How many virtual machines can I run on a mac?

[countfufu]

I have windows installed in a VM and I’d like to try Ubuntu, Mint and FreeBSD. That would be four VMs in total. I won’t run multiple machines at once, but would having multiple VMs installed cause any issues?

 

[Slydude]

Assuming that you have enough hard drive space I don't think that will be an issuse. Having multiple VMs would only be an issue if you were planning to have several of them open simultaneously.

Lets see if others agree.

 

[ferrarr]

Also, since they’re VM’s, they can be stored on external drives if you need to.

 

[Slydude]

Good point Bob. I thought that was true but wasn't 100% sure.

 

[countfufu]

Also, since they’re VM’s, they can be stored on external drives if you need to.

can I run them from the external drive or do I move them from the ex. drive to the internal drive to run them?

 

[Slydude]

You should be able to run the VMs off of an external drive. For all practal purposes the software sees each VM as a large file.

Have a look at some of these results depending upon which program you will be using.

 

[chscag]

No one has mentioned that each VM needs real memory. Make sure you have enough system memory to run four VMs.

 

[Slydude]

Good point Charlie. Certainly an issue for some. Would that also apply if the OP is not running them simultaneously? If they are not being run simultaneously wouldn't the OP be good with just enough memory for one -- plus a bit to spare of course.