Top Alternatives to CrossOver

Looking for CrossOver alternatives? We've curated 6 top alternatives that offer similar functionality. Whether you need options, free plans, or open source solutions, explore our comprehensive list to find the perfect fit for your needs.

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More about CrossOver

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OS & Utilities

Platforms:

Mac Linux

CrossOver Alternatives

Below you'll find the best alternatives to CrossOver. We've analyzed these options based on features, user ratings, and compatibility to help you find the right solution. Each alternative offers unique advantages that might better suit your specific needs and budget.

Wine

Open Source OS & Utilities Compatibility Layer

Wine is an open-source compatibility layer that allows users to run Windows applications on various POSIX systems, such as Linux, macOS, and BSD. It translates Windows API calls into POSIX API calls in real-time, eliminating the need for a traditional virtual machine or emulator.

Unique Features

Enables running numerous Windows applications on non-Windows OS.
Often offers near-native performance and lower resource usage than VMs.
Facilitates better integration with the host system.

Compared to CrossOver

Enables running numerous Windows applications on non-Windows OS. compared to CrossOver

Compatibility varies, not all applications are supported. unlike CrossOver

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PlayOnLinux (PlayOnMac)

Open Source Games Compatibility Layer

PlayOnLinux is a compatibility layer for Linux and macOS allowing users to install and run Windows-based games and applications. It simplifies the process of running Windows software without needing a full virtual machine or dual booting.

Unique Features

Simplifies running Windows software on Linux/macOS.
Uses isolated environments to prevent conflicts.
Automated installation scripts for many programs.

Compared to CrossOver

Simplifies running Windows software on Linux/macOS. compared to CrossOver

Compatibility is not guaranteed for all Windows software. unlike CrossOver

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Parallels Desktop

Commercial Network & Admin Virtualization Software

Parallels Desktop for Mac enables users to run Windows, Linux, and other operating systems side-by-side with macOS without rebooting. It provides seamless integration and performance for various applications.

Unique Features

Excellent performance for running virtual machines.
Seamless integration with macOS, including file sharing and Coherence mode.
Easy to set up and use.

Compared to CrossOver

Excellent performance for running virtual machines. compared to CrossOver

Higher price point compared to some alternative virtualization options. unlike CrossOver

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Lutris

Open Source Games Game Launcher

Lutris is an open-source gaming client for Linux, designed to centralize and manage your entire game library from various sources. It supports native Linux games, Windows titles via compatibility layers like Wine and Proton, and games from multiple platforms through integrated emulators, providing a unified gaming experience.

Unique Features

Centralizes games from multiple sources.
Simplifies running Windows games on Linux.
Integrates with many emulators.

Compared to CrossOver

Centralizes games from multiple sources. compared to CrossOver

Compatibility can be inconsistent for some games. unlike CrossOver

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WineBottler

Open Source OS & Utilities Utility

WineBottler effortlessly packages Windows software into Mac applications, eliminating the need for complex emulators or separate operating system installations for running your favorite Windows programs directly on macOS.

Unique Features

Easy to package Windows applications into macOS apps
No lengthy Windows installation required
Bottled applications feel integrated with macOS

Compared to CrossOver

Easy to package Windows applications into macOS apps compared to CrossOver

Compatibility is not guaranteed for all Windows applications unlike CrossOver

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Wineskin Winery

Open Source Utility Utility

Wineskin Winery is a macOS utility that leverages Wine to create 'wrappers' for running Windows applications and games. It simplifies the process of packaging Windows software into self-contained macOS bundles, allowing users to execute them directly on their Mac without needing a full Windows installation or virtual machine.