Parallels Desktop is a Mac application that allows virtualizing the Windows OS on any Mac. Like the VirtualBox for Windows, the Parallels Desktop also is a virtualization software where you could install the Windows or its applications seamlessly. It supports almost any Windows applications to run on your Mac. You don’t have reboot the Mac or select a different partition to install the extra OS. The automated processes can help you to run Windows applications as running a Mac application. No hassles or problems will be there in the setup or the maintenance.
So today, we decided to review the Parallels Desktop which will help thousands of people who are still in search of the perfect way to run Windows applications on Mac Osx. In this review, we will analyze the software top to bottom and will provide some of the most noticeable features alongside our final verdict. If you are one of those who wanted to run Windows applications on Mac, you should take a look at this review. So, let’s start.
What is Parallels Desktop?
As mentioned before Parallels Desktop is a Mac program that helps to run Windows applications on Mac. In other words, it is a virtual engine like many other softwares we already have seen on the market (like VMware.) It comes with very nice power management features to provide a better power consumption control throughout the usage. It reduces the resource usage of the virtual engine as much as possible resulting in the minimum power consumption. From our tests, there was only a slight difference in the power usage of the Mac even after running the Parallels Desktop software. This makes it possible to enjoy the virtual machine even on low battery or long journeys.
Parallels Desktop Interface
The Parallels Desktop interface is very easy to use where the necessary buttons and links are placed. There is also a wizard mode available on the software to make it even simpler to create and run virtual machines where any of the Windows or Linux programs running. The latest version of the software also includes many other platforms varies according to the edition. Even though, to create a virtual machine you have to sweat a little especially if you are a beginner. There are no exact documentations available with the software that describes the setup and maintenance process of the Windows or Linux virtual machines.
If you are familiar with such virtualization tools, the software will be quite easier to use, and you will never face an issue in any part of the software. Parallels Desktop is also coming with the support to add existing virtual machines in case you saved it earlier on any other storage medias. All in all, the interface and first look at the software will surely make you an impression.
Parallels Desktop Features
Here are some of the most noticeable features of the Parallels Desktop application. Having a look at them will help you in determining what you will get with it.
One-touch Tools
The One-touch tools in the Parallels desktop makes it easier to fulfill various tasks in the virtualized OS. To take a screenshot, cast your screen, access the internet, download videos, all you have to do is simply clicking some buttons. It is no more difficult to control your virtual machine.
Run Windows on your Mac without rebooting
You don’t have to reboot your Mac to run Windows on it. Simply open the Parallels software and create a virtual machine. Then start using it seamlessly until you get bored. At any point, the Windows needs to be restarted; you just restart the virtual machine instead of the Mac.
Use any Windows applications
It can run almost any windows application without any trouble. You can enjoy using any Windows applications on Mac like using a Mac program. No problems or bugs were found in our tests.
Optimized for Windows 10 and ready for MacOS Sierra
The Parallels Desktop is no more older. The software supports all the popular platforms including Windows 10 and the MacOS Sierra. So the compatibility will be no longer questioned.
500 GB of online backup storage for 1 year
To sweeten the features, the Parallels offers 500GB of online storage for the users. This is available with any edition of the program. If you have any of your important files to store from the virtual machine and you have access to the internet, you are so lucky.
Also Run other operating systems
If you bored of running just the Windows OS on the Parallels, it could also run various other platforms including Linux and Google Chrome OS. The supported platforms are ranging as, OS X, Windows 10, 8.1 & 7, Linux, and Google Chrome OS.
Easily switch between the operating systems
It is very easy to switch between the operating systems. For example, if you want to copy something from your virtual machine or to the virtual machine, the setup assistant is always there for you.
Good performance
Parallels Desktop runs quite good when compared to other softwares to run Windows on Mac. It uses very low resources except in high usage conditions like gaming on the virtual machine.
Retina Support
The new versions of the software are coming with Retina support independent on the resolution or other display features.
Non-Compromised Security
Even if you are using a virtual machine, the security of the OS will be non-compromised. You could set separate passwords for any of the virtual machines or folders to secure it from external access. This is a unique feature that we can’t see on other competitors.
Pros
- Run Windows and Linux Virtual Machines on Mac
- Improved integration between Mac and Windows programs
- Even some games are supported
- Very power efficient
- Supports macOS Sierra and Windows 10 Anniversary Update
- Not completely free
- Sometimes, uses high resources (Especially for gaming)
- No much guidance for the new users
Cons
Verdict
Parallels Desktop is an unquestioned Windows emulator for Mac. With its features and the ability in running almost any Windows programs, Parallels Desktop dominating the virtual machine industry on Mac. A new license of the software starts from $79.99 and varies according to the editions. If you would like to give a try to the software before going to buy it, you could do that from the following link. Thousands of people already using Parallels Desktop to run Windows on Mac, you also give it a try.
Download Parallels Desktop for Mac