Wine
Wine: Wine is a free, broad foundation for running Windows applications on Linux and macOS. Ranked #1 of 26 in Windows Compatibility Layers by our editors (9.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for A foundational, broad compatibility layer.
At a glance
- Editor score9.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forA foundational, broad compatibility layer
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- macOS supportYes
- Founded1993
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Runs Windows applications on Linux and macOS
- Supports WoW64, Vulkan, and Direct3D 12 through vkd3d
- Separate Wine prefixes help isolate application environments
Where it doesn't
- Application compatibility can vary across Windows software
- Setup uses Wine tools, prefixes, and platform-specific packages
- Not a conventional commercial SaaS with managed plans
Our verdict on Wine
Wine is an open-source compatibility layer for running Windows applications and games on Linux and macOS without installing Windows. It translates Windows API calls for POSIX-compliant operating systems and provides Windows subsystem implementations, graphics and multimedia support, configurable Wine prefixes, and an application compatibility database. Its broad scope suits users who need a foundational layer across different Windows applications rather than a narrowly packaged solution.
Wine is free and distributed as source code and platform-specific packages. There is no official paid tier, so its model fits individuals, developers, and organizations that prefer open-source software over a conventional commercial SaaS product. Setup centers on Wine tools, Windows-version configuration, and prefixes that create separate application environments. That separation can help organize applications with different requirements, but it also means the experience is shaped by the host platform and the configuration chosen for each environment.
The technical feature set covers WoW64 for 32-bit and 64-bit Windows applications, Vulkan graphics support, and Direct3D 12 through vkd3d. Wine also provides its own Vulkan and WineD3D implementations, while the application compatibility database offers a reference point for Windows software. Linux and macOS support, including Apple Silicon support, make it relevant across both platforms. Choose Wine when broad Windows API compatibility and open-source distribution are priorities; choose an alternative when you need a conventional paid product with managed plans or a packaged onboarding experience.
Wine pricing
Wine fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| macOS support | Yes |
| Linux support | Yes |
| Apple silicon support | Yes |
| Graphics acceleration | Not verified |
| Compatibility database | Yes |
| Prefix management | Yes |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux, macOS |
| Support | Community, Live chat, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | winehq.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Wine
- CrossOverA paid compatibility layer with application recipes, bottles, ratings, and graphics options.8.7
- BottlesA free, open-source choice for organizing and running Windows apps across platforms.8.2
- PlayOnLinuxA free graphical Wine manager for guided installs, virtual drives, and Windows app shortcuts.7.7
Wine vs the competition
- Wine vs CrossOver
- Wine vs Bottles
- Wine vs PlayOnLinux
- Wine vs Porting Kit
- Wine vs BottleLite
- Wine vs Q4Wine
Compare Wine with any tool side by side →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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