Parallels Desktop is a very popular virtualization software for macOS. Just like on Windows OS where one can use tools like Sandboxie to test for applications and security threats. Parallels Desktop also works like that, you can use it to run Windows OS and other OS on a Mac computer. While Parallels Desktop seems to be very popular, it is not the only option for virtualization on macOS. There are other alternatives that can be used. If you’re reading this article on NaijaKnowHow, then you’ll discover the best Parallels Desktop alternatives for macOS.
List of The Best Parallels Desktop Alternatives for macOS
With the alternatives to Parallels Desktop that we’ve handpicked below, you’ll be able to run other OS on your Mac computer.
1. Bootcamp
Bootcamp is a utility software that comes by default on any macOS PC. This tool is very good for installing OS like Windows on a macOS PC. You don’t need to buy Bootcamp or pay for any special features, you can check if you have it from the list of utility tools. One of the advantages Bootcamp has over Parallels Desktop is that you’ll get to install Windows OS easily. By using Bootcamp on your macOS PC. The software will create a partition on your storage, therefore leaving you with two OS options. You can boot to Windows 10 or Windows 11 easily. This is one of the best Parallels Desktop out there and it is free.
2. VirtualBox
Before you get your hands on VirtualBox, you might need to read this guide on how to download and install VirtualBox. Now back to why VirtualBox is a better alternative to Parallels Desktop. It is a better alternative because it provides a range of features, such as support for USB devices, network sharing, and snapshot functionality. VirtualBox is widely supported on different platforms including Windows. Here’s another guide on how to create a virtual machine on VirtualBox. If you’ll like to test other OS and applications and games on your macOS. VirtualBox is one of the best options out there.
3. QEMU
QEMU makes virtualization easy on macOS. You’ll find IT professionals and developers using QEMU. This software has a reputation just like Parallels Desktop. It is compatible with a range of operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and BSD. QEMU provides a range of features, such as support for USB devices, network sharing, and snapshot functionality. It also includes a feature called KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine), which allows users to run virtual machines at near-native performance on Linux hosts.
4. VMware Fusion
Another software that ranks as one of the best Parallels Desktop alternatives is VMware Fusion. It is known for the ability to allow macOS users to run Windows and other OS from their Mac computers. You’ll love VMware Fusion for its features. You’ll find features such as support for DirectX and OpenGL, USB device support, and network sharing. VMware Fusion also includes a Unity mode, which allows users to run Windows applications alongside macOS applications, making it easier to switch between them. You can create multiple virtual machines on VMware Fusion, this allows users to save time and disk space.
5. Docker Desktop
Docker Desktop isn’t designed to handle the same task as Parallels Desktop. But if you want to run containerized applications on your macOS, Docker Desktop is a great option you can use. Docker Desktop is very easy to install, the interface is quite friendly and most tools are easily cited. While Docker Desktop is a great option to use on macOS, you can use it for running full OS. That is the only downside of using Docker Desktop. You can use this tool for running only applications, on your macOS. It is one of the best Parallels Desktop alternatives out there and it is very easy to use.
6. Windows 365 Cloud PC
Windows 365 Cloud PC is one of the best Parallels Desktop alternatives for macOS users. This is a cloud-based virtualization software that’ll let you access Windows 10 and Windows 11 on your macOS PC. Everything is purely cloud-based, you don’t have to install it. There are cool features you’ll find on Windows 365 Cloud PC. Windows 365 Cloud PC is customizable. If you want to run Windows OS on your macOS PC. This is one of the best options you can use. You can personalize your virtual machines, you can configure applications and also perform normal tweaks that are done on Windows 10 and 11. If you’re not an IT or a developer and you just want to use Windows OS on your mac computer. Windows 365 Cloud PC is one of the best Parallels Desktop alternatives you can use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the best alternatives to Parallels Desktop. Whether you want to run other OS like Windows, Linux etc on your mac computer. These alternatives to Parallels Desktop are the best you can use. Some are free, easy to install and also user-friendly.
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