How to install Windows on Mac M1, M2, M3 easily or for free?

With Apple's transition to its powerful M1, M2, M3, and soon-to-be-released M4 chips, running both macOS and Windows on a single device has become an intriguing possibility for many. In this guide, we'll explore how to run Windows on your M1, M2, M3 Macs.

Running Windows on a ARM-based Mac is a great experience

An ARM-based Mac refers to a Mac that uses Apple's custom-designed chips, known as Apple Silicon, which are based on the ARM architecture. This transition from Intel processors to ARM-based chips began with the release of the M1 chip in late 2020. ARM, which stands for Advanced RISC Machines, is a type of processor architecture that Apple uses to design its own CPUs, allowing for high performance and low power consumption. This shift enables better integration between Apple's hardware and software

The M1, M2, and M3 chips are designed for exceptional performance and energy efficiency. Running Windows through virtualization on these chips ensures that applications are responsive and capable of handling demanding tasks, making the experience as smooth as using a native Windows PC.

While the M1, M2, and M3 chips have already made their mark, the technology community is abuzz with anticipation for the release of the M4. Although there's no official release date yet from Apple, industry insiders predict we could see the M4 sometime in the coming months. This new chip promises even greater performance enhancements and energy efficiency, making it an exciting prospect for those considering running complex software or gaming on their Mac.

Does Boot Camp work on a Mac?

No, it doesn’t.

Boot Camp is a utility on Mac computers that allows users to install and run Microsoft Windows alongside macOS. It enables a dual-boot setup, meaning you can choose to start your Mac in either macOS or Windows when you turn it on. This is particularly useful for users who need to run Windows-exclusive software or games on their Mac.

However, Boot Camp is only available on Intel-based Macs and is not supported on the newer ARM-based Macs with Apple Silicon chips like the M1, M2, or M3.

The easiest way to install Windows on Mac M1, M2, M3

For many Mac users, Parallels Desktop stands out as the easiest way to run Windows on an M1, M2, or M3 device. Parallels is robust virtualization software that creates a virtual machine (VM) on your Mac, allowing you to run Windows applications without rebooting. This seamless integration lets you interact with both operating systems concurrently.

One of Parallels' standout features is its “Coherence Mode,” which allows Windows applications to run alongside Mac apps without the need for a separate Windows interface. This feature enhances productivity by blending the two environments, so you can drag and drop files, use copy-paste functions, and more across both systems.

How to install Windows on Mac M1, M2 or M3 easily?

1. Download and install Parallels from its official website.

2. Open Parallels, click on its icon from Apple menu bar, choose Control Center > + > Get Windows 11 from Microsoft > Continue.

3. Then Install Windows.

4. Once the installation is done, accept the license agreement.

5. Open Windows Setting > System > Activation.

6. In the Activation window, click Troubleshoot > I changed hardware on this device recently, sign in with your Microsoft account to reactivate Windows 11 on the Mac.

How to install Windows on Mac M1/2/3 for Free, without Parallels?

For users who prefer a free alternative to Parallels or simply want to explore other options, the UTM app is a fantastic choice. UTM is an open-source virtualization tool that provides a similar experience to Parallels but without any associated cost. While UTM may not offer all the premium features found in Parallels, it remains a robust solution for installing Windows on a Mac M1, M2, or M3.

Steps to install Windows on Mac M1, M2 or M3 free without Parallels?

1. Download and install the UTM app from github resource: https://github.com/utmapp/UTM/releases/latest/download/UTM.dmg, then install it onto your M1/2/3 Mac.

2. Then open Mac App Store, search and download CrystalFetch ISO Downloader to your Mac.

3. Open CrystalFetch ISO Downloader, choose Windows 11 from Version, select Apple Silicon, and choose the system language according to your need. Also, don’t forget to choose Windows 11 from Edition list.

4. Then click Download to get the ISO file onto your Mac, so we can create a new virtual machine. You need to accept the agreement as well.

5. Open UTM app, choose Create a New Virtual Machine.

6. Choose Virtualize > Windows.

7. Choose Install Windows 10 or higher from Image File Type.

8. Click Browse and select the ISO file you just downloaded in Step 4. And click Continue.

9. Pick the Memory and CPU Cores. Click Continue.

10. Then input the storage and click Continue.

11. Then the Windows 11 will be installed on your Mac, now you need click the Play button and set up the Windows as needed.