The word “Android” is running around the ecosystem with an infinite approach.
It is the most famous and powerful mobile operating system that offers a vast outlook for a smartphone and other similar devices. It has also been a bestselling mobile operating system worldwide since 2011 on smartphones, and tablets since 2013.
Ever since its first launch in the global village of technology, it has reached over two million active users monthly.
This is huge.
It offers a variety of applications and software to a smartphone. Similarly, for you to access them on your big screens, it brings along Android Emulator for your ease.
Let’s get to know about them.
What is an Android Emulator?
In simple words, Android Emulator is software that you download in your PCs or Mac to gain access to Android applications.
Developed by the Android studio, it allows you to dive into its world in a better and bigger screen.
No need to install applications on your PC, simply download the emulator for that purpose.
The sole reason for you to consider using an emulator is for you to get easy and free access to applications on your PC. With Android Emulators, you can play your favorite games, use a whole catalog of your mobile applications, and even synchronize your mobile to your computer.
Certain emulators also enable you to use communicating applications like Viber, Messenger, WhatsApp, etc.
Here are the famous emulators we will talk about:
- Bluestacks
- Bliss OS
- Memu
- Gameloop
- Andy Android Emulator
- Nox Player
- LD Player
- ARChon
- Phoenix OS
- Remix OS
- KOplayer
- AMIDuOS
- Android Studio
- Xamarin
- LeapDroid
- Windroy
- Youwave
- Genymotion Cloud
- Prime OS
- Build Your Own
Android Emulators for Windows
If you want to connect your Android emulators to Windows, you will need to meet certain requirements.
Nothing to worry about.
All you need is a Windows XP, Version 7, version 8, or Version 10 of your Windows.
Furthermore, it also demands a fast and robust processor like Intel or AMD CPU processor for its smooth working.
Besides that, you will also need a minimum of at least 2 GB RAM and 2GB of hard disk free space.
If you meet these requirements, running emulators on your PC will be a piece of cake. However much of its performance will depend on your PC’s compatibility.
Once you meet the requirements, all you need to do is run on the website of your desired emulator to install it.
Run the setup on your Windows, log in to your Google Account, and enjoy the thrill of unlimited Android applications and games on your PC.
Android Emulators for Mac
Connecting Android Emulator to Mac is as easy as it is to connect to a PC.
Again to download this emulator in your Mac, you will need to look for a link that says “Download for Mac”.
There are certain emulators whose Mac versions are not yet available such as Memu Emulator. However, you still have a whole list of emulators to choose from.
Now that you have found the Mac version of your emulator go ahead and click on the download version. Stay patient as it goes through the whole process. Similar to PC, run the setup to complete its installation. Add in your Google Account if required and press “Finish” to gain access to the games and applications.
It’s a whole new world.
After the fresh and important knowledge about emulators, you might be wondering how will you know which one to choose?
Well, obviously every emulator has its unique features. For that sole purpose, we have a list of some of the best Android Emulators for you, each with its distinctive attributes and properties.
After going through our list, you will not need to ponder over this matter for long.
Let’s go, shall we?
1. Bluestacks
Bluestacks is among the most known name in the world of emulators, and it has definitely outstood itself.
It is an American technology company that founded the Bluestacks App player. This famous company was first formed in 2009 by the great Jay Vaishnav, Suman Saraf, and Rosen Sharma. Furthermore, Intel, Samsung, Citrix, Redpoint are names of some of the investors associated with it.
This record-breaking company came out on May 25th, 2011, at the Citrix Synergy conference in San Francisco. The Bluestack app player is its astonishing creation. This app player is used to emulate Android Applications on PCs and Apple’s macOS. The Alpha version of this app player was launched on October 11, 2011, and has been blessing us ever since.
It has been downloaded by over 210 million people around the globe to date, making it the most promising Android emulator. According to the company, it can run over 1.5 million Android apps.
Yes, you heard it right.
Top Features
The unique features offered by Bluestacks are completely free to use; however, you might need to subscribe to a monthly paid subscription to avail advanced optional features.
Some of the features it offers are:
Multiple Instances: With this great feature, you can now enjoy more than one game or application at a time. You can now multitask with this exclusive property of Bluestacks.
