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Lima

Lima (Linux Machines) is a tool designed to simplify the process of running Linux virtual machines on macOS.

Free tierPrice verified 2026-10-02Visit site ↗
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Our verdict

Who it's for

Launch Linux virtual machines with automatic file sharing and port forwarding.

Who should look elsewhere

Specific to macOS hosts

Pros

  • +Simplifies running Linux VMs on macOS
  • +Reduces manual configuration for file sharing and ports
  • +Provides a WSL2-like experience on macOS
  • +Open-source and community-supported

Cons

  • −Specific to macOS hosts
  • −Requires understanding of virtual machines

Key features

  • ✓Linux virtual machine provisioning
  • ✓Automatic file sharing (host to VM)
  • ✓Automatic port forwarding
  • ✓Similar functionality to WSL2
  • ✓Community-driven (CNCF incubating project)

Pricing

PlanPriceBillingNotes
Lima—monthLinux virtual machines; Automatic file sharing; Port forwarding

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