Parallels Desktop versus Boot Camp

If you’re a Mac user who needs Windows applications, you’ve likely come across two major options: Parallels Desktop and Boot Camp. Both allow you to use Windows on a Mac, but they work in completely different ways.

So which one should you choose?

In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down performance, ease of use, gaming capabilities, Apple Silicon compatibility, pricing, and real-world usability to help you make the right decision.

What Is Boot Camp?

Boot Camp is Apple’s built-in utility that allows Intel-based Macs to install Windows alongside macOS. It uses dual-boot technology, meaning you must restart your Mac and choose either macOS or Windows at startup.

Important: Boot Camp is only available on Intel Macs and is not supported on Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3) Macs.

What Is Parallels Desktop?

Parallels Desktop is virtualisation software that lets you run Windows inside macOS without restarting your computer. Windows operates in a virtual machine, allowing both operating systems to run simultaneously.

It supports:

• Intel Macs

• Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3)

• Windows 11 ARM

• Linux distributions

This flexibility makes it the primary solution for modern Mac users.

Key Differences Between Parallels and Boot Camp

Installation & Setup

Boot Camp

• Requires manual partitioning of your drive

• Requires Windows ISO setup

• Takes longer to configure

• Must reboot to switch systems

Parallels Desktop

• Automated Windows installation

• Beginner-friendly interface

• No partitioning required

• No reboot needed

Winner: Parallels Desktop (for simplicity)

Performance

Boot Camp Performance

Because Boot Camp runs Windows natively on your hardware, it delivers maximum performance. Your Mac’s full CPU, GPU, and RAM are dedicated to Windows while booted into it.

This makes Boot Camp better for:

• High-end gaming

• Intensive 3D rendering

• GPU-heavy applications

Parallels Performance

Parallels shares system resources between macOS and Windows. For productivity, development, and general software use, performance is excellent.

However, for graphics-heavy gaming, it may not match Boot Camp’s native performance.

Winner:

• Gaming → Boot Camp

• Productivity & multitasking → Parallels

Gaming Capability

Boot Camp is better for serious gaming because it runs Windows directly on the hardware.

Parallels supports DirectX 11 and OpenGL, but:

• Some AAA games may struggle

• Performance depends heavily on RAM and GPU

• Not ideal for competitive gaming

If gaming is your priority and you have an Intel Mac, Boot Camp is stronger.

Apple Silicon Compatibility

This is where the biggest difference exists.

Boot Camp:

• Not supported on M1, M2, or M3 Macs

Parallels Desktop:

• Fully optimised for Apple Silicon

• Supports Windows 11 ARM

• Actively maintained and updated

If you own a modern Mac, Parallels is your only practical option.

Winner: Parallels Desktop

Ease of Switching Between Systems

Boot Camp:

• Requires a full system restart

• You can only use one OS at a time

Parallels:

• Run macOS and Windows side-by-side

• Copy/paste between systems

• Drag-and-drop files

• Use Windows apps from the Mac Dock (Coherence Mode)

Winner: Parallels Desktop

Cost Comparison

Boot Camp:

• Free (built into macOS)

• Requires a Windows license purchase

Parallels Desktop:

• Subscription-based pricing

• Windows license is required separately

Boot Camp wins in pure cost terms, but it lacks modern compatibility and convenience.

Resource Usage

Boot Camp:

• Uses full hardware when booted

• No macOS background processes

Parallels:

• Shares CPU and RAM

• Requires at least 16GB RAM for best performance

• Can consume more system resources during multitasking

If you have limited RAM (8GB), Boot Camp may perform better on Intel Macs.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Parallels Desktop	Boot Camp
Works on Apple Silicon	Yes	No
Requires Restart	No	Yes
Best for Gaming	Moderate	Excellent
Multitasking	Excellent	Not possible
Ease of Setup	Very Easy	Moderate
Cost	Paid Subscription	Free
Business Use	Strong	Limited

Who Should Choose Boot Camp?

Choose Boot Camp if:

• You own an Intel Mac

• You primarily play Windows games

• You need full native hardware performance

• You don’t mind rebooting

Who Should Choose Parallels Desktop?

Choose Parallels if:

• You own an Apple Silicon Mac

• You want to run Windows and macOS simultaneously

• You need Windows for productivity, development, or business apps

• You prefer convenience over raw gaming power

Final Verdict

If you’re using a modern Mac with Apple Silicon, the decision is easy, Parallels Desktop is the only viable option.

If you own an older Intel Mac and prioritise gaming or maximum performance, Boot Camp may still be useful.

However, for most professionals, students, and business users who need flexibility and multitasking, Parallels Desktop offers a more practical and seamless experience.

In 2026, Parallels remains the better overall solution for running Windows on Mac, especially as Boot Camp fades into legacy status.

Run Windows on your Mac the smarter way. Choose: the solution that fits your workflow today.

FAQs

Is Boot Camp still available on new Macs?

No, Boot Camp is not supported on Apple Silicon Macs.

Does Parallels slow down Mac performance?

It can use significant resources, but with 16GB RAM or more, performance remains smooth.

Which is better for gaming?

Boot Camp performs better for high-end gaming on Intel Macs.

Do both require a Windows license?

Yes, both require you to purchase Windows separately.