Windows apps don't run natively on Mac, but you have four main routes: virtualization software that runs Windows inside macOS, compatibility layers that translate Windows commands to Mac commands, remote access to a Windows computer, or finding a Mac version of the software you need.
Which route works depends on what app you're running, how often you need it, and whether you want Windows running full-time on your Mac or just for that one program. A heavy-duty design tool needs different handling than a legacy business application you use once a month.
Key Takeaways
- Virtualization software like Parallels Desktop or UTM lets you run a full copy of Windows on your Mac, but requires a Windows license and takes up significant disk space.
- Compatibility layers like CrossOver translate Windows software to run directly on macOS without needing Windows itself, work well for many common programs, and use less disk space than virtualization.
- Remote access tools let you connect to a Windows computer elsewhere and use it from your Mac, useful if you already own a Windows machine or have access to one at work.
- Not all Windows apps work in every method — checking whether your specific program is supported before buying software saves money and frustration.
Virtualization: Running Windows inside macOS
Virtualization means running Windows as a complete operating system inside a window on your Mac, the same way you might run a video game in a window. The most common option is Parallels Desktop, which costs around $80 to $100 for a one-time license (prices vary by version and sales). UTM is a free alternative that works on Apple Silicon Macs and Intel Macs, though it requires more technical setup.
Virtualization requires you to own a Windows license. You can buy Windows 11 Home or Pro directly from Microsoft, or use an existing license if you have one. The software creates a virtual hard drive on your Mac — typically 50 to 100 GB — that acts as a complete Windows computer. Once installed, you can run any Windows application, including older software that wouldn't work with other methods.
The trade-off is performance and disk space. Virtualization is slower than running Windows natively because your Mac is doing extra work to translate between systems. If you're running demanding applications like video editing or 3D modeling in Windows, you'll notice the slowdown. You also need enough free disk space for Windows itself plus your applications and files.
Compatibility layers: Running Windows apps without Windows
CrossOver is the main compatibility layer for Mac. It translates Windows application code into commands your Mac understands, so you can run Windows software without installing Windows at all. A CrossOver license costs around $40 to $60 one-time, or $20 per year for a subscription. It uses far less disk space than virtualization — typically 5 to 10 GB total — and runs faster because there's no virtual operating system overhead.
The catch is that not every Windows application works. CrossOver maintains a database of tested software, and you can search it before buying to see whether your specific program is supported. Common applications like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and many business tools work well. Older or niche software often doesn't. If your app isn't on the list, CrossOver probably won't run it.
Wine, the free open-source project that CrossOver is built on, is also available directly on Mac, but it requires command-line setup and troubleshooting. CrossOver is the user-friendly paid version that handles installation and configuration for you.
Remote access: Using a Windows computer from your Mac
If you have access to a Windows computer — whether it's a desktop at home, a laptop you own, or a work computer — you can connect to it from your Mac and use it remotely. Microsoft Remote Desktop is free and works well for this. You install the app on your Mac, enter the Windows computer's address, and see its screen on your Mac as if you were sitting at it.
This approach works for any Windows application because you're actually using Windows. It requires the Windows computer to be turned on and connected to the internet, and your connection speed affects how responsive it feels. For occasional use or when you need full Windows compatibility, remote access is straightforward. For daily work, the lag can become frustrating.
Some people use cloud-based Windows desktops through services like Amazon WorkSpaces or Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop, which let you rent a Windows computer in the cloud and access it from anywhere. These cost money per month but don't require you to own a Windows machine.
Finding Mac versions of Windows software
Before investing in any of the above methods, check whether the software you need has a Mac version. Many popular applications — Slack, Zoom, Chrome, Firefox, Figma, Notion — run natively on Mac and work identically to their Windows versions. The Mac version is always the fastest and most reliable option if it exists.
Search the publisher's website or the Mac App Store to see what's available. Sometimes the Mac version costs extra or has different features, so read the details. If a Mac version exists but costs money, compare that price to the cost of virtualization or CrossOver software — sometimes buying the Mac version is cheaper than buying compatibility software.
Comparing the four routes
| Method | Cost | Disk Space | Speed | App Compatibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virtualization (Parallels Desktop) | $80–$100 + Windows license | 50–100 GB | Slower | Any Windows app | Heavy use, older software, full Windows access |
| Compatibility layer (CrossOver) | $40–$60 | 5–10 GB | Fast | Common apps only | Specific tested apps, limited disk space |
| Remote access | Free to $50+/month | Minimal | Depends on internet | Any Windows app | Occasional use, existing Windows computer |
| Mac version | Varies | Varies | Native | N/A | First choice if available |
What to check before you commit
Before spending money, verify that your specific application works with your chosen method. For CrossOver, search the compatibility database at codeweavers.com. For virtualization, any Windows app will work, but test performance with a trial version if possible. For remote access, make sure you have reliable internet and access to the Windows computer you plan to use.
Also check your Mac's hardware. Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3 and newer) run virtualization and compatibility layers differently than Intel Macs. Parallels Desktop works smoothly on Apple Silicon. UTM and CrossOver work on both, but some older Windows software may not run on Apple Silicon at all because it was written for Intel processors. If you're using an Intel Mac, you have more compatibility options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run Windows games on Mac?
Some games work through CrossOver or virtualization, but many don't because games often use specialized graphics code. Check the CrossOver database first. For games not listed, virtualization is your best bet, though performance will be slower than on Windows. Some games have native Mac versions — check Steam or the publisher's website.
Do I need to buy Windows if I use Parallels Desktop?
Yes, Parallels Desktop is the software that runs Windows, but you still need a Windows license from Microsoft. You can buy Windows 11 Home or Pro separately, or use an existing license if you have one. Parallels Desktop alone won't let you run Windows.
Will remote access work if my internet is slow?
Remote access will work, but it will feel sluggish. The slower your connection, the more lag you'll experience between clicking and the action happening on screen. If your internet is under 5 Mbps, remote access becomes frustrating for regular use. Virtualization or CrossOver are better choices for unreliable internet.
What's the difference between CrossOver and Wine?
Wine is free open-source software that translates Windows apps to Mac. CrossOver is built on Wine but adds a user-friendly installer, support, and pre-tested configurations for specific applications. If you're comfortable with command-line setup and troubleshooting, Wine is free. Otherwise, CrossOver's $40–$60 cost is worth it for the convenience.
Can I run both Windows and Mac versions of an app at the same time?
Yes, if you're using virtualization or remote access, you can run the Windows version in one window and the Mac version in another. With CrossOver, you're running only the Windows version translated to Mac. This matters if you need to test software across both platforms or share files between versions.