The main difference between Power Automate Desktop vs Online is that the desktop version focuses on automating tasks directly on your local computer or virtual machines using Robotic Process Automation (RPA), while the online version (also known as Power Automate Cloud) is designed for cloud-based workflow automation across apps and services. In simple terms, Power Automate Desktop automates what happens on your PC, while Power Automate Online automates what happens in the cloud.
Both tools are part of Microsoft’s Power Automate ecosystem, and they often complement each other. Understanding their roles, capabilities, and limitations will help you decide which one best fits your automation goals. Let’s explore both in detail.
