BlueStacks is a free Android emulator for Windows, version 5.22.166.1003, published by now.gg, Inc. The download goes to the official server ak-build.bluestacks.com, and we do not host the file.
Who it suits: Android games on a PC
BlueStacks lets you play Android games on a PC, or try them from a cloud. It sits in our Android emulators category. Its tags cover Google Play Store access, virtual machine use and emulation.
The 3563.4 MB installer and the price
The Windows package is 3563.4 MB, so plan for a large download. The app is free and the license is proprietary. Check the developer site for hardware requirements before installing.
Alternatives to compare
Genymotion, Android Studio and Google Play Games are the listed alternatives. They cover other approaches to running Android software on a computer.
What's new in 5.22.166.1003
The February 13, 2026 release contains enhancements for performance and stability in BlueStacks 5.
BlueStacks pros and cons
Pros
- Free to download
- Runs Android games on a Windows PC
- Optional cloud mode for trying games instantly
- Update released February 13, 2026
Cons
- Large 3563.4 MB download
- Proprietary license, not open source
- Large download of 3563.4 MB
Is BlueStacks safe?
The file is served from the official host ak-build.bluestacks.com, and the publisher is now.gg, Inc. The license is proprietary. No independent security review is available, so download only from the official link and keep your antivirus active.
How to install BlueStacks
- Press the download button to get the official file.
- Run the installer you saved and confirm the Windows security prompt if the publisher matches.
- Follow the setup steps, then start BlueStacks from the Start menu.
