Parallels Review: The Best Virtualization Tool in 2026?

Do you ever feel stuck when your Mac can’t run the one Windows app you need for work?

It is frustrating to stare at a “file not supported” error while your deadlines creep closer.

You might try clunky workarounds, but they usually slow down your computer or crash at the worst time.

This constant battle between operating systems wastes your energy & kills your focus.

Parallels Desktop 21 promises to end this headache for good by making Windows feel like a native part of your Mac.

In this review, we look at how this tool handles speed and ease of use.

Is it still the king of virtualization in 2026?

Parallelen

Stop wasting hours on clunky setups. Join the 7 million+ users who rely on Parallels to run over 200,000 Windows applications natively on Mac. With a setup process that takes just 2 clicks, it is the fastest way to boost your productivity in 2026.

Try Parallels now

Was sind Parallelen?

Parallels Desktop for Mac is a special kind of virtualization software.

It lets you run two operating systems on one computer at the same time.

Think of it as a “digital computer” that lives inside your physical one.

For Mac users, it creates virtual machines that act like real Windows PCs.

You can keep your Mac desktop open and still use all your favorite Windows apps.

This tool is a lifesaver for people with an Apple Silicon Mac.

It lets you run Windows virtual machines on the newest Mac computers.

Once you set up your guest operating system, you can run Mac & Windows apps side by side.

You can even drag files from Mac apps directly into Windows.

It makes your Mac more flexible because you no longer have to choose between systems.

Wer hat die Parallelen geschaffen?

Serg Bell founded Parallelen in 1999.

The company’s vision is to make cross-platform Berechnung Einfach für alle.

They create virtualization solutions that let people access any app on any device.

Today, they help millions of users work across different systems without any trouble.

Die wichtigsten Vorteile von Parallels

Parallels Desktop for Mac makes it easy to run Windows on your Apple hardware.

Here are the top reasons why users love this software:

• No More Boot Camp: You no longer need Boot Camp to switch systems. You can use Mac and Windows applications at the same time without restarting your Mac computer.
• Einfache Einrichtung: It is very simple to install Windows on your machine. The software guides you through every step to get your operating system ready in minutes.
• Kohärenzmodus: This feature lets you hide the Windows desktop entirely. You can run Windows apps as if they were native to mac OS.
• Apple Silicon Support: The software works perfectly on Apple Silicon Macs and older Intel Macs. It is built to run fast on the latest Apple silicon chips.
• Great for Gaming: You can play many Windows Spiele that aren’t compatible with Macs. It uses the host computer’s hardware resources to keep gameplay smooth.
• Flexible Viewing: Use full-screen mode to make your Mac look like a PC. You can also run it in a window next to your other programs.
• Supports Other Systems: You are not limited to Windows. You can also install Linux operating systems or other operating systems for testing.
• Pro Edition Features: The Pro Edition offers extra power for developers. Both Pro and Geschäft editions include tools for advanced networking and support for the Internet Printing Protocol.
• Smooth Updates: Upgrading from previous versions is easy. The software stays up to date with every new update to Mac and Windows systems.

Die besten Eigenschaften von Parallels

Parallels is packed with unique tools that help you work faster.

Ob Sie ein Student, a business owner, or a pro coder, there is a version for you.

It is designed to be simple so anyone can use it.

These features make it the top choice for combining multiple systems on a single screen.

1. Parallels Desktop Business

The Business Edition is designed for companies that need to manage many users simultaneously.

It offers a standard edition feel while adding a management portal for IT teams.

You can easily run virtual machines across an entire office.

It also lets you restrict users from creating new virtual machines to keep things secure.

This version is perfect for keeping your team on the same page.

2. Parallels Desktop for Mac

This is the latest version of the software that most people use at home.

It allows Mac users to run a version of Windows right on their macOS desktop.

You can even use Touch ID to log into your Windows side with just your finger.

It works great on Apple Silicon machines and older Intel Mac models, too.

It is the heart of the Mac community and gets a great Mac review every year.

3. Parallels Desktop Pro

The Desktop Pro Edition is made for power users who need more muscle.

It gives you more RAM and CPU power per Parallels virtual machine.

This is the best choice if you need to run heavy CAD software or multiple Linux operating systems.

The Mac Pro Edition also lets you resume Windows sofort, so you never lose your spot.

It is a big step up from the free version or standard apps.

4. Parallels RAS

Parallels RAS helps businesses deliver apps to any device through the cloud.

It works with Windows Server to send programs to employees wherever they are.

This is different from a parallels workstation because it runs over the internet.

It is very secure and easy for IT staff to set up.

Even Linux users can access Windows apps through this system.

5. Parallels Browser Isolation

This feature keeps your web browsing safe by running it in a “Blase.

It prevents malicious websites from accessing your host computer’s hardware resources.

Using this helps protect your Mac’s desktop from viruses.

It is like having a private, secure hallway for the internet.

This is a must-have for people who handle sensitive Daten.

