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In the world of virtual machines, installing macOS Big Sur on VMware has become a popular way for Windows users to experience Apple’s ecosystem without buying a Mac. While you might know that you can install it using an ISO file (like we covered in our previous guide), today we’ll show you a much faster and simpler approach—using a macOS Big Sur VMDK file. This method reduces the setup time from 45 minutes to approximately 5 minutes. Yes, you read that right!
If you haven’t already, you can download the ready-to-use macOS Big Sur VMDK file here: Download macOS Big Sur VMDK Virtual Machine Disk File. This guide assumes you’re on a Windows PC and have VMware 25H2 installed.
Ready? Let’s jump right in.
macOS Big Sur on VMware: Things Required
- A Windows PC with at least 8 GB of RAM (16 GB recommended)
- VMware Workstation 25H2 installed (Download here)
- macOS Unlocker for VMware (Download here)
- macOS Big Sur VMDK file (Download here)
Step-by-Step Guide: Install macOS Big Sur on VMware Using VMDK
Step 1: Install VMware Workstation 25H2
If you haven’t already done so, download and install the latest version of VMware Workstation (25H2). The installation is straightforward—just follow the installer prompts.
Step 2: Install macOS Unlocker for VMware
Since VMware doesn’t officially support macOS on non-Apple hardware, you need to patch VMware using a tool called macOS Unlocker.
- Download the Unlocker tool from the link above.
- Extract the ZIP file.
- Run the “win-install.cmd” as Administrator.
- Wait for the process to complete (this patches VMware to enable macOS as a guest OS option).
Note: If you prefer a visual guide, check our video tutorial on using macOS Unlocker.
Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine in VMware
Open VMware and click “Create a New Virtual Machine.”
Step 4: Choose “Custom (Advanced)” Configuration
Select Custom (Advanced) and set Hardware Compatibility to VMware 25H2. Click Next.
Step 5: Select “I Will Install the Operating System Later”
This is important because we’ll manually attach the VMDK file. Choose “I will install the operating system later” and click Next.
Step 6: Choose Apple macOS as the Guest OS
From the dropdown:
- Guest Operating System: Apple macOS
- Version: macOS 11
Step 7: Name Your Virtual Machine
Give your VM a name (e.g., “macOS 11”) and choose a location to save it. Click Next.
Step 8: Configure Processor Settings
For smooth performance, set:
- Processors: 1
- Number of Cores: 4 or 6 (if your CPU supports it)
Step 9: Allocate RAM
Allocate at least 8 GB of RAM. If you have 16 GB or more, you can assign up to 10–12 GB for better performance.
Step 10: Configure Network Settings
Select Network Type: NAT (default). This allows your VM to share your host PC’s internet connection.
Step 11: Select I/O Controller Type
Choose LSI Logic (Recommended).
Step 12: Choose Disk Type
Select SATA (Recommended).
Step 13: Choose “Use an Existing Virtual Disk”
Here’s where the magic happens! Instead of creating a new disk, choose:
“Use an existing virtual disk” → Click Next.
Step 14: Browse and Select the macOS Big Sur VMDK File
Click “Browse” and navigate to the downloaded macOS Big Sur VMDK file. Select it and click Open.
Step 15: Review the Summary
You’ll see a summary of your VM settings. Double-check everything, then click Finish.
The last step is to edit your VMX file. You will find a .vmx file in the folder where you created your virtual machine (VM), typically within your Documents folder.
If you have an AMD processor, use these VMX codes: VMX Codes for AMD & INTEL
Step 16: Start Your macOS Big Sur Virtual Machine
Select your new VM from the VMware library and click “Power On this virtual machine.” Within about 30 seconds, you’ll see the Apple logo. Wait another 90 seconds, and you’ll land directly on the Account Login screen.
Step 17: Log In to macOS Big Sur
Use the default password:
Password: 0904
Press Enter to log in.
Step 18: Install VMware Tools on macOS Big Sur (Optional but Recommended)
VMware Tools improves graphics, mouse synchronization, and overall performance.
- Go to VM → Install VMware Tools in the VMware menu.
- Follow the on-screen installer inside macOS.
Step 19: Log In to Apple ID (Optional)
If you want access to the App Store, iCloud, and other Apple services, you can log in with your Apple ID from System Preferences.
Step 20: Check for Software Updates
Once everything is set up, go to System Preferences → Software Update to ensure your macOS Big Sur VM is up to date.
Why Using a VMDK File is Better Than an ISO
In our previous guide on installing macOS Big Sur on VMware using an ISO, we walked you through a comprehensive installation process that takes approximately 45 minutes. While that method works, the VMDK approach saves you time and effort because:
- ✅ Pre-installed System: The VMDK file is essentially a ready-to-boot virtual hard disk with macOS Big Sur already installed.
- ✅ No Installation Steps: Skip the entire macOS setup process, partition creation, and software installation.
- ✅ Faster Setup: From zero to login in under 5 minutes.
- ✅ Less Room for Error: No risk of installation failures or configuration mistakes.
Conclusion: macOS Big Sur on VMware
Installing macOS Big Sur on VMware using a VMDK file is by far the fastest and most beginner-friendly method available. Instead of going through a lengthy installation process, you simply attach a pre-configured virtual disk and boot straight into macOS.
Whether you’re a developer needing macOS for testing, a curious tech enthusiast, or someone wanting to try macOS without investing in Apple hardware, this method gets you up and running in just minutes.
Remember, you’ll need the macOS Big Sur VMDK file, which can be downloaded here: Download macOS Big Sur VMDK. If you haven’t already, also check out our ISO-based installation guide for a comparison.
Enjoy your new macOS Big Sur on VMware!
Important Legal Disclaimer:
This guide is provided for educational and testing purposes only. Please be aware that Apple’s End User License Agreement (EULA) for macOS states that the operating system may only be installed and used on Apple-branded hardware. Running macOS on non-Apple hardware, including within a virtual machine on a Windows PC, is a violation of Apple’s software terms unless you are doing so under specific, limited circumstances (such as for development purposes under Apple’s developer agreements).
By proceeding with this installation, you acknowledge and accept that you are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable software licenses and laws. We do not encourage or endorse violating Apple’s terms of service. If you wish to use macOS, the recommended and fully supported method is to purchase genuine Apple hardware. Proceed at your own discretion and risk.
