Can I finally switch to Mac?

Jim In Chicago

I've been using Quicken for WIN since 2013 And Quicken is the ONLY reason I keep a PC.  My QDF file is now nearly 30mb.  What is the likely hood it will import into the Mac 2019 version without issues?  I hate to buy the Mac version only to have to return it.  Is there a way to try a trial of this concept?  Are there specific likely issues to look for?  My PC died so moving to one platform is my hope.

smayer97

The level of success and difficulty will depend on the nature of you data and other technicalities. THe best way to see the results is to try it out. You can buy Quicken with a 30-day no questions asked money back guarantee. 

That said, If you decide to migrate your data, you do need to convert. Since your data is from QW2010 or newer, the mechanics are quite simple...copy data file over to Mac. Open data file with QM2018. The built-in conversion process will step you through but there are a few things you need to know; here is the entire process:
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/faq-converting-from-quicken-for-windows-includin...
In your case, you can skip steps 1 and 2 but review all the prep and background info before:
https://www.quicken.com/support/things-do-converting-your-data-quicken-mac-2016

NOTE: Be aware that at this time, it is very difficult to convert back from Mac to Windows, as there are many problems with the reverse conversion process.

I also suggest that you make sure that Quicken 2019 for Mac will meet your needs, since it was re-written from the ground up (first with Quicken Essentials in 2010, then again with QM2015 onward) and is not the same product as the Windows version, so there are some features that are still not there e.g. full loan amortization*, 2-line display, QuickMath, or are not as fully developed yet, e.g. Customized Reports, some investment performance reports and stats  (therefore some data may not carry over). You can start here:
http://www.quicken.com/mac/compare
https://www.quicken.com/whats-new-quicken
https://www.quicken.com/mac/upgrader-compare

*NOTE: Support for fixed rate loans has been released as of  QM2017 v4.5.x but there is no announced timing for support for variable rate or simple daily interest loans.

You may want to review the List of Obstacles and Hindrances for Migrating from QM2007 or QWin to Quicken for Mac. Add your vote to any features that are missing for you. Your VOTES matter!

Be aware of data that will and will not carry forward: 
https://www.quicken.com/support/what-data-gets-carried-over
(A couple more things to note: historical currency rates are not migrated AND currency conversions of transactions are not migrated).

Then look at the updates since the original release here:
https://www.quicken.com/support/2018-release-quicken-mac-release-notes
You will also want to look at a more detailed comparison done by a SuperUser which also identifies nuances not mentioned elsewhere (and read on for comments from other users too on that same discussion thread): 
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/can-anyone-who-has-switched-from-2007-to-2015-he...
Take a look at the following videos to give you a better idea:
https://www.youtube.com/user/QuickenMac

Note that there are many differences that are rather subtle, that are not necessarily identifiable via documentation, for example, the 12-month budget feature does not allow including transfers, including investment income, selecting specific accounts,  or have rollover capability.

If you find that QM2019 does not meet your needs, the alternative is to run Quicken for Windows in a virtual machine on your Mac. There are 5 popular products you can use: Parallels, VMWare Fusion, Oracle VirtualBox, Bootcamp or CrossOver. The first 4 require you to also buy a copy of Windows. The first 2 cost $50-80, the third and forth are free. CrossOver also costs about $50-$80 but does NOT require you to buy Windows.

If you plan to keep your PC & Mac, you could also run Quicken on the PC and use remote access (several free options, e.g. NoMachine and Teamviewer) to access Quicken from your Mac  (or even a tablet or phone) (see this great article for complete review of many options (most are free): http://machow2.com/rdp-for-mac/ ).

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

jacobs

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Greg_the_Geek

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

FWIW, Oracle's VirtualBox is a free VM.

smayer97

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Yes, as identified above, VirtualBox and Bootcamp are free BUT you still need to get a Windows license.

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

Greg_the_Geek

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

If the OP's PC died, he can transfer the Windows license to the VM.

jacobs

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

I mentioned Parallels because it's probably the most widely-used product for consumers, and probably has the easiest set-up/configuration.

