Parallels specialises in software that lets you run Windows and other operating systems on a Mac. Their flagship product, Parallels Desktop, is especially popular with professionals and students who need Windows-only apps but don’t want to give up Apple’s hardware. It’s quite user-friendly, with features like drag-and-drop files between the Mac and Windows environments and support for DirectX, which means some PC games run surprisingly well on a Mac. They’ve recently launched Parallels Desktop 26, alongside more affordable versions like the Student Edition of version 20, so there’s a bit of choice depending on what you need.
People who shop here tend to be Mac users who hit the limits of macOS apps, or gamers keen on titles that aren’t on Mac. Parallels is often compared to VMware Fusion; the latter is sometimes preferred by IT pros, but Parallels usually wins for ease of use and smoother integration with macOS. One thing to bear in mind is that while Parallels makes switching between systems painless, it does come with an annual subscription model for full features, which some might find a bit pricey over time.
Customer support is decent enough, with decent online help and forums. The website is straightforward but can feel a bit cluttered with all the new product releases and affiliate offers. Still, if you want to run Windows software without rebooting your Mac, it’s worth keeping an eye on their deals, especially student discounts and upgrades.