oracle-vm-virtualbox-vs-parallels-desktop

Oracle VM VirtualBox and Parallels Desktop are both used to run multiple operating systems, whether they be the same as the host operating system, or different.  Oracle VM VirtualBox is a highly customizable tool designed to run a variety of guest operating systems on most host operating systems.  In contrast, Parallels is a more specialized tool, used most often to run Windows as a guest operating system on MacOS devices.  Both tools are popular with businesses of all sizes, depending on what their virtualization needs are.

Features

Oracle VM VirtualBox and Parallels Desktop both allow for virtualization, but they also have some standout features that set them apart from each other.

Oracle VM VirtualBox offers a high level of customization, allowing users to dictate exactly what hardware resources are devoted to the virtualized machine.  Additionally, Oracle VM VirtualBox provides support for a wide variety of operating systems including several Linux distributions out of the box.

Parallels desktop is a simple to use software, including a setup wizard that walks users through the implementation process as well as setting up their first virtual machine.  Users with very little technical experience should have no problem setting up a virtual machine using Parallels Desktop.  Parallels also offers high CPU and GPU performance, making it a good choice for businesses that want to run demanding applications on virtual machines.

Limitations

Oracle VM VirtualBox and Parallels Desktop can both run Windows on Mac devices, but they also have a few limitations that are important to consider.

Oracle VM VirtualBox is simple to implement, but non technical users may struggle with the advanced settings used for creating virtual machines.  Additionally, Oracle VM VirtualBox performs worse than Parallels in both CPU and GPU tests.  Getting the most out of Oracle VM VirtualBox requires technical ability, and it still may not be suitable for virtual machines running high-demand applications.

Parallels Desktop is simple to use and walks users through the virtualization process, but it doesn’t provide the same level of customization as Oracle VM VirtualBox.  Users that want to be very deliberate with their hardware resources may prefer Oracle VM VirtualBox.  Parallels Desktop is also specialized for running Windows on Mac devices, it includes some support for Linux distributions but it isn’t as varied as Oracle VM VirtualBox.

Pricing

Oracle VM VirtualBox is a free to use technology for individual users, but can be licensed for business use starting at $50 per user.  The free version can be used for businesses to try before they buy.

Parallels Desktop for business costs $120.00 per year per user.  There is also a free trial available to businesses for a limited time.