Bootcamp is free, but it requires shutting down and restarting to switch between Mac and Windows operations -- a process that likely doesn't suit most Quicken users. VirtualBox requires significant technical expertise to compile and configure. Other commercial VM software includes VMWare Fusion, but it's even more expensive than Parallels.

smayer97

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

All outlined and summarized above...

BTW VMWare and Parallels are always  priced the same at $80 USD new. BUT VMWare pricing is actually cheaper as they have better upgrade pricing and more flexible license. But it users have to do their own analysis for what best meets their needs, pocket book, and technical comfort.

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

Greg_the_Geek

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Actually VirtualBox is pretty easy to use. It doesn't require significant technical expertise to compile and configure. You download the installer and create a new VM.

Jim In Chicago

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

I used VMWare for about 2 years on my MBP 17 but never tried to switch to running Quicken in the VM because of some of the reviews of the issues some were having and I had a spare PC just for that.  Quicken chat just gave me a link to re-download 2016 for Win with the patch but this will be my chance to experiment.  My son-in-law said to run tests on my file to be sure its ok before trying in on the Mac version.  True??
And If I only want Windows for Quicken 2019, what ver of Win and how big of a partition if that's all I plan to run?  My file is 40mb and goes back to 2013.

Greg_the_Geek

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

I don't know what your son-in-law means by "run tests on my file to be sure its ok before trying in on the Mac version". I thought your PC died. If you purchase Quicken 2019, you get both the Windows and Mac versions. There is a 30 day money back guarantee if it doesn't work for you. The Quicken data file is compatible with Quicken 2016/2017/2018/2019 on Windows. The data files are not the same on Windows and Mac.

With VirtualBox, you don't create a partition, you create a virtual drive file. I would start with 64 GB. You can increase the size if necessary.

Jim In Chicago

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Of COURSE I had a backup on a flash drive, another in DropBox, and yet another on my Google drive.  Sorry if I conveyed that I had lost the file.  And he meant to run the validation check and it DID do 1 repair.  I'm going to check balances in the am and then move on.  The part I did not like hearing was that once I setup Bootcamp, it says I cannot undo or resize it.  Is that true?  In that case I think VirtualBox is worth a try.  Thanks!!

Sherlock

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

The part I did not like hearing was that once I setup Bootcamp, it says I cannot undo or resize it.  Is that true?

No.

Beijing Mac

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Sherlock -- I think if you want to resize a Bootcamp partition, you typically have to delete the Bootcamp partition and start over, then reinstall Windows.  

https://www.partitionwizard.com/partitionmagic/reszie-boot-camp-partition.html



I believe that there are tools out there to enable you to resize the partition, but these are all 3rd party tools.  Basic Apple instructions are to delete the partition and start over.

Beijing Mac

I have been using Quicken for Windows for past 8 years on Apple iMac and MacBooks, using Bootcamp and dual boot up.  My most recent experience with a MacBook with Retina screen was not the most rewarding for Windows and Quicken.  I recently got a new Macbook and did not go the BootCamp route, but instead installed the most recent revision of Parallels (I have experimented with it before using both the Bootcamp image and stand alone image).  I have been pleasantly surprised and pleased with parallels.  

I am using the Quicken RPM version (2017) and don't believe that the Mac version currently meets my needs, hence I am staying with the Windows version of Quicken.   So running Quicken for Windows on a Mac OSX via Parallels (with Win10) is currently working OK for me.

Jim In Chicago

Thanks!  This is the type of experience that tells me so much.  By the time today is over, I may stop all the fiddling and stick with what I have!

Sherlock

Jim, to provide a quick answer to your question alongside @smayer97's compendium of conversion advice: No, there is no way to try it without buying it. Quicken hasn't ever offered trial versions of its programs. Instead, you have to buy it, test it, and ask for a refund within 30 days of purchase if you find it won't work for you. (The refund process is pretty straightforward, and there's nothing you have to physically return.)

Whether Quicken Mac will work well, or well-enough, for you is something no one here can answer. We all use and depend on different features of Quicken, so what's fine for one user is inadequate for another. And so trying Quicken Mac for a few weeks is really your best bet to assess if this will be viable for you.

