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bobcomer

macrumors 601
May 18, 2015
4,949
3,699
I just registered because I'm looking for a solution to this problem.
What do you guys think about Windows 365? (That windows VM that MS sells a monthly subscription).

I think it's a better solution than carrying another hardware around.

(I just rather Parallels could do some wizardry to allow x86 VM)
It's kind of expensive for a decently specced VM, and it's really meant for businesses with multiple desktops needed, but it should be acceptable. (depending on your internet connection)
 

Glenny2lappies

macrumors 6502a
Sep 29, 2006
578
420
Brighton, UK
Thing with VMs running locally is you can guarantee security and control. Not to mention highly customised configurations.

I know Apple couldn't give a damn about people using the best of both worlds -- Mac for day-to-day and WinDos for earning development money -- but that means no M1s for any of us who do.
 
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Conutz

macrumors 6502
Oct 24, 2014
358
250
Joburg
I’m running very well with an M1 Pro and Windows 11 for ARM. Developing and compiling in Delphi (x86) and C-based IDEs (x86), no hassle. Of course my old VMWare VMs don’t run, but I’m quite happy with my Parallels VM setup. Probably the single biggest niggle is running SQL Server in Docker on the Mac – Windows dev is therefore a 2-step process. The alternative is a network dev SQL Server, which I also use. The experience is nevertheless great. Running this M1 Mac (14”, Pro, 32GB, 1TB) on battery is stupidly good, even with W11 running (I do pass the battery status to the VM, and W11 may also be running more efficiently). It just lasts and lasts and lasts…fantastic! Also, when I go home at night and I put it to sleep, it sleeps! I start in the morning with a full battery, which cannot be said for the 2018 below.

Starting my old 2018 15” is always fun as I’m welcomed by my old friends the fans, particularly with a W10 VM running. I’m keeping it around in case I need to run an old VM. Overall: despite the little SQL niggle, it has proven to be a great move to M1. And this is now. In time, other tools will become ARM native too, so it’ll just get better and better.

Long story short is that a lot of x86 apps run just fine on an M1…
 
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