VMware Workstation Player vs Parallels Desktop : Which is Better?

VMware Workstation Player icon

VMware Workstation Player

VMware Workstation Player, formerly VMware Player, is a virtualization software package for x64 computers running Microsoft Windows or Linux. Developed by VMware

License: Free Personal

Apps available for Windows Linux

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Parallels Desktop icon

Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop for Mac, by Parallels, is software providing hardware virtualization for Macintosh computers with Intel processors. Developed by Parallels IP Holdings GmbH

License: Commercial

Apps available for Mac OS X

VMware Workstation Player VS Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop offers a more integrated and feature-rich experience for Mac users, with seamless performance and support for advanced features, but at a higher cost. In contrast, VMware Workstation Player provides a free, simple solution for basic virtualization needs, making it suitable for casual users but lacking some advanced capabilities.

VMware Workstation Player

Pros:

  • Free for personal use
  • Lightweight and simple interface
  • Compatible with a variety of OS options
  • Basic features sufficient for simple tasks
  • Good performance for most applications
  • Strong community support
  • Regular updates
  • Easy to set up
  • Resource-efficient
  • Supports virtual networking

Cons:

  • Lacks advanced features
  • Limited support for 3D graphics
  • No drag and drop functionality
  • Fewer USB options
  • Not as robust for power users

Parallels Desktop

Pros:

  • Seamless integration with macOS
  • Easy to use interface
  • Excellent performance for Windows apps on Mac
  • Strong technical support
  • Advanced features for developers
  • Supports a wide range of guest OS
  • Full support for Retina displays
  • Multiple snapshot management
  • USB device support
  • Drag and drop functionality between host and VM

Cons:

  • Higher cost compared to VMware
  • Limited customization for advanced users
  • Primarily designed for Mac users
  • Less compatibility with Linux guest OS
  • Can be resource-intensive

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