If you find Quicken Mac is missing functionality you need, another option would be for you to install a Windows "virtual machine" (software emulator program), like Parallels, and run Quicken Windows on your Mac. Your purchase of Quicken 2019 allows you to use both the Mac and Windows versions, so if your Mac trial turns into a dead-end, you might consider using the current Windows product on your Mac. Of course, you need to purchase and install the virtual machine software, which is another expense and more complexity; however, these programs have gotten very good, and significantly faster, over the years, so it's a very viable choice to run Quicken Windows on your Mac if you determine the native Mac program doesn't yet meet your needs.

Beijing Mac:   I've successfully used GParted from a live USB to resize bootable NTFS partitions.  The point is, we can undo and resize.

Jim In Chicago

The level of success and difficulty will depend on the nature of you data and other technicalities. THe best way to see the results is to try it out. You can buy Quicken with a 30-day no questions asked money back guarantee. 

That said, If you decide to migrate your data, you do need to convert. Since your data is from QW2010 or newer, the mechanics are quite simple...copy data file over to Mac. Open data file with QM2018. The built-in conversion process will step you through but there are a few things you need to know; here is the entire process:
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/faq-converting-from-quicken-for-windows-includin...
In your case, you can skip steps 1 and 2 but review all the prep and background info before:
https://www.quicken.com/support/things-do-converting-your-data-quicken-mac-2016

NOTE: Be aware that at this time, it is very difficult to convert back from Mac to Windows, as there are many problems with the reverse conversion process.

I also suggest that you make sure that Quicken 2019 for Mac will meet your needs, since it was re-written from the ground up (first with Quicken Essentials in 2010, then again with QM2015 onward) and is not the same product as the Windows version, so there are some features that are still not there e.g. full loan amortization*, 2-line display, QuickMath, or are not as fully developed yet, e.g. Customized Reports, some investment performance reports and stats  (therefore some data may not carry over). You can start here:
http://www.quicken.com/mac/compare
https://www.quicken.com/whats-new-quicken
https://www.quicken.com/mac/upgrader-compare

*NOTE: Support for fixed rate loans has been released as of  QM2017 v4.5.x but there is no announced timing for support for variable rate or simple daily interest loans.

You may want to review the List of Obstacles and Hindrances for Migrating from QM2007 or QWin to Quicken for Mac. Add your vote to any features that are missing for you. Your VOTES matter!

Be aware of data that will and will not carry forward: 
https://www.quicken.com/support/what-data-gets-carried-over
(A couple more things to note: historical currency rates are not migrated AND currency conversions of transactions are not migrated).

Then look at the updates since the original release here:
https://www.quicken.com/support/2018-release-quicken-mac-release-notes
You will also want to look at a more detailed comparison done by a SuperUser which also identifies nuances not mentioned elsewhere (and read on for comments from other users too on that same discussion thread): 
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/can-anyone-who-has-switched-from-2007-to-2015-he...
Take a look at the following videos to give you a better idea:
https://www.youtube.com/user/QuickenMac

Note that there are many differences that are rather subtle, that are not necessarily identifiable via documentation, for example, the 12-month budget feature does not allow including transfers, including investment income, selecting specific accounts,  or have rollover capability.

If you find that QM2019 does not meet your needs, the alternative is to run Quicken for Windows in a virtual machine on your Mac. There are 5 popular products you can use: Parallels, VMWare Fusion, Oracle VirtualBox, Bootcamp or CrossOver. The first 4 require you to also buy a copy of Windows. The first 2 cost $50-80, the third and forth are free. CrossOver also costs about $50-$80 but does NOT require you to buy Windows.

If you plan to keep your PC & Mac, you could also run Quicken on the PC and use remote access (several free options, e.g. NoMachine and Teamviewer) to access Quicken from your Mac  (or even a tablet or phone) (see this great article for complete review of many options (most are free): http://machow2.com/rdp-for-mac/ ).

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

I hit a wall on the first step when you said to copy the file to the Mac and then open using QM2018.  Where do I get this?  I am buying 2019 for Mac--Right?  What to do?

smayer97

The level of success and difficulty will depend on the nature of you data and other technicalities. THe best way to see the results is to try it out. You can buy Quicken with a 30-day no questions asked money back guarantee. 

