Running Windows on a Mac sounds simple, but the reality is more nuanced in 2026 – especially on modern Apple Silicon Macs with M-series chips. While there are several ways to use Windows on macOS, each comes with trade-offs that aren’t always obvious until you’ve already invested time or money.
This article focuses not on how to run Windows, but on whether you should at all – and what real Mac users tend to like or regret after doing it.
If you’re deciding whether running Windows on your Mac is actually worth it, this breakdown will help you avoid common mistakes.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer
Is it worth running Windows on a Mac?
Running Windows on a Mac is worth it if you rely on specific Windows-only software or in some cases, play Windows only games. However, it involves performance compromises, extra costs, and compatibility limitations – especially on Apple Silicon Macs where Windows cannot run natively.
✅ Best For
Running Windows on a Mac is best for users who:
- Need specific Windows-only software for work or study
- Want one computer instead of separate Mac and Windows PCs
- Prefer convenience over native performance
- Mainly use Windows for productivity, testing, or business apps
❌ Not Ideal For
It’s less suitable if you:
- Want native Windows gaming performance
- Rely on heavy 3D, CAD, or GPU-intensive apps
- Expect Windows to behave exactly like it does on a PC
- Dislike extra setup, licenses, or heavy resource usage on their Mac
The Real Pros of Running Windows on a Mac
1. You Can Use Windows-Only Software
The moat compelling reason to run Windows on a Mac is necessity.
Many users only install Windows because:
- A work or education app requires it
- A business system has no macOS equivalent
- A legacy or industry-specific tool won’t run elsewhere
If one app is essential to your goals, running Windows can be the most practical compromise.
2. One Device for both macOS and Windows
Using one computer instead of two:
- Reduces hardware costs – no need to buy an extra Windows PC or laptop
- Simplifies file management
- Keeps backups, peripherals, and displays unified
Virtual machines are particularly suited for this because Windows behaves like just another app inside macOS as you can see below using the Parallels virtual machine.
3. Convenient for Testing, Development, and Admin Tasks
Running Windows on a Mac works well for:
- Web and app testing
- IT administration
- Office and browser-based Windows software
- Light development work
For these tasks, convenience matters more than performance – and macOS + Windows side-by-side is incredibly convenient.
4. You May Not Need Full Windows at All
Many users discover that they don’t actually need Windows itself – just one or two Windows apps.
Compatibility tools (like the excellent CrossOver) can:
- Avoid Windows licenses
- Reduce the demands on your Mac
- Feel more integrated with macOS
This option is often overlooked and can significantly change the decision whether to run Windows on a Mac as its a very lightweight, simple solution. CrossOver for example is often the best way to play Windows only games on a Mac as you can see below.
The Real Cons (That Catch Users Out)
1. No Native Windows on Apple Silicon Macs
This is the biggest downside and the one that most newcomers to Macs don’t realize.
On modern Macs:
- Windows cannot run natively. The previous generation of Intel Macs can install Windows on a separate partition on a Mac’s hard drive using Boot Camp, effectively turning your Mac into a Windows PC.
- They can only run Windows ARM which is not the standard Intel (x86) version of Windows. While Windows on ARM looks and behaves the same on the surface, it relies on built-in emulation to run traditional Windows apps. This means some older software, drivers, games, and hardware-dependent tools either run slower or don’t work at all, especially apps that haven’t been updated for ARM compatibility.
- No dual booting.
- Everything depends on emulation or virtualization
For users coming from Intel Macs, this often feels like a downgrade in both flexibility and cost. Boot Camp is free to use in macOS but most third party solutions require purchase.
2. Performance Is Always a Trade-Off
Even on powerful Macs:
- Virtual machines share resources with macOS
- Demanding apps run slower than native Windows
- Gaming and 3D apps suffer the most
For sustained heavy duty graphics work, a dedicated Windows PC still performs better.
3. Battery Life and Heat Are Common Complaints
Laptop users running Windows on a Mac often notice:
- Faster battery drain
- Increased fan usage
- Higher system temperatures
Windows running alongside macOS is simply more demanding than macOS alone.
4. Compatibility Is Inconsistent
Some Windows software:
- Doesn’t support Windows on ARM
- Requires drivers unavailable in virtual machines
- Breaks after Windows updates
This unpredictability is one of the most frustrating aspects reported by users.
5. Costs Add Up Quickly
Running Windows on a Mac can involve:
- A Windows license
- Paid virtualization software
- Higher RAM and storage requirements
If Windows is only used occasionally, this can be an expensive solution to the problem.
Comparison Table: Windows on a Mac: Pros vs Cons by Method
| Method | Biggest Advantages | Main Downsides | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Machine | No reboot, macOS + Windows together | Performance and battery impact | Work, testing, productivity |
| Compatibility Layer | No Windows install, lightweight | Limited app support | Single Windows apps |
| Boot Camp (Intel only) | Native performance | Not available on Apple Silicon | Gaming, heavy workloads |
| Remote Windows PC | No local performance hit | Requires internet | Occasional Windows access |
(Detailed setup and recommendations are covered in our main Windows-on-Mac guide.)
What Mac Users Commonly Regret
Based on the most common user feedback we get at MacHow2, the most common regrets are:
- Installing Windows “just in case” and never using it
- Expecting gaming performance similar to a PC
- Underestimating battery drain on MacBooks
- Discovering key apps don’t work on Windows ARM
However, these issues usually stem from unclear expectations rather than poor software.
Hopefully, now you’re better informed, you will know exactly what to expect if you choose to run Windows on a Mac.
Final Verdict
Running Windows on a Mac is best viewed as a practical workaround, not a perfect solution.
It works well when:
- You have a specific Windows requirement
- Performance demands are moderate
- Convenience matters more than raw power
It becomes frustrating when:
- You expect native Windows performance
- You rely on demanding apps or games
- You dislike system complexity
For a full breakdown of which method suits your Mac and needs, see our dedicated guide on the best way to run Windows on a Mac.
FAQ
Is running Windows on a Mac safe?
Yes. Running Windows via virtualization or compatibility tools is safe and does not damage macOS. However, Windows still requires standard security updates and antivirus protection.
Does running Windows slow down a Mac?
It can. Virtual machines consume CPU, RAM, and battery resources, which can reduce performance – especially on lower-spec Macs.
Can Apple Silicon Macs run Windows natively?
No. Apple Silicon Macs cannot dual-boot Windows. Windows only runs via virtualization or compatibility layers.
Is it better to buy a Windows PC instead?
If Windows is your primary OS or you need maximum performance for gaming or professional software, a dedicated Windows PC is usually better value.
Do I need a Windows license?
Not necessarily. You can install and run Windows on a Mac without a paid license, but it will operate in an un-activated state. In this mode, Windows works normally for most tasks but has customization restrictions (such as changing themes or wallpapers) and displays occasional activation reminders.
Buying a Windows license removes these limitations and is recommended for long-term or professional use. Compatibility tools that don’t require Windows (such as CrossOver) avoid this cost entirely.