An Android emulator is a software program that enables users to run Android games on PC (Windows & Mac). Not only games, but Android Emulators also act as a platform to test different Android Applications on PC which helps the developers to spot any error. There are many emulators available on the internet and hence people get confused which one should they download. Hence, we have prepared this list of 8 Best Android Emulators in 2020 which will meet your needs. The Android Emulators we have picked in this article are free of cost and gives the best gaming experience plus easy app testing feature for developers.
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Bluestacks is one of the most popular Android emulators for Windows and the macOS version doesn't let you down. It's another emulator built primarily for gamers. You can use it for development, but it's not really useful for that purpose. Installation takes longer than with Nox, but. Maybe you are switching from iPhone to Android, or you merely want to test out a Custom ROM, the possibilities with Android Emulators on Windows 10 and Mac are endless.
List of Best Android Emulators for PC and Mac
- Bluestacks
- Remix OS Player
- ARChon
- GameLoop
- MEmu Play
- Nox Player
- LDPlayer
- PrimeOS
1. Bluestacks
Bluestacks is the most popular Android Emulator of all time. The initial version of Bluestacks software was launched in October 2011. And since then, the company has released four different and progressed version of its software. The Bluestacks Emulator is popularly known for its smooth gameplay optimization and target mainly the mobile gamers. The emulator is extremely easy to set up and also delivers the best performance. The best part of Bluestacks emulator is, it is compatible with both Intel and AMD windows hardware. The Bluestacks Version 4 which is the current version of the company is based on Android 7(Nougat). The company claims that it will bring the Bluestacks Version 5 soon to the market which will be more refined than the Version 4. It will be based on Android Oreo. The company has also developed the MSI App Player which is similar to the Vanilla Bluestacks emulator.
Main features of the Bluestacks
- Customizable gaming controls, PC like gameplay(using keyboard and mouse), easy import and export of game settings with friends.
- Allows users to play multiple games at the same time or to play the same game from different Bluestacks accounts.
- Bluestacks helps to translate the Android games on PC in your local language in real-time. Hence there are no language barriers.
2. Remix OS Player
Our next pick up in the list is the Remix OS Player. The Remix OS Player is the most stable Android Emulator out there. The emulator got popular due to its smooth user interface. It is newer than the other Emulator in the list and is based on Android 6 Marshmallow. The company also claims that the Remix OS Player is capable of running multiple Android apps simultaneously. The emulator is extremely good for productivity apps.
Main features of the Remix OS Player
- The installation process is very simple and gives an entire Android experience on the desktop.
- Gives the experience to enjoy multiples games at the same time.
- Customizable toolbar, key mapping, native Google Play support.
- Manual settings for signal strength, network type, location, battery.
3. ARChon
ARChon is less of an emulator but it is more of a Google Chrome extension. Installing ARChon as a Chrome extension gives Chrome to run Android apps and games. The best part of ARChon is, it is compatible with all kind of Operating System whether it be Windows, Mac OS, Linux. The ARChon Android emulator is not for hardcore gaming but it is the best software to get Android Apps on PC.
Main highlights of the ARChon
- Gives easy access to Android Apps in the PC.
- Easy to install since it is only an extension to Google Chrome.
- Once installed to the Chrome Browser, it becomes an invisible service that runs in the background every time the Android Apps are loaded.
4. GameLoop
GameLoop is the most downloaded Android emulator with over 126 Million downloads to date. Previously known as Tencent Gaming Buddy, the emulator is for heavy Mobile gamers. The GameLoop Android Emulator has topped the list after the popular Call Of Duty Mobile game has merged with the emulator. Before COD mobile, the emulator supports PUBG mobile and a bunch of games from Tencent. GameLoop lacks the support of the other Android Apps since it is truly based on Android Gaming. It will not be wrong to say that GameLoop is the best emulator for a smooth Android Gaming experience.
Main features of the GameLoop
- Free installations and very easy to setup.
- Great optimization of Gameplay even on low-end PCs and delivers high-quality graphics.
- Customizable smart keyboard with the key mapping of your choice.
- Support multiple languages avoiding language barriers.
- Added anti-cheat features to give users fair gameplay.
5. MEmu Play
MEmu Play is a new Android Emulator launched in 2015. Since then, the emulator has gained lots of popularity due to its versatility. The MEmu emulator is developed mainly for Android gaming. Talking about the versatility of the MEmu Android Emulator, its works on both AMD and Intel processor without any issue. Moreover, the emulator supports different version of Android like Android Jelly Bean, Kit Kat and Lollipop. MEmu emulator is useful for Android Gamers as well as Productivity apps developers. The latest update was in November 2019.
Main features of the MEmu Play
- Easy Customization and key mapping.
- Passing through sensor data to Android to play games like car-racing etc.
- Simulation of GPS location.
- Sharing of files is easy between Windows and Android.
- One-click Android system creation and deleting. And can also run multiple Android Apps.
