware Access: Uses all capabilities of the computer’s hardware entirely especially anything related to its motherboard as well as graphics card.
We’ve used Boot Camp for the best of both worlds—macOS for creativity, and Windows when we need certain software applications.
If you want real Windows performance on your Mac, Boot Camp is what you should consider using.
However, unlike Parallels Desktop, which lets you use either Mac or Windows at any given time without rebooting, Boot Camp requires that you restart your laptop whenever changing from one OS to another.
Why Is It Recommended?
Boot Camp should be recommended to everyone who needs a full-on Windows experience on their Macs or iMacs alike.
Here’s why:
- Performance: It uses every part of your Mac, thus, making sure that Windows is running smoothly with fewer complications along the way.
- Dual Boot: Easily switch between macOS and Windows with this feature.
Boot Camp has been helpful when we wanted a JavaScript .NET Framework Software Development Kit (SDK).
If you want exceptional performance but still keep all features offered by Apple in terms of hardware then I recommend Boot Camp.
Who Is It Meant for?
Mac users who need native support for running Windows through Bootcamp will find this interesting.
This tool is suitable for:
- Gamers: Play the games that are not available on Mac with no performance loss.
- Professionals: Use Windows-specific software without emulation.
Pricing
As it turns out, Boot Camp is absolutely free. It comes as part of macOS by Apple.
Overall Thoughts
Boot Camp is similar to having your cake and eating it too–electricity from Windows seeping into your Mac’s system.
Great for those moments when you need to have a taste of both realms at the same time.
#5. Virtual Box
Key Features
VirtualBox (VB) is a free application that allows more than one operating system in a single computer or laptop running on MacOS, Linux, etc.
The following are its features:
- Virtual Machines: Run VMs using different OS such as Windows, Linux, or OS X systems.
- Seamless Integration: You can use them together with the normal applications without rebooting the computer.
- Cross-Platform Support: Very good at testing software and developing cross-platform applications.
Why Is It Recommended?
We recommend VirtualBox because it’s an effective way to run Windows on your Mac – and it’s freeware.
Here’s how it stands out:
- Cost-effective: No cost included.
- Flexibility: Run multiple OSes without restarting your PC every time you need another environment on your desktop.
- Cross-Platform: Best suited for cross-system testing and development purposes.
Using VirtualBox, we could test various OS environments without needing many computers.
In case you need freedom of choice plus powerful virtualization, but free of charge, VirtualBox is a fantastic choice.
Who Is It Meant for?
For tech enthusiasts, developers, students, etc.
This is how it works for them:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Try different operating systems to see which one suits them best.
- Developers: Create and test software on many platforms at once.
- Students: In their case, it’s all about studying and training in a variety of OS environments without extra hardware.
Pricing
VirtualBox is a free software.
Windows 11 on Mac: What You Need to Know
With Windows 11 out, you might be wondering how to get it running on your Mac.
Good news—it is totally doable!
You have a few options: Parallels Desktop, VMWare Fusion, or Boot Camp. Each one has its quirks and perks.
Parallels Desktop is extremely user-friendly and has good integration with macOS.
VMWare Fusion provides excellent customization for power users.
Boot Camp offers the full Windows experience but demands a reboot every time you want to switch between systems.
Compatibility and Requirements
Both Parallels Desktop and VMWare Fusion now support Windows 11. You can upgrade or install it together with older versions such as Windows 10, 8.1, and 7.
Have an M1 Mac?
Parallels requires the ARM version of Windows 11 if you are going to use it on an M1 Mac.
Using Boot Camp on an Intel Mac?
You should check all these requirements before switching over to Boot Camp including having at least TPM 2.0 chip–based Macs according to Microsoft’s compatibility list.
Don’t forget your hardware specs before starting off; this will save you so much trouble.
Installing & Running Windows 11 on a Mac
Whether you love booting into Boot Camp or prefer running in a virtual environment, there is something here for everyone.
And guess what?
This may sound strange. Windows 11 has some new system requirements that have surfaced recently.
Also, make sure that Secure Boot and TPM are supported by your system setup in order to run Windows 11.
However, do not worry about this since, with some fine-tuning, one can ensure the smooth operation of this OS on their MacOS machine.
Mac Users and the ARM Version of Windows
Regarding Apple’s M1 & M2 chips; these processors have altered the way we do our Windows work on any Mac computer. Therefore, when it comes to them operating under ARM architecture, the best performance will be achieved by using ARM version of Windows only.
It just fits better—like fitting a key into a lock.