6. Secure Remote Workspace

This tool lets you access your files and apps from any web browser.

You don’t even need to install the full version of Parallels on the device you are using.

It works perfectly on macOS Sonoma or even older versions of OS X.

You can see your apps in their own window, just like you were at your office desk.

It makes working from home feel very smooth.

7. Parallels DaaS

Parallels DaaS stands for “Desktop as a Service.”

It lets companies provide workers with a full version of Parallels in the cloud.

It saves a lot of disk space because the hard work happens on a remote server.

You can scale up to hundreds of users in just a few clicks.

It is much faster than manually setting up Parallels Desktop 19 on every laptop.

8. Parallels Toolbox

Parallels Toolbox is a giant collection of over 40 helpful tools.

You can use it to clean your drive, record your screen, or download videos.

It is included with the pro and business versions of the software.

It will work on the latest version of macOS & help you save time on daily tasks.

It’s like a Swiss Army knife for your Mac computer.

Preisgestaltung

Choosing the right version of Parallels depends on how much power you need.

Most users choose the annual subscription to get free updates every year.

There is also a one-time purchase option if you want to own a specific version forever.

Für und Wider

It is important to consider both the good and the bad aspects of any software.

This helps you decide if the tool fits your needs before you spend your money.

Persönliche Erfahrungen mit Parallels

My team recently used this software to bridge the gap between our office Geräte.

We needed to run a specific database tool that only works on a PC.

By using Mac Parallels Desktop, we stayed productive without buying new hardware.

It handled our heavy tasks while keeping our Mac operating system stable and fast.

Here is how we used it to get results:

• Running Windows Fast: We used the software to keep Windows running in a window next to our Mac tools. This helped us copy data between systems in seconds.
• Fernzugriff: Our team used Parallels Access to access our office files on iPads while traveling. It felt like we were sitting right at our desks.
• Support for All Macs: We tested it on bothIntel-based Macsn and thelatestt Apple chips. It worked smoothly on all the latest macOS versions we use.

Alternatives to Parallels

• VMware Fusion: This is now free for personal and commercial use.
• UTM: A simple and light tool made for Apple chips.
• Oracle VM VirtualBox: This open-source software works on almost any computer.
• Crossover: You can run Windows apps without installing Windows itself.
• Windows 365: This tool streams a full PC from the cloud.

Schlussbetrachtung

If you need Windows on your Mac, Parallels is the best choice in 2026.

It is very fast and easy for anyone to set up.

You can run all your favorite PC programs without slowing down your computer.

It works perfectly on the newest Apple chips and older models too.

While the price is a bit high, the time you save is worth it.

It makes your Mac much more powerful for work or play.

Don’t let software limits hold you back any longer.

Start your free trial of Parallels today and run over 200,000 Windows apps on your Mac with just two clicks!

Häufig gestellte Fragen

More Facts about Parallels Desktop

• Official Support: Microsoft has officially approved Parallels Desktop to run Windows 11 on Mac computers.
• Safe Environment: The software creates a “virtual machine,” which is like a computer inside your computer. This keeps Windows separate so it cannot harm your Mac’s main system or hard drive.
• Einfache Einrichtung: Installing Windows is very simple. There is a button that says “Get Windows 11 From Microsoft” that does most of the work for you.
• Windows on New Macs: It works on both older Intel Macs and the newer Macs with Apple Silicon (M1, M2, and M3 chips). On newer Macs, it uses a special version of Windows called the ARM version.
• Performance Requirements: To run both Mac and Windows smoothly, it is recommended to have at least 8GB of memory (RAM), though having more is better.
• Geschwindigkeit: Many users say Windows starts up and runs faster in Parallels than it does on some cheaper PC laptops.
• Gaming Limitations: You can play many games, but it does not support the newest graphics technology (DirectX 12). Also, games with anti-cheat software will not work.
• Heavy Software: The Pro version allows you to use a lot of power (up to 128GB of virtual memory). This helps run heavy programs used for design and engineering (CAD).
• Zusammenarbeit: You can easily move files between your Mac and Windows by dragging and dropping them. You can also use copy and paste between the two systems.
• Geräte: It creates a smooth connection for your devices. You can automatically use your Mac’s printer and USB devices in Windows.
• Snapshots: A helpful feature called “snapshots.” If you make a mistake or get a virus in Windows, you can go back in time to fix it instantly.
• Kosten: You usually pay for the software every year (subscription). The Standard plan is around $100 per year, and the Pro plan is around $120 per year.
• Student Discount: If you are a student or lehrer, you can buy the Standard edition for half the price (about $40 per year).
• Einmaliger Kauf: You can buy the Standard version once without a subscription, but if a new major version comes out später, you do not get it for free.
• Kostenlose Testversion: You can try the software for 14 days to see if it works for you before buying.
• Company Info: Parallels has been owned by Corel (now called Alludo) since 2018.
• System Usage: Running two operating systems at once uses a lot of computer power. This might slow down your computer if you have too many other apps open.