Parallels Desktop

In the world of operating systems, Mac and Windows often appear as rivals. However, with tools like Parallels Desktop, this gap is bridged. Parallels Desktop is a powerful software solution that allows Mac users to seamlessly run Windows on their Apple device. This blog post takes a comprehensive look at Parallels Desktop, from its basics and key features to use cases and user feedback.

What is Parallels Desktop?

Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software developed by Parallels, Inc. It enables users to operate different operating systems on a Mac without needing to reboot. This includes not only Windows but also other operating systems like Linux and older versions of macOS.

Key Features of Parallels Desktop

  • Seamless Integration: One of the standout features of Parallels Desktop is the Coherence Mode function, which allows users to use Windows applications as if they were native Mac apps. This means users can switch between macOS and Windows applications without losing the aesthetics and functionality of the Mac operating system.
  • Performance Customization: Users can individually configure hardware resources such as CPU, RAM, and storage for each virtual machine. This ensures optimal performance based on the requirements of the respective software.
  • Easy Setup: Parallels Desktop facilitates the installation of Windows on a Mac. The software guides users through the entire process, including acquiring a Windows license if needed.
  • Support for DirectX and OpenGL: Parallels Desktop supports DirectX 11 and OpenGL, which means that even graphics-intensive applications and games can be run on a Mac.
  • Integration with macOS: The latest version of Parallels Desktop offers integrations with macOS features like Dark Mode and the Continuity Camera.

Use Cases

  • Software Development: Developers creating applications for both Mac and Windows can efficiently test and develop on both platforms using Parallels Desktop.
  • Business Applications: Many business programs, particularly in areas like accounting and human resources, are only available for Windows. With Parallels Desktop, these applications can be utilized on a Mac.
  • Education: Students and educators who need specialized educational software available only on Windows benefit from the flexibility that Parallels Desktop offers.

Parallels Desktop 19 – New Features and Improvements

Parallels Desktop 19 introduces a variety of new features and optimizations that ensure compatibility and performance with the latest macOS versions, while also improving support for newer Windows versions.

  • Enhanced Graphics Performance: With support for DirectX 11 on the Metal graphics engine, Parallels Desktop 19 offers improved graphics performance, which is particularly important for games and graphics-intensive applications.
  • Increased Efficiency: The new version offers improved resource usage, leading to faster startup times for Windows and generally better performance of virtual machines.

Comparison of Parallels Desktop 19 Editions: Standard, Pro, and Business

Parallels Desktop 19 offers three main editions—Standard, Pro, and Business—each targeting different user groups.

Standard Edition

The Standard Edition of Parallels Desktop 19 is ideal for individual users and small businesses that want to run Windows applications on a Mac without extensive system requirements. With 8 GB of virtual RAM and 4 virtual CPUs, this edition provides sufficient resources for general applications like Microsoft Office, simple graphic design programs, and internet applications. Its seamless integration, allowing users to almost use Windows as if it were developed for Mac, is a standout feature of this edition. Despite its affordability, the Standard Edition offers full access to updates for new versions of macOS, Windows, and Linux, albeit only in a subscription model.

Pro Edition

For professional users and developers needing advanced features, the Pro Edition is an excellent choice. It significantly expands the capabilities of the Standard Edition by providing 128 GB of virtual RAM and 32 virtual CPUs. This performance boost is crucial for users working with graphics-intensive programs or operating multiple operating systems simultaneously. In addition to supporting the basic features available in the Standard Edition, the Pro Edition enables the running of professional applications such as CAD software, 3D modeling, and advanced data analysis programs. This edition is also available in a subscription model and includes premium support and regular software updates.

Business Edition

The Business Edition builds on the Pro Edition and is aimed at medium to large enterprises that need a robust virtualization solution. It shares the technical specifications of the Pro Edition, like 128 GB of RAM and 32 CPUs, and offers additional management features crucial for businesses, such as central management and mass deployment options. This edition also supports businesses requiring high availability and rapid support for their critical applications by offering daily premium support.

Conclusion on Editions

Choosing the right edition of Parallels Desktop 19 heavily depends on your specific needs:

  • Standard Edition: Best choice for everyday users and smaller offices that want to run simple Windows applications on a Mac.
  • Pro Edition: Recommended for advanced users and developers who need enhanced computing power and support for professional applications.
  • Business Edition: Ideal for large enterprises that require comprehensive management features and priority support.

Each of these editions provides the flexibility and performance to meet the specific needs of various user groups, from simple office applications to computation-intensive, professional environments.

User Feedback

User feedback on Parallels Desktop is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate the ease of installation and the seamless integration of Windows applications into the Mac environment. There is some criticism regarding performance requirements, especially when demanding games or applications are used.

Conclusion

Parallels Desktop is an impressive solution for anyone wanting to experience the versatility of Windows on a Mac without compromising on performance or usability. The software ensures that users can get the best of both worlds without having to switch between different computers. With continuous updates and improvements, Parallels Desktop remains a top choice for Mac users reliant on Windows applications. Furthermore, we also offer Parallels Desktop 18 Pro, an enhanced version that provides additional features and performance optimizations for professional users.