That said, If you decide to migrate your data, you do need to convert. Since your data is from QW2010 or newer, the mechanics are quite simple...copy data file over to Mac. Open data file with QM2018. The built-in conversion process will step you through but there are a few things you need to know; here is the entire process:
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/faq-converting-from-quicken-for-windows-includin...
In your case, you can skip steps 1 and 2 but review all the prep and background info before:
https://www.quicken.com/support/things-do-converting-your-data-quicken-mac-2016

NOTE: Be aware that at this time, it is very difficult to convert back from Mac to Windows, as there are many problems with the reverse conversion process.

I also suggest that you make sure that Quicken 2019 for Mac will meet your needs, since it was re-written from the ground up (first with Quicken Essentials in 2010, then again with QM2015 onward) and is not the same product as the Windows version, so there are some features that are still not there e.g. full loan amortization*, 2-line display, QuickMath, or are not as fully developed yet, e.g. Customized Reports, some investment performance reports and stats  (therefore some data may not carry over). You can start here:
http://www.quicken.com/mac/compare
https://www.quicken.com/whats-new-quicken
https://www.quicken.com/mac/upgrader-compare

*NOTE: Support for fixed rate loans has been released as of  QM2017 v4.5.x but there is no announced timing for support for variable rate or simple daily interest loans.

You may want to review the List of Obstacles and Hindrances for Migrating from QM2007 or QWin to Quicken for Mac. Add your vote to any features that are missing for you. Your VOTES matter!

Be aware of data that will and will not carry forward: 
https://www.quicken.com/support/what-data-gets-carried-over
(A couple more things to note: historical currency rates are not migrated AND currency conversions of transactions are not migrated).

Then look at the updates since the original release here:
https://www.quicken.com/support/2018-release-quicken-mac-release-notes
You will also want to look at a more detailed comparison done by a SuperUser which also identifies nuances not mentioned elsewhere (and read on for comments from other users too on that same discussion thread): 
https://getsatisfaction.com/quickencommunity/topics/can-anyone-who-has-switched-from-2007-to-2015-he...
Take a look at the following videos to give you a better idea:
https://www.youtube.com/user/QuickenMac

Note that there are many differences that are rather subtle, that are not necessarily identifiable via documentation, for example, the 12-month budget feature does not allow including transfers, including investment income, selecting specific accounts,  or have rollover capability.

If you find that QM2019 does not meet your needs, the alternative is to run Quicken for Windows in a virtual machine on your Mac. There are 5 popular products you can use: Parallels, VMWare Fusion, Oracle VirtualBox, Bootcamp or CrossOver. The first 4 require you to also buy a copy of Windows. The first 2 cost $50-80, the third and forth are free. CrossOver also costs about $50-$80 but does NOT require you to buy Windows.

If you plan to keep your PC & Mac, you could also run Quicken on the PC and use remote access (several free options, e.g. NoMachine and Teamviewer) to access Quicken from your Mac  (or even a tablet or phone) (see this great article for complete review of many options (most are free): http://machow2.com/rdp-for-mac/ ).

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Yes, you get QMac. When you first start QMac, you select to Start from a Windows data file from the following window:


This will initiate the conversion process.

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Jim In Chicago

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

Greg_the_Geek

I'm totally confused. You said in your original post "My PC died so moving to one platform is my hope." Are you running the Quicken validation on Windows or Mac. You should NOT store your data file on your Google drive. That can lead to corruption. When you first installed and started Quicken Mac, one option was to convert a Windows file. Is that what you did?

smayer97

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

Not sure that there is a best practice. By default QMac stores the data file and backups in hidden folders inside the System folder. Though easily accessible once you know how, it always seemed strange to me. The motivation is that Apple discourages apps automatically creating/modifying files except in designated areas, unless specifically initiated by the user.

So, in practice, you can store your data file and backups anywhere you want. One caveat is with the introduction of iCloud automatic sync, Quicken does not play nice if the live data file is located in the Documents folder (the most obvious place for a user to store their data). So, best practice is to NOT store your live data file in any folder that is synced by iCloud. Otherwise, anywhere is fine.