High-Quality Graphics: Now enjoy a clearer and better picture with the high-quality graphics it offers you. The clearer and sharper the image quality is double the fun.
High Frame per Second: Enable High frame per second (FPS) in Bluestacks and enjoy better and smooth gameplay.
Speed
Though Bluestacks offers you a very smooth runway and you will not face any issue regarding its speed, however, if you are still looking for ways to increase its speed here are some steps you can take:
- Update Bluestacks
- Allocate more space by clicking on “Settings” and going towards the “Engine” tab.
- Turn of Anti Virus for better speed.
- Adjust the display settings on Bluestacks
Is it safe?
As far as the issue of safety is concerned, I can completely assure you that Bluestacks is 100% secure. However, it is still a valid concern.
For you to be safe from technological parasites like Viruses and Malware always download the emulator from its official website.
As long as you rely on it, you are safe to go.
Still not convinced? Head onto this site to learn more about whether or not is Bluestacks safe?
Gaming Capabilities
Bluestacks doesn’t offer just Android applications but is also compatible with the latest Android games. It provides you a great atmosphere with customizing control and other incredible features to run your beloved games on a big screen.
Now with Bluestacks enjoy the unlimited games like:
- PUBG MOBILE
- Rise of Kingdoms
- Free Fire
- Rules of Survival
- Iron Thorne
2. Bliss OS Emulator
This particular emulator is, in some ways, different from others.
It works as an emulator through a virtual machine. However, you can also launch it smoothly on your PCs via a USB stick.
Comparatively speaking, the virtual machine method is easier than using a USB stick but could be quite boring and dreary if you have never made it before for yourself. The USB method, though a bit complicated, will give you access to your Android Smartphone through a mere boot.
It was founded by the great Jack Eagle, who is also the CEO of this company. It has been used widely all over the world.
Hence, its unique and eccentric features make it totally worth it for you to encounter certain installation hardships.
Distinctive Features
Focus on design: With Bliss OS, you can now customize and design your themes for your emulator as well as smartphones.
Customized Setting: Another exciting feature it brings along for you is to customize settings for yourself. You can now map out the icons the way you prefer.
Performance: Enjoy a smooth and fast performance with this great operating system. It works hard to provide stability and good speed.
Speed
Bliss Os makes maximum efforts to provide its users with great performance.
It offers you a smooth speed and stability; however, as stated above the stability of any software or emulator depends greatly on your PC’s software and hardware.
You will need a minimum of at least 3GB of space to run it at a good speed.
Is it safe to use?
Coming towards the question of safety, Bliss Os is absolutely safe to use.
Again, all it takes is for you to download it from its authentic and reliable website. Don’t rely on third-class and fake websites as they are eager to release viruses and Malware on your device.
Bliss Os is extremely cautious regarding your privacy and security. You will find additional security options and features throughout the software and emulator.
Furthermore, it also updates regularly to minimize any sort of risk of harm. Hence, no need to worry.
Head onto this website to download it right away.
3. MEmu
Moving forward to our list of the most renowned and best emulators around the globe, MEmu makes its place effortlessly. If you are looking forward to playing unlimited Android games on your PC, then MEmu is your best choice.
Birthed by the company named as Microvirt that first began in 2014, MEmu has outdone itself as per its intriguing and extraordinary features. Immediately after one year, Microvirt launched the MEmu emulator for its users to enjoy the thrill of exciting games on this massive platform. It strived hard to deliver exceptional performance and therefore gained more than 100 million downloads in over 200 countries and 20 languages.
It is still growing.
Compelling Features
Let’s dive into some of the compelling features this emulator has to offer you.
Stunning Graphics: Obviously, you wouldn’t wish to play your beloved games or enjoy other exciting Android applications at a low-quality screen. Memu offers you eye-catching graphics for your better experience.
Smooth Performance: With Memu, enjoy smooth gameplay free of lags. No need to stress over the never-ending loading anymore.
The Convenience of controls: Memu presents you with convenient controls that you can also customize as per your preference. It also lets you use a keyboard or a mouse for your comfort. Gaming is all fun with Memu.
