Android emulator is a virtual device that offers the features of an Android device. We usually use the emulator to try Android applications on a computer. It offers the majority of functions and options a real Android has.
Due to the Android emulator, you may set up incoming calls and messages, define geolocation of the device, reproduce various network speeds, spinning, and most hardware sensors. Besides, it is possible to enter the Google Play Store to make a purchase.
Top 11 Android Emulators for Windows 10
- BlueStacks - The most popular Android emulator for Windows 10
- Nox Player - For gaming
- Genymotion - Desktop and cloud supported
- Phoenix OS Player - Gives access to the Android app library
- GameLoop - Official partner of Call Of Duty
- MeMu - For developers
- Android Studio's emulator - Offers standard Android development tools
- PrimeOS - Competitor of RemixOS
- ARChon - Google Chrome extension
- Andy - One-time emulator
- KO Player - Emulator in Kernel technology
There are two ways to use an emulator: manually via the customizable graphical interface and programmatically due to the console and the command line. Choose the most appropriate type of software for gaming, for developing, or both.
1. BlueStacks – Our Choice
Efficient and customizable
- Numerous tabs, windows and accounts
- Quick with 4 GB RAM
- Support the majority of apps
- Full screen
- Backlogs if slower than 4GB RAM
Verdict: BlueStacks is one of the best Android emulators for Windows 10 and macOS as it supports up to 97% of the offered applications from Google Play Store. It perfectly simulates an Android Operating System with free to download basic options.
You may manage the emulator using input devices as well as the touch screen.
BlueStacks is produced with some well-known preloaded Android apps such as WhatsApp and Clash of Clans. There is an APK file, which you can use to install applications.
The great advantage is that you can change games by switching between the tabs. Besides, those who own more than one gaming account can play them at once due to multiple accounts option.
1/2
2. Nox Player
Well-known Android emulator for gaming
- Gamepad support
- Easy-to-use interface
- Lots of guides on the official website
- Advanced settings
- Slow on weak PCs
Verdict: This Android emulator for PC offers many adjustable features and functions. You may set up the Nox Player CPU and RAM processing size to simulate the hardware specs of separate devices. Besides, it lets you download apps, customize settings and make screenshots.
The same as the BlueStacks, this Android emulator offers you multiple tabs and accounts for playing a variety of games or using different accounts at once.
This Android emulator works on Android 4.4.2 KitKat kernel. It has a friendly interface (without App drawer). Besides, you may adjust the setting for individual convenience, choose full screen for 720p or full HD.
Moreover, it lets you replace graphic features like Direct X and Open GL, and performance settings with CPU speed and RAM usage.
1/2
3. Genymotion
Desktop and cloud supported
- Cloud-based
- Mimics all device features
- OpenGL capable graphics
- Available integration with Eclipse
- With a fixed display resolution
- Poor audio quality
Verdict: Besides a proper service you’re getting with Genymotion, you have an opportunity to try different Android versions to test the work of apps and games in different conditions.
Also, you can change devices in a click according to your needs. Unlike AMIDuOS, Genymotion works better for developers, though it’s less useful for an average person.
The main advantage is the possibility to use Genymotion both in the cloud and on the desktop PC. Those with weak PCs can take advantage of this Android emulator.
A peculiarity of this Android emulator Windows 10 is apps creation, automated testing, and the possibility to run apps in a browser. It perfectly reproduces user context and operations. Due to a great number of widgets and sensors, you may simulate any scenario like geolocation, calls and messages, network speed, etc.
We also recommend looking over the best free VPN services.
1/2
4. Phoenix OS Player
Affordable
- Runs numerous apps at the same time
- Manually setting up
- You can change the orientation
- Easy installation
- Doesn't support APK files
Phoenix OS Player
Verdict: Based on Android 7.1, Phoenix OS offers a great number of standard computer options such as desktop, multi-windows, support for Android games due to system-level compatibility.
Moreover, it can be paired with many peripherals such as mice and keypads, joysticks, and even ports developed for PUBG mobiles.
Phoenix OS is next in line to Remix OS that was popular among users until the developer stopped updating it. This one of the best Android emulators for Windows 10 due to virtual machine settings. Even Kannon ranked Phoenix OS as a top-notch tool in its review.
With this emulator, you’re free to use a gamepad for computers. Phoenix OS maintains right-click motion for MOBA games, while mice for FPS. 3.0 version boasts an Octopus key mapping engine implemented into Game Assistant, giving a strong core button mapping.
1/2
5. GameLoop
An official partner of Call Of Duty
- Satisfying integration with keypad and mouse
- Not so demanding on the hardware
- With no power-off problems
- 2K resolution support
- Shortage of games
GameLoop
Verdict: Tencent Gaming Buddy in the past and Game Loop now has become the best Android emulator for Windows 10 due to a great support for Call of Duty Mobile game on the computer. It supported PUBG and some games from the Tencent Developer before the appearance of COD.
