Crossover
Remote desktop software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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$74 per year
Free Trial
Free version unavailable
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What is Crossover
Crossover is a compatibility and application virtualization product that enables users to run many Windows applications on macOS and Linux without a Windows license or a full virtual machine. It is used by individuals and organizations that need access to specific Windows-only apps while standardizing on non-Windows endpoints. The product is built on the Wine compatibility layer and focuses on application-level execution rather than full remote access to another computer. It is typically deployed per endpoint, not as an attended/unattended remote support tool.
Runs Windows apps locally
Crossover executes supported Windows applications directly on macOS or Linux, avoiding a separate Windows VM in many cases. This can reduce infrastructure needs compared with approaches that require hosting desktops or maintaining remote-access endpoints. It is useful when the requirement is application access rather than interactive control of a remote machine. It also supports offline use because execution happens on the local device.
No Windows license required
Because it relies on Wine rather than Windows virtualization, Crossover can run many applications without requiring a Windows OS license. This can simplify procurement and compliance for teams that only need a small set of Windows applications. It also avoids managing Windows patching for a full guest OS in scenarios where Crossover is sufficient. Licensing is centered on the Crossover product rather than a Windows desktop environment.
Wine-based compatibility tooling
Crossover includes tooling to create and manage isolated application environments (often called bottles) and to apply compatibility settings per application. This helps administrators and power users tune behavior for specific apps and versions. The vendor maintains application compatibility guidance and updates aligned to Wine improvements. This approach is distinct from remote desktop products that focus on session brokering, device access, and remote control.
Not a remote desktop tool
Crossover does not provide core remote desktop capabilities such as unattended access to endpoints, technician-to-user remote support, or remote session recording. Organizations seeking remote control, helpdesk workflows, or multi-tenant support features typically need a dedicated remote desktop/support product. It also does not replace hosted desktop delivery models where applications run centrally. Fit is strongest for local execution of specific Windows apps.
App compatibility varies
Support depends on the specific Windows application, version, and required drivers or components, and some applications may not run reliably. Complex enterprise apps, kernel-level drivers, and certain anti-cheat/DRM mechanisms can be problematic. Testing is usually required before standardizing on Crossover for a business-critical workflow. Updates to either the app or Crossover can change compatibility outcomes.
Limited centralized administration
Compared with enterprise remote desktop and endpoint management suites, Crossover offers fewer built-in controls for centralized policy, auditing, and fleet-wide configuration. Deployment at scale may rely on third-party software distribution and device management tools. Reporting and compliance features are not the primary focus of the product. This can increase operational effort for larger IT environments.
Plan & Pricing
| Plan | Price | Key features & notes |
|---|---|---|
| CrossOver Free (14 Day Trial) | Free (14-day trial) | Full CrossOver trial for 14 days; "TRY NOW" available on store page. |
| CrossOver + (12 Months Support) | $74 | Full version with 12 months of email & phone support; upgrades & bug fixes for 12 months; access to CrossOver Preview; "Special Renewal Pricing" noted. |
| CrossOver Life (Lifetime Support) | $494 | Full version with lifetime support and updates; no renewal fees; unlimited email & phone support; upgrades & bug fixes for life. |
Notes: Site also displays "No Refunds" and that promo codes cannot be combined; OS selection (Mac/Linux) available on store page.
Seller details
CodeWeavers, Inc.
Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
1996
Private
https://www.codeweavers.com/crossover
https://x.com/codeweavers
https://www.linkedin.com/company/codeweavers/