6. Nox Player
Nox Player Android Emulator supports both in Windows PC and Mac. Along with Android Gaming, the Nox player does come with a lot of features. The Nox Emulator supports controller compatibility, ability to change the build properties, mapping shortcuts etc. The emulator is based on Android 5(Lollipop) and can run multiple Android Version with its Multi-Drive feature.
Main features of the Nox Player
- Can specify the CPU and RAM uses in settings
- Easy to get root access proving it better than the Bluestacks Emulator on this point.
- Gameplay optimization and user-friendly interface.
- Allow users to map keys of keyboard, mouse and gamepad. Keyboard keys can be mapped for gestures, for instance, mapping shortcuts or for swiping right.
7. LDPlayer
LDPlayer Emulator is mainly customized for Windows 10 OS. LDPlayer gains its popularity due to its flawless performance. The emulator performs well on AMD as well as Intel processor. LDPlayer supports a wide range of games such as COD Mobile, PUBG Mobile, Clash of Clans, Brawl Stars and Black Desert Mobile. LDPlayer Emulator is based on Android 7(Nougat). One plus point of this emulator is, it doesn't have too many ads.
Main features of the LDPlayer
- High-speed loading of Android games on PC.
- True Multi-tasking.
- Battery draining is minimal and no overheating issue.
- Faster processing power with no lags and crashes during gameplay.
8. PrimeOS
PrimeOS can be used for gaming purposes as well as Apps productivity. Though the Emulator is not for heavy games as lags and crashes have been reported previously. The PrimeOS Android Emulator is easy to install and can handle multi-task very well. The emulator is very similar to ChromeOS as the user interface is smooth and loaded with full Android support.
Main features of the PrimeOS
- Multi-window support to give desktop-like experience.
- Smooth User Interface and gaming experience.
- Taskbar with the ability to pin apps, show notification and system icons.
Recently, we had covered some of the best ways to run Windows apps on macOS. The point was to overcome the lack of multi-platform software. This time, however, we have something different. We are going to talk about the ways to run Android apps on Mac. Yes, about using Instagram, playing Asphalt 8, or listening to Audible on Mac.
This time too, we have found multiple ways to run Android apps on macOS. Since different people have their different purposes, we've different methods too. In this article, you will find the best methods to run Android apps on Mac for normal users, gaming enthusiasts and developers. Shall we now check out the options?
Run Android Apps on Mac
#1 BlueStacks — Best for Running Apps
BlueStacks (also called BlueStacks App Player) is the oldest and the most popular way of running Android apps for Mac. You will be able to run almost any Android app using this simple emulator. It's the best choice if you want to run WhatsApp on your Mac or access your Instagram account. You will be able to run your Mac apps and Android apps side by side, which is great.
The BlueStacks interface is equally awesome as well. Apps are opened in individual tabs and you have access to Google Play Store. Depending on the specifications of your Mac, BlueStacks lets you handle multiple apps with ease. Despite the optimizations for running apps, BlueStacks offers a true Android feel as well. You can even make changes from the Settings section.
Installing and using BlueStacks is like a piece of cake! You have to download the free installer from the official site of BlueStacks and run it. If you have previously installed bluestack, do a clean uninstall, before you reinstall it. Once the installation is done, it may take a few seconds for starting up. Before you can install apps, however, you need to sign into a Google account. Altogether, we think it's really easy to get started with BlueStacks.
As far as running apps is concerned, BlueStacks does the job very well. We were able to install and use apps like WhatsApp and Instagram without any hassle. We also tried playing some Alto's Odyssey game.
Pros
- BlueStacks is really easy to set up
- It doesn't involve long installation processes
- Performance is optimized for apps
Cons
- Not much suitable for games or development
Who Is It For
We think BlueStacks is the best option for those who need to use Android apps on Mac. It works fine when it comes to running apps like WhatsApp and Instagram. While the gaming performance is okay, we believe there are better options.
Check Out BlueStacks
#2 VirtualBox — Best for More Control
At the core, Android is also a Linux-based operating system. As it happens, you can install Android on Mac using a tool like VirtualBox. In order to do this, you have to create a virtual machine and install Android in it. Compared to the other options we've listed, this VirtualBox method offers better control over the Android device and the apps you install.
Once the installation is done, VirtualBox gives you a pure Android experience. This is because we're installing the basic Android Operating System on the virtual machine. However, you should not expect an optimized environment for running apps or games. Chances are, there are some bugs too. On the bright side, you can deploy Android v8 Oreo in the virtual machine.
We would not say that Android on VirtualBox is easy to set up. There are some downsides that you will have to tolerate in the long run. In order to do this, you need to download Android x86, a project that ports the popular OS to PCs. Then, as we always do, you can create a virtual machine based on Linux, Android. Once the installation is done, you'll have a full-screen Android experience.
While apps like WhatsApp and Instagram work fine, the performance isn't the best. We would not suggest this method if you're into gaming either.
Pros
- Offers more control over the virtual Android device
- You can run the latest version of Android
- It offers a fully-fledged Android OS experience
Cons
- Installation is somewhat complex
- Lacks performance optimization or customization options
- Chances of bugs
Who Is It For
Running Android on Mac using VirtualBox is best when you need better control over the process. As a virtual machine, you can customize performance too. However, in the long run, you will have to compromise overall performance and gaming controls.
