Want to enjoy the clean interface of macOS while still using your Windows apps? You’re not alone. A lot of people want to run macOS on a Windows PC, maybe for iOS app development, Mac-exclusive tools, or to explore Apple’s ecosystem without buying a Mac.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the whole process of using both macOS and Windows on one PC. We’ll explore safe methods, standard tools, and pros and cons. Whether you’re curious about Hackintosh, virtual machines, or dual boot setups, we’ve got you covered with real, simple, no-jargon explanations.

Let’s dive in.

Why Use macOS and Windows on the Same PC?

Here are a few reasons people try this setup:

You want to use macOS-only apps (like Xcode or Final Cut Pro).
You’re building apps for iPhone or iPad.
You love Apple’s look but still rely on Windows for work or games.
You’re just curious and want to learn.

Whatever your reason, this guide will help you pick the right way to run macOS on a Windows PC, even if you’ve never done anything like this before.

Methods to Use macOS and Windows Together

There are three main ways to run macOS on a Windows computer:

1. Use a Virtual Machine (Best for Beginners)

A virtual machine is like a second computer inside your computer. You can run macOS inside a window on your Windows desktop. It’s easy, safe, and doesn’t change anything on your PC.

2. Dual Boot (For Advanced Users)

With this setup, you install both operating systems and choose which one to use each time you start your PC. It gives you full macOS performance, but the setup is more complex and takes up more space.

3. Hackintosh (macOS on PC Hardware)

A Hackintosh is a custom-built PC that runs macOS like an honest Mac. You’ll need compatible parts and more technical knowledge. It’s powerful but not beginner-friendly, and it’s a grey area legally.

Method 1: Run macOS on Windows with a Virtual Machine

🧰 What You’ll Need:

A powerful Windows PC (at least 8GB RAM, 4 CPU cores)
VirtualBox or VMware (free tools to create virtual machines)
A macOS image file (for example, macOS Ventura or Monterey)
Patience and about 30–60 minutes

🔧 Step 1: Download the Tools

First, install VirtualBox or VMware Workstation Player. These are trusted virtual machine apps.

Next, you’ll need a macOS image file. It’s like a copy of the macOS installer. Search for “macOS Ventura ISO” or “macOS Monterey VMDK” online.

Important Note: Always use clean sources and check for viruses. Avoid shady download links.

🔧 Step 2: Create the macOS Virtual Machine

Open VirtualBox or VMware and click “New.” Choose:

Name: macOS
Type: Mac OS X
Version: macOS 64-bit

Set RAM to at least 4GB and CPU to 2+ cores. Add the macOS image as your startup disk.

In the settings:

Enable EFI (in system settings)
Set video memory to max
Use a virtual hard disk (at least 60GB)

🔧 Step 3: First Boot

Now, start your virtual machine. The macOS installer should appear. Go through the steps:

Erase the disk using Disk Utility
Install macOS (it may take 20–30 minutes)
Follow the welcome/setup screens

And just like that, you’ll be running macOS inside Windows!

👍 Pros of This Method:

Safe and easy
No changes to your real PC
You can still use Windows apps while macOS runs

👎 Cons:

Performance is slower (especially graphics)
No GPU support
Not ideal for heavy work like video editing

Method 2: Dual Boot Windows and macOS

This method is for people who want to use both systems natively, meaning you’ll get full speed on both macOS and Windows. But setup takes longer, and there’s more risk.

🧰 What You’ll Need:

A PC with macOS-compatible hardware
A spare USB drive (16GB+)
A macOS installer (via GibMacOS or your own Mac)
Bootloader tools like OpenCore or Clover
Time and patience

🔧 Step 1: Check Hardware Compatibility

Not all PCs can run macOS. You’ll have the best luck if you have:

Intel processor (8th–10th gen works well)
AMD Ryzen (with tweaks)
Integrated or specific NVIDIA/AMD GPUs
A UEFI BIOS (check in your system info)

Look up Hackintosh-compatible parts lists for the best match.

🔧 Step 2: Create Partitions

You’ll need space for both systems. Open Windows Disk Management and shrink your primary drive to make room (at least 80GB for macOS).

Format that space as exFAT or leave it unallocated.

🔧 Step 3: Make a Bootable macOS USB

Using GibMacOS (a command-line tool), you can download the latest macOS installer. Use Balena Etcher or TransMac to burn it to your USB.

🔧 Step 4: Install macOS and Set Up Dual Boot

Boot from your USB stick. Use Disk Utility to erase the macOS partition (choose APFS format). Install macOS on it.

Once done, install the OpenCore bootloader to your EFI partition. It will help you switch between macOS and Windows during startup.

👍 Pros:

Full performance on both OS
Works like an honest Mac
Best for developers or power users

👎 Cons:

More setup time
Hardware issues may happen (like audio or Wi-Fi)
Risky—can mess up your Windows if you’re not careful

Method 3: Build a Hackintosh (macOS-Only PC)

It’s a custom PC built with parts that work well with macOS. You install macOS as the only OS or with a dual boot. It is the most potent option, but the hardest too.

You’ll need:

A compatible CPU (Intel preferred)
A working motherboard and a GPU that are macOS-friendly
OpenCore or Clover bootloader
Time to troubleshoot drivers (called “kexts”)

Hackintosh communities (like Reddit’s/r/hackintosh or tonymacx86) can help. But this route is not for beginners.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Method	Pros	Cons
Virtual Machine	Easy setup, safe, no changes needed	Slower, no GPU acceleration
Dual Boot	Full performance, real macOS feel	Complex setup, reboot to switch OS
Hackintosh	Best performance, full control	Complex, legally grey, hardware issues

Tips to Make Everything Smoother

Use SSDs for faster speed on both systems
Backup your files before installing or partitioning
Use OpenCore over Clover for better compatibility
Check forums for the exact steps for your hardware
Allocate at least 4 CPU cores and 8GB of RAM for VMs

Legal Consideration (Read This!)

Apple’s macOS license says you can only run macOS on Apple hardware. Using it on a Windows PC is against the EULA.

While Apple rarely targets individual users, it’s essential to understand the risks, especially if you’re using this setup for business or public projects.

If you want to stay 100% legal, consider buying a Mac Mini or a refurbished MacBook and installing Windows using Boot Camp.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Method for You?

Here’s our quick recommendation:

Just exploring or learning? → Go with a virtual machine
Want native performance? → Try a dual boot
Want a dedicated macOS machine? → Build a Hackintosh

Each method has trade-offs, but all of them let you run macOS on Windows in different ways. Pick the one that suits your skills and needs.

Summary

Running macOS on a Windows PC is easier and more possible than ever! Whether you want to dual-boot macOS and Windows, set up a Hackintosh, or run macOS in a virtual machine, this guide should help you get started.

It’s not just about tech, it’s about flexibility, curiosity, and getting the best of both worlds.

How to Use macOS and Windows Together on One PC

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