VMware Workstation Pro 15 vs Workstation Pro 14: What's the Difference?

When it comes to virtualization software, VMware is one of the most popular choices among professionals and enthusiasts alike. The company regularly releases new versions of its flagship product, Workstation Pro, which offers significant improvements over its predecessors. In this article, we will compare VMware Workstation Pro 15 with its predecessor, Workstation Pro 14, to help you decide whether the upgrade is worth it.

One of the most notable changes in Workstation Pro 15 is the introduction of support for Alder Lake processors from Intel. This new generation of processors offers improved performance and efficiency compared to earlier models, making them an attractive option for users who want to take advantage of the latest technology. However, as some users have discovered, setting up ESXi on these processors can be a bit more challenging than expected.

For example, Highpoint tech support has confirmed that their DRAM-only card does not support ESXi, despite being listed as compatible in the esxi 4 documentation. This kind of issue highlights the importance of carefully checking compatibility before upgrading to new hardware.

In addition to improved processor support, Workstation Pro 15 also offers a range of other enhancements, including better support for 3D graphics and improved virtual machine performance. The software also includes a number of new features, such as the ability to create virtual machines with up to 8 CPU cores and 64 GB of RAM.

Another area where Workstation Pro 15 shines is in its user interface. The software's graphical user interface has been streamlined and simplified, making it easier for users to navigate and manage their virtual machines. This is particularly useful for beginners who may be new to virtualization or are looking for a more intuitive way to work with their virtual environments.

In terms of performance, Workstation Pro 15 is generally faster than its predecessor, thanks to the improved processor support and other enhancements. However, it's worth noting that the actual performance gain will depend on the specific hardware and software configuration being used.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that VMware offers a range of resources to help users get started with Workstation Pro 15, including product bulletins, research papers, and online tutorials. The company also provides extensive support for its products, including technical documentation and community forums.

In conclusion, VMware Workstation Pro 15 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their virtualization software. Its improved processor support, better graphics performance, and streamlined user interface make it a more powerful and convenient option than its predecessor. While there may be some challenges involved in setting up ESXi on newer processors, the benefits of upgrading to Workstation Pro 15 far outweigh the drawbacks.

Vmware workstation pro 15 vs workstation pro 14