Summary: This article is about macOS emulators for Windows. These emulators allows you to run macOS apps on your Windows laptop. We have listed down the 10 best macOS emulators to use in Windows.
If you’re a Windows user, you might be wondering why you would need a mac emulator. After all, Windows is a perfectly good operating system. However, there are some advantages to using macOS that may make it worth your while to use an emulator. For example, macOS is typically faster and more stable than Windows. It also comes with a variety of built-in features that can save you time and hassle.
Both Windows and mac are the most popular operating systems used by millions of users. And the good news is, you can run macOS on your Windows laptop without any hassle. We will be covering the best softwares out there to use mac emulators for Windows laptop.
What is a Mac Emulator and How does it work?
A mac emulator is a program that allows you to run macOS on a Windows computer. Essentially, it creates a virtual machine that mimics the macOS environment. This means you can use all of the same software and applications that you would on a mac, without actually having to own one.
There are a few different ways to go about setting up a mac emulator. The most popular method is to use virtualization software like VMware or VirtualBox. These programs allow you to create a virtual macOS inside your Windows OS and thereby allow you to run any macOS applications on a Windows machine.
Best macOS emulators for Windows
There are a number of different mac emulators available for Windows, so how do you know which one to choose? We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best mac emulators for Windows OS to help you make your decision.
- Parallels Desktop
- VMware Fusion
- VirtualBox
- Boot Camp
- CrossOver Mac
- WINE
- Darling
- macincloud
- MAMP
- Xamarin TestFlight
Now let’s discuss each of these mac emulators in detail.
1. Parallels Desktop
Parallels Desktop is a popular mac emulator for Windows and it allows you to run macOS and Windows side-by-side. This can be handy if you need to use specific mac apps for work or school but don’t want to give up the familiarity of Windows. Parallels Desktop also has a variety of features that can make your life easier, like the ability to copy and paste between macOS and Windows applications.
Parallels Desktop is the best way to run Windows on your Mac. With Parallels Desktop, you can easily switch between your Mac and Windows operating systems without having to reboot your computer.
2. VMware Fusion
As a windows user, there are many things you’re used to that you might not be able to do on a mac. But with VMware Fusion, you can run windows right alongside mac OS, so you can use all your familiar mac apps and stay productive in an environment that’s just right for you.
VMware Fusion is the best way to run mac on your windows. With Fusion, you can run multiple operating systems side-by-side with mac OS, without rebooting. So you can get all the benefits of the world’s most popular desktop operating system, while still having access to all your favorite mac or windows apps.
And because VMware Fusion is designed for both power users and first-time users, it’s easy to get started. VMware Fusion has some additional features that may appeal to power users. For example, it supports virtualized 3D graphics and can run macOS in a “coherence” mode that makes it look like macOS is running on your Windows machine. You can even try it for free.
So if you’re a windows user looking for the best way to run mac on your windows laptop, look no further than VMware Fusion.
3. VirtualBox
VirtualBox is a powerful x86 and AMD64/Intel64 virtualization product for enterprise as well as home use. Not only is VirtualBox an extremely feature-rich, high-performance product for enterprise customers, but it is also the only professional solution that is freely available as Open Source Software under the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL) version 2.
VirtualBox is a cross-platform virtualization application. What does that mean? For one thing, it installs on your existing Intel or AMD-based computers, whether they are running Windows, Mac, Linux, or Solaris operating systems. Secondly, it extends the capabilities of your existing computer so that it can run multiple operating systems side-by-side and perform close to native speeds.
It’s very versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including testing macOS applications on different hardware configurations. VirtualBox is also easy to set up and use, making it a good choice for those who are new to mac emulation.
4. Boot Camp
Boot Camp is a mac emulator for windows you can run Apple Macintosh operating systems on a PC. This means that you can take advantage of all the features and benefits of the Mac OS without having to actually purchase a Mac.