Also, never store your live data file on Dropbox (backups are fine). There too may eventually lead to data corruption because Quicken does not operate well there either.

As to where your actual original data file is located, only you can tell. Someone with more direct experience with QWin can direct you on how to confirm which is your live data file. But for the purpose of the migration, any last file will do, since it should contain the latest data.

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

Jim In Chicago

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

My original file from 2016 for WIN is safe.  Could you point me to the files on the Mac version that together with the file ending in QDF would contain all the pieces the Mac version needs.  I was thinking of backing those up.  But if you tell me to skip that b/c having Quicken for Mac make a copy even to a flash drive will be the safety I'm looking for, I'll focus on more germane issues.

Jim In Chicago

Yes, but the directions on the Quicken site, once I logged in instructed that if I was wanting to move from the Win version to the Mac version that I needed to run Validation on the file I have from the Win version.  Understand that I have 2 backup copies of the QDF.  Once the validation made 1 fix, I bought 2 years for 2019 Mac version, put it on my mac and let it convert the file.  What I do NOT understand is that validation brought my file size from 30mb to nearly 60.  THAT is the file I had the 2019 Mac version convert.  Now the data file is only 10.7mb and is buried in the Library of the Mac in a folder many levels deep and is called documents but it looks almost hidden.  But the Prog in this Mac 2019 version looks great so far.  I just would like it to keep itself safe with extra copies somewhere.

smayer97

Yes, but the directions on the Quicken site, once I logged in instructed that if I was wanting to move from the Win version to the Mac version that I needed to run Validation on the file I have from the Win version.  Understand that I have 2 backup copies of the QDF.  Once the validation made 1 fix, I bought 2 years for 2019 Mac version, put it on my mac and let it convert the file.  What I do NOT understand is that validation brought my file size from 30mb to nearly 60.  THAT is the file I had the 2019 Mac version convert.  Now the data file is only 10.7mb and is buried in the Library of the Mac in a folder many levels deep and is called documents but it looks almost hidden.  But the Prog in this Mac 2019 version looks great so far.  I just would like it to keep itself safe with extra copies somewhere.

Greg the Geek was asking on what machine you ran the validation since you said your PC died.

As for backups of the QMac data files, you can use the built-in Automatic Backups (set up in Preferences) and designate any folder you want on your computer, including the DropBox folder, though again, by default, it will create a backup folder insider the hidden Library folder.

But if your intention is to back up to flash drives, I would select a location you can easily access on a regular basis so you can simply drag and drop the backup folder to your flash drive.

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jacobs

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

Jim, the default location for Quicken Mac files is inside the User Library folder, which macOS hides by default. The easiest way to get here is via the Finder: hold down the Option key and pull down the Go menu; you'll see "Library" in the dropdown menu -- but only while you're holding the Option key. Select Library. Within that folder, select Application Support, then within that Quicken. Your data file is stored inside the Documents folder here.

If you want to safely back up your existing Quicken Mac file, select the data file (ending with ".quicken") in this /Library/Application Support/Quicken/Documents folder and do File > Compress in the Finder. This creates a .zip file that will be invisible to Quicken. Or you can select the Quicken folder inside Application Support and Compress that to create a .zip file of the entire Quicken folder, if you want to backup everything including some support files, log files, etc.

A note about the .quicken file on the Mac. It shows to you as a file, but it's actually what macOS calls a "package", which is a wrapper around an entire hierarchy of files and folders. If you want to peek inside your Quicken data file, highlight it and right-click to select Show Package contents; that will open a window showing you the files and folders contained within. That said, there's nothing a user should do to the files inside this package, so other than curiosity, there's no reason to poke around inside.

Jim In Chicago

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

I'm suspecting there is no gain to attempt any backup other than backing up from the program, itself.  That file you mentioned is only 10.7mb as it sits in the documents folder and I know there must be other pieces b/c it WAS nearly 60mb before I converted to Mac 2019.  So, if I see this clearly, If I am in the Mac version and I select file/save a backup, I can save that anywhere and it will be all that's needed to get a new mac with Quicken for Mac up and going.  I did notice "Move" is one of the options.  Why and to where would a person do this?  Would that move everything Quicken Mac and unhide it?

smayer97

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

The automatic backup within Quicken only allows backing up to one location, so if you want to back up to more than one, you need another program, such as Time Machine or others. Plus, the default location is on the same drive, which only protects you from a damaged file but not from a damaged drive. 

