For those of you who'd like to compare Parallels with VMWare's Fusion product, be advised they've (VMWare) released a new Fusion beta version. I'm a very big supporter of Parallels, but it is valuable to learn more about this VM process when you study alternatives. To be honest my experiences have affirmed my purchase of Parallels was a good choice, but I still want to know what else is out there. An informed public is a healthy thing and good for consumers and good for business. What that means is, don't give me any crap for sharing this information. I'm just the messenger, keep an open mind - these products will continue to evolve and the more you know the better off you are. Now here's what I think you're going to notice: Parallels is rather better polished and suited to the non-geek end user. Fusion has snapshot capability and limited 3D video. It already had and has tools for Solaris and Linux. Parallels has coherence, Fusion does not. Each side has something the other has not.
Fusion Beta 2 Yip, Beta 2 was released last night. A 3 min video overview of Beta 2 on You tube http://digg.com/apple/VMware_Fusion_Beta_2_First_Look
VMWare beta 2 is working better for me that Parallels. Latest Parallels is not very stable. I've had major problems and wierd system behavior attempting to install Ubuntu and Vista. And there are no tools for Linux. I was able to install Vista and Ubuntu simultaneously using VMWare beta2, and the Linux tools work ok, at least you no longer need to release the mouse. For my needs, Parallels 1970 was best, this later release has been a step backwards. VMWare looks like its fitting in the missing pieces nicely providing a compelling alternative to Parallels already.
Their beta 2 now works with my Mac Morse code system. So I'm now trying it. Parallels starts up much faster. I think I like the feel of Parallels better too. However it's only their second beta ever.
