The Ultimate macOS Virtual Windows Solution for 16 Years – Parallels
Parallels is an essential virtual Windows software for macOS users in Korea. Simply put, it’s a software that allows you to use Windows on a Mac.
Many unfortunate users enchanted by the usability of Apple’s macOS in Korea have had no choice but to deal with old government websites and their ActiveX controls. These days, thanks to the younger generation who entered the Apple ecosystem through iPhones, the number of Mac users has significantly increased, making it possible to handle many government-related tasks on Macs.
Parallels has been bridging Mac and Windows for 16 years now. Do we still have reasons to use Parallels? If so, is there a cheaper way to purchase it? Let’s find out.
What is Parallels?
Parallels is virtual Windows software for macOS. Since macOS and Windows are different operating systems, the software installed on them is not compatible with each other. For example, running a file ending in .exe on macOS will result in an error.
To address this issue, Apple offers a solution called Boot Camp. However, the major drawback is that you have to reboot your laptop to use Windows. Nowadays, people often have dozens of tabs open in their web browsers, doing various tasks on their laptops. Closing all of this and rebooting just to use Windows is something that Koreans would find hard to accept.
Parallels is a powerful virtual Windows software that allows you to use Windows in a single window within macOS without rebooting.
Download and Install Windows 11 with One Click
Although Apple Boot Camp is free, it can be a headache to use. You need to create an installation USB for Windows, and there’s a lot to do. With Parallels, you can download and install Windows with just one click.
Seamless Integration with Mac
All storage and folders on your Mac can be used in Parallels Windows. You can work seamlessly and efficiently while using Windows.
Play Windows-Only Games
Another reason to use Parallels is to play Windows-only games. Especially with Parallels Desktop 18 in 2023, game controllers can be used in Windows without additional settings.
Microsoft-Certified ARM-Based Windows Solution
The powerful ARM M series processors used in Apple MacBooks have significantly impacted the laptop market. However, since ARM operates in a completely different way, a separate ARM version of Windows was released. On February 16, 2023, Microsoft officially announced Parallels as the certified solution for running Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise ARM versions on Apple Silicon Macs. Users can now feel more assured as Microsoft officially certifies Parallels.
Features
- Optimized for macOS Ventura
- One-click download and installation of Windows 11
- Seamless Mac integration: copy and paste
- Game controller usage in Windows without additional settings
- Disk space optimization
Pros
- Can handle most government-related websites on Mac
- Run Windows programs without rebooting the computer
- Seamless experience between Windows and Mac
Cons
- Heavy usage of apps within Parallels can slow down the entire Mac
- Subscription products incur annual costs
Pricing
- Standard: $99.99/year
- Pro: $119.99/year
- Business: $149.99/year
Discount Purchasing Methods
- Student and Educator Discount: 50% off (requires proof of eligibility)
- Black Friday Discount: 20% off (starts on the fourth Friday of November every year)
- Promo Code Special Discount: 10% off (Code: 3GE-2CF-NMH) (codes may expire; contact us for new discount codes)
Advice
For personal use, it is best to choose the most affordable Standard plan. The significant difference between Standard and Pro is that the Standard plan supports up to 8GB of virtual RAM and 4 virtual CPUs per virtual machine, while the Pro plan supports up to 128GB of virtual RAM and 32 virtual CPUs. If you need to play high-performance games or run professional software, you should opt for the Pro plan. Other differences include advanced features needed by developers and 24/7 phone and email support. Fortunately, there is only a $20 difference between the Standard and Pro plans annually.
Conclusion
We have reviewed the best virtual Windows solution for Mac, Parallels. Although solutions like Apple Boot Camp and VMware exist, no other solution provides as seamless a Mac user experience as Parallels. It is recommended for those who primarily use macOS but need to handle government website tasks, use Windows-specific software, or play Windows games on their Mac. For those looking to purchase Parallels more cheaply, it’s advisable to use the student discount through a qualified friend.