What are some alternatives to Bootcamp for installing Windows on a Mac with an M processor?

Bootcamp It is a utility from the Apple company that allows each of us, the possibility of install WiWindows on Macs. However, it is only limited to those Macs that have an integrated Intel processorThis is why many people with M processors (such as M1 and M2 chips) have to look for other solutions to install Windows. Today we will see What are the alternatives to Bootcamp for installing Windows on a Mac with an M processor?.

If this is your case, today I come to bring you A solution for you to enjoy the Microsoft operating system on your Apple computerToday we are going to see Some alternatives to Bootcamp that can be used on Macs with M processors. In addition, we will see what the advantages and disadvantages of using each of these are, so that, in the end, you can decide which is the best option for you.

Parallels Desktop

It is about un software available for Mac with M processor, which allows all macOS users to run the Windows operating system on these devices. The program works as a virtual machine.

Compatibility: Parallels Desktop works for both M1 and M2 processors, but it has a disadvantage, and that is that Only the Windows version for ARM is availableThat is, it can only run the Windows 11 ARM version.

Advantages of using Parallels Desktop:

1. MMaintains a fluid integration between both operating systems (macOS and Windows).
2. It contains Official support for Windows ARM version 11.
3. It offers users high performance, thanks to the program's optimization for Apple Silicon.

Disadvantages:

1. Rrequires a Parallels Desktop license to run (this license is paid).
2. It is only available for the ARM version of Windows, which Slightly limits compatibility with some 86-bit x32 applications and 64 bits.

This method is ideal for those users who need to run the Microsoft operating system occasionally, or to open some specific applications.

vmware fusion

vmware fusion es Another very practical and effective solution to achieve virtualization similar to the Parallel methodsHowever, with this method, we will have a more business approach to the Windows operating system.

Compatibility: Starting with version 13 of this platform, VMware supports all Macs with M1 and M2 processors. In addition, it also supports Windows versions for ARM.

Advantages of using VMware Fusion:

1. One of the advantages of using VMware is that, unlike Parallels, this option is totally free, and is perfect for personal use.
2. Offers a good performance and stability to users.

Disadvantages:

1. You have less integration with the macOS operating system, if we compare it with Parallels.
2. Its adaptability is also limited to Windows ARM.

With this method, we will have a Free and fully working alternativel, which will also be very useful for advanced users.

Windows 11 ARM (native or virtualized)

Microsoft itself has also ventured into compatibility issues with macOS, and an example of this is its version of Windows 11 ARM. This version, as its name suggests, is Designed for ARM processors, it can run on Macs with M1 or M2 chips.

Compatibility: This version is fully supported on Macs with Apple Silicon, but only through virtualization (either Parallels, VMware, etc.).

Advantages of using Windows 11 ARM:

1. Offers a experience close to native Windows.
2. Es Supports 86-bit and 32-bit x64 applications (through emulations).

Disadvantages:

1. Not compatible with all Windows applications, emulation has limits.
2. Requires a Windows 11 ARM license.

This alternative is quite useful for those users who need specific Windows applications. However, it is not a complete solution for all specific cases.

CrossOver

CrossOver It is a solution that offers us the possibility of run Windows applications on our Mac with M processor. All this, without the need to install Windows on our computer.

Compatibility: Is Fully functional on Macs with M1 and M2 processors, but with the exception that Not all Windows applications can be run with this alternative.

Advantages of using CrossOver:

1. This method offers the possibility of run windows applications from your Mac without the need to have a Windows license.
2. You have Direct integration with the macOS operating system.

Disadvantages:

1. It has a Limited compatibility with some Windows applications, so you won't have all the options unlocked.
2. Some applications may require additional configuration.

This method is ideal for thats users who need to run specific Windows applications, without the need to virtualize the entire operating system. Although it does not work for installing Windows, it is a useful alternative for using several functions of this operating system.

UTM

UTM es A completely free application that uses QEMU to be able to virtualize different operating systems on a Mac. Of course, among these operating systems is Windows.

Compatibility: It is fully functional on those Macs that have M1 and M2 processors. However, Your performance may be lower than when using Parallels or VMware.

Advantages of using UTM:

1. It is a completely free and open source option for users.
2. It can support other operating systems besides Windows.

Disadvantages:

1. Contains a more complex configuration than other alternatives.
2. It has lower performance compared to other commercial solutions.

This alternative is recommended for those users looking for a free and more flexible solution than other available options.

Advantages of installing Windows on a Mac

Greater availability of games

There are multitude of games which are available on Windows and not on macOS. So by installing Windows on your Mac, you can enjoy a extensive game library.

Multiplatform Development

If you are a developer, the Installing Windows on your Mac will allow you to test and develop applications for both operating systems at almost the same time. Useful for test and ensure the compatibility of your projects.

Using Specific Hardware

Some peripheral devices (such as printers, scanners, or VR devices) may come integrated with drivers or software only compatible with Windows. Therefore, by installing this system, you will be able to use these devices on your Mac without any problems.

Better performance

Some applications, such as 3D design, engineering, or video editing, are better optimized on Windows than on macOS.

Economic Alternative

Instead of having to buy a new Windows computer, you can Use your Mac with one of the above alternatives to install Windows on Mac.

And that's all, let me know in the comments what you think of these alternatives to Bootcamp for installing Windows.