Comparing Microsoft accounts and local accounts on Windows 10
Comparing Microsoft accounts and local accounts on Windows 10
You're evaluating whether to move to a Microsoft account for your devices. Since the information you found is from 2016-2017, consider how much has changed since then. If you don’t mind two-factor authentication and have no concerns, switching could be beneficial, especially with the advantages of syncing settings across devices. Your current setup with seven Windows 10 installations and the upcoming ODroid H2 adds value to this decision. What do you currently use for accounts, and what matters most to you?
This reminds me of a valid concern—I prefer simple local account passwords so I don’t have to change my Microsoft credentials. It seems like keeping local accounts is the best choice for me right now.
I've worked with Windows 10 using both a personal and a Microsoft account. The main advantage is that you don’t have to enter your username and password for Microsoft services like Skype or OneDrive. But if you prefer not to stay logged in, that might not be a perk for you. On the other hand, if you want constant access, you could simply log in without logging out. Still, there are some drawbacks. When using a Microsoft account, Microsoft collects more data from you, and this information is linked to more personal details than when using a local account. Additionally, your Windows user folder name becomes confusing and hard to read—like "kujo-6" or "delic-8"—whereas a local account keeps the folder clean and organized. Overall, there are no real benefits to using a Microsoft account; instead, you face issues with cluttered folders, reduced privacy, increased data collection, and more personal information being gathered. Using a Microsoft account with Windows 10 is essentially about Microsoft’s interests, offering no clear advantage to the user beyond convenience.
In short, Microsoft accounts let you connect your devices seamlessly. Start with OneDrive and stay linked across systems, as everything stays connected to your main Microsoft account. Your purchases remain intact across devices, and you can access files or apps from any device tied to your account. Sync features include phone integration, notifications, and even sharing content like documents or media between PC and mobile. Security stays strong—your password is protected by Microsoft servers, not your local device, so you’re safe whether online or offline. This unified approach turns multiple devices into a cohesive Microsoft experience.
Thanks for the update @GoodBytes. I appreciate the suggestion about using a local account. It would help me avoid opening KeePass each time I connect via RDP, especially since I already use a PIN for local access. I’d prefer keeping my MS account secure with a strong password that’s hard for me to recall.