What is the difference between Tableau Online and Tableau Desktop?
Tableau is a powerful and popular data visualization tool that helps you create interactive dashboards and reports. But did you know that there are two different versions of Tableau: Tableau Online and Tableau Desktop? In this article, we will explain what is the difference between Tableau Online and Tableau Desktop, and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Difference Between Tableau Online And Tableau Desktop
Tableau Online
Tableau Online is a cloud-based version of Tableau that allows you to access, analyze, and share your data from anywhere, anytime. You don't need to install any software or manage any servers. You can simply upload your data to Tableau Online, connect to various data sources, and create stunning visualizations in minutes. You can also collaborate with your team members and stakeholders by sharing your workbooks and dashboards online.
Pros of Tableau Online
Easy to set up and use: You don't need any IT support or technical skills to use Tableau Online. You can sign up for a free trial or a subscription plan, and start using it right away.
Scalable and secure: Tableau Online can handle large volumes of data and users without compromising on performance or security. You can also control who can access your data and visualizations with granular permissions and encryption.
Always up to date: Tableau Online is automatically updated with the latest features and enhancements. You don't need to worry about upgrading or maintaining your software.
Cons of Tableau Online
Cost: Tableau Online is a subscription-based service that charges per user per month. Depending on your usage and needs, this can be more expensive than buying a perpetual license for Tableau Desktop.
Data limitations: Tableau Online has some limitations on the size and type of data that you can upload or connect to. For example, you can only upload up to 15 GB of data per site, and you can only connect to certain web-based data sources such as Google Sheets, Salesforce, or Dropbox.
Customization restrictions: Tableau Online does not allow you to customize or extend its functionality with third-party tools or scripts. For example, you cannot use TabPy or R integration, custom geocoding, or web data connectors on Tableau Online.
Tableau Desktop
Tableau Desktop is a desktop-based version of Tableau that allows you to create, edit, and publish your data visualizations on your local computer. You need to install the software on your machine, and connect to your data sources either locally or remotely. You can then design and build your workbooks and dashboards using the intuitive drag-and-drop interface. You can also publish your workbooks and dashboards to Tableau Online or Tableau Server for sharing and collaboration.
Pros of Tableau Desktop
Flexible and powerful: Tableau Desktop gives you more control and flexibility over your data analysis and visualization. You can connect to a wide range of data sources, both online and offline, such as databases, files, web services, or APIs. You can also customize and extend your functionality with various tools and scripts, such as TabPy, R integration, custom geocoding, web data connectors, etc.
Creative and interactive: Tableau Desktop allows you to explore your data in different ways and create engaging visualizations that tell a story. You can use various chart types, filters, parameters, calculations, animations, maps, etc. to make your workbooks and dashboards more dynamic and interactive.
One-time purchase: Tableau Desktop is a one-time purchase that gives you a perpetual license for the software. You don't need to pay any recurring fees or subscriptions. However, you may need to pay for maintenance or support if you want to receive updates or technical assistance.
Cons of Tableau Desktop
Installation and maintenance: Tableau Desktop requires you to install the software on your computer, which may take some time and space. You also need to update the software manually whenever there is a new version or patch available.
Hardware requirements: Tableau Desktop depends on your computer's hardware specifications for its performance and speed
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