Recently, we had covered some of the best ways to run Windows apps on macOS. The point was to overcome the lack of multi-platform software. This time, however, we have something different. We are going to talk about the ways to run Android apps on Mac. Yes, about using Instagram, playing Asphalt 8, or listening to Audible on Mac.
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This time too, we have found multiple ways to run Android apps on macOS. Since different people have their different purposes, we’ve different methods too. In this article, you will find the best methods to run Android apps on Mac for normal users, gaming enthusiasts and developers. Shall we now check out the options?
Run Android Apps on Mac
#1 BlueStacks — Best for Running Apps
BlueStacks (also called BlueStacks App Player) is the oldest and the most popular way of running Android apps for Mac. You will be able to run almost any Android app using this simple emulator. It’s the best choice if you want to run WhatsApp on your Mac or access your Instagram account. You will be able to run your Mac apps and Android apps side by side, which is great.
The BlueStacks interface is equally awesome as well. Apps are opened in individual tabs and you have access to Google Play Store. Depending on the specifications of your Mac, BlueStacks lets you handle multiple apps with ease. Despite the optimizations for running apps, BlueStacks offers a true Android feel as well. You can even make changes from the Settings section.
Installing and using BlueStacks is like a piece of cake! You have to download the free installer from the official site of BlueStacks and run it. If you have previously installed bluestack, do a clean uninstall, before you reinstall it. Once the installation is done, it may take a few seconds for starting up. Before you can install apps, however, you need to sign into a Google account. Altogether, we think it’s really easy to get started with BlueStacks.
As far as running apps is concerned, BlueStacks does the job very well. Free recording apps for mac. We were able to install and use apps like WhatsApp and Instagram without any hassle. We also tried playing some Alto’s Odyssey game.
Pros
- BlueStacks is really easy to set up
- It doesn’t involve long installation processes
- Performance is optimized for apps
Cons
- Not much suitable for games or development
Who Is It For
We think BlueStacks is the best option for those who need to use Android apps on Mac. It works fine when it comes to running apps like WhatsApp and Instagram. While the gaming performance is okay, we believe there are better options.
Check Out BlueStacks
#2 VirtualBox — Best for More Control
At the core, Android is also a Linux-based operating system. As it happens, you can install Android on Mac using a tool like VirtualBox. In order to do this, you have to create a virtual machine and install Android in it. Compared to the other options we’ve listed, this VirtualBox method offers better control over the Android device and the apps you install.
Once the installation is done, VirtualBox gives you a pure Android experience. This is because we’re installing the basic Android Operating System on the virtual machine. However, you should not expect an optimized environment for running apps or games. Chances are, there are some bugs too. On the bright side, you can deploy Android v8 Oreo in the virtual machine.
We would not say that Android on VirtualBox is easy to set up. There are some downsides that you will have to tolerate in the long run. In order to do this, you need to download Android x86, a project that ports the popular OS to PCs. Then, as we always do, you can create a virtual machine based on Linux, Android. Once the installation is done, you’ll have a full-screen Android experience.
While apps like WhatsApp and Instagram work fine, the performance isn’t the best. We would not suggest this method if you’re into gaming either.
Pros
- Offers more control over the virtual Android device
- You can run the latest version of Android
- It offers a fully-fledged Android OS experience
Cons
- Installation is somewhat complex
- Lacks performance optimization or customization options
- Chances of bugs
Who Is It For
Running Android on Mac using VirtualBox is best when you need better control over the process. As a virtual machine, you can customize performance too. However, in the long run, you will have to compromise overall performance and gaming controls.
Check Out VirtualBox and Android x86
#3 Nox Player Mac — Best Optimized for Gaming
If you want to play some graphic-rich Android games on Mac, Nox Player Mac is the best option in town. It’s an Android emulator that prioritizes speed and performance. There are also some features such as screen capture, on-screen button mapping etc. Once set up, Nox Player Mac offers a standard Android experience as well.
Nox Player Mac manages to run apps as well. However, we found that things aren’t as smooth as BlueStacks when it comes to app downloads and installs. But, the reason you should install Nox Player Mac should be to play high-quality games like PUBG on Mac.
To install Android apps on your Nox Player, you can either login with your Google account and use the built-in Google Play Store or if you don’t want to go through that hassle, you can download the apk using the browser and install it directly.
Nox Player Mac is the easiest to install. It doesn’t even ask you any questions. Just run the installer and in a few seconds, you will find the fully-fledged Android virtual tablet. It runs Android v4 KitKat — which is a downside when compared to others.
Nox Player Mac is perfect when it comes to handling popular apps. So, if you want to bring some common apps and high-end Android games to Mac, choose this program.
Pros
- Easy to set up and get started
- Optimized performance for games and apps
- Advanced features like keyboard mapping and location manipulation
Cons
- Not suitable for development
- Runs on Android KitKat
- Ships with some bloatware
Who Is It For
Nox Player Mac is the best option if you’re into high-end Android games. Even if you have a mid-end MacBook Air, it should offer the best performance. Also, thanks to the macro and mapping features. We’d also recommend the tool for running WhatsApp and all.
