Macs are amazing for design, but SOLIDWORKS isn’t part of that ecosystem. If you rely on SW daily, keep a Windows PC nearby—or prepare to live inside a VM.
1️⃣ Run a full Windows 11 VM side-by-side with macOS. Works surprisingly well for basic parts & assemblies. Downside? Heavy FEA or large assemblies will chug. M1/M2/M3 Macs run the ARM version of Windows, which translates x64 code → performance loss. solidworks mac os x
2️⃣ If you have an older Intel Mac, this is the fastest option. Partition your drive, install native Windows, and SOLIDWORKS flies. Not available on Apple Silicon. Macs are amazing for design, but SOLIDWORKS isn’t