If you buy a Mac, why would you want to install Windows? This is a very specific question, and although macOS is a wonderful operating system, Some programs and games are only available for Windows. Just like there are other programs available only for Mac, the advantage of the Mac is that you can install Windows and take advantage of both operating systems whenever you need them.
For years, installing Windows on a Mac was as easy as using the Boot Camp app. An Apple program that allows you to easily split the disk in two and thus have two different operating systems. However, the panorama has changed since the arrival of Apple Silicon chips. Where we once had an Intel processor, now there is a Mac with an M chip, which has changed the way you can install Windows on a Mac.
How to Install Windows on an Intel Mac Using Boot Camp
Installing Windows on a Mac with an Intel processor is a relatively simple process thanks to Boot Camp Assistant, an application created by Apple which is included natively in macOS. With Boot Camp we will create a partition on the hard drive and we can choose, when starting the Mac, which operating system to start.
Before starting the installation of Windows on Mac with Boot Camp you will need:
- A Mac with an Intel processor (2012 to 2020).
- At least 64 GB of free disk space (Apple recommends 128 GB).
- A Windows 11 ISO image downloaded from the official Microsoft website.
- A valid Windows license.
- A USB device of at least 16 GB (on models before 2015).
Steps to Install Windows on a Mac with Intel
The process begins Opening the Boot Camp Assistant. You can search for this app in the magnifying glass at the top right, next to the time. You will just have to follow the steps; It's very simple. One of the most important is allocate hard drive space to Windows. Think about it: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 64 GB, but if you're going to install a lot of apps or games, it would be nice to give it a minimum of 128 GB. This will depend on the hard drive you have on your Mac. You also need to leave enough space for macOS to use it.
Disk space allocation schedule
With Boot Camp, all drivers will be automatically downloaded so that your Mac hardware works properly with Windows. There will come a time when you will need to select the Windows ISO image. For that you will need to purchase a Windows 11 license. Once the installation image is downloaded, Boot Camp will go directly to it. When your Mac restarts, you will see it automatically start with Windows. From there, you will follow the installation steps, which present no complications. In Windows, you can install the programs you needgames, etc. Everything will work normally, as if it were a PC from another brand.
*Some prices may have changed since the last review
When you turn on your Mac you can press the option key on the keyboard to choose the operating system to boot with. On your Mac, in System Settings, you can also find the option to choose the default startup disk. This will depend on which operating system you use more: Windows or macOS.
By pressing the option key as soon as you turn on the Mac, you will be able to access the start menu
Boot Camp provides the best possible experience between Windows and Mac, allowing a direct access to hardware without limitations of virtualization. Keep in mind, however, that you won't be able to use both systems simultaneously. You will need to reboot to switch between systems. And the space allocated to Windows will not be available for macOS.
How to install Windows on Mac with Apple Silicon chip
Starting with Macs with the M1 chip, the story of installing Windows on a Mac has changed a lot. Boot Camp is no longer supported and you will need to use virtualization software for installation. This has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, the advantage of virtualization is that you can use both operating systems at the same time. However, this consumes more resources on your Mac (RAM and processor), in addition to having to pay for a program responsible for virtualization. We We recommend using Parallels Desktopa classic when you think about installing Windows on Mac.
Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac (Windows 11 license not included)
*Some prices may have changed since the last review
Caesar's is what Caesar's own: Parallels makes installing Windows the easiest thing in the world. You don't even need to have an installable Windows image. Parallels will take care of everything and integrate seamlessly with macOS. Of course, you will still need a Windows 11 license.
Steps to Install Windows on a Mac with M Chip
First you need to download and install Parallels Desktop from its official website. From there, start the Windows installation process. He Parallels itself will automatically download Windows 11. You just need to follow the steps. The best thing about Parallels is that you can use both systems at the same time. Windows will appear in the Mac dock as if it were just another application. Perfect if you use an app or program all day and don't want to continually turn off your Mac.
Install Windows on Mac with Parallels
Other options for using Windows on Mac
In addition to Parallels, there are also other programs such as VMware Fusion. It's very similar and we recommend you take a look as well. On the other hand, there are options to play or run Windows programs on Mac. The best known are CrossOver or Wine.
Wine is one of the most popular alternatives for running Windows programs on Mac without installing the full operating system. Unlike other tools, Wine does not virtualize the entire systembut only focuses on specific applications. Wine is open source and doesn't always work well with applications. You have to be patient enough and do some tests.
CrossOver, on the other hand, is a paid application based on Wine, but it offers a much easier user experience. In true “Steam” style, you will simply have to choose which application or program to use and that's it. CrossOver has a price, but you don't need to purchase a Windows license. Plus, it offers a free trial.
Crossover works like a Windows app store on Mac
As you have seen, there are many options for installing Windows on Mac. This will depend on whether you have a Mac with an Intel processor or an Apple M chip.. In any case, applications like Parallels or CrossOver are perfect tools for using Windows on Mac in a simple way. And yes, although they are paid, they are one of those things worth investing in in exchange for a stable program. After all, macOS gives you a ten-point experience. We're not going to screw this up by not virtualizing Windows properly, are we? Of course, if you have a little more knowledge, you can try Wine or VMware. It will take you a few more steps, but you can surely save a few dollars and have Windows on Mac as you hoped.
In Applesfera | How to install macOS Sequoia on an unsupported Mac, step by step
In Applesfera | Microsoft Office for Mac, how to get it for free and differences between all versions
Table of Contents
