Macs are amazing for design, but SOLIDWORKS isn’t part of that ecosystem. If you rely on SW daily, keep a Windows PC nearby—or prepare to live inside a VM.
2️⃣ If you have an older Intel Mac, this is the fastest option. Partition your drive, install native Windows, and SOLIDWORKS flies. Not available on Apple Silicon. solidworks mac os x
1️⃣ Run a full Windows 11 VM side-by-side with macOS. Works surprisingly well for basic parts & assemblies. Downside? Heavy FEA or large assemblies will chug. M1/M2/M3 Macs run the ARM version of Windows, which translates x64 code → performance loss. Macs are amazing for design, but SOLIDWORKS isn’t
❌ Don’t try Wine/Crossover for production work. Crashes and missing features will ruin your day. Macs are amazing for design