In 2025, the UK stands out as one of the leading adopters of Autodesk Revit, with 1,196 users accounting for 10.46% of the global customer base. As Revit continues to gain popularity across various industries, many users are turning to non-Windows platforms like macOS.
Installing and running Autodesk Revit on macOS can be a bit tricky, as the software isn’t natively supported on Mac. However, with the right methods and tools, you can get Revit up and running in no time!
In this article, you’ll learn how to download and install Revit on a macOS. In addition, you’ll explore the common challenges faced by macOS users and the performance of Revit on the new M2 MacBook Pro.
Downloading Autodesk Revit on your MacBook
If you use a MacBook and want to run Autodesk Revit, you might be wondering how to make it work on macOS. Unfortunately, Revit isn’t compatible with macOS, but don’t worry—there are alternative solutions. Whether you need high-performance or a more flexible setup, there are ways to install and use Revit on your MacBook without hassle. Here are some of the best options:
1. Using Boot Camp (Dual Boot)
The simplest way to run Autodesk Revit on a MacBook is by using Boot Camp to install Windows. Boot Camp is a built-in macOS tool that lets you install and run Windows on your Mac, allowing you to switch between macOS and Windows as needed.
This sets up a separate space for Windows on your Mac and allows you to use Revit as if you were on a regular Windows laptop.
To install Autodesk Revit on your MacBook using Boot Camp, follow these steps:
- Check Your Mac’s Compatibility: Make sure your MacBook has enough storage and meets the requirements for running Windows and Revit. You’ll need at least 64GB of free space for Windows and the software.
- Download Windows: Go to the official Microsoft website and download the ISO file for Windows 10 or 11.
- Install Boot Camp: Open Boot Camp Assistant on your Mac, located in the Utilities folder within Applications.. Follow the steps to divide your Mac’s storage and install Windows. Be sure to set aside enough space for both Windows and your apps.
- Install Windows: Once Boot Camp Assistant creates the partition, it will guide you through the Windows installation process. Your Mac will restart, and the Windows setup will begin. You just need to follow the prompts to complete it.
- Install Revit: After installing Windows, restart your Mac and hold the Option key to select and boot into Windows. Once in Windows, download Autodesk Revit from the Autodesk website and install it like you would on a regular Windows PC.
- Switch Back to macOS: To return to macOS, restart your Mac, then hold the Option key again to select and boot into macOS.
Boot Camp itself is free to use, but you will still need to purchase a Windows license and Revit subscription, which adds up depending on your setup. You’ll need to purchase a valid Windows operating system license, which typically costs between £80 and £150 for Windows 10 or 11 Home or Pro.
Using Boot Camp also requires allocating storage on your Mac’s hard drive for the Windows installation. If your Mac has limited storage, you may need to upgrade, with costs ranging from £100 to £500, depending on the model and storage capacity.
2. Using Virtual Machines (VMs)
Another option to run Autodesk Revit on a MacBook is to use a virtual machine (VM). With VM software, you can easily run Windows inside macOS and use Windows applications like Revit.
To install Autodesk Revit on your MacBook using virtual machines, follow these steps:
- Download and Install VM Software: Install Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion on your MacBook. Both are paid tools, but they come with free trial options.
- Set Up a Virtual Machine: Open the software and follow the steps to create a new virtual machine (VM). You’ll need a Windows ISO file to proceed.
- Install Windows: Use the VM software to install Windows inside the virtual machine and then follow the on-screen instructions.
- Install Revit: Once Windows is ready in the VM, open it, go to Autodesk’s website, and download Revit. Install it just like you would on a normal Windows PC.
- Run Revit: You can now use Revit directly from the VM while staying in macOS. However, performance may be slower compared to Boot Camp since macOS and Windows share resources.
While VMs can be a flexible option, the combined cost of VM software, a Windows license, potential hardware upgrades, and a Revit subscription can make this method more expensive.
Fyi – Virtual Machine costs around 20,000 INR per month, plus Revit license fee additional to it. The only benefit to VM, is that we can store data in the geography that we select. This at times complies with data norms of the customer. ( ex : Microsoft Assure give VM functionality)
Virtual machine software like Parallels Desktop costs around £60 to £85 for a standard license, with annual renewal fees of approximately £40 to £60. Similar to Boot Camp, you’ll also need to purchase a Windows license, which ranges from £80 to £150.