#4 Genymotion — Most Suitable for Developers
Genymotion is an innovative way to run Android apps on Mac — and on Cloud, for that matter. However, it is offering a bunch of different options. If you’re a professional, you can create a virtual Android device on a Mac or in the cloud. Let’s come down to the Desktop version, which is great. You will be able to create a big variety of Android configurations for testing.
For instance, you can change the Android version, device hardware etc. Genymotion is the best option to make sure that your app runs perfectly on all Android devices out there. However, if you are getting started as a developer, you can find standard solutions as well. Genymotion also offers some additional features, for instance, embed your Android app on the website and let people try the app.
There is no necessity that you should install Genymotion on your Mac. As we said earlier, it can be used as a cloud service as well. However, Genymotion Desktop is really easy to install. We used the Personal version of Genymotion as well. It’s more convenient if you just want to try some apps. On the other hand, if you like the fully-fledged Android development experience, Genymotion Desktop is the way to go.
Running apps on Genymotion isn’t as smooth as the other platform. This is because the emulator has a major focus on features that help developers.
Pros
- Awesome features for developers
- Multiple Android configurations
- Better Control over Running Apps
Cons
- Performance Optimization could be better
Who Is It For
Genymotion is the best solution for Android developers who want to run their Android apps on a number of virtual devices. It syncs so well with your coding process and customization needs. Thanks to the plug-in, you can integrate this program with Android Studio as well.
Check Out Genymotion (free trial, $136/year)
#5 Andy — a Smoother Workflow
Last but not the least, Andy is another way to run Android apps on Mac. However, compared to all emulators we’ve listed above, Andy offers a smoother workflow. The best part is that you’re getting a 100% full Android experience when you start up. You get built-in apps like Gmail, ES File Explorer and a lot more. It’s running on Android v4.0 KitKat, though.
Because Andy comes with Play Store access, you can easily download and install apps. There are some other important features as well. For instance, you can run the Android emulator in vertical and landscape modes as well. Also, there’s Key Mapping and Location manipulation. These features are awesome when you want a more optimized way to run Android apps.
Andy has one of the easiest installers we’ve seen. It’s an online installer, which would download files over an Internet connection. It needs to be noted that Andy downloads around 500MB of files, the largest on the list. Once the installation is done, Andy will show you the standard Android interface. You can use the mouse and keyboard for managing the virtual Android tablet.
As we said, Andy is the best when it comes to running apps. However, it would not be our go-to choice when it comes to playing Android games.
Pros
- Easy to Install and Manage
- Best optimization for apps
- Offers a standard Android experience
Cons
- Runs on KitKat
- It’s lagging a bit when other apps are running
Who Is It For
Andy offers the perfect level of optimization and a standard Android experience. We’d recommend this tool if you need a real-like virtual Android device on your Mac. Of course, there are some performance lags but you can avoid it by avoiding multitasking.
Check Out Andy (Free)
The best way to Run Android Apps on Mac?
So, these are the five different ways to run Android apps on Mac. In a way, you’re creating an Android device within macOS environment as well. As we said earlier, not a single solution is suitable for everyone. We have recommended Nox Player for Mac if you want to play games. On the other hand, if you just want to use apps smoothly, BlueStacks and Andy are the best options. And, for those upcoming developers out there, we will recommend Genymotion, which has a ton of features packed inside.
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Best apps for MacBook Pro is quite hard to find there are several apps that offer quite interesting features and specifications. However, they’re not available for free you’ve to pay to use them. In this list, we’ve gathered some of the best free apps for your Mac for 2020
Check these apps that we’ve listed for Mac users. The apps are free to use however some apps are paid so you’ve to purchase them from Mac Store.
Best Apps For Macbook Pro – Mac Productivity Apps
Their millions of apps that can help you in your daily life. But some of the application is most useful in your daily life that helped to hard work. These apps are mainly available when you paid for them they are not available for free.
However, there are some apps that available for free or at the low prices that fit into your monthly budget. Check out our complete list.
1# iWrite
iWrite is an app just like windows notepad however, iWrite contains more features compare to notepad or other iOS X word processor. According to the iWrite user’s review, this is one of the best apps for iMac OS X device’s. Like Macbook Air, MacBook Pro etc.
The basic features of the iWrite app come with all word processing features, You can easily insert images, date, symbols, and some other extra characters. The items of import its supports Word 2007 (.docx), Word 97 (.doc), (.xml), (rtf), (.webarchive) and some other extensions.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.10 or later version operating system
Devices: Macbook, iPad, and iPhone
Pricing:Free To Download Via Apple Store
2 # Alfred Powerpack
Alfred with Powerback is the ultimate productivity tool for your Mac OS. The app contains all best features like hotkeys with core search with that you can easily access any folder and files within your system. With snippets and auto-expansion both features help you to create and collaborate, on the other hand, Auto Expand will compete for your sensation what you’re going to type.
