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Amazon WorkSpaces

aws.amazon.com

From $3.25/mo Free plan WebWindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroid
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Spec score 9.4 #1 of 28 in Cloud PC Services

What it is

Amazon WorkSpaces delivers managed cloud desktops and applications for remote and hybrid users. WorkSpaces Personal provides a persistent virtual desktop that retains installed applications, files, and settings between sign-ins. Customers can choose AlwaysOn monthly subscriptions or AutoStop hourly metering with a monthly base fee. The listed Free Tier runs for up to three months: it includes either two Standard AutoStop desktops with 40 combined monthly hours or five Performance AutoStop Ubuntu desktops with 100 combined monthly hours. WorkSpaces applications supports image building and streaming on general-purpose, compute-optimized, memory-optimized, and GPU instance families. WorkSpaces DaaS includes persistent SSD-based storage and automatic backups; Amazon S3 or Amazon FSx can retain selected settings and files between sessions. Clients are listed for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPad, Android, Chromebook, and supported browsers. WorkSpaces Pools stopped accepting new customers on July 31, 2026, while existing customers can use it until December 31, 2027. Support for PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal ends October 31, 2027. The pricing note starts at $25/mo, and plan examples include additional hourly or instance charges.

Spec sheet

What it does
Amazon WorkSpaces provisions managed cloud virtual desktops that users can reach from devices or browsers.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Security
WorkSpaces requires TLS 1.2 and recommends TLS 1.3, with cipher suites that support perfect forward secrecy.Read 30 Sep 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Compliance
AWS lists WorkSpaces within compliance programs including SOC, PCI, FedRAMP and HIPAA, with audit reports available through AWS Artifact.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
API limitation
Some console operations, including troubleshooting and personalization functions, are not public APIs and are unavailable through SDKs.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Application streaming
WorkSpaces Applications streams desktop applications from AWS without requiring application rewrites and supports multi-session Windows fleets.Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Applications and GPU
WorkSpaces applications supports application image building and streaming on general purpose, compute optimized, memory optimized, and GPU instance families.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Billing options
WorkSpaces Personal offers AlwaysOn monthly subscriptions and AutoStop hourly metering with a monthly base fee.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Client availability
Native clients are offered for Windows, macOS, Ubuntu Linux, iPad and Android/Chromebook, with browser access through recent Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari versions.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Client licence
The client terms grant a limited non-exclusive licence and prohibit modification, distribution and reverse engineering, making the client proprietary.Read 14 Oct 2026 · clients.amazonworkspaces.com
Client platforms
WorkSpaces clients are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPad, Android, Chromebook, and supported web browsers.Read 30 Sep 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Company facts
LinkedIn lists Amazon Web Services as founded in 2006, headquartered in Seattle, and employing more than 10,001 people.Read 14 Oct 2026 · linkedin.com
Desktop models
WorkSpaces Personal provides persistent individual desktops, while WorkSpaces Pools provides non-persistent ephemeral desktops.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Encryption
AWS documents KMS/EBS encryption at rest and TLS-based encrypted transport for both PCoIP and DCV.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Free tier
The listed WorkSpaces Free Tier includes two Standard AutoStop desktops with 40 combined monthly hours, or five Performance AutoStop Ubuntu desktops with 100 combined monthly hours, for