K.... Another question. I got the program parallel 5 with my iMac and I as wondering what the advantages or disadvantages to running windows. I do have Windows 7 OS. But I don't really have any programs for windows that I have to have that Mac OSx won't do. So I guess is it worth it?
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Parallel 5 is it worth it?
- Thread starter lindseyquads
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I use VMware personally, but if there is no compelling reason to run Windows, there is no reason to bother with it
If you need to find Mac equivalents for certain things, don't hesitate to ask
If there is something in Windows you are used to, there is probably a Mac application of some kind
Personal preference
Anyone trying to decide should download the trials of both and make their own choice
In general...
Many will say Parallels is faster
But that VMware Fusion is more stable and feature rich
Your mileage may vary
I used VMWare Fusion 3 for three months but got frustrated with the laggy/buggy behavior so I switched to Parallels Desktop 5 and it has been a MUCH better experience for me. It's not without bugs but they are not nearly as serious as what I encountered with VMWare. The biggest difference was MUCH better performance.
And others will give the same testimony with Parallels and Fusion reversed
It is what works for you... and there is a choice
I recently have always been a Fusion fan until I saw on Engadget that Parallels kicked Fusion ass with their version 5. I was hesitant to try it out and boy I'm glad I tried it out cause I am loving Parallels, it feels and work faster and their crystal mode works. I love being able to use expose and such, even the minimize is like OSX minimize. Makes me feel like I'm working on a Mac actually, except with windows taskbar (Parallels has a MacTheme but I still prefer the original windows look) 
and varied it has. i donno what it is, but whenever i run VMware it runs like a dog. ?
same situation with me. i started out using parallels 3, then parallels 4, then tried vmware and found it to be a horrible experience.
i have no idea what it is, maybe my configuration of computers or something - but parallels 5 works for me. i use OSX server and remote into it from anywhere. its on 24/7 and has 1GB RAM. it has currently been on for 8 days with no issues (was on for about a month before that).
i also have up to 3 other VMs open at once doing odd jobs. if i were to do this with VMware, it wouldnt run nicely for me
people dont understand the recommendation that we give for VM software. the users want an answer. either parallels, or vmware. but yea its a difficult situation, the user really does need to find out for themselves!
I just want to say thanks again to everybody who has responded. I am new to Mac and this forum has been great help making the transition from PC to Mac an easier experience.