GameLoop works ideally for Android gamers, but lacks other Android apps and the variety of outstanding gaming titles as well.
Due to a great key mapping, your gaming will be more pleasant and convenient. Besides, you’ll never feel uncomfortable or dissatisfy with the stuck or backlogs as they are absent when using the GameLoop device.
1/2
6. MeMu
Works its best for developers
- Strong Android 5.1
- Onboard Play Store options
- File sharing
- TV channels available
- Graphics performance isn't good
MeMu
Verdict: MeMu is the best Android emulator for PC with the focus on gaming. The freeware is developed with Android 5.1 by default.
You won’t face any difficulties or lags. MeMu lets you watching TV and YouTube channels study editing free, produce a simulation GPS location. It also boasts a fast APK installing.
Due to supporting KitKat, Lollipop, and Android Jelly Bean, MeMu takes a high position in various ratings. You may exchange text messages conveniently using the keyboards and switch the tabs or stop the apps easily.
XAPK, an expanded APK file with OBB data, could be installed directly into MEMU. Thus there is no need to drag extra data after the installation of the app.
Moreover, you can import/restore VM separate files or whole pack in both OVA and MEMU format image.
1/2
7. Android Studio's Emulator
Offers standard Android development tools
- Predefined settings for different devices
- Possibility to make snapshots
- Cool boot
- Screenshot feature
- Requires SDK Tools and HAXM
Android Studio's Emulator
Verdict: Android Studio console for Android works perfectly for developers as it has onboard tools that help create games and apps appropriate for Android. It also includes an emulator thus you can run and try the app after development.
This console isn’t easy-to-use for ordinary people because of a difficult setup process but it will perfectly suit an Android developer. Android Studio supports Kotlin for the developers to test it out.
The emulator gives almost all capabilities of a true Android device. You may mimic incoming calls and SMS, find the geolocation of your device as well as reproduce network speeds, rotation and other gear detectors. Users also get access to Google Play Store.
8. PrimeOS
Competitor of RemixOS
- User-friendly interface
- Multi-window support
- X86 option for earlier computers
- Pre mapped some popular games
- Windows software aren't compatible
- Some programs fail to work
PrimeOS
Verdict: PrimeOS is one of the worthy options among Android emulators for Windows 10 originated from the Android-x86 project. In case you know it, this emulator will be convenient for you.
There are menu, taskbar, actions, and other keys on the desktop. Besides, you can enjoy multitasking feature with maximize, minimize, close, and resize options. You may freely turn off the multi-window option if needed. DecaPro key mapping is an Android option to play with mice and keypads.
You don’t need to install Opengapps as it comes by default, while OTA support is accessible when installing in the EXT4 RW section. You can also share the opinion in the accessible feedback app.
1/2
9. ARChon
Google Chrome Extension
- Browser-based
- Constant updates
- Tutorials on GitHub
- Chromebook with TouchS
- Slows down sometimes
- Some apps don't work
ARChon
Verdict: ARChon differs from other emulators. It’s installed as a Google Chrome extension and runs Android games and apps, though the support is a bit limited. It may cause difficulties during set up as you need to get APK files from Chrome and install them on PC.
Besides, there may appear a necessity to change APKs to make them compatible. Still, there is a big advantage as ArChorn is Android emulator Linux, macOS, Windows, etc.
The emulator is unnoticed immediately after installation.
It starts programs when a user loads Android apps (they are converted into ChromeOS apps). To open the app, simply run it from the “Apps” (chrome: // apps) page. We’d recommend learning about the video editing software for Chromebook.
1/2
10. Andy
One-time emulator
- Full screen mode
- Synchronizes via Google Play
- Customizable UI
- Adjustable features
- Difficult installation
- Resource-intensive
Andy
Verdict: Andy is a good option which can’t take a higher position due to built-in Android 5.0. Still, Andy provides smooth synchronization between desktop and a device, connects Android with macOS or Windows to run apps, has push notifications and lockup.
You can download the app from the browser right in AndyOS, use the latest Android OS and test the variety of apps for chatting and spending time pleasantly on the desktop.
Unlike most emulators, Andy supports one-of-kind options as remote gaming on the PC from a mobile, ARM backing, and installation of the apps right from the browser. Still, in case you need the emulator for long usage, we’d recommend choosing the one with better capabilities and more features.
1/2
11. KO Player
Emulator in Kernel technology
- Supports multiple efficiency apps
- Numerous emulators in one PC
- Record options
- Screenshot feature
- Rarely updated
KO Player
Verdict: KO Player is a gaming-oriented emulator with the integrated AAA titles support. KO Player is free and really popular among users. Using it, you may open all the apps from the Google market.
Due to modern x86 Kernel technology, the KO Player is the fastest emulator among competitors, compatible with a huge number of devices. If you are interested in gaming, you can use joysticks, mice, and keypads for your convenience. There are some extra options for the camera, keypad and speaker.
