VirtualBox for Mac

Name: VirtualBox
Rating: 3.9 (57 reviews)
Author: Oracle

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VirtualBox Analysis

AI Assisted Content · June 11, 2026

Not written by CNET Staff.

VirtualBox is a powerful virtualization tool available for Mac users, allowing them to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single machine. This utility supports various guest operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Solaris, providing flexibility for developers, testers, and users wanting to explore different environments without needing additional hardware. With an intuitive interface, VirtualBox makes it easy to create and manage virtual machines, enabling users to allocate resources such as CPU, memory, and storage according to their needs.

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In addition to basic virtualization features, VirtualBox offers advanced capabilities such as support for 3D graphics, snapshots for preserving the state of virtual machines, and seamless integration with the host operating system. Users can also take advantage of shared folders for easy file transfer between the host and guest systems. VirtualBox is an ideal choice for those looking for a free and robust solution for running multiple operating systems on their Mac.

VirtualBox for Mac

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: July 27, 2020

Latest update: June 11, 2026

Version: 6.1.12

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Mac

Operating System: Mac OS X

Additional Requirements

macOS Catalina
macOS Mojave
macOS High Sierra
macOS Sierra
OS X El Capitan
OS X Yosemite
OS X Mavericks

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 220,343

Downloads Last Week: 0

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User Reviews

3.9/5

57 User Votes

Good, but hard to read
WolfmontMay 30, 2013
Pros
Runs the software I have tried to run Doesn't require an install of Windows Uses WIn XP (a stable version of Windows)
Cons
Screen is SMALL!
Summary
While this was useful for loading and running some Windows software on my Mac, the screen display for the Windows VM is so small that I have to strain to read it. I have not been able to find a way to make the screen bigger.
worked perfectly
docpercMay 9, 2013
Pros
allowed me to connect to my corporate website with its arcane firewall structure
Cons
none of any significance
Summary
if you can follow fairly simple instructions, this software will work for you
A competent product
elgyFebruary 15, 2013
Pros
Functions well, like a real PC in your Mac.
Cons
Lacks some of the bells and whistles of Parallels.
Summary
Works as expected.
burkeSeptember 6, 2012
Pros
It's free. It works. "Seamless" windows. Resizable displays.
Cons
OMG, you may have to read the manual to install it.
Summary
I have not used other VM software, so I can't compare. I occasionally need to fire up Windows to see what my Windows-user students see. I can now do this on one machine. Be sure to install the "Guest Additions" for easier and richer display options. Seamless view is good. Resizable display size is great. I prefer to minimize it on the dock when not needed, versus seamless view.
Can't Update to 4.2
rsstroudAugust 26, 2012
Pros
I have 4.1.18 and it seems to work well
Cons
Installer for new version will not allow installation on Mac 10.5.8. Tells me "The installer has detected running Virtual Machines." But VM is not running. I have "Wine" on this machine. Could this be confusing the installer?
Summary
Can't really evaluate, but pretty poor to have installer that will not work.
A must in Mac world
ETmacUserAugust 16, 2012
Pros
Easy install, it performs well what is supposed to do, the road to many windows-only apps. The right tool (I'm looking forward when it will be directly implemented in OSX, since is a great utility)
Cons
Some minor hassle in connecting to external media such as smartphones (OSX is faster in getting the "new" interface - after all the host system relay on OSX for external world). It would be great if given tools for "older" systems too, say Amiga, Mac OS Classic, Commodore VIC64, Spectre... for IT archaeology and recover of older documents (more than 10 years ago...)
Summary
Better than celebrated (and not free) emulators. And it's free, well supported and very reliable. What can you expect more?
Doesn't download on OS X
marikavsApril 4, 2012
Pros
None (at least 10 characters is dumb)
Cons
The requested object does not exist on this server. The link you followed is either outdated, inaccurate, or the server has been instructed not to let you have it. Need I say more...
Summary
Doesn't download on OS X Updated on Apr 4, 2012Sorry, should have added Snow Leopard.
Good for free
sobokuOneApril 2, 2012
Pros
Lets you install a lot of OS's small in size compare to others
Cons
On Lion for me it seems to keep my system slow and sluggish after I quit the app. I have to reboot after ever use to get Lion running smooth again. Don't no what going on maybe its not releasing the memory.
Summary
Great to have when you need to test out a new beta version of an OS and its free.
Works better than Parallels and it is FREE!
Paul McNultyDecember 31, 2011
Pros
Diversification and easy to use
Cons
Compared to Parallels - NONE
Summary
I wish I found this App before I wasted my money on parallels. This App does everything that it promises to do! A keeper for me!
Very handy product, easy to use.
Thombar99November 14, 2011
Pros
Can use windows program on my iMac
Cons
Having trouble with setting up a printer.
Summary
Definitely worth the price if you need to use Windows programs

Developer’s Description

By Oracle

General-purpose full virtualizer for x86 hardware, targeted at server, desktop and embedded use.

VirtualBox is a family of powerful x86 virtualization products for enterprise as well as home use. Not only is VirtualBox an extremely feature rich, high performance product for enterprise customers, it is also the only professional solution that is freely available as Open Source Software under the terms of the GNU General Public License (GPL). VirtualBox runs on Mac OS X, Windows and Linux and supports a large number of guest operating systems including but not limited to Windows (NT 4.0, 2000, XP, Server 2003, Vista), DOS/Windows 3.x, Linux (2.4 and 2.6), and OpenBSD. VirtualBox is being actively developed with frequent releases and has an ever growing list of features, supported guest operating systems and platforms it runs on. VirtualBox is a community effort backed by a dedicated company: everyone is encouraged to contribute while innotek ensures the product always meets professional quality criteria.

VirtualBox for Mac

VirtualBox Analysis

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User Reviews

Good, but hard to read

worked perfectly

A competent product

Works as expected.

Can't Update to 4.2

A must in Mac world

Doesn't download on OS X

Good for free

Works better than Parallels and it is FREE!

Very handy product, easy to use.

Developer’s Description