How to Run Android Apps on Windows 10

Install the BlueStacks emulator to use Android apps on your PC

By
Aaron Peters
Aaron Peters
Writer
  • Villanova University
Aaron Peters is a writer with Lifewire who has 20+ years experience troubleshooting and writing about consumer and business technology. His work appears in Linux Journal, MakeUseOf, and others.
lifewire's editorial guidelines
Updated on January 4, 2024
Reviewed by
Ryan Perian
Reviewed by Ryan Perian
  • Western Governors University
Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions.
lifewire's editorial guidelines

In This Article

Jump to a Section

What to Know

  • An Android emulator like BlueStacks is the best way to play Android games and run other Android apps on Windows.
  • To control your phone from Windows 10, install AirDroid and turn on Screen Mirroring and Remote Control.

This article describes two ways to use Android apps on a Windows 10 PC.

Install BlueStacks to Run Android Apps on a PC

BlueStacks is one example of a free Android emulator. As an emulator, this software mimics Android on your Windows 10 computer. Use this method if there are Android games and other apps you want easy access to on Windows. You don't need an Android phone to use an emulator.

See our guide on how to use BlueStacks to run Android apps on Windows, or follow these general steps to get started:

  1. Download BlueStacks to your computer and then install it.

  2. Use the search bar at the top of the program to find an app to install.

  3. Select Install on App Player to get the app and start using it on your computer.

Use AirDroid to Mirror Android on Windows 10

AirDroid is a free app that runs on Android, so you need an Android device to use this method. Once it's installed, you can view your phone live on your computer screen. If you enable remote control, you can even control your phone from Windows 10.

  1. Install AirDroid on your phone.

  2. Open the app and tap Sign in. Log in using one of the options, such as your Google account.

  3. Tap Continue on the permission request to access your phone's files.

  4. Tap the toggle next to Allow access to manage all files.

  5. Tap Allow on the prompt for AirDroid to run in the background.

  6. Select OK on the Security & Remote Features screen to continue setup.

  7. Go to Screen Mirroring > Grant permission > Still enable to turn on screen mirroring functionality. This is necessary if you want to see your Android apps and screen from your computer.

  8. Select Continue on the prompt to allow display over other apps.

  9. Tap AirDroid from your list of apps.

  10. Tap the toggle next to Allow display over other apps.

  11. Return to AirDroid and go to Remote Control > Enable remote control > Still enable.

  12. Now you need to install a small add-on from the Play Store to actually enable remote control access between your computer and phone. To do this, follow the on-screen prompts to select Download and install > Download > Install.

  13. Return to AirDroid and tap Grant permissions > OK.

  14. Tap the toggle next to Use AirDroid Control Add-on, then tap Allow on the prompt.

  15. Tap Done on the screen that says remote control is enabled.

  16. Tap the Transfer tab at the bottom of AirDroid, followed by AirDroid Web.

  17. On your computer, enter the IP address and port number shown in the AirDroid app.

  18. When AirDroid opens on your computer, use one of the sign in options at the bottom to log in to the same account you signed in to from your phone.

  19. Select your Android device from the Choose a device prompt.

  20. Select Mirroring from the AirDroid desktop on your computer.

  21. You'll see your whole Android screen on your Windows computer. You can launch apps from either device to see them displayed on your Windows 10 PC.

FAQ
  • How do I connect my Android to my Windows PC?

    Connect your phone and PC with a USB cable and select Transfer files on your Android. On your PC, select Open device to view files > This PC. Alternatively, connect wirelessly via Bluetooth.

  • What is the best Android emulator?

    BlueStacks, Andy, Genymotion, Remix OS, and NoxPlayer are some of the most popular Android emulators for Windows. Android Studio from Google also has a built-in emulator.

  • Can I run Windows on Android?

    No, but you can use Microsoft Launcher to access Windows apps from your Android phone or tablet. Microsoft Launcher customizes your phone's look with Windows 10-style wallpapers, themes, and icons.

  • Can I use Android apps on Windows 11?

    Yes, Windows 11 supports Android apps. You can purchase Android apps for Windows 11 through the Microsoft Store. You do not need an emulator to run them.

Was this page helpful?