For Betfair traders who use a Macintosh, the lack of native software support can feel like a significant hurdle.
However, while trading on a Mac isn’t as straightforward as on a Windows PC, it’s far from impossible. With the right setup, you can trade efficiently on your Mac, iPad, or tablet.
This guide walks you through how to make it work, from essential software to the best tools for mobile trading…
Why Betfair Trading on a Mac is Challenging:
Most Betfair trading software isn’t natively supported on macOS. Developers focus on Windows because it’s more widely used among traders, leaving Mac users to find workarounds. But if you’re serious about Betfair trading, you need software that provides features like ladder views, one-click betting, and market volume data—none of which are easily achievable without specialized tools.
For many Mac users, the solution lies in virtualization software. This allows you to run Windows on your Mac, giving you access to trading applications that were previously off-limits.
For most software you’ll find the official answer is this:
“Unfortunately The Toy and other Windows applications generally don’t support an Apple Mac natively” – The Geek
It’s just not worth the time, money and resources for applications like Geeks Toy, Bet Angel or Gruss Betting Assistant.
After all, they’re all there to make a profit!
How to Set Up Betfair Trading Software on a Mac
Step 1: Download Virtualization Software
To use Betfair trading software on your Mac, you’ll need to install virtualization software that runs Windows alongside macOS. Popular options include:
- VMWare Fusion (recommended)
- Bootcamp
- Parallels
- WinOnX
- Windows VPS
Of these, VMWare Fusion is particularly effective. It allows you to run Windows as a virtual machine while still using macOS, making it easy to switch between platforms. Unlike Bootcamp, which requires you to restart your Mac to switch between Windows and macOS, VMWare Fusion enables seamless multitasking.
Getting Started with VMWare Fusion:
- Download the software from the official website.
- Follow the installation instructions, including setting up Windows within the virtual machine.
- Use the migration assistant for a guided setup.
- Note that VMWare Fusion isn’t free, but a trial version is available.
Step 2: Install Betfair Trading Software
Once your virtual Windows environment is set up, download your preferred trading software, such as Geeks Toy, Bet Angel, or Gruss Betting Assistant. These tools provide essential features like one-click betting and ladder views, which are crucial for serious traders.
Using VMWare Fusion, you can easily switch between macOS and Windows. For example, you can edit a document in macOS while monitoring live Betfair markets in Windows. It’s an efficient solution that makes trading on a Mac as seamless as trading on a PC.
Trading on iPad and Tablets…
While trading on a tablet or iPad is possible, it’s not as effective as using a desktop or laptop. Most Betfair apps, such as the official Betfair App for iOS, lack the advanced features required for professional trading, such as ladder views and one-click betting. However, if you’re looking for casual trading or betting on the go, there are some options to consider:
- Traderline:
Traderline offers ladder views, one-touch betting, and additional features like tick-offset and dutching. While it’s more suited for two-option markets like tennis, it’s a versatile tool for tablet users. A free trial is available, but a subscription is required for full access. - Betfair App for iPad:
The official Betfair app works well for casual betting but isn’t ideal for traders who rely on advanced tools. It’s user-friendly and convenient for mobile betting but lacks professional features.
Android Alternatives for Betfair Trading:
If you’re an Android user, apps like BetOnDroid are popular among traders, particularly for sports like cricket. This app provides a full-screen ladder view, one-click betting, and the ability to green up or cancel bets easily. Best of all, BetOnDroid is free, making it a cost-effective option for traders who need mobile functionality without a hefty subscription fee.
Betfair Trading on Mac: Pros and Cons
Pros of Using a Mac for Betfair Trading:
- High-quality hardware and displays for analyzing market trends.
- Ability to run Windows using virtualization software.
- Seamless multitasking with tools like VMWare Fusion.
Cons:
- Lack of native support for key trading applications.
- Additional costs for virtualization software and Windows licenses.
- Learning curve for setting up and using virtual machines.
Conclusion: Mac Trading for Betfair is Possible
While trading on a Mac presents unique challenges, it’s entirely achievable with the right setup. Virtualization software like VMWare Fusion bridges the gap, allowing you to use Windows-based tools on your Mac. For iPad and tablet users, options like Traderline and BetOnDroid offer mobile solutions, though they’re less suited for professional trading.
If you’re serious about Betfair trading, investing time in setting up your system is worth it. While a Windows PC might be the ideal choice for many traders, Mac users can still trade effectively with a little extra effort.
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One thought on “Betfair Trading on Mac, iPad & Tablet: A Complete Guide”
Tried VMware and parallels , parallels I’ve found to be much better , no b issues miltiplatforming either and in fact you can even use Mac apps on the windows side with the integration it offers , only thing I will say is you need a decent Mac plenty ram, powerful processor and plenty of fast storage