You can record your gaming, take pictures to share them with teammates. Don’t hesitate to try KO Player and share your experience with us.
1/2
FAQs
Top 11 Best Android Emulators for Windows 10? ›
Set up Android Emulator to run Android 11
Install the latest Preview build of Android Studio. In Android Studio, click Tools > SDK Manager. In the SDK Tools tab, select the latest version of Android Emulator, and click OK. This installs the latest version if it's not already installed.
- Comparison of Top 5 Android Emulators for PC and MAC.
- #1) LDPlayer.
- #2) BlueStacks Emulator.
- #3) Android Studio Emulator.
- #4) Remix OS Player Emulator.
- #5) Nox Player Emulator.
- #6) MEmu Emulator.
- #7) Ko Player.
Set up Android Emulator to run Android 11
Install the latest Preview build of Android Studio. In Android Studio, click Tools > SDK Manager. In the SDK Tools tab, select the latest version of Android Emulator, and click OK. This installs the latest version if it's not already installed.
LDPlayer is considered one of the best Android emulators for gaming. Because of its high speed and stability, it is widely used to play Android games. Moreover, the multitasking feature lets you open multiple windows simultaneously. Unlike other Android emulators on Windows, LDPlayer does not contain too many ads.
What is the smoothest Android emulator for PC? ›- Genymotion. ...
- LDPlayer. ...
- Remix OS Player. ...
- BlueStacks. ...
- ARChon. ...
- Nox Player. Android emulator with clean UI & great usability. ...
- Bliss OS. Open source emulated support for KVM/QEMU instances. ...
- Android Studio. Official Android IDE with a visual layout editor, APK Analyzer, and fast emulation.
BlueStacks
BlueStacks App Player is perhaps the best-known Android emulator, and it's hardly surprising given its quality and reliability. BlueStacks has been designed with ease of use in mind, and looks and feels just like Android on a tablet or smartphone. There are free and paid-for versions available.
Nox player
If you're looking for a BlueStacks alternative, the Nox player won't be a bad option. Its brilliant Android emulator makes downloading and playing Android games on your PC and Mac simple. Since NoxPlayer is lightweight, it doesn't affect the functioning of your PC.
Android 12 emulator – NoxPlayer.
How do I get the Android 12 emulator? ›In Android Studio, click Tools > SDK Manager. In the SDK Tools tab, select the latest version of Android Emulator, and click OK. This action installs the latest version if it isn't already installed. In Android Studio, click Tools > Device Manager, then click Create device in the Device Manager panel.
Which Android emulator uses least RAM? ›Android emulator | Cost | Minimum Requirements |
---|---|---|
BlueStacks | Free with in-app purchase | 2GB of RAM 4GB of hard disk |
NoxPlayer | Free | 2GB of RAM 1.5GB of hard disk |
LDPlayer | Free | 2GB of RAM 36GB of hard disk |
Droid4X | Free | 1GB of RAM 20GB of hard disk |
Which is faster NOX or BlueStacks? ›
As per my results, BlueStacks consistently scored the best. LD player was second and Nox was third (why are they sooo behind lol). Couldn't help but notice that BlueStacks beat LD by a 62% margin and Nox by a 171% margin.
What is the fastest Android based OS? ›1 Android 13
Android 13 is the latest release from the software and as such it is the best, combining all previously mentioned features with plenty of additions. It's the fastest Android option, most adaptable, and most customizable in history. It only recently launched in August of 2022.
Following is a handpicked list of Top Android Emulator, with their popular features and website links. The list contains both open source(free) and commercial(paid) software. BlueStacks by now.gg is the safest and fastest Android emulator in the market, with phenomenal support and frequent upgrades.
What is the most stable emulator for PC? ›RetroArch (Multi-Platform)
For many retro gaming fans, RetroArch is the best free gaming emulator for PC, without a shadow of a doubt. It's a one-stop solution, wrapping up platforms and nestling them firmly within a single app.
✅Android Emulator | Supported Platform | Unique Feature |
---|---|---|
MEmu Play | Windows XP/7/8/8.10/11 | Multiple Instances |
Android Studio | Wind 8/10/11 & Chrome | Multipreview API |
Genymotion | Win & Mac & Linux | Mobile testing |
PrimeOS | Wind 7/8/10/11 | Multi-window support |
Play your favorite Android games on PC at up to 240 Frames Per Second (FPS) on BlueStacks.
Which is the fastest Android emulator for Android Studio? ›- Android Studio Emulator.
- BlueStacks Emulator.
- Remix OS Player Emulator.
- Nox Player Emulator (Recommended for Gamer)
- MEmu Emulator.
- Genymotion Emulator.
- ARChon Emulator.
- Ko Player.
Nox Player
And it loads faster than Bluestacks with no Ads. Nox player is best in terms of usability and UI but when it comes to performance no one can beat Bluestacks and even in the benchmark performance test, the Nox Player score was 121410, quite low than Bluestacks.