Running Windows 11 on a Mac using Parallels Desktop can be a worthy solution, but there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure smooth operation and optimized performance. First, make sure your Mac meets the hardware requirements needed for Windows 11, especially considering that virtualization adds extra overhead. You'll want a machine with at least an Intel Core i5 or M1 chip, 8 GB of RAM (though I recommend 16 GB for better performance), and substantial free disk space to allocate to your Windows partition.
When setting up Parallels, allocate as many CPU cores and as much RAM as you can spare from your Mac without compromising its functionality. Within Parallels Desktop settings, enabling Hypervisor support typically improves performance by allowing direct access to the computer's hardware.
On the software side within Windows 11, adjust for best performance by tweaking system properties:
- Go to System Properties > Advanced System Settings > Performance Settings.
- Select 'Adjust for best performance' or manually disable high-consumption visual effects.
Be aware of potential compatibility issues with some drivers and peripherals that may not fully support virtualization environments like Parallels. Always ensure both your macOS and Parallels Desktop are updated to their latest versions to avoid such issues.
Lastly, consider integrating tools like Parallels Toolbox which provides one-click functionality to clean drive space, take screenshots, record screens, and more—enhancing your Windows experience on Mac.
By fine-tuning these settings according to your needs, you should enjoy a robust Windows 11 experience on your Mac through Parallels Desktop.
