Installing macOS Sonoma on a Windows PC has become a popular solution for developers, testers, and enthusiasts who want to enjoy macOS features without purchasing Apple hardware. In this guide, we’ll take you through the entire process of setting up macOS Sonoma on your Windows PC using VMware Workstation Pro. This method is simple, requires no scripts or coding, and can be completed in under 10 minutes!
Why Install macOS Sonoma on a Windows PC?
Running macOS on a Windows PC offers several benefits:
- Access macOS-exclusive applications: Use macOS software like Final Cut Pro, Xcode, or Logic Pro while retaining your Windows setup.
- Cost-effectiveness: No need to purchase a Mac to experience macOS features.
- Development and testing: Ideal for developers and testers who need both operating systems for cross-platform development.
- Flexibility: Switch seamlessly between Windows and macOS for productivity and creativity.
What You’ll Need
Before starting the installation, gather the following resources:
- VMware Workstation Pro: A virtualization tool for creating and managing virtual machines.
- VMware Unlocker: Enables macOS installation in VMware Workstation Pro.
- macOS Sonoma ISO file: The macOS installer in ISO format.
Ensure your PC has:
- At least 8GB of RAM (16GB or more is recommended for smoother performance).
- Free storage space of 64GB or more for the virtual machine.
- A 64-bit processor with virtualization support enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
Fun fact: There are Mac users that are also interested to do the reverse, to install Windows 11 on Macbook. As far as I have studied this is the easiest guide you can follow by using UTM Tool.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install macOS Sonoma
1. Download and Install VMware Workstation Pro
Start by downloading VMware Workstation Pro from the official website. Once downloaded, follow these steps:
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your PC after installation if prompted.
2. Unlock VMware for macOS
By default, VMware Workstation Pro doesn’t support macOS. To unlock macOS compatibility:
- Extract the VMware Unlocker file that you downloaded.
- Right-click on win-install.cmd and select Run as administrator.
- Wait for the process to complete, then restart VMware Workstation Pro.
3. Create a New Virtual Machine
Now, create a virtual machine for macOS Sonoma:
- Open VMware Workstation Pro and click Create a New Virtual Machine.
- Select Custom (Advanced) and click Next.
- Choose Workstation 16.x as the hardware compatibility.
- Select I will install the operating system later and click Next.
- Choose Apple macOS as the guest operating system and select macOS 13.x.
- Name the virtual machine (e.g., “macOS Sonoma”) and specify a location for the VM files.
- Allocate at least 4GB of RAM and 2 processor cores for the VM. For better performance, assign 8GB of RAM and 4 cores if available.
- Create a new virtual disk of at least 64GB.
- Complete the wizard and click Finish.
4. Add the macOS Sonoma ISO
Attach the macOS Sonoma ISO file to the virtual machine:
- Go to the VM settings and select CD/DVD.
- Choose Use ISO Image and browse to select the Sonoma ISO file.
- Click OK to save the changes.
5. Install macOS Sonoma
Now, start the virtual machine and install macOS:
- Power on the VM and wait for the macOS installer to load.
- Choose your language and click Next.
- Open Disk Utility and format the virtual disk as APFS with a GUID Partition Map.
- Return to the installer and select the formatted disk.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
6. Fix Resolution and Enable Full-Screen Mode
To optimize the display settings:
- Install VMware Tools by selecting VM > Install VMware Tools.
- Follow the prompts to install the tools and restart the VM.
- Adjust the resolution in macOS settings or enable full-screen mode for a better experience.
Conclusion
Installing macOS Sonoma on a Windows PC using VMware is a straightforward process that opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a developer testing macOS applications or a user exploring macOS features, this guide equips you with the tools and knowledge to get started. Follow these steps, and you’ll have macOS Sonoma running on your Windows PC in no time!
FAQs
Can I install macOS Sonoma on a Windows PC legally?
Installing macOS on non-Apple hardware is against Apple’s EULA. However, many use it for personal or educational purposes.
What are the system requirements for running macOS Sonoma on VMware?
You’ll need at least 8GB of RAM, a 64-bit processor with virtualization support, and 64GB of free disk space.
Why do I need VMware Unlocker?
VMware Unlocker enables macOS compatibility in VMware, which is not natively supported.
How can I improve macOS performance on VMware?
Allocate more RAM and CPU cores to the virtual machine and disable unnecessary macOS animations.
Is VMware Player sufficient for this setup?
VMware Player can work for basic setups, but advanced features may require VMware Workstation Pro.