The Boot Camp mac emulator is easy to install and use, and it provides a significant way to experience the Mac OS without having to invest in a new computer. It’s also perfect for those who want to run specific mac apps on their PC, or for those who simply prefer the Mac user interface.
If you’re looking for a way to experience the Mac OS on your PC, then the Boot Camp mac emulator is a good choice. Boot Camp is a good choice if you only need to use Windows occasionally and don’t want the hassle of setting up and configuring a virtual machine.
5. CrossOver Mac
It is software and it allows Windows applications to be run on macOS and other operating systems. CrossOver Mac includes an easy-to-use, single-click interface, which makes installing Windows software simple and fast. Once installed, your mac applications integrate seamlessly in Windows; just click and run. No need to reboot, no mac License is required.
CrossOver Mac is the easiest way to run mac apps on your Windows system without buying a mac license, rebooting, or using a virtual machine. CrossOver Mac runs the mac apps you need on your Windows. Whether you want to use Microsoft Office, PhotoShop, or even games like World of Warcraft or EVE Online, CrossOver Mac makes it easy to get started. CrossOver Mac comes with an easy-to-use, single-click interface that makes the installation of mac software simple and fast. Just click and run your favorite mac applications right on your Windows.
6. WINE
WINE is a Mac emulator for Windows that enables you to run many mac-based applications on your computer. It includes a compatibility layer useful to run mac-based programs on your windows without having to install any additional software.
WINE is available for free and can be downloaded from the official website. However, it is not officially supported by Microsoft and is not compatible with all programs.
WINE is a great way to run mac-based programs on your windows, but it is not perfect. There may be some compatibility issues and you may experience some bugs. However, WINE is constantly being updated and improved, so these problems should gradually disappear.
WINE is a free and open-source mac emulator that allows you to run Windows applications on your mac. It’s similar to CrossOver Mac in that it doesn’t require a copy of Windows. However, WINE is less user-friendly and can be more difficult to set up.
7. Darling
Darling is a Mac emulator for Windows that allows you to run your favorite macOS apps and games on your PC. With Darling, you can enjoy all the features and benefits of macOS without having to switch operating systems.
Darling is fully compatible with most macOS apps and game titles, so you can continue using the same apps and games you’re used to without any hassle. Plus, Darling makes it easy to install and manage your macOS apps and games, so you can always keep your favorite ones close at hand.
If you’re a fan of macOS but have been hesitant to switch operating systems, Darling is the perfect solution for you.
It’s similar to WINE in that it’s free and open-source and doesn’t require a copy of macOS. However, Darling is still in development and may not be able to run all mac apps properly.
8. MacinCloud
MacinCloud is a powerful Mac emulator which has a provision to run macOS on Windows. With this tool, you can easily install and use all the apps and software that are available for macOS. This includes popular apps like Safari, iTunes, Pages, Keynote, and more. Macincloud also supports fullscreen mode, so you can enjoy the full macOS experience on your Windows computer.
If you’re looking for a way to run macOS on Windows, MacinCloud is a great option. It’s easy to use and install, and it supports all the major apps and software that are available for macOS. Plus, with fullscreen mode, you can enjoy the full macOS experience on your Windows computer.
MacinCloud allows you to rent a mac in the cloud. This can be handy if you need to use mac apps but don’t want to purchase a mac outright. MacinCloud also has a number of features that make it easy to use, like the ability to connect to your mac remotely from any internet-connected device.
9. MAMP
MAMP is a free, open-source Mac emulator for Windows. It allows you to run Mac OS X applications on your Windows computer.
MAMP provides an easy way to install and manage multiple versions of PHP, Ruby, Apache, and MySQL on your Windows computer. It also comes with a handy control panel that makes it easy to manage your server settings and website files.
MAMP is a great tool for developers who want to test their code on a Mac without having to buy a Mac. It’s also perfect for those who want to learn how to develop web applications on a Mac.
