Full Guide to Install Windows OS on Apple Silicon Mac

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Apple's shift from Intel processors to Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5 chips) introduced dramatic changes to Mac performance, power efficiency, and architecture. However, this transition also disrupted legacy workflows—especially those that depended on dual-booting Windows through Boot Camp. If you're an Apple Silicon Mac user who want to run Windows on your machine, this article walks you through the current options, limitations, and step-by-step instructions for using virtualization and cloud-based methods.

Whether you're a developer needing Windows-exclusive tools or a gamer exploring cross-platform titles, you'll find the most practical solutions right here to install Windows OS on Apple Silicon Mac.

Can You Install Windows OS on Apple Silicon Mac?

On Intel-based Macs, Boot Camp allowed users to install Windows natively. Unfortunately, Boot Camp is not supported on Apple Silicon Macs. Apple's new chip architecture (based on ARM, not x86) means traditional native Windows installations are no longer possible.

Microsoft's official ARM version of Windows isn't generally licensed for direct Mac installation either. However, virtualization platforms now offer reliable ways to run Windows on Apple Silicon Macs, particularly via Parallels Desktop or UTM.

System Requirements

Before proceeding, ensure your setup meets the following requirements:

• Mac model: Any Apple Silicon-based Mac (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, etc.).
• macOS version: macOS Ventura or later is recommended.
• RAM: Minimum 8GB (16GB or more preferred for smoother Windows experience).
• Storage: At least 30–50GB of free disk space.
• Virtualization software: Parallels Desktop (paid) or UTM (free).
• Windows version: Windows 11 ARM ISO or VHDX from Microsoft Insider Preview.

How to Install and Run Windows on Apple Silicon Mac?

To run Windows OS on Apple Silicon Mac, you can install the system on Mac directly via virtualization tools or directly run Windows via cloud service. Here we will introduce each method in detail.

Option 1: Install Windows on M-Chip Mac Using Parallels Desktop

What Is Parallels Desktop? Parallels Desktop is a premium virtualization software optimized for Apple Silicon. It allows you to run Windows 11 ARM in a virtual machine on your Mac without rebooting. It is officially authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 on M-series Macs and offers seamless integration with macOS.

How to Install Windows with Parallels

Step 1: Download and install Parallels Desktop

Go to https://www.parallels.com and download the latest version of Parallels Desktop for Mac. Install it like any other macOS app.

Step 2: Get Windows 11 ARM Version

Parallels automates this step. On launch, it detects that you're using Apple Silicon and offers to download Windows 11 ARM Insider Preview directly from Microsoft.

You may need to sign in with a Microsoft account to join the Windows Insider Program.

Step 3: Create a Virtual Machine for Windows

Parallels automatically creates a new VM, downloads the ISO, and begins setup. Just follow the wizard.

Step 4: Configure the Virtual Machine

• Allocate 4–8GB of RAM and 2–4 CPU cores depending on your Mac's specs.
• You can also set disk size and integration options with macOS.

Step 5: Finish Installation

Parallels installs Windows 11 ARM, sets up drivers, and lets you log in.

You're done! You can now launch Windows from your Mac Dock like any other app.

Bonus: Gaming Setup (Optional)

If you want to play lightweight or older Windows games:

• Set the VM to "Games only" during setup
• Allocate at least 8GB RAM
• Enable DirectX and OpenGL support in Parallels settings
• Use a game controller via Bluetooth or USB passthrough

Note that graphics-intensive games like Call of Duty or Cyberpunk 2077 won't perform well due to virtualization and ARM architecture limits.

Why Parallels is Ideal for Most Users

• Beginner-friendly: No command line or manual ISO downloads needed
• Official Microsoft support: You're not hacking around licensing restrictions
• Fast performance: Optimized for Apple Silicon
• Excellent integration: Feels like part of macOS

Performance and Use Cases

Parallels provides near-native speed for everyday tasks:

• Microsoft Office
• Visual Studio Code
• Browsers and productivity tools

However, graphics-intensive games or apps requiring x86 64-bit architecture may not perform well due to ARM emulation limits.

