What is the difference between Crossover and Wine?

Crossover and Wine are both software solutions that enable users to run Windows applications on non-Windows operating systems, such as macOS and Linux. However, they have key differences in terms of usability, support, and development. Wine is an open-source compatibility layer that allows users to run Windows applications on other operating systems. It works by translating Windows API calls into POSIX calls, which means users can install and run many Windows programs directly. Being open-source, Wine is a community-driven project, meaning that its development is largely led by volunteer contributions without formal customer support. Users can access documentation and forums for assistance, but the support is not as structured or guaranteed. On the other hand, Crossover is a commercial product developed by CodeWeavers that is based on the Wine project. Crossover aims to provide a more user-friendly experience by offering a polished interface and pre-packaged application support. Users of Crossover benefit from dedicated technical support, regular updates, and a more straightforward installation process. This makes Crossover ideal for individuals or businesses looking for professional support and a seamless experience when running Windows applications. In summary, while both Crossover and Wine serve similar purposes, Crossover is geared toward users seeking convenience and support, while Wine offers a more raw, open-source alternative for those comfortable with community-driven tools. For specific inquiries or further exploration of their features, it could be insightful to refer to the respective official sources or documentation available online.