For Mac users who want to run Windows applications and games, two of the most popular solutions are CrossOver and Parallels Desktop. But which one is the better choice? In this detailed comparison, we’ll break down the key differences between CrossOver vs Parallels, focusing on performance, compatibility, and ease of use.
What Is CrossOver?
CrossOver is a compatibility layer based on Wine that allows Mac users to run Windows applications without installing Windows. Instead of emulating or virtualizing an entire operating system, CrossOver translates Windows API calls into macOS-compatible functions.
Pros of CrossOver:
✅ No need to install Windows – Saves disk space and system resources.
✅ Faster performance – Since it doesn’t run a full virtual machine, games run more efficiently.
✅ Optimized for Apple Silicon – The latest CrossOver 25 version includes DXMT and D3DMetal 2.1, improving support for games like Red Dead Redemption 2, Street Fighter 6, and The Last of Us Part 1.
✅ Supports Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG Galaxy – Many Windows games are now playable on Mac.
Cons of CrossOver:
❌ Not all Windows apps are supported – Some applications and games require Windows-only dependencies that CrossOver doesn’t fully translate.
❌ Limited DirectX 12 support – While performance has improved with DXMT, some high-end games may still struggle.
What Is Parallels Desktop?
Parallels Desktop is a virtualization software that allows you to install and run Windows on Mac as if it were a separate application. Unlike CrossOver, Parallels actually runs a full version of Windows, giving users a complete PC experience inside macOS.
Pros of Parallels Desktop:
✅ Runs all Windows applications – Since Parallels installs a full Windows OS, it supports almost any Windows program.
✅ Better compatibility for business apps – Ideal for running Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and other professional software.
✅ DirectX 11 & 12 support – Can handle most modern PC games.
✅ Works with both Intel & Apple Silicon Macs – No Boot Camp required.
Cons of Parallels Desktop:
❌ Requires a Windows license – You must purchase a Windows 10/11 license to use Parallels.
❌ Consumes more system resources – Running a full Windows OS inside macOS can slow down performance.
❌ More storage needed – Installing Windows alongside macOS takes up a lot of disk space.
CrossOver vs Parallels – Feature Comparison
| Feature | CrossOver | Parallels Desktop |
|---|---|---|
| Requires Windows? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Performance | ✅ Faster (No OS overhead) | ❌ Slower (Runs full Windows) |
| Compatibility | ❌ Limited (Only supported apps) | ✅ Runs all Windows apps |
| DirectX Support | ✅ DX11 & DXMT (Metal-based) | ✅ DX11 & DX12 |
| Apple Silicon Optimization | ✅ Yes (M1/M2/M3 support) | ✅ Yes (Native support) |
| Storage Space Required | ✅ Less (No Windows installation) | ❌ More (Needs full Windows) |
| Best For | Gaming & lightweight apps | Gaming, work apps, full Windows experience |
Which One Should You Choose?
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Choose CrossOver if:
- You want to play Windows games without installing a full OS.
- You prefer faster performance and less disk space usage.
- Your games are supported by DXMT & D3DMetal 2.1.
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Choose Parallels Desktop if:
- You need to run all Windows applications, including business software.
- You are willing to install a full Windows OS on your Mac.
- You want better DirectX 12 support for gaming.
CrossOver vs Parallels – Fortnite Performance on Mac
Since Fortnite is no longer natively available on macOS due to the dispute between Epic Games and Apple, Mac users must rely on workarounds like CrossOver and Parallels Desktop to play the game. But which one offers the best performance? Let’s compare how Fortnite runs on CrossOver vs Parallels.
1. Fortnite on CrossOver 25
With the release of CrossOver 25, improvements like DXMT (DirectX Metal Translation) and D3DMetal 2.1 have enhanced the compatibility of Windows games on Mac. However, Fortnite still does not run well on CrossOver due to anti-cheat restrictions and missing optimizations for Unreal Engine games.
✅ Pros:
- Uses less system resources than Parallels
- No need to install a full Windows OS
- Runs other DirectX 11 games well
❌ Cons:
- Fortnite is not officially supported due to Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) restrictions
- Frequent crashes and login issues
Verdict:
CrossOver is not a reliable way to play Fortnite on Mac due to anti-cheat limitations.
2. Fortnite on Parallels Desktop
Parallels Desktop allows Mac users to install Windows 11 as a virtual machine, meaning Fortnite runs just like on a Windows PC. However, performance depends on the Mac’s hardware.
✅ Pros:
- Fully supports Fortnite with all features
- Compatible with Windows-exclusive Epic Games titles
- Works on both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs
❌ Cons:
- Requires a Windows 11 license
- More system resource usage (CPU & RAM-heavy)
- Can experience frame rate drops on lower-end Macs
Verdict:
If you want to play Fortnite on Mac, Parallels Desktop is the best option. While performance won’t match a gaming PC, it allows Fortnite to run smoothly compared to CrossOver.
Conclusion: Which One is Better for Fortnite?
If your main goal is to play Fortnite on Mac, Parallels Desktop is the best choice. While CrossOver 25 has improved support for Windows games, Fortnite remains unplayable due to Easy Anti-Cheat restrictions.
Recommended Setup for Playing Fortnite on Mac via Parallels:
- Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) Macs: Parallels runs best on Apple Silicon with 16GB RAM or more.
- Intel Macs: Parallels still works, but performance may be lower due to CPU limitations.
- Cloud Gaming Alternative: If your Mac struggles with Parallels, try GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming for a better experience.
Final Verdict:
For gaming, CrossOver is the better choice due to faster performance, lower resource usage, and Apple Silicon optimization. However, if you need a full Windows experience for both games and productivity software, Parallels Desktop is a more complete solution.
