How to Run Windows on a Mac in 2025

In 2025, more Mac users in Pakistan are looking to run Windows on their Apple devices — whether for gaming, software compatibility, or work-related tasks. Thanks to Apple Silicon chips (M1, M2, M3), the process has changed compared to Intel-based Macs.

In this easy, step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to run Windows on a Mac in 2025 using the most efficient tools available. Whether you’re a student, professional, or gamer in Pakistan, this guide is made just for you.

✅ Best Part? You can set it up yourself without needing expensive services.

🧐 Why Run Windows on a Mac?

Even though macOS is sleek and stable, many essential apps and games are still only optimized for Windows. Running Windows on your Mac helps you:

🎮 Play PC-exclusive games

💼 Run business or government software only available for Windows

🖥 Test cross-platform applications

🧪 Use legacy software required in corporate or academic settings

So let’s dive into the methods!

🔧 Method 1: Use Parallels Desktop 19 (For M1, M2, M3 Macs)

🚀 Best for: Ease of Use, Apple Silicon Macs, macOS Ventura & Sonoma
Parallels Desktop is an Apple-authorized virtualization tool that lets you run Windows as a virtual machine. In 2025, it’s fully compatible with Windows 11 ARM and Apple’s latest M-series chips.

🛠 Steps:

Download Parallels Desktop 19 from the official site.

Install and open it.

Click on “Install Windows” – Parallels will automatically download the ARM version of Windows 11.

Windows will install in a few minutes.

Customize RAM and CPU allocation if needed.

🔥 Pros:

No reboot required – run both macOS and Windows side-by-side

Fast, smooth performance on M1/M2/M3 Macs

Great for MS Office, Visual Studio, and even light gaming

🖥 Method 2: Use Boot Camp (Only for Intel-Based Macs)

⚠ Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3) do not support Boot Camp.
If you’re using an Intel-based MacBook or iMac, Boot Camp lets you install Windows natively on your system.

🛠 Steps:

Open Boot Camp Assistant from Applications > Utilities

Download the Windows 10 or 11 ISO

Allocate space for Windows (at least 64GB)

Follow the on-screen prompts to create the partition

Your Mac will reboot and start installing Windows

Once installed, you can boot into either macOS or Windows

🔥 Pros:

Great for gaming and resource-intensive apps

🧪 Method 3: Use UTM or QEMU (Free & Advanced Users)

💡 Best for: Developers, Linux fans, or users who want full control
UTM is a free virtualization app built on QEMU, allowing users to run various operating systems on Apple Silicon.

🛠 Steps:

Download UTM from utm.app

Install Windows ARM ISO from Microsoft’s Insider Preview page

Create a new VM with proper RAM, CPU, and disk size

Install using the ISO inside UTM

Configure drivers (SPICE tools) for better performance

⚠ Not as beginner-friendly as Parallels, but powerful for tech-savvy users.

❓ Can You Run Windows Apps Without Installing Windows?

Yes! Tools like CrossOver Mac let you run select Windows apps without installing the OS itself.

Supports many games and Office apps

Uses Wine compatibility layer

Limited but lightweight

🛒 Where to Buy MacBooks in Pakistan?

Looking for an Apple MacBook that supports Windows virtualization in 2025?

Check out the latest MacBook M1, M2, and M3 models at:

We provide expert advice to help you pick the best Mac for Windows support.

🎯 Final Verdict – Which Method Is Best for You?
Scenario Recommended Method
You own M1, M2, or M3 Mac Parallels Desktop 19
You have an Intel Mac Boot Camp
You’re a developer/techie UTM or QEMU
You want to run 1-2 Windows apps CrossOver Mac

In 2025, Parallels Desktop remains the most seamless, user-friendly way to run Windows on a Mac — especially for Pakistani users who rely on both platforms.