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Sketch is one of the leading UI/UX design software tools on the market today. However, there is a big roadblock for many designers and developers: Sketch is unavailable for anything other than macOS.
If you’re a Windows user, chances are good you have also discovered that there is no native version of Sketch for Windows, which can be very frustrating to say the least, especially if you’re collaborating with a team that uses Sketch as their primary design tool.
The good news is – there are modern solutions that make it significantly easier to use Sketch without switching operating systems. We’ll walk you through three proven ways to use Sketch on Windows, including simulating macOS, alternatives to the software, and the most reliable one – using a virtual Mac for Sketch.
Why You Can’t Install Sketch Natively on Windows
Sketch uses core technologies on macOS – Core Animation and Core Graphics, which aren’t available on Windows. These deep integrations are part of Sketch’s experience and ultimately what makes Sketch so smooth for users, but they are also the reason why the app cannot run outside the macOS environment.
Thus, running the Sketch design tool on Windows requires an alternative. There are a few options available, such as a virtual machine, get remote access to a real Mac to use Sketch, provided by rentamac.io, or opt for an alternative. These suggestions come with their own pros and cons, which we’ll walk you through.
3 Ways to Run Sketch on Windows
If we say that Sketch is a macOS-only app, how can we run it on Windows? Is there a secret hack?
While you cannot install Sketch on Windows directly, you are not out of luck. Fortunately, there are viable workarounds that will allow you to run the application effortlessly.
Option 1: Virtual Machine
This involves running macOS on a Windows PC with VirtualBox or VMware. After you set it up, you can install and run Sketch from within the virtual macOS.
This method is not supported officially, has legal concerns, and may perform poorly whenever you encounter heavier UI/UX.
Option 2: Renting a Mac
The most practical way is to rent a virtual dedicated Mac to access Sketch through a service like ours, rentamac.io. You can access a real macOS device that is hosted in the cloud, allowing you to run Sketch at full speed from your Windows PC.
These cloud solutions for Sketch are specifically beneficial for designers who need a legal, speedy, and direct setup without the need to purchase Apple hardware.
Using this method, users can run macOS tools in the cloud on scalable infrastructure, making it a solid solution that can be more than just for design, but also for broader tasks across teams and platforms.
Option 3: Choose a Different UI/UX Tool
If you’re flexible, you could use UI/UX design software that’s native to Windows, like Figma, Adobe XD, and Lunacy. These apps will work similarly and function both independently and as great cross-platform collaboration options. However, they may not fully support Sketch file compatibility.
How to Run Sketch on Windows with RentAMac.io
If you want to run Sketch on a Windows device, the most reliable method for this is with a virtual Mac for Sketch. This virtual Mac service provides the ability to work in a real macOS environment in the cloud – no complicated installs, no hacks, no legal issues.
The process to use rentamac.io is simple:
Step 1: Select a plan, the payment method, and proceed
For the first step, check out our Pricing and choose a suitable plan that fits your needs. Now, you’ll be redirected to the checkout page, where you can choose from several payment options, like a credit card payment, Apple Pay, and Amazon Pay.
Step 2: Connect to Your Mac Mini
After your payment is processed, you’re now ready to select and connect to your Mac mini, which will take you to the dashboard. In addition, you will receive credentials to log into both the Mac and the remote access tool.
To access the Mac, you will be using an application called AnyDesk, a secure remote desktop software that allows you to control the Mac as if it were right in front of you.
Simply install AnyDesk on your Windows PC, enter the provided AnyDesk ID, and use the corresponding password to access your rented Mac environment.
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.
Once you have AnyDesk ready, copy and paste your AnyDesk ID into the login field of the app. Next, paste your password in the authorization page that will pop up, and press OK. You’re all set! Now you can get started with downloading the actual Sketch app.
Step 4: Download Sketch and Start Designing!
Visit the official Sketch website and download the app to your Mac mini. Sign in, or start a free trial if you’re a new user. Now you’re ready to design – all from your Windows via your cloud solution for Sketch.
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?
Renting a virtual Mac for Sketch is a great solution for Windows users needing to access macOS-only design tools. Whether you’re a designer, student, freelancer, or managing your team, renting cloud solutions for Sketch via RentAMac makes it simple to work with the Sketch design tool on Windows:
It’s great for:
- Designers and creators
- Students learning UI/UX design
- Freelancers working with Sketch-based teams
- Agencies that want scalable access to macOS devices
- Developers who need to review .sketch files
Conclusion
Although Sketch is limited to macOS, this does not mean Windows users are out of options. With the right tools, you can unleash the power of the Sketch design tool on Windows.
Out of these methods, using rentamac.io to access a virtual Mac stands out for being legal, reliable, and user-friendly.
