Run macOS on Windows: Installing macOS Sonoma on a PC

For many, installing macOS on a PC is a goal, but Apple’s restrictions complicate the task. Many don’t have the budget for a Mac computer, and the official macOS runs only on Apple hardware. Though it’s not something you can do often, with the right tactic you an experience macOS on a regular PC. Here’s how to start in 2024.

macOS-virtual Machine

The Hackintosh Alternative

Once, the ‘hackintosh’ technique (whereby macOS is made to run on non-Apple hardware) was popular. Today it’s not as viable, although, again due to various hardware configurations, and a slowdown on the community development side there. A better, though limited, means of running macOS on Windows is in the form of virtual machines (VMs).

macOS Virtual Machine Setup on Windows

Now that VMware Workstation Pro is free for personal use, it’s the recommended hypervisor to install macOS on your Windows PC. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Set up VMware Workstation Pro


Install VMware Workstation Pro and download it.
So, the first thing you want to do is add macOS support on VMware by using an “unlocker” tool so that you can create your macOS virtual machine.


Pick the Right macOS Version


Despite macOS 15 “Sequoia” not being fully stable, consider installing macOS Sonoma (version 14.6.1).
Download the macOS ISO file and Opencore, a bootable hard drive image for VMware. If you’re using AMD processors, choose the Opencore version that suits your core count.


Configure Windows Settings


Lower performance can be obtained by disabling Hyper-V and enabling Core Isolation. It’s optional, but it helps cut errors and lag.


Create the Virtual Machine

Configure a new virtual machine with the following settings:

  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Cores: The number used by your Opencore image.
  • Network Adapter: Bridge mode
  • USB Controller: USB 3.1
  • Mount the Opencore drive (or an empty virtual hard disk), the macOS ISO.


Installing VMware Sonoma on Mac OS

Install Opencore then start the virtual machine and let Opencore load. Start installation by selecting the macOS ISO. Use the disk utility in the installation wizard to format the empty virtual hard drive. Go on with macOS setup. A simple restart resolves any errors that appear.

Is It Worth the Effort?

Running macOS on a PC through this method is a hack, so expect a few bugs, such as:

  • Instead of the usual background had white wallpaper.
  • Slow internet speeds.
  • Occasional random crashes.

However, it all works well and can be done in less than an hour. On Intel PCs things are smoother, as they have fewer compatibility issues.

Testing macOS in a VM is a great way to see if all works the way you are expecting it to work before committing to an Apple device or for those who want to have a taste of the Mac without having to pay the heavy price.