It’s similar to Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion in that it allows you to run both operating systems side-by-side. However, MAMP is less expensive than both of those options and has a number of features that make it easy to use, like the ability to install mac apps directly from the Windows app store.
10. Xamarin TestFlight
If you’re looking for a way to test your Xamarin app on a Mac without having to actually own one, then you should check out the Xamarin TestFlight mac emulator. This allows you to run your app on a simulated Mac, providing you with all the benefits of testing on a real device without any of the drawbacks.
The Xamarin TestFlight mac emulator is the best tool for developers to test their apps on a Mac without having to actually own one. It’s easy to use and provides all the benefits of testing on a real device, without any of the drawbacks. You can use it to test your app on a variety of different Mac OS versions, and it’s also best for testing app compatibility with new versions of Xamarin.
Xamarin TestFlight also has a number of features that make it easy to use, like the ability to connect to your mac remotely from any internet-connected device.
Best macOS Emulator for Windows – Compared
| macOS Emulator | Speed | Reliability | Resource Consumption | Ease of Setup | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parallels Desktop | High | High | Moderate | Easy | High |
| VMware Fusion | High | High | High | Moderate | High |
| VirtualBox | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Boot Camp | High | High | Low | Difficult | High |
| CrossOver Mac | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Easy | Moderate |
| WINE | Low | Moderate | Low | Difficult | Low |
| Darling | Low | Low | Low | Difficult | Low |
| MacinCloud | Moderate | High | Moderate | Easy | High |
| MAMP | Moderate | High | Moderate | Easy | Moderate |
| Xamarin TestFlight | High | High | Moderate | Moderate | High |
What are the Free macOS Emulators for Windows?
Free macOS emulators for Windows provide the flexibility to experience the macOS environment without needing an actual Apple device. These emulators virtually create an environment that can run macOS applications on your Windows PC. Among the free options are:
- VirtualBox: This is a robust, feature-rich, and high-performance emulator that allows you to run macOS alongside your Windows OS.
- WINE: An open-source emulator, WINE enables you to run macOS applications directly on Windows without the need for a macOS license.
- Darling: Still in development, Darling is akin to WINE and offers similar functionality. While not all applications might work, it is continually improving.
These emulators are a cost-effective way to run macOS applications, especially beneficial for developers needing to test their macOS apps on Windows systems. They allow for a high degree of compatibility and a user-friendly experience.
Does Using macOS Emulators Slow Down My Windows PC?
There is always a difference in performance compared to using the original macOS vs emulator version of the OS.
However, using macOS emulators on a Windows PC typically does not cause significant slowdowns. The emulator’s impact on system performance can vary based on several factors. These include the power of your hardware (CPU, RAM, etc.), the specific emulator you are using, and the intensity of the tasks you perform on the emulator. While running demanding applications, you might notice some lag or decreased performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a macOS emulator for Windows?
A macOS emulator for Windows is a program that allows you to run macOS applications on a Windows system, replicating the macOS environment virtually.
Can I run all macOS applications on a Windows system using these emulators?
While most macOS emulators provide support for a wide range of applications, the compatibility varies. Some apps may not function correctly or at all, depending on the emulator.
Are macOS emulators for Windows free?
Some emulators like VirtualBox, WINE, and Darling are free and open-source. However, others like Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion might require a purchase or subscription.
Does using a macOS emulator slow down my Windows system?
The impact on system performance depends on the emulator and the system’s resources. High-performance emulators might consume more resources, potentially slowing down your system.
Conclusion:
There are a number of mac emulators available for Windows, each with its own pros and cons. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use option that doesn’t require a copy of Windows, Boot Camp is a good choice.
However, if you need more flexibility, Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion are both excellent options. And if you’re a developer who needs to test mac apps, Xamarin TestFlight is a great choice. Whichever mac emulator you choose, you’ll be able to run mac apps on your Windows machine.
If you are having a macOS laptop and looking for a way to use the Windows emulator on macOS, do follow this guide – Windows emulator for macOS
