Where Does VMware Store Virtual Machines by Default?
VMware Workstation and Fusion default virtual machine folders, and how preferences redirect them.
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VMware suggests a default folder for new virtual machines, but every VM remembers its own location. The default only affects machines created afterward.
Each VM is a folder with a .vmx config plus .vmdk disks. Moving that folder while the VM is powered off is the supported migration path.
Where VMware stores this, by platform
%USERPROFILE%\Documents\Virtual Machines
Check Edit > Preferences > Workspace for the live default. Each VM folder holds its .vmx and .vmdk files; move them with the VM powered off.
~/Virtual Machines
Check Fusion preferences for the live default. Same folder-per-VM layout as Windows.
~/vmware
Workstation and Player on Linux default under the home directory. Confirm in Edit > Preferences > Workspace, since installs vary.
Frequently asked questions
How do I change the default VM location?
In Workstation go to Edit > Preferences > Workspace. In Fusion go to Settings (or Preferences) > Default location. New VMs use the new path; existing VMs stay put until moved.
How do I move a VM to another drive?
Copy the whole VM folder (.vmx plus .vmdk files) with the VM powered off, then open the .vmx on the new host and choose I Moved It when asked. Snapshots travel inside the folder.
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