A real Windows environment, not a compatibility layer.
CrossOver and Windowly both let you use Windows software on a Mac, but they work in opposite ways. Here is the difference, including where CrossOver is the better choice.
How each one runs apps
How they work
Two different approaches.
Windowly: Windows itself
Windowly creates a local Windows 11 ARM virtual machine on your Apple Silicon Mac. Your apps are installed inside real Windows and run on Windows, with its own services, drivers and registry. Windows apps built only for x64 run through Windows’ own x64 emulation. Windowly adds automatic setup, shared folders, drag and drop and one-click app installs.
CrossOver: a compatibility layer
CrossOver translates Windows system calls into macOS calls, so individual apps run without Windows installed. It is lighter and faster to start and needs no Windows licence, but each app must be supported, and apps that depend on Windows internals, drivers or background services may not work.
Which to choose
Match the tool to your app.
Choose CrossOver if
your app is on CrossOver’s supported list, you want a light setup, and you do not want to buy or manage a Windows licence.
Choose Windowly if
your app needs a full Windows environment, such as Windows services, installers, add-ins or tools that expect to run on Windows.
One limit applies to both
Windowly runs Windows on ARM. An app must run on Windows 11 ARM, natively or through x64 emulation. Check your app before subscribing.
Test before you pay
Windowly has a seven-day trial. Use it to test your exact app and files.
FAQ
Windowly and CrossOver.
Is Windowly an AI version of CrossOver?
No. Windowly does not use AI to translate apps. It runs a real Windows 11 ARM environment in a virtual machine on your Mac.
Why does Windowly need a Windows licence?
Because it runs real Windows. Windowly does not sell or provide a Microsoft Windows licence, and third-party app licences are separate.
Will every Windows app work in Windowly?
No. Apps must run on Windows 11 ARM. Compatibility and performance vary by app, Mac model, memory and workload.
Your Mac looks compatible?
Start the seven-day trial and test the Windows application and workflow you actually need.
Get Windowly — 7 days freeCard required · $9.99 USD/month after 7 days plus applicable taxes · Cancel online anytime