Parallels Desktop Standard
vs.
Parallels Desktop Pro
vs.
Parallels Desktop Business
vs.
Parallels Desktop Enterprise
Parallels Desktop is a popular virtualization software that enables Mac users to run Windows, Linux, and older macOS versions on their devices seamlessly. Choosing the right edition of Parallels Desktop depends on the user’s specific needs, with each version offering different levels of features and performance optimizations. For individuals, professionals, and businesses, this software provides flexibility to use various operating systems on one device without compromising the performance or experience of their primary macOS.
The different editions—Standard, Pro, Business, and Enterprise—cater to varying user requirements. Standard is ideal for home users looking to run basic Windows applications, while Pro and Business Editions offer advanced development tools and enhanced performance for professionals and IT teams. Enterprise Edition, tailored for large-scale organizations, provides management tools for IT departments to oversee multiple virtual environments efficiently.
Here we are comparing the three editions of Parallels Desktop for Mac software. In the table below, see and compare specific features of each of the editions of the Parallels Desktop software.
Parallels Desktop for Mac – Comparison Table
Note: Parallels Desktop Standard can be obtained as a one-time purchase (perpetual license, $129.99 per year), or as an annual subscription. As per the comparison table below, there are some differences between the two.
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| Parallels Desktop Features | Standard Edition | Pro Edition | Business Edition | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP (prices in USD) | $99.99 /yr | $119.99 /yr | $149.99 /yr | |
| Run thousands of Windows applications such as Microsoft Office 365, accounting software, trading software, SAP, Matlab, and more. | ● | ● | ● | ● |
| Get major updates to support new versions of macOS, Windows, Linux, and new Mac models. | Subscription only | ● | ● | ● |
| Run professional graphics-intensive Windows applications and powerful virtual machines. | 8 GB vRAM, 4 vCPUs* |
128 GB vRAM, 32 vCPUs |
128 GB vRAM, 32 vCPUs |
128 GB vRAM, 32 vCPUs |
| Develop, automate, test, and debug software in Windows, Linux and macOS. | ● | ● | ● | |
| Parallels AI package for developers and education. | ● | ● | ● | |
| Develop, automate, test, and debug software in multiple operating systems simultaneously. | ● (Available for download until 12/31/24) |
● | ● | |
| Automate CI/CD workflows with Parallels DevOps. | ● | ● | ||
| 24/7 phone, chat, and email support. | Subscription only | ● | ● | ● |
| Premium support, Account manager, Onboarding with System Engineers. | ● | |||
| Single volume license, access to License Portal, ability to create sublicense keys, multiple administrators. | ● | ● | ||
| Business-friendly billing. Extra seats are prorated. Option to get PO, quote to Cart. | ● | ● | ||
| Provisioning with Mac Management tools or Parallels deployment package. | ● | ● | ||
| IT-configured Windows "smart" declarative Image in Parallels Desktop Interface. | ●** | ● | ||
| Management portal for deployment and control, policies, and monitoring and managing of users’ virtual machines. | ● | |||
| Per-user licensing option with SSO/SAML/SCIM integration. | ● | |||
| Access to security documentation and questionnaires. | ● | |||
| Price in USD (other currencies available) | $99.99 /yr | $119.99 /yr | $149.99 /yr | |
| More Info at Parallels.com | ||||
* Maximum Virtual RAM and CPUs per virtual machine
** The functionality will remain in the Business Edition for some time but will be removed in the future. Please consider upgrading to the Enterprise Edition if this functionality is crucial for you. Contact your account manager for more details.
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Parallels Desktop Comparison – Conclusion
Parallels Desktop offers a comprehensive solution for Mac users needing to access other operating systems. The software’s ability to run Windows, Linux, and older macOS versions seamlessly provides a versatile option for both personal and professional use. Each edition is designed to meet specific needs, from basic app usage to advanced development and IT management.
Ultimately, Parallels Desktop is a powerful tool for Mac users, streamlining workflows and expanding the possibilities of what can be done on a Mac by bridging the gap between operating systems. Whether for home, business, or enterprise use, Parallels Desktop delivers a user-friendly and efficient virtualization experience.
More information about Parallels Desktop software products: