Amazon WorkSpaces vs VMware Horizon Suite: What are the differences?

Introduction

Key Differences between Amazon WorkSpaces and VMware Horizon Suite:

1. Desktop Virtualization Solutions: Amazon WorkSpaces is a Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) solution provided by Amazon Web Services, while VMware Horizon Suite is a comprehensive desktop virtualization solution by VMware that includes VDI, application virtualization, and remote desktop services.

2. Deployment Flexibility: Amazon WorkSpaces is a fully managed service that allows customers to quickly provision virtual desktops in the cloud, whereas VMware Horizon Suite offers both on-premises and cloud deployment options, providing flexibility based on the organization's requirements.

3. Integration with Ecosystem: Amazon WorkSpaces is tightly integrated with the AWS ecosystem, making it easier to leverage other AWS services, whereas VMware Horizon Suite offers seamless integration with VMware's suite of products such as VMware vSphere, vCenter, and NSX.

4. Cost Structure: Amazon WorkSpaces follows a pay-as-you-go pricing model, where customers are charged for only the resources they consume, while VMware Horizon Suite has a traditional licensing model that may involve upfront costs and ongoing maintenance fees.

5. Management Capabilities: Amazon WorkSpaces provides simplified management and automatic updates, suitable for organizations looking for a hands-off approach, whereas VMware Horizon Suite offers advanced management capabilities like granular control over user access and policies.

6. User Experience and Performance: Both solutions prioritize user experience, but Amazon WorkSpaces may have a slight edge in terms of performance and responsiveness due to its direct integration with AWS infrastructure and global footprint.

In Summary, Amazon WorkSpaces and VMware Horizon Suite differ in terms of deployment flexibility, integration with ecosystems, cost structure, management capabilities, and user experience and performance.