Multi Memu: The most exciting feature is this one.
Multi Memu is one of the post structures of Memu that allows you to play more than one game simultaneously. It comes as a shortcut alongside the original one. With this incredible treat, you can enjoy two or more games alone and even with friends.
Speed
When we talk about speed, Memu initially is very reliable in this matter.
Still, it allows you to customize it for your best game performance. If you set Frame per second to 60, you will experience and incredible lag-free gameplay. As there are only a few games that support 120 FPS if they do, you can always adjust it in your settings.
This is one of the key features to customize speed and control lag for games.
Is it safe?
Obviously, no one will explore any emulator without being assured regarding the safety concerns.
There has been a lot of debate on the internet about its security. To ease the tension off your shoulder, Memu is completely safe and secure to use.
It is free of viruses and malware, even more; it is associated and verified by antivirus software companies such as the famous Avast.
It also takes full responsibility for keeping your data anonymous and safe from any hacks. You will not face any security concerns with this great emulator.
Gaming Compatibility
Memu is compatible with numerous Android games such as PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty, Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, and more. It provides great comfort with its customized controls.
Furthermore, you can also attach a keyboard and mouse along, as mentioned above. It brings about exciting updates, intriguing features, and adrenaline full thrill with stunning graphics.
Hence, if you are thrilled and satisfied regarding this emulator, run on to the official website and click download.
4. Gameloop
Let’s welcome another incredible Emulator known as Gameloop.
It was initially known as Tencent gaming buddy before officially coming out as a Gameloop emulator for Android games in 2018. Hence, you can say it is an upgraded version of Tencent Gaming buddy which is famous as the developer of PUBG Mobile.
Gameloop has been spreading throughout the world nonstop.
Even in such a short period, this new and exclusive emulator has reached over 450 million users globally. It is what has been recorded. At first, it only featured Tencent games but after a lot of demands from its dedicated user, it finally publically announced the launching of around 200 adrenaline full Android games in 2019.
Hence, the name upgraded to Gameloop Android Emulator from Tencent Gaming Buddy.
Intriguing Features
Wide compatibility: Gameloop not only offers Tencent games but it brings along for you a library of other fun Android games. It is compatible with both Android and Tencent to bring the thrill in its client’s lives.
Network Acceleration: This is one of the most exciting and unique featured presented by Gameloop. It distinguishes it from other emulators. In the case of high ping or internet problems, your game might lag. Worry not, by using this feature you can cut down your ping into half and enjoy a smooth game performance.
Optimized Controls: Gameloop brings along for you the comfort to optimize controls as per your liking. So, if you are not comfortable with the ones it offers, you can always alter them for your ease.
Speed
If you meet the basic requirements of minimum 2GB RAM, 1.5 GB Hard-disk space, a good processor like Intel or AMD, and Windows version 7 or above then you will not face any issue regarding its speed. However, there is still a way to increase its speed. Let me disclose it.
The key to increasing the speed is to keep it in a download priority mode. This mode will increase both network speed and download speed for games and updates.
Good enough?
Gaming Compatibility
Gameloop is specifically designed for games.
It provides you with the best version of itself; however; much of its performance depends on your device configuration. If your device is of a medium or high level, then you are good to go. But if your device is of low level, then you might need to make specific changes for better game performance.
Nothing too difficult, just simply choose the options “smooth” and “balanced” from your settings. By doing this, you will experience lag-free gameplay even in low devices.
Go ahead and download it. You will not regret it.
5. Andy Emulator
Just like every other emulator, this one also comes up with its unique features.
If you are used to your mobile controls yet desire to play games on a big screen, then Andy is the right choice for you.
A lot of keen research has been made for the production of Andy. Its founders were seeking for a compelling product that could better connect the PC and mobile experience simultaneously. Hence, Andy was born as an operating system for such a purpose.
In other words, it is also known as the Desktop mobile as it can synchronize them both. This factor makes it one of the most renowned emulators in the global village.
Let’s get to know a little more about it, shall we?
Exciting Features
Convert your smartphone into a controller: When you are used to your mobile controls, it is always difficult to switch to the PCs. You don’t have to do that now. Andy provides you with great comfort to convert your smartphone into a controller for your desired game. Now, you can stick with the same controls and play on a big screen with better graphics simultaneously.
