Running Windows 11 on Apple Silicon Macs

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

If you need to run Windows on an Apple Silicon Mac, you’re not alone—macOS no longer supports Boot Camp, so virtualization is the only practical method. On Hands-On Tech, Mikah Sargent breaks down authorized and reliable software choices to help you choose the best way to run Windows 11 on your M1, M2, or M3 Mac.

Why You Can't Use Boot Camp Anymore

Apple’s switch to Apple Silicon (M-series processors) meant the end of Boot Camp—the built-in tool that previously let users dual-boot macOS and Windows natively. Today, Mac users must rely on virtualization or compatibility layers to access Windows apps. That makes picking the right software critical, especially as Windows licensing and compatibility can be tricky on modern Macs.

The Top Options for Running Windows on Apple Silicon

Mikah Sargent reviewed four main solutions, highlighting their compatibility, cost, and best-use cases.

1. Parallels Desktop

• Type: Virtualization (Microsoft authorized)
• Cost: $99.99/year (Standard), $119.99/year (Pro), perpetual license available for single macOS version
• Pros:
  • Officially authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 on ARM on M-series Macs
  • Easiest setup and best macOS integration, including features like coherence mode (run Windows apps side by side with Mac apps)
  • Strongest graphics performance
  • One-click Windows installation
• Cons:
  • Subscription-based pricing or limited perpetual license
  • Some users dislike recurring costs

2. VMware Fusion

• Type: Virtualization (not officially authorized, but works for now)
• Cost: Free for personal use (subscription required for commercial use)
• Pros:
  • Mature product, well-established virtualization platform
  • Decent performance for most casual and professional tasks
  • No cost for personal use
• Cons:
  • Setup is more technical compared to Parallels (manual Windows ISO download)
  • Less polished macOS integration
  • Future support is uncertain since Broadcom now owns VMware

3. UTM

• Type: Open-source virtualization
• Cost: Free from the website, $9.99 on Mac App Store (supporting development)
• Pros:
  • Open-source, flexible, and free
  • Can run Windows ARM or x86 versions (though x86 is very slow)
• Cons:
  • Least performance of the virtualization options
  • Technical setup and minimal Mac integration
  • Not Microsoft-authorized, so activation/licensing is a gray area (Microsoft could disable support anytime)

4. Crossover

• Type: Compatibility layer (does not require Windows installation)
• Cost: $74/year or $494 lifetime license; 14-day free trial
• Pros:
  • No need to install Windows itself
  • Lightweight; works well for some games and select Windows apps
  • No Windows license required
• Cons:
  • Compatibility is hit or miss—best to check Codeweavers’ compatibility database before purchase
  • Not all apps run flawlessly; many run with quirks or not at all

Key Differences

• Parallels is the only solution officially approved by Microsoft for Windows 11 on ARM, offering the best integration and user experience.
• VMware Fusion offers a good free alternative, but requires more manual setup and has an uncertain long-term outlook.
• UTM is best for hobbyists and those comfortable tinkering at the potential risk of future compatibility.
• Crossover is for those who only need one or two specific Windows applications and want to avoid running an entire virtual machine.

Best Choice For...

• Simple, reliable Windows experience: Parallels Desktop
• Free, hands-on approach: VMware Fusion
• Tinkerers or occasional use: UTM
• Running specific apps without Windows: Crossover

What This Means for You

If you need guaranteed Windows support on an Apple Silicon Mac, Parallels Desktop is the safest bet—even though it’s not the cheapest. For those on a budget, VMware Fusion is a strong alternative, as long as you’re comfortable with manual setup and potential changes in support. UTM and Crossover are tools for tech-savvy users or for cases where only a few Windows apps need to be run.

Remember, some Windows applications (like those needing kernel-level anti-cheat, custom drivers, or 32-bit installers) may still not work in any virtualization scenario. In those cases, a low-cost Windows PC may be the only option.

The Bottom Line

Parallels Desktop offers the best balance of simplicity, reliability, and support for most Mac users who want to run Windows 11 on Apple Silicon. VMware Fusion is a solid free alternative, but may not be future-proof. UTM and Crossover serve niche needs for tinkerers or users with simple requirements.

For step-by-step details and host insights, check out the full episode:
https://twit.tv/shows/hands-on-tech/episodes/265