Microsoft Teams Desktop vs Web App
Like many technology products, MS Teams offers a desktop version and an online version. The MS Teams desktop version offers full features and functionality, while the web app has some limitations. This guide shows a few differences to help you choose.
MS Teams Desktop
The MS Teams desktop version must be installed on your computer. It is the recommended option for all faculty, employees, and students using MS Teams for the best experience. The desktop version is considered better due to its ability to handle external cameras, headsets, and mics as well as save your local drafts if you lose internet connection. There are a few desktop features with greater functionality over the web app too, including:
- Take control; limited in web app to PowerPoints only
- Create or manage breakout rooms
- Start Whiteboard
- Pop out content
- Language interpretation
- Reduce background noise
- Produce or present a live event
- Share system audio
If MS Teams is already installed on your computer, you'll find it in your list of installed apps alphabetically under Microsoft Teams. If you already have it open while you work, it tries to join you to meetings this way. However, if you click a join meeting URL you may be prompted to make a choice. To join with the desktop version, you must select Join on the Teams app. Selecting Continue on this browser will open the web app version, not the desktop version.
MS Teams Web App
The MS Teams web app is accessed through Cardinal Apps. In Cardinal Apps, you can search for Teams, open the top-left waffle menu to find Teams, or scroll through the tile to find it alphabetically. If you click a Join Meeting URL instead of opening Teams through Cardinal Apps first, you'll be prompted to make a choice. Select the Continue on this browser option to use the web app.
- Best for times you need to join a meeting from a device that doesn't have the desktop version available.
- Not recommended for use in UIW classrooms.
- Is not compatible with AV systems.
- Does not allow creation of breakout rooms.
