SolidWorks is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) software used by engineers and designers for 3D modeling, simulation, and product development. While SolidWorks primarily runs on Windows operating systems, there is a demand to determine whether it can be used on Mac computers.
We will explore the compatibility of SolidWorks with macOS and discuss possible methods to run SolidWorks on a Mac. So, can SolidWorks work on a Mac? Find out.
System Requirements for SolidWorks on Macs
To ascertain the compatibility of SolidWorks with Mac, we need to examine the official system requirements provided by Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks Corp, the developer of SolidWorks.
These are the system requirements provided SolidWorks for macOS.
macOS Operating Systems Supported by SolidWorks
Apple Products Support Lifecycle (SolidWorks 2021 – 2023)
Apple Products Support Lifecycle (SolidWorks 2020 and older)
The information indicates that SolidWorks can run on specific versions of macOS, including the latest releases. However, it is essential to note that SolidWorks does not run directly on macOS; certain additional steps need to be taken to achieve compatibility.
Running SolidWorks on a Mac
You can run SolidWorks on a Mac using these methods.
Parallels Virtual Machine
One method to run SolidWorks on a Mac is by using a virtual machine software such as Parallels. With Parallels, it is possible to install and run the Windows version of SolidWorks within a virtual environment on macOS.
This approach allows users to switch between macOS and SolidWorks running on Windows seamlessly. Parallels recently added support for running Windows on M1 and M2 Macs, including macOS Ventura.
Boot Camp
Another option is to use Apple’s Boot Camp utility to install Windows on a Mac. Boot Camp enables users to dual-boot their Mac computers with macOS and Windows. By setting up Windows via Boot Camp, you can install and run SolidWorks natively on the Windows partition of your Mac. However, this method requires users to reboot their Mac into Windows whenever they want to use SolidWorks.
Important: It is not possible to run Boot Camp on modern Apple Silicon Macs that feature an M1 or later processor. These Macs use a different processor architecture that does not support booting Windows natively in any capacity. So, if you own an M1 or M2 MacBook, use Parallels for SolidWorks.
Considerations and Limitations
While it is technically possible to run SolidWorks on a Mac using the methods mentioned above, there are certain considerations and limitations to be aware of.
Graphics Card Support
Macs generally have different graphics cards than those found in Windows-based workstations. SolidWorks relies heavily on the graphics card for optimal performance. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the graphics card on a Mac is supported by SolidWorks for the best user experience.
Performance
Running SolidWorks on a Mac may not provide the same level of performance as running it on a Windows-based professional workstation. This difference in performance can be attributed to various factors, including hardware compatibility and optimization.
eDrawings
It is worth noting that eDrawings, a software associated with SolidWorks, has specific support for macOS versions. However, eDrawings is a separate tool and not the full-fledged SolidWorks software.
While SolidWorks does not have a native version for macOS, it is possible to run it on a Mac using virtualization software like Parallels or by setting up Windows via Boot Camp. These methods allow users to work with SolidWorks on a Mac, although there might be some limitations and considerations to keep in mind. You should ensure that your Mac meets the necessary system requirements.
