CrossOver vs Porting Kit

CrossOver translates commands from Windows applications so many can run on macOS or Linux without a Windows emulator or Windows OS license. It is presented for productivity software, utilities and games, and advertises one-click installation, desktop integration and running apps without rebooting. CodeWeavers says the Linux version avoids Windows or virtual-machine overhead and integrates with Linux. Compatibility is incomplete: some applications may have reduced functionality or may not run. The Compatibility Center collects user reports about application behavior. CrossOver supports Intel and Apple Silicon Macs, as well as Linux PCs. The Mac version requires at least 1 GB of free disk space and does not run on iPads or iPhones; Linux has specified hardware, distribution and software dependencies. A fully functional 14-day trial costs nothing, requires no credit card and starts at first launch. CrossOver + costs $74 a year, including 12 months of phone and email support, upgrades and bug fixes, and Preview access. CrossOver Life costs $494, paid once, with lifetime upgrades, bug fixes and support. CodeWeavers says 95% of the Wine code it develops for CrossOver is released back to the Wine project.

Porting Kit is a free macOS application that uses Wineskin technology to install games and apps compiled for Microsoft Windows. Its instructions cover installing games from sources including GOG, Steam, Origin, Uplay, GamersGate, and CD/DVD. For Steam ports, Porting Kit can install the Windows Steam client on the Mac, after which users sign in and download games. The download page offers Porting Kit 7 for macOS 12.0 and later, and the maker says Apple Silicon support is growing with newer engines and macOS versions. The download page recommends watching a tutorial before installing game ports. The maker does not guarantee that a port will work on a particular computer and recommends checking its video card ranking. The terms say the app should be used to install legitimate app copies, with an exception stated for abandonware. Ports are for personal use; distribution requires the maker's approval. The terms also say the app may collect video card and macOS details for rankings and Google Analytics, while stating it does not obtain or share other information from the Mac.