3. Using Cloud-based Solutions
If you don’t want to use Boot Camp or a virtual machine, you can try cloud-based options like Autodesk’s Revit Cloud or other services that let you access Windows apps remotely. To install Autodesk Revit on your MacBook using cloud-based solutions, follow these steps:
- Sign Up for a Cloud Service: Use services like Amazon WorkSpaces or Frame to run Windows software like Revit on a remote server.
- Install Remote Desktop Software: Download a remote desktop app, like Microsoft Remote Desktop, on your MacBook to access the cloud service.
- Run Revit: Connect to the cloud and start using Autodesk Revit. This option is great if you don’t want to install Windows directly on your MacBook.
Cloud-based solutions remove the need for powerful local hardware but come with ongoing subscription costs for both the software and cloud services.
Services like Autodesk’s Revit on the cloud are an excellent option for bypassing hardware limitations. These solutions typically cost between £150 and £400 per year, depending on the level of service, storage, and usage requirements.
So, although Autodesk Revit isn’t compatible with macOS, you can still use it on your MacBook through options like Boot Camp, virtual machines, or cloud-based services.
Boot Camp provides the best performance, while virtual machines let you run Revit alongside macOS for added convenience. If you prefer a hassle-free option without installing anything, cloud-based solutions are a great choice.
Each method of running Revit on macOS has its own benefits, but it can also have some challenges.
Also read: Autodesk Revit 2025 Features & Benefits: A Detailed Guide
Challenges & Solutions for Running Revit on macOS
Revit is a powerful design and modelling tool widely used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals. However, since it doesn’t have native macOS support, running it on a Mac can be challenging.
Despite this limitation, macOS users can still access Revit and stay productive. By using virtualisation software or setting up a Windows environment, you can overcome compatibility issues and run Revit smoothly on your Mac.
Below are some of the common challenges faced when running Revit on macOS, along with their effective solutions to help you get started smoothly:
| Challenges | Solutions |
| Complex installation process | Follow detailed installation guides for Boot Camp or VM setups. |
| Resource-heavy when using Boot Camp or VM | Allocate sufficient system resources to ensure smooth operation. |
| Limited access to macOS features while running Windows | Switch between macOS and Windows when needed, or use cloud-based services for remote access. |
While there are ways to run Revit on macOS, performance can vary depending on the hardware and software setup. Factors such as processor speed, RAM, and the virtualisation method used can significantly impact how smoothly the software runs.
With the introduction of the M2 MacBook Pro, it’s worth exploring how Revit 2025 runs on Apple’s latest hardware and what users can expect in terms of compatibility and performance.
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Revit 2025 on the New M2 MacBook Pro
Running Autodesk Revit 2025 on the M2 MacBook Pro can be smooth and efficient, but it takes a few extra steps. The M2 chip delivers great performance, which makes it a strong choice for Revit, which needs a powerful CPU and GPU.
Boot Camp isn’t available on M2 Macs, so virtualisation is the best option. Software like Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion allows you to run Windows on your Mac and is optimised for M1 and M2 chips. While it may not perform exactly like a native Windows PC, it’s still reliable for most Revit tasks. Another alternative is using cloud-based solutions like Amazon WorkSpaces or Autodesk’s Cloud services.
With the M2 MacBook Pro’s power and the right setup, running Revit 2025 is possible and works well for many macOS users.
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Conclusion
Running Revit on macOS depends on choosing the method that works best for you. It’s important to consider what matters most—whether you need high performance or the flexibility to access Revit from anywhere.
Virtualisation software and cloud services may come with extra costs, but they can be worth it if they meet your performance needs and fit into your workflow.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that balances your budget, performance, and workflow so you can get the most out of your Autodesk Revit experience.
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You might also like: Revit Tutorial: Elevation Views, Levels, and Spot Elevations Guide.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Why is Revit not on Mac?
Autodesk has never developed a macOS version of Revit. The software is specifically designed to run on the Windows operating system.
2. Is Revit better than AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is great for detailed 2D designs, while Revit is better for handling complex projects with multiple team members. Using both together can improve workflow from design to final documentation.
3. Which is better, Revit or ArchiCAD?
ArchiCAD is easy to use and has advanced rendering features, while Revit is known for its powerful parametric design tools. The best choice between the two depends on your project needs, workflow, and budget.