Pixelmator Pro for Windows

Pixelmator Pro is one of the most popular photo editing software applications for macOS. It is powerful and simple, with robust machine learning-based tools that appeal to professionals and amateurs alike. However, it is only available on macOS, which poses a significant limitation.

But what if you have a Windows PC?

In this article, we will explain why you cannot run Pixelmator Pro natively on a Windows PC. Then, we’ll show you three ways to access the app on Windows, including cloud solutions and virtual Mac options for Pixelmator Pro that allow you to use it legally, without needing an actual Mac.

Why You Can’t Install Pixelmator Pro Natively on Windows

Pixelmator Pro is very tightly integrated into the Apple ecosystem. It is made with macOS-native technologies like Metal, Core Image, and Core ML, which are not supported in Windows.

Unlike apps that could be used cross-platform, Pixelmator Pro would have to be rewritten entirely to function on Windows, which is not the case.

Therefore, unless you’re switching to Mac, running Pixelmator Pro on Windows requires one of the workarounds from below.

3 Ways to Run Pixelmator Pro on Windows

Option 1: Virtual Machine

One solution is to create a virtual macOS environment on your Windows using VirtualBox or VMware. You’ll need a macOS installation image and a good amount of knowledge to get the VM appropriately configured.

Pros:

• Free (if you already have the tools)
• Complete control over setup

Cons:

• Legally risky (specifically against Apple’s TOS)
• Sluggish performance running graphic-intensive applications like Pixelmator Pro
• No GPU acceleration
• Frequent crashes

For most users, a VM is more trouble than it’s worth – especially if you want regularly stable performance.

Option 2: Renting a Mac

The most legit way to use Pixelmator Pro on a Windows PC is to rent an online Mac from a service like ours, rentamac.io. This is the top option among cloud solutions for Pixelmator Pro.

We’ll provide you with a real macOS in the cloud, which you can access remotely. You can go ahead and log in from your Windows PC and install Pixelmator Pro from the App Store like you would from an actual Mac. 

Pros:

• 100% legal, Apple compliant
• Complete macOS experience with GPU support
• No setup headaches
• Remote access from any Windows PC

Cons:

• Service fee (daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your plan)

This is the one if you’re looking for the most straightforward solution. Cloud Macs do as promised, and do it without losing an ounce of speed and quality for Windows users who want to access Pixelmator Pro.

Option 3: Choose a Different Application

In case you do not need Pixelmator Pro specifically, there are similar photo editing software programs for Windows with comparable tools. Some popular options are:

• Affinity Photo – A one-time purchase solution that provides professional features and is highly regarded as a good Pixelmator Pro alternative for Windows.
• Adobe Photoshop – The industry standard offers advanced tools for photo editing, but comes with a subscription cost.
• Photopea – A free, web-based editor that mimics Photoshop’s interface as a direct in-browser editor.
• GIMP – A powerful open-source tool with an expansive toolset, but with a steeper learning curve.

How to Run Pixelmator Pro on Windows with RentAMac.io

It’s easier to get started with the app on Windows than you might think. All you need is a virtual dedicated Mac through a reputable cloud provider like rentamac.io. Here’s how:

Step 1: Select a plan, the payment method, and proceed

First, visit our Pricing page and choose the best plan for your needs. Once you pick a plan, you will be directed to the checkout page, where you can complete your purchase via credit card, Apple Pay, Amazon Pay, and other options.

Step 2: Connect to your Mac Mini

When payment is confirmed, you will be taken to your dashboard, where you can choose and connect to your Mac mini. Once completed, you will receive login credentials for the macOS environment and the remote access tool to access your virtual dedicated Mac and get started immediately. 

To access your virtual dedicated Mac, you will use AnyDesk – a secure, lightweight remote desktop application. 

First, you will need to install AnyDesk on your Windows PC, enter the provided AnyDesk ID, and use the provided password to access your virtual dedicated Mac. You will then be able to control the Mac mini as if you were sitting right in front of it.

Step 3: Get access to your Mac through AnyDesk

If you haven’t yet installed the AnyDesk app, click the Download AnyDesk button and follow the instructions. Now, you can connect to your remote Mac mini via the app.

Now that you have AnyDesk set up, just copy and paste your AnyDesk ID into the login field of the app. Then, paste your password into the authorization page that will pop up, and press the OK button. Now you are ready to go! Let’s proceed with downloading the actual app.

Step 4: Download Pixelmator Pro from the App Store

Once logged in, open your App Store, sign in with your Apple ID, then search and download the app. After the installation, simply launch Pixelmator Pro, just like on an actual Mac. 

Now you’ll have access to its powerful photo editing tools, including ML-enhanced features, non-destructive workflows, and advanced layer-based editing – all from your Windows PC.

Now that everything is set up, you are ready to start generating professional-grade visuals using Pixelmator Pro in a virtual Mac environment. After you’re done, don’t forget to save your projects to any cloud storage you prefer – iCloud, Dropbox, or any other.

Who Is This For?

Pixelmator Pro is perfect for:

• Graphic designers who prefer Windows but need access to Mac-only applications.
• Students taking design or photography courses and access to school-licensed software.
• Content creators wanting to experience Pixelmator Pro before investing in a Mac.
• Remote teams that want flexible access to macOS tools across team members’ devices.

FAQ

• Is there a chance that Pixelmator Pro will develop a Windows version?

Not really. The developers are focused on macOS exclusively and have not made any public announcements about a Windows version.

• Is it legal to run macOS on a VM?

Not really. Apple’s terms prohibit macOS from running on non-Apple hardware, including virtual machines on Windows.

• What is the safest option for long-term use?

Renting a virtual Mac. It’s legal, stable, and scalable for regular design work. 

Conclusion

Although there is no official Pixelmator Pro for Windows, there are viable workarounds. Renting a virtual Mac is arguably the best option, as it offers good performance, convenience, and is legal.

So, whether you are a professional designer or just a curious Windows user, you now know you have options, and Pixelmator Pro is just a few clicks away.