Main features of Alfred Powerpack app, Use clipboard history to save pictures, texts, and other files, It supports Groove Music, File Manager, Import workflow to other project management app.
Compatibility: New Released Alfred 3.5 supports for MacOS 10.13 High Sierra
Devices: Macbook and iPad
Pricing: Alfred 3 For Free, Alfred Powerpack for $10 for the single user
3 # Better Touch Tool & BTT Remote
Better Touch Tool (BTT) is necessary is apps for MacBook Pro its a powerpack app contains all mostly used app for Mac OS X. The BTT support multiple input devices and can easily create gestures for the magic mouse or trackpad. On another hand, BBT Remote helps you to remotely control the trackpad on your system with this app you can easily get complete remote control on your Mac with your cell phone.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.10 or later version operating system
Devices: Macbook, iPad, and iPhone
Pricing:Free To Download Via Apple Store
4 # Mou
Mou is a markdown editor for developers, So basically if you’re a developer or learning how to code through your Mac OS system. Then, in this case, Mou is the best programming app for Mac OS X. This app has all ultimate features that you needed while programming features like live preview, sync scroll, auto save, powerful actions, auto pair, custom themes and CSS, HTML and PDF export and much more.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.7 to 10.11 (doesn’t support Sierra)
Devices: Macbook, Windows
Pricing:Free Version / Paid Version
5 # Caffeine
The Caffeine is an application let you prevent your Mac OS system from going to sleep. Basically, this Mac app comes in handy when you’re working on any project and you don’t want to turn off your system. Caffeine app mainly uses when you don’t want your Macbook going to sleep or hibernate.
If you need your Mac system always awake then, in this case, Caffeine app is one of the best options for Mac users. You can easily activate it through Menu bar items.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.11 (later versions)
Devices: Macbook, Windows
Pricing: Free Version
6 # Gmail Notifier (Mia)
Gmail Notifier is an application that let you give quick access to your google mail emails through this app you can read or overview new emails you got from your Gmail account. You can easily receive and send the email the application interface is easy to use.
In just one click you can easily compose the new email. On another hand, you can also delete spam and archive emails. However, the limit of sending emails size is 6MB the app is free to download from Apple Store for Mac users.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.8 (later versions)
Devices: Macbook, Windows
Pricing: Free Version
7 # MacTube
MacTube app lets you download the YouTube videos in different formats. You can even download the 3D videos from YouTube into your Macbook. This Mac application is totally built for downloading videos from online video streaming platforms such as YouTube.
If you find MacTube not useful you can Mac you can also look into its alternatives like YTD for Mac, ClipGrap, TVD for Mac and many more.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.4.2 (later versions and including leopard)
Devices: MacBook, iPhone
Pricing: Free Version
8 # 2Do
This a one of the best task management app. The app will handle only for your lots of things with this app you can add URL’s, addresses and lot more. The ultimate features of the 2Do app are Utility Panel, Advanced Search, Quick Entry, Project View Toggle, Project Sharing and much more.
Best Free Apps For Mac
To get more information regarding productivity apps for Mac OS X. Read out our article 25 best productivity apps for Macbook. In this list get some of the best alternatives to 2Do App.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.10 Yosemite. Optimized for 10.13 High Sierra.
Devices: Macbook, Windows, iOS, and Android
Pricing: Paid Version
9 # Printopia
Printopia is a sharing app that let you print your document to any printer. Basically its a wireless printing software for iOS devices like iPhone, iPod, and Android. Through this app, you can easily share up to five printers within a few clicks its one the of best apps for MacBook Pro.
The app is available for free with limited access and to get full control you’ve to purchase it for $19.99 per month. You don’t have to install the app Printopia work with your iPhone or iPod built-in printing capability. Just launch the app on your Macbook and you’ll able to print from your iPhone.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.7 to 10.13 (High Sierra) and iOS 4.2 or later versions.
Best Mac App Store Apps
Devices: Macbook, Windows, iOS, and Android
Pricing: Free Version (for 7 days) / Paid Version
Best Free Apps For Macbook
10 # FileZilla
It’s one of the best file transfer solutions for Mac OS X and other platforms such as Windows. FileZilla is an open source FTP client for file transferring software. The pro features of this app are it can easily handle large files, faster file transfer, Remote File Search and much more. This is one of the best file transfer apps for MacBook Pro.
Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.13 or later versions.
Devices: Macbook, Windows.
Pricing: Free Version
Conclusion of Article
Their thousands of software are available on the web but the best apps for Macbook Pro are some of them. The above-listed apps are most used for Mac users to reduce the time or save system energy. These are some of the must-have free apps for MacBook pro-2020. However, you’ve any other application name that missed you can suggest us through the comment box.