Sync your Mobile Apps with PC: It isn’t just a benefit for games. It doesn’t only allow you to convert your smartphone into a controller, but also you can sync your mobile applications. Hence, you can use WhatsApp, Snapchat, etc. all on a big screen.
Storage Capacity: Andy offers you a vast storage capacity for you to download and install unlimited Android applications and games. Say goodbye to the limited storage of your mobiles.
Speed
Of course, Emulators are a little slower than your smartphone, but Andy eases your tension here.
It provides you with a smooth and stable environment to run your applications in a comparatively better speed.
Security
Upon installation, Andy usually comes with an Andyroid virus. It is a Trojan malware that secretly mines for bitcoin, but once you are aware of it, you can always get rid of it.
You can always install antivirus or delete certain useless applications for this purpose.
Another way to erase the virus is to restore the system but always be cautious when you do that.
Gaming Capability
Andy is highly compatible with hundreds of Android games such as Clash of Clans, Candy Crush, Fruit Ninja, Call of Duty, PUBG Mobile, etc. With it, you can enjoy a fun gaming experience. It allows its gamers to transform their smartphone into a controller for better performance.
An alternative to that, you can also attach a Joystick or keyboard.
It bestows on you stunning graphics, 3D experience, and smooth lag-free gameplay. Furthermore, you can also optimize the controls.
Hence, it is among one of the best emulators you can choose from. Click on the link to download it and enjoy the thrilling experience of your desktop mobile.
6. Nox Player
Nox player is another remarkable emulator that was released by a team in Hong Kong. Since, June 6, 2015, this emulator has reached vast places, multiplying its users.
Today, it has more than 150 million users in more than 150 countries. A cherry on top, it is also released in over about 20 different languages.
It firmly believes that dedication to its users is of extreme importance.
Top Features
Nox player comes with some of the exciting features such as:
Stability: Enjoy a stable performance with it.
Compatibility: Whether it is your PC or Mac, Nox is compatible with both.
Gallery of Applications: Unlimited Android Applications and Games are available for you.
Speed
Nox player provides you with a smooth and stable atmosphere.
If you are looking for ways to boost its speed, all you need to do is enable the virtual technology on your system. Once you do that, you will see a significant increase in its speed.
You are good to go.
Safety
This emulator is completely safe to use as long as you download it from an authentic site and log in from your Google Account.
Avoid signing in from unsafe sites.
Gaming Capability
Whether you want to play PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty, or even Candy Crush, Nox is compatible will all kinds of games.
It will provide you with a smooth gaming experience free of lags and crashes. Along with that, the convenience of controls is also a treat. Enjoy a fantastic performance with stunning graphics and incredible sound.
You will not be disappointed with this one.
7. LD Player
Founded in 2016, XUANZHI is a global Android emulator company that birthed LDPlayer. It has over 100 Million installs, 2 Million daily active users, and was featured in more than 15 languages.
Features
It offers you the usual array if game-oriented features such as:
High Frame per Second: Enjoy better gaming with this feature.
Multiple instances: You can also play more than one game using multiple instances.
Good Keyboard and Mouse controls: Easy to use controls are available for double fun.
Speed
With LD Player features, you can optimize the speed and minimize the game Lag.
A high frame per second supports better speed, smooth gameplay, and good graphics.
Is it safe to use?
While talking about the security concern, the company assures and promises us that is entirely safe to use. As they say, the LD player is exceptionally safe for both your computer and Google Account.
Gaming Compatibility
LDplayer is compatible with different categories of famous Android games such as PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, Clash of Clans, and Call of Duty. Other than Action games, you can also get access to games like Candy Crush, Solitaire, Dodge Action 3D, and more.
So, what are you thinking? Click on the link to download this.
8. ARChon
Talking about ARChon, it isn’t a traditional emulator. Instead, it is an extension to Google Chrome. Comparatively speaking, this emulator is not very easy to use.
It is flooded with complicated processes. However, the good thing is, it is compatible with any operating system that can run chrome such as, Mac Os, Linux, and Windows, etc.