The Move command only allows relocating of your live data file to a permanent new location of your choice. It is just a simplified way of moving the data file without having to dig to find the hidden folder that Quicken uses by default.

So between the built-in backup and any other backup software, this gives you the flexibility to choose how you want to manage your backup files and their locations.

(If you find this reply helpful, please be sure to click "Like", so others will know, thanks.)

jacobs

So late last night, when way too tired, my 73 year-old mind damaged by a subarachnoid  hemorrhage a few years back, decided to re-read all the suggestions and try this move from PC.  The first thing I did was to run validation on the file from my 2016 Windows version.  It took a little time and found 1 error in categories and told me to review.  But when the process finished, my file went from 30mb to 58mb.  Not sure why.  BUT in order to really confuse me, I asked this Quicken for Mac 2019 to show me the file on my computer and it shows up as only 10.7 mb and says it is stored in the documents folder!  In WIN, I had the QDF file in my Google drive and I was saving copies on flash drives and in my DropBox.  So where is it really, where should I keep it, and what's the best practice to backup this file?  Otherwise, all looks good so far but I've got a few passwords to put in.  And thanks for all this help!  Jim

Jim, did you have any attachments in your Windows data file? Those take up a significant amount of space, and don't transfer to the Mac.

Jim In Chicago

Yes, but the directions on the Quicken site, once I logged in instructed that if I was wanting to move from the Win version to the Mac version that I needed to run Validation on the file I have from the Win version.  Understand that I have 2 backup copies of the QDF.  Once the validation made 1 fix, I bought 2 years for 2019 Mac version, put it on my mac and let it convert the file.  What I do NOT understand is that validation brought my file size from 30mb to nearly 60.  THAT is the file I had the 2019 Mac version convert.  Now the data file is only 10.7mb and is buried in the Library of the Mac in a folder many levels deep and is called documents but it looks almost hidden.  But the Prog in this Mac 2019 version looks great so far.  I just would like it to keep itself safe with extra copies somewhere.

Ok, this should be my last question on this switch to Mac thing; many of these I have figured out.  But for the last 5 years I have kept a laptop at my home AND one at the home of my daughter and he family and the wonderful grand kids.  I could easily work with my Quicken file anywhere because I always knew there was a copy on my Google drive AND in my Dropbox.  But now I am told that the "files" are now buried in the library and there is more than just the one.  At least 1 superuser has said not to use move thanks!

smayer97

Yes, but the directions on the Quicken site, once I logged in instructed that if I was wanting to move from the Win version to the Mac version that I needed to run Validation on the file I have from the Win version.  Understand that I have 2 backup copies of the QDF.  Once the validation made 1 fix, I bought 2 years for 2019 Mac version, put it on my mac and let it convert the file.  What I do NOT understand is that validation brought my file size from 30mb to nearly 60.  THAT is the file I had the 2019 Mac version convert.  Now the data file is only 10.7mb and is buried in the Library of the Mac in a folder many levels deep and is called documents but it looks almost hidden.  But the Prog in this Mac 2019 version looks great so far.  I just would like it to keep itself safe with extra copies somewhere.

Were you storing your live data file on Google Drive or Dropbox? Clearly the most current one could not be in both places at the same time. This suggests that somehow you were either moving them from one to the other or backing up one to the other.

Storing the live data file in the cloud is strongly discouraged as Quicken does not support this and it has been reported many times how that can eventually lead to data corruption. So best practice is to:

1. have the data file on your local drive, then 
2. perform a backup to a cloud drive. Then 
3. when you go to any given computer, the first step would be to restore from the cloud drive. Once done, go back to step 2.. 

How you go about step 2 can simply be setting the automatic backup to store them in the cloud drive folder. This backup triggers each time you quit Quicken. Then how you perform step 3 is up to you... manual restore or some scripted restore.

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