Exploring ARM Version of Windows for M1 and M2 Macs
Windows 11 on ARM feels like it was made for Apple’s silicon. It’s super efficient and performs smoothly.
You can run both ARM-native and x86 apps. Though, the x86 ones might be a bit slower.
For us Mac users, this means a Windows experience that’s tailor-made for our devices. Better performance and longer battery life.
How It Differs from Standard Windows Versions
It is optimized for Apple’s M1 and M2 chips. That means you get better battery life and smoother performance.
But here’s the catch—some Windows apps don’t have ARM versions yet. So, you might not find all your favorite software.
And, here’s another hiccup: it’s not easy to get. It’s mostly for developers or big companies, not regular folks.
It may take some time before it is fully available or in the mainstream.
Tips for Optimizing Windows Performance on Mac
Whether you’re using Parallels Desktop or Boot Camp, heavy apps can slow things down.
But don’t worry, we’ve got some simple tips to help you out:
- Firstly, ensure your virtual machine has sufficient memory allocated. The more RAM your system has, the better its performance will be.
- Additionally, always update any software installed on your PC regularly. To ensure compatibility and performance enhancement, the use of up-to-date Windows and MAC operating systems is recommended.
- Lastly, close any programs besides those needed by Windows. More resources will be released if few programs are running at once in the system, thereby improving its efficiency too.
Enhancing Virtual Machine Settings
- For starters, more RAM and CPU power mean a lot when running resource-intensive applications within your virtual machine environment.
- Additionally, swap out that aging HDD with an SSD; trust me on this one – you will love the difference in speed!
- Finally, adjust settings within Parallels Desktop or VMWare Fusion as necessary to get the best out of your virtualization environment. These include changing display resolutions, activating hardware acceleration, and adjusting power settings for top performance.
Managing Resources for Best Performance
When we run Windows on our Macs, we keep it lean and mean.
- Before anything else, we turn off any Mac apps that are not essential. Why let those apps gobble up precious resources?
- Following this, we keep up with the updates. For flawless operation, both macOS and Windows must be current. And remember to clean your storage space often. If you want to stay organized like me.
- Lastly, if you’re using an HDD, give it a defrag now and then. With an SSD? Skip it, you’re good to go.
Security Considerations When Running Windows on Mac
When you’re running Windows on a Mac, you’ve got to think about security for both systems.
It’s like having two houses to protect instead of one.
Here are some things we do:
- Make sure both macOS and Windows are updated.
- Create strong passwords and use different ones for different accounts or services.
- Install antivirus software on both systems.
- Regularly back up our data.
Integrating macOS and Windows: Seamless Workflow Tips
To begin with, tools like Parallels Desktop or CrossOver Mac assist in easy transition between the two platforms. You can launch Windows-based applications without restarting your Mac since they would appear as though they were native Mac apps by using them.
Moreover, file sharing is effortless when using cloud services such as Dropbox or OneDrive. Just store your files there for access via either macOS or Windows without delays.
These tips can make your digital life a whole lot easier.
Using Windows Apps Next to Mac Apps
With Parallels Desktop’s Coherence Mode or CrossOver, you can make your Windows apps appear like they are supposed to be on your Mac. They blend seamlessly.
Now, let’s talk about keeping things seamless.
- Customize the keyboard and mouse so that both work in the same manner on either system; this makes switching between macOS and Windows fast and easy.
FAQs
Which is the best software for running Windows on my Mac?
The top choices for this are Parallels Desktop and CrossOver. Parallels is user-friendly and fast while CrossOver has advanced features. Both work well but Parallels is a little easier if you are just starting out.
Is it expensive to run Windows on a Mac?
This may amount to approximately $80 of software plus, maybe, $100 for a Windows license. Some offer free trials before purchase.
Does running Windows slow down my Mac?
Not really, if you have a newer Mac with at least 8GB of RAM. Older Macs might slow down a bit. Always close unused apps to keep things running smoothly.
Can I play Windows games on my Mac?
Definitely! Gaming can be done through Parallels and Boot Camp which have good gaming support. For high-performance games, Boot Camp runs Windows directly. Ensure that your Mac meets the game’s system requirements though.
Can I switch from macOS to Windows easily?
Yes!
With Parallels Desktop, you can switch with just a click. Boot Camp requires a restart to switch, which takes a bit more time but is still straightforward.
Final Thoughts
Running Windows on a Mac has never been easier. Whether you use Parallels, CrossOver, or another tool, you get the best of both worlds.