Windows 10中App与Program的区别咨询：含Skype实例分析

Great question! Let’s dive into the key distinctions between Windows 10 Apps (those you get from the Microsoft Store) and traditional desktop Programs, using Skype as a real-world example to highlight both universal differences and app-specific nuances.

These apply to almost all Store Apps and traditional desktop Programs:

• Installation & Deployment

  • Store Apps install in a sandboxed user-specific directory: %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages. No admin rights required, so regular users can install them without elevated permissions.
  • Traditional Programs typically install globally to C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86), and most require admin rights to set up (unless they’re portable "green" apps).

• Security & Sandboxing

  • Store Apps run in a restricted sandbox environment. They can only access system resources (like your photos, microphone, or location) if you explicitly grant permission, making them less risky for malware.
  • Desktop Programs have far broader system access by default. While this enables full functionality, it also means malicious programs can do more damage if compromised.

• Update Mechanism

  • Store Apps update automatically in the background (you can tweak settings for this), with no need to hunt for installers or run manual update wizards.
  • Desktop Programs rely on either manual downloads, built-in updaters (like Chrome’s background updates), or third-party tools to stay current.

• Resource Footprint & Performance

  • Store Apps are generally lighter weight, with faster startup times, but they often prioritize simplicity over full feature sets to keep resource usage low.
  • Desktop Programs tend to have more robust functionality but may use more CPU/RAM and take longer to launch, especially complex tools like video editors or IDEs.

• UI & Interaction

  • Store Apps follow WinUI (formerly Modern UI) guidelines, with touch-friendly layouts that adapt well to tablets, 2-in-1s, and different screen sizes.
  • Desktop Programs use classic Win32 interfaces, optimized for mouse and keyboard, with limited native support for touch gestures.

• Uninstallation

  • Store Apps can be uninstalled in one click via Settings > Apps > Apps & features, with minimal to no leftover files or registry entries.
  • Desktop Programs require running their dedicated uninstaller (often found in the Start Menu or Control Panel), and may leave behind residual files, registry keys, or temporary data.

Since Skype exists in both formats, here are the unique gaps between the two versions:

• Feature Set

  • The Store version of Skype has a stripped-down feature list: no advanced screen sharing options, no integration with Outlook calendar reminders, and limited support for third-party plugins.
  • The desktop exe version includes full meeting controls, support for Skype for Business integration, advanced audio/video settings, and the ability to add custom plugins.

• Account Flexibility

  • The Store version defaults to signing in with your system-linked Microsoft Account, with no option to use a standalone Skype account.
  • The desktop version lets you sign in with either a Microsoft Account or a classic Skype username/password, giving you more flexibility if you separate personal and work accounts.

• Background Behavior

  • The Store version is subject to Windows’ background app restrictions: it may be suspended when idle to save battery life, which can delay incoming message notifications.
  • The desktop version runs continuously in the background by default, ensuring you get real-time notifications but using more power on laptops/tablets.

• Hardware Compatibility

  • The desktop version supports a wider range of peripherals, including professional microphones, high-end webcams, and custom audio interfaces, with granular control over their settings.
  • The Store version has limited support for niche hardware, often only working with basic, widely used devices.

内容的提问来源于stack exchange，提问作者Millemila