Features
Originally developed by Vlad Flippov it constitutes the following features:
- Stability
- It provides us with the ability to run Android Apps.
- 100% free with regular updates.
Speed
It runs smoothly on your devices though most of its working depends on your electronics’ configuration. If you have got a medium to the high device, you are good to go.
Security
You can use it 100% free and secure.
9. Phoenix OS Emulator
This emulator is rather a new one and was produced by the team of Beijing Chaozhuo technology, a software technology company. Like any other emulator, it is also used to boost up your gaming experience and to use Android applications on your PCs and Mac.
Unique Features
Talking about its unique features, the Phoenix emulator has Google play services. It means you get every application and game on your Google play store. However, updating them could be a little tedious. Furthermore, it also runs Android version 7.1, which is unique for Android emulators.
Speed
It provides a stable experience, but you can always adjust the speed setting as per your preference. You can fix the game lag as well as optimize POV speed, which is the camera speed.
Safety
There has been a lot of debate on the internet about its security. Some say it is safe while others warn us about the specific privacy issues they face like, Password Hack, Account misuse, etc. Hence, it is a good emulator overall, but you might need to give a second thought regarding its safety.
They are still working on it.
Here’s where you download it.
10. Remix OS Player
This tool is based on the Android Marshmallow operating system and uses its studio technology. Similar to what emulators do, it also allows you to get access to your mobile applications on a big screen.
Here are some of the exciting features.
- Customizable toolbar.
- Play two or more games simultaneously, or use a multi-window bar to run different apps.
- Clean and simple interference.
- Can also function as a desktop.
Let’s talk about its speed.
As mentioned above, it has some of the most exciting features. It has definitely outdone itself. It allows you to play games and use applications in a rather good speed.
Unfortunately, in 2017, Jide announced the disconnection of Remix Os Player. Hence, it has released no latest version since then.
11. KO Player
Koplayer is yet another powerful emulator that has been circling the globe. It is a solid platform build on Kernel technology on x 86 platforms that allows you to multitask, browse the internet, play Android games, and use thousands of applications.
Features
- Screen recording.
- Multiple instances
- Customize controls.
- Easy to use.
- Optimize your virtual Android screen.
- High-Quality Graphics.
Speed
This emulator lets you enjoy a smooth and speedy ride with outstanding video quality and audio.
Is it safe to use?
Several tests have been conducted on this particular software to examine its security. According to the update, it is entirely safe to use. It is a virus-free clean program to download.
I am sure you are assured enough.
Gaming Compatibility
It will run a library of Android games on your PC. All you will need is a windows 7 version or above, a minimum 2GB RAM, 10GB Disk space, and a good Intel CPU or Dual-Core AMD. If you meet these requirements, you will have an adrenaline-full gaming experience as it is specifically designed for gaming.
If you are convinced, click here to download.
12. AMIDuOS
Generally known as DuOS, this emulator runs on the lollipop version and is one of the perfect emulating software. It is a paid platform with 30 days of the free trial followed by a payment plan. Before you install this emulator, make sure that the “virtualization technology” is enabled in BIOS, and you have Microsoft net framework 4.0 or above.
Features
It brings you the following features:
- Is compatible with Android Applications.
- Gesture Controls
- Amazon Appstore and APK support.
- 3D Acceleration
All these and more make it worthy to buy this emulator.
Speed
It runs apps smoothly and fast on your devices.
Safety concern
There have been certain issues reported regarding bugs and lags. However, no security issue has been reported. Hence, you will not face any security concern though you might want to reconsider due to the bugs and lag issue.
13. Android Studio
This emulator isn’t a gaming emulator; instead, it is specifically designed for developers.
If you are looking to develop an Android app, then this is your go-to place. It has intriguing features to check out your products for conditions like the battery, storage, signal strength, CPUU, RAM, etc.
This studio offers its very own emulator, which is very complex but is best suited for developers. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and even Chrome OS.
Features
It comes with some of the best features like:
- APK Analyzer
- Code editing
- Layout tester
- Error detector
These features are very crucial for the development of an application.
Speed
For Android Studio to run fast and better, it needs at least 8GB RAM. Also, you are suggested to use power save mode from the file menu for better speed.
