Microsoft Teams has gained massive popularity for businesses with the emergence of remote working. The versatility of Microsoft Teams is observed through the seamless efficiency of PC, Mac, or smartphone. However, it is essential to understand that the Teams’ versions of the app and web are not the same. In this guide, we will highlight Microsoft Desktop App Vs. Web version differences.
Microsoft Teams Desktop vs Web Version – What’s The Difference?
There are some differences between the app and web versions of Microsoft Teams. We will cover the differences so that you can have an informed decision before using them.
This comparison article will try to cover aspects like gaining access, performance, accessibility factors, etc.
- How to Access
- Browser Compatibility
- Features Comparison
- Performance
- Accessibility
- Comparison Table
Make sure to go through each to understand what can work best for you.
1. How to Gain Access
There are different ways to access the web version and desktop app one. To open the web app, you can visit https://teams.microsoft.com/. In the case of the desktop version, go to https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/microsoft-teams/download-app.
To access the web client, you need to navigate to the link mentioned above. But for desktop app users, you need to locate the software on your device and open it. Irrespective of your choice, you will need a username and password to log in to Microsoft Teams.
2. Browser Compatibility
Indeed, Microsoft Teams works efficiently with different browsers. However, some browsers offer better functionality than others. For professionals opting for the web version of Teams, Microsoft Edge is the best choice. Even Google Chrome has the parking and retrieving calls feature missing.
However, other browsers come with limited functionality. For instance, Teams doesn’t support Safari right now. But for Firefox, if the operating system is Linux, you can use Microsoft Teams.
3. Features Comparison
Both the app and web versions of the Microsoft Teams have the same core features. You can chat and video call with other participants with ease. However, there are some restrictions placed on the web client. That is why some businesses prefer to use the desktop version to gain full access to all features.
For instance, the online app versions don’t allow one-on-one call recordings. Moreover, you cannot blur the background when the ongoing video call. Apart from this, the feature of creating a breakout room is also not possible. Popping the chat out of the window or even producing a live event is restricted in the online version.
However, the most notable difference is the number of participants during the video call. For web clients, the number of participants is severely limited to only a single active speaker. But, for the desktop app, you can get 49 participants via the large gallery view.
4, Performance
It is the most challenging parameter to compare Microsoft Teams’ app and web versions. Some users have stated that they believe that the desktop version delivers much better performance when compared to the mobile one. However, there is not much concrete evidence for backing up the claims.
One aspect that can be considered is that the Microsoft Teams desktop app uses the device’s hardware along with the browser. That means that there is no reliance on one aspect. It could contribute to slightly better performance.
However, various factors determine the performance of Microsoft Teams. For instance, if users have numerous browser tabs kept open, there could drastically impact the video calls. Moreover, outdated hardware or other issues with the device can also lead to performance issues in the desktop app.
In that case, it won’t matter what version of Microsoft Teams you are using. That is why it is essential to ensure that the device is in optimal condition before comparing the two.
5. Accessibility
It is the parameter of accessibility where the web version of Microsoft Teams takes the lead. Irrespective of the device you use, it is easy to access the web browser. It makes it easy for users to participate in video conferences. Besides, there is no need to download the app once again. It highly appeals to mobile users.
The web client is sufficient if video calls are the only thing you want to use Teams for. However, if you’re going to opt for some other features that Microsoft Teams offer, you need to choose the desktop app.
It all comes down to the choice of the users. If you want to use the different features of the app version, go for it. But, if video conferencing is the only thing you need, the web client is the better choice. It takes a considerable amount of time to load the app to make the call. Make the decision based on your needs.
Microsoft Meeting App Vs. Web App (Comparison Table)
| Features | Desktop App | Web App |
|---|---|---|
| Blur Background in Between Video Call | Yes | No |
| Custom Background in Between Video Call | Yes | No |
| Together Mode | Yes | No |
| One-on-One Call Recording | Yes | No |
| Live Event | Yes | No |
| Whiteboard | Start and Sketch | Only Sketch |
| Breakout Rooms | Create and Join | Only Join |
| Presenter Role (While in Call) | Yes | No |
| Share Screen and Content (Live) | Yes | No |
| Share System Audio (Live) | Yes | No |
| Share Screen (In Chat) | Yes | Only Possible in Meetings or Calls |
| Chat Pop Up | Yes | No |
| Video Participants in Meetings | 49 | 1 |
Conclusion
There are not many differences between Microsoft Teams’ app and web version. However, the mobile version has some missing functionalities that the company is still working on. If you want to access all the features, the desktop version is better.
Do You Need Install Teams to Join an External?
No, you can join a meeting without installing the Teams app on your device. Click on the meeting invite and choose Join Microsoft Teams Meeting. You have two choices— join the meeting on the web or download the app. Select Join Meeting on the Web option.