Check Out VirtualBox and Android x86
#3 Nox Player Mac — Best Optimized for Gaming
If you want to play some graphic-rich Android games on Mac, Nox Player Mac is the best option in town. It's an Android emulator that prioritizes speed and performance. There are also some features such as screen capture, on-screen button mapping etc. Once set up, Nox Player Mac offers a standard Android experience as well.
Nox Player Mac manages to run apps as well. However, we found that things aren't as smooth as BlueStacks when it comes to app downloads and installs. But, the reason you should install Nox Player Mac should be to play high-quality games like PUBG on Mac.
To install Android apps on your Nox Player, you can either login with your Google account and use the built-in Google Play Store or if you don't want to go through that hassle, you can download the apk using the browser and install it directly.
Nox Player Mac is the easiest to install. It doesn't even ask you any questions. Just run the installer and in a few seconds, you will find the fully-fledged Android virtual tablet. It runs Android v4 KitKat — which is a downside when compared to others.
Nox Player Mac is perfect when it comes to handling popular apps. So, if you want to bring some common apps and high-end Android games to Mac, choose this program.
Pros
- Easy to set up and get started
- Optimized performance for games and apps
- Advanced features like keyboard mapping and location manipulation
Cons
- Not suitable for development
- Runs on Android KitKat
- Ships with some bloatware
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Who Is It For
Nox Player Mac is the best option if you're into high-end Android games. Even if you have a mid-end MacBook Air, it should offer the best performance. Also, thanks to the macro and mapping features. We'd also recommend the tool for running WhatsApp and all.
#4 Genymotion — Most Suitable for Developers
Genymotion is an innovative way to run Android apps on Mac — and on Cloud, for that matter. However, it is offering a bunch of different options. If you're a professional, you can create a virtual Android device on a Mac or in the cloud. Let's come down to the Desktop version, which is great. You will be able to create a big variety of Android configurations for testing.
For instance, you can change the Android version, device hardware etc. Genymotion is the best option to make sure that your app runs perfectly on all Android devices out there. However, if you are getting started as a developer, you can find standard solutions as well. Genymotion also offers some additional features, for instance, embed your Android app on the website and let people try the app.
There is no necessity that you should install Genymotion on your Mac. As we said earlier, it can be used as a cloud service as well. However, Genymotion Desktop is really easy to install. We used the Personal version of Genymotion as well. It's more convenient if you just want to try some apps. On the other hand, if you like the fully-fledged Android development experience, Genymotion Desktop is the way to go.
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Running apps on Genymotion isn't as smooth as the other platform. This is because the emulator has a major focus on features that help developers.
Pros
- Awesome features for developers
- Multiple Android configurations
- Better Control over Running Apps
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- Performance Optimization could be better
Who Is It For
Genymotion is the best solution for Android developers who want to run their Android apps on a number of virtual devices. It syncs so well with your coding process and customization needs. Thanks to the plug-in, you can integrate this program with Android Studio as well.
Check Out Genymotion (free trial, $136/year) Savage serial numbers model 10 gauge.
#5 Andy — a Smoother Workflow
Download Android Emulator For Mac
Last but not the least, Andy is another way to run Android apps on Mac. However, compared to all emulators we've listed above, Andy offers a smoother workflow. The best part is that you're getting a 100% full Android experience when you start up. You get built-in apps like Gmail, ES File Explorer and a lot more. It's running on Android v4.0 KitKat, though.
Because Andy comes with Play Store access, you can easily download and install apps. There are some other important features as well. For instance, you can run the Android emulator in vertical and landscape modes as well. Also, there's Key Mapping and Location manipulation. These features are awesome when you want a more optimized way to run Android apps.
Andy has one of the easiest installers we've seen. It's an online installer, which would download files over an Internet connection. It needs to be noted that Andy downloads around 500MB of files, the largest on the list. Once the installation is done, Andy will show you the standard Android interface. You can use the mouse and keyboard for managing the virtual Android tablet.
As we said, Andy is the best when it comes to running apps. However, it would not be our go-to choice when it comes to playing Android games.
Pros
- Easy to Install and Manage
- Best optimization for apps
- Offers a standard Android experience
Cons
- Runs on KitKat
- It's lagging a bit when other apps are running
Who Is It For
Andy offers the perfect level of optimization and a standard Android experience. We'd recommend this tool if you need a real-like virtual Android device on your Mac. Of course, there are some performance lags but you can avoid it by avoiding multitasking.
Check Out Andy (Free)
The best way to Run Android Apps on Mac?
So, these are the five different ways to run Android apps on Mac. In a way, you're creating an Android device within macOS environment as well. As we said earlier, not a single solution is suitable for everyone. We have recommended Nox Player for Mac if you want to play games. On the other hand, if you just want to use apps smoothly, BlueStacks and Andy are the best options. And, for those upcoming developers out there, we will recommend Genymotion, which has a ton of features packed inside.
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