Option 2: Install Windows on Apple Silicon Mac Using UTM

What Is UTM? UTM is a free, open-source virtualization software built on QEMU, designed specifically for macOS, including Apple Silicon. It allows you to run Windows ARM using VHDX files.

How to Install Windows with UTM:

Step 1: Download and Install UTM

Visit https://mac.getutm.app/ and download the latest version. Install it on your Mac.

Step 2: Download Windows 11 ARM VHDX

Go to Microsoft's Insider Preview downloads and download the Windows 11 ARM64 VHDX.

Requires free Microsoft account and joining the Insider Preview Program.

Step 3: Create New Virtual Machine in UTM

1. Open UTM and click "+" to create a new VM. Choose the "Virualize" option.

2. To choose an operation system → "Windows."

3. Select the VHDX file you downloaded.

4. Configure the settings for RAM, CPU and disk space.

Step 4: Install and Boot Windows

Click "Play" to boot your VM. Windows will complete setup as normal.

Step 5: Install SPICE Tools (Optional but Recommended)

SPICE tools improve performance and enable clipboard sharing, file transfers, and better resolution. You can find these under UTM's VM settings.

Performance and Limitations

UTM is ideal for lightweight tasks like:

• Browsing
• Document editing
• Basic Windows apps

However, there's no GPU acceleration, and performance lags behind Parallels. It's best suited for occasional or hobbyist Windows use.

Option 3: Run Windows on Apple Silicon Mac via Cloud Services

If local virtualization doesn't suit your needs, you can run Windows in the cloud. You don't need to install Windows OS on Mac. There are some available options:

A. Windows 365

Microsoft's subscription service that delivers a full Windows PC over the cloud.

B. Azure Virtual Desktop

Ideal for businesses and IT teams wanting to manage multiple users.

C. Amazon WorkSpaces or Shadow

Third-party services offering cloud PCs that run Windows OS.

Limitations of Running Windows on Apple Silicon Mac

Despite viable workarounds, there are a few limitations worth noting:

1. No Boot Camp (Native Install)

There's no dual-boot option like on Intel Macs.

2. App Compatibility

Windows ARM supports ARM-native apps, and many x64 apps run via emulation. But some older x86 apps and drivers may fail to work.

3. Gaming Challenges

• Most modern games are built for x64.
• Emulated graphics performance is subpar.
• No DirectX 12 Ultimate support via virtualization.

4. Hardware Peripheral Support

Certain USB dongles, printers, or legacy software may not work properly due to missing drivers.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Use Parallels if performance and simplicity matter most.
• Try UTM if you're on a budget or enjoy tweaking settings.
• Opt for cloud Windows if you only need occasional access.
• Assign enough RAM and CPU cores in your virtual machine.
• Use an external SSD if internal storage is limited.
• Keep your macOS and virtualization apps up to date for optimal compatibility.

FAQs about Installing Windows OS on Apple Silicon Mac

1. Can I run x86 Windows apps on M1/M2/M3/M4/M5 Mac?

Yes, Windows ARM includes x86 emulation. However, apps requiring x64 emulation may have limited compatibility or degraded performance.

2. Is Windows 11 ARM version free to use?

The Insider Preview is free, but for full activation, you need a valid and paid license key.

3. Which is better to run Windows on Mac: Parallels or UTM?

Parallels is better for performance and user experience. UTM is free and great for advanced users or testing.

4. Can I dual-boot Windows and macOS on M-chip Macs?

No, dual-booting via Boot Camp is no longer available on Apple Silicon Macs.

Conclusion

Apple Silicon changed the game for Mac performance but also changed how Windows runs on these devices. While traditional dual-booting is off the table, Parallels Desktop, UTM, and cloud-based solutions provide reliable ways to access Windows on your M1, M2, M3, M4, or M5-chip Mac.

If you need Windows frequently or require performance, go with Parallels. If you're okay with a more manual and free approach, UTM is your go-to. And if you rarely need Windows and prefer not to install anything locally, a cloud service may be your best bet.

By choosing the right method based on your needs and following the steps in this guide, you can comfortably bridge the gap between macOS and Windows on your Apple Silicon Mac.