Parallels Desktop vs Proxmox VE: What are the differences?

Introduction

Parallels Desktop and Proxmox VE are both virtualization platforms that serve different purposes and target different audiences. Understanding the key differences between the two can help in choosing the right solution for specific virtualization needs. Below are six key differences between Parallels Desktop and Proxmox VE.

1. Virtualization Approach: Parallels Desktop is primarily designed for individuals and businesses running macOS that require running Windows or Linux applications on their machines. It uses a type 2 hypervisor, allowing virtualization on top of an existing operating system. On the other hand, Proxmox VE is an open-source platform that uses a type 1 hypervisor, enabling the creation of virtual environments without the need for an underlying operating system.

2. Operating System Support: Parallels Desktop is specifically developed for running virtual machines on macOS. It supports a wide range of guest operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. In contrast, Proxmox VE supports a broader range of host operating systems, including Debian, Ubuntu, and CentOS, making it suitable for running virtual machines on different platforms.

3. Management Interface: Parallels Desktop provides a user-friendly graphical interface, making it easy for individuals and businesses to manage their virtual machines. It offers a seamless integration with the macOS desktop environment. Conversely, Proxmox VE offers a web-based management interface that allows users to remotely manage their virtual environment. This web interface offers extensive management capabilities and can be accessed from any device with a web browser.

4. Deployment Scenarios: Parallels Desktop is mainly used for local virtualization on individual macOS machines or within small businesses. It is suitable for running a few virtual machines simultaneously with a focus on desktop integration. In contrast, Proxmox VE is designed for enterprise-level virtualization, supporting large-scale deployments with high availability and clustering features. It is widely used in data centers and cloud service providers.

5. Commercial vs. Open-source: Parallels Desktop is a commercial product that requires a license to use. It offers additional features and support options for users who opt for a paid license. On the other hand, Proxmox VE is an open-source platform that is available free of charge. While it offers enterprise-level features, users can access the full functionality without any licensing costs.

6. Community and Support: Parallels Desktop has a well-established community of users and provides dedicated support channels, including documentation, forums, and tech support. Users can benefit from regular updates and bug fixes. Proxmox VE also has an active community and offers community support through the forums. Additionally, Proxmox VE offers professional support subscriptions for users who require guaranteed response times and direct support from the development team.

In Summary, Parallels Desktop is a commercial virtualization platform for macOS, while Proxmox VE is an open-source virtualization solution suitable for enterprise-level deployments. Parallels Desktop uses a type 2 hypervisor and focuses on desktop virtualization, while Proxmox VE uses a type 1 hypervisor and supports a range of host operating systems. Parallels Desktop has a user-friendly interface, while Proxmox VE provides a web-based management interface. Parallels Desktop is a paid product, while Proxmox VE is free. Both have dedicated communities and support channels available.