Parallels vs Bootcamp M1: Understanding the Differences

Apple's recent transition to the ARM architecture with their M1 CPUs has sparked debate about the future of virtual machine software like Parallels. Will they support running Windows on M1 chips? In this article, we'll delve into the history of Apple and Microsoft's relationship, the magic behind Parallels, and what it means for Mac users.

Parallels: The Virtual Machine Software

Parallels Desktop is a virtual machine software that allows Mac users to run Windows apps within MacOS without needing Bootcamp. This flexibility is one of its key advantages over traditional methods like Bootcamp, which requires a separate bootable disk partition for Windows. Parallels has been around since 2006 and has continued to evolve, supporting various operating systems and architectures.

Bootcamp: The Native Solution

Bootcamp, on the other hand, is a native solution provided by Apple that allows Mac users to install and run Microsoft Windows natively within MacOS. This approach requires creating a separate bootable disk partition for Windows, which can be inconvenient for those who want to switch between operating systems frequently.

The M1 Chip: A New Era

Apple's recent shift to the ARM architecture with their M1 CPUs has raised questions about Parallels' support for running Windows on these chips. The answer lies in the fact that Parallels is designed to work on top of the virtual machine software layer, which can run on any CPU architecture that supports the ARM instruction set.

Microsoft's Relationship with Apple

It's ironic that Microsoft has never supported the Apple MacBook family, yet Apple has always been willing to support Microsoft by providing Bootcamp capability in MacOS. This highlights the complex relationship between these two technology giants. Microsoft has never partnered directly with Intel or AMD, instead opting to make their Windows OS work on various CPU architectures.

ARM Architecture: A License to Run

Microsoft uses ARM architecture licensed from ARM Holdings in their Surface laptops, which have shown significant improvements in performance, heat generation, and battery life. This commitment to updating and maintaining Windows 11 on ARM64 processors demonstrates Microsoft's dedication to the ARM architecture.

The History of Windows OS

Microsoft has been building its Windows OS to run on CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computing) architectures since 1983, primarily Intel-based products. However, in 2012, they built their first hardware platforms around an ARM processor and created Windows RT, a variant of the Windows OS designed for ARM-based devices.

In conclusion, Parallels is expected to support running Windows on M1 chips officially soon, as Apple's transition to the ARM architecture provides the necessary foundation. Bootcamp remains a native solution provided by Apple, but its limitations make Parallels a more appealing option for those who want flexibility and ease of use.

With Microsoft committed to updating and maintaining Windows 11 on ARM64 processors, it's clear that they are dedicated to the ARM architecture. As we move forward in this new era of computing, it will be interesting to see how Parallels and Bootcamp evolve to meet the needs of Mac users.

Parallels vs bootcamp m1