Is it safe?
Android studio itself is a safe and trusted program to use. Though, there are many fake programs out there under the same name that are unsafe. Beware of those and download it from its authentic source.
14. Xamarin
Again, Xamarin is a great software to test and develop Apps.
It is not very user friendly and might take some time to get used to its ways. This Microsoft owned Software Company was first founded in 2011. It claims that around 1.4 million developers were using its extraordinary facility in 120 countries by April 2017.
Microsoft acquired Xamarin on February 24, 2016. Though it is now disconnected for future developments yet, you can still use to test the apps with its features.
Features
- Diagnostic Tools,
- Code signing
- Application loader
- Android SDK manager.
Speed and Safety
The company specifically ensured that this product is stable and safe to use for its users. However, certain issues regarding its stability have arisen over time. The company is doing all it can to resolve them as soon as possible.
Here’s where to download it.
15. LeapDroid
As we move forward in our list of great emulators, they all have features in common. LeapDroid has significantly exceeded itself in terms of speed and performance.
It stresses over speed and gives only a few options to customize it; for instance, you cannot change the resolution or parameters except for general settings. But, you rarely need it with its speedy performance and outstanding stability.
Features
- Multiple Accounts
- Smooth and fast gameplay
- User-friendly interface
- Adjustable Visuals
- Easy to use
Is it safe to use?
This software is 100% safe and entrusted to use. For your better assurance, it has also been rated 99% compatibility with Play store apps.
This is among your best choices.
16. Windroy
This emulator is more or less like a hybrid of Bluestacks and Youwave.
It combines some of their features and attempts to emulate Android apps and games on PC. It aims to provide you with all the convenience it could; however; it is a very generic emulator that lacks certain very useful features.
Moreover, some of the apps it runs are very unstable.
Just like any other Emulators it also provides us with good gaming experience, the facility of customized controls, and a secure emulation. It supports the version Android 4.0.3.
17. Youwave
Youwave emulator targets the audience that is looking for some productivity and developments. It is not meant for gamers.
It is the oldest emulator that offers both free and paid versions. Though, they both offer pretty much the same features. It doesn’t support heavy games, but you can always play some low RAM games with ease.
So, if you are a gamer, this might not be your best choice. If you are a developer, you can still consider it.
18. Genymotion Cloud
An easy-to-use Android emulator designed explicitly for App testing. With this emulator, you can run unlimited Android applications over the cloud as a virtual machine. Unfortunately, the service is paid, but you do get free 1000 minutes for trials.
It is a safe and trustworthy emulator with an easy and intuitive interface. For its better speed and stability, you will b required a powerful PC. It holds various exciting features that can test your apps for conditions like WI-FI Strength, Battery level, GPS, Pixel, etc.
You can acquire it here for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
19. PrimeOS
PrimeOS outstand itself from the emulating world. This isn’t a typical emulator. You install it as a partition of your computer that boosts up your native Android. For gamers, it is good news as it is a more game-focused Emulator including a game center within.
With its astonishing features like easy controls and a catalog of applications, you can now enjoy thrilling games, watch videos, and multitask all with ease.
20. Build Your Own
How about I tell you that you can build your emulator? YOU HEARD IT RIGHT!
No need to rely on tedious setups like Xamarin or Android Studio. But building your own will not be a piece of cake. You will need to download a virtual box and follow a list of guidelines for this purpose.
Moreover, if you try it without a tutorial and proper knowledge, it will be buggy and hard to fix. Nevertheless, it will be yours to customize it any way you want.
Top 3 Emulators
To brief it down to the top 3 Emulators, I would recommend:
- Bluestacks,
- Gameloop
- Andy
With their outstanding and intriguing features, they have outdone themselves from the rest of the list. They promise us an incredible and smooth experience and strive hard to double down the fun for their clients.
Moreover, you will not face any safety or stability issues with these.
A treat for you, you can multitask and even convert your mobile into a controller. However, the choice is yours. Choose wisely.
We have concluded some of the best Android emulators out there for you to download.
Every emulator has some of the best features that will better your experience along the way.
Pick the best for you and enjoy the ride along.