Which is Better for Mac Users: Parallel Desktop or VirtualBox?

When it comes to running multiple operating systems on your Mac, both Parallel Desktop and VirtualBox are excellent options. However, the choice between the two can be crucial, particularly on the latest macOS versions like Big Sur. In this article, we compare and contrast these two popular tools, focusing on their usability, stability, and integration features. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which one might suit your needs best.

Introduction to Parallel Desktop and VirtualBox

Both Parallel Desktop and VirtualBox are reliable solutions for running virtual operating systems on macOS. While VirtualBox is an open-source, multi-platform project, Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion are commercial products designed exclusively for the Mac platform. This article primarily focuses on Parallels Desktop due to its extensive support and seamless integration with Mac users.

Usability and Features

Parallel Desktop is far easier to use and more polished compared to VirtualBox. Its design is more intuitive and closely mimics the Mac environment, making it a more pleasant user experience. On the other hand, VirtualBox can be more complicated to set up, especially for new users. Setting up guest virtual machines in VirtualBox often requires more steps and can be a tedious process.

Key Features: Integration Features: Parallels Desktop offers powerful integration features such as shared clipboard, integrated copy and paste, and drag-and-drop file transfer, making it a versatile tool for both work and personal use. Stability: Considering stability, Parallels Desktop and VMware Fusion are more reliable and less prone to crashes. Host-to-Guest Integration: Parallels Desktop supports combined windowing modes, allowing you to run Mac and Windows/Linux applications side by side on the same screen, enhancing multitasking and productivity.

User Experiences and Practical Considerations

Based on user experiences, especially those running macOS Big Sur or later, VirtualBox can be problematic. Many users have reported issues that have not been resolved by the community, making it less ideal for everyday use on the latest Mac OS versions.

The choice between Parallels Desktop and VirtualBox ultimately depends on your specific needs. For example, if you need to run Windows-only applications such as a specific printer driver, an old copy of Windows 7, or other legacy software, Parallels Desktop might be the better choice due to its seamless integration and ease of use.

Parallels Desktop is a paid solution, but the premium comes with a more polished user experience and additional features. For many users, the small price tag is well worth the functionality and ease of use it provides.

Conclusion

The decision between Parallel Desktop and VirtualBox for running virtual machines on your Mac should be based on your specific requirements. If you need a user-friendly, reliable, and integrated solution, Parallels Desktop is the way to go. However, if your needs are more specialized and you have the time to manage a more complex setup, VirtualBox can still be a valuable tool.