Multipass
Multipass: A free, open-source way to run and manage Ubuntu VMs across desktop platforms. Ranked #9 of 24 in Virtual Machine Software by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for simple Ubuntu VMs across desktop platforms.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forSimple Ubuntu VMs across desktop platforms
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Host platformsLinux, macOS, Windows
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source on Windows, macOS and Linux
- Combines CLI and GUI control with cloud-init customization
- Supports snapshots, file sharing and configurable networking
Where it doesn't
- Ubuntu-focused guests limit its fit for other operating systems
- Snapshots are unavailable with Apple's Virtualization framework
- Hypervisor behavior varies by host platform
Our verdict on Multipass
Multipass is a lightweight virtual machine manager for developers who need Ubuntu environments on desktop workstations. It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, using platform-specific hypervisors to launch Ubuntu instances. Command-line controls suit repeatable development workflows, while the graphical desktop client provides an alternative management interface. It is aimed at users who want isolated Linux environments, cloud-style provisioning or a way to prototype cloud deployments without dual booting.
Its strongest feature set centers on creating and managing Ubuntu instances. Cloud-init supports customized instance configuration, while curated Ubuntu images and appliances provide a focused starting point. Multipass also supports host-folder sharing, private and bridged networking, and VM snapshots that can be created, listed, restored and deleted. The combination of CLI and GUI management gives it flexibility across workflows, and support for QEMU, Hyper-V and VirtualBox helps it fit different host platforms.
Multipass is a strong choice for developers who specifically need Ubuntu VMs and want an open-source tool with no purchase cost across major desktop operating systems. Its narrow guest focus is less suitable for users who need to run a wide range of operating systems. Snapshot planning also requires attention on macOS, where snapshots are unavailable when using the Apple Virtualization framework. Choose Multipass for straightforward Ubuntu development, testing and cloud-environment prototyping; choose a broader virtual machine manager when guest operating-system variety is the priority.
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Multipass pricing
Multipass fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Host platforms | Linux, macOS, Windows |
| Guest architecture | Both |
| VM snapshots | Yes |
| Nested virtualization | Not verified |
| GPU acceleration | Not verified |
| Management interface | Both |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | canonical.com |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Multipass
- Proxmox VEA broad self-hosted virtualization stack with free core software and paid support options.9.3
- Oracle VirtualBoxA capable free desktop hypervisor with broad host support and advanced VM controls.8.9
- VMware Workstation ProA free desktop hypervisor with strong VM lifecycle, security, and developer tooling.8.8
See all Multipass alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Multipass is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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