Parallels Desktop is one of the easiest ways to run Windows on a Mac.

So are there any free versions of Parallels Desktop or discounts available?

Is Parallels Desktop Free?

A Mac running Windows 11

Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek

Parallels Desktopfor Mac is a premium app, which means the full version is not available for free.

you might compare these editions on theParallels Desktop website.

Mac users with an Apple Silicon machine candownload and install Windows 11 on ARM from within Parallels Desktop.

Activate the trial edition of Parallels Desktop 18

Parallels offersdiscounts for students and educatorswith a 50% price drop on the Standard and Pro editions.

You’ll need to verify you’re a student before you could claim the discount.

Parallels also offersdiscounts for active military members,government employees, andcharity and nonprofit employees.

Parallels Desktop 18 download Windows

This gives you two weeks to try the software out.

You’ll be able to keep any virtual machines you’ve created once you upgrade.

Alternatively, you canuninstall Parallels Desktop as you would any other Mac appto get the space back.

VMware Fusionnowsupports Windows on Apple Silicon Mac models, with a free version calledVMware Fusion Playeravailable for non-commercial usage.

Another option is Oracle’s longstanding free virtual machine softwareVirtualBox.

These include usingWine via the Wineskin Winery appor using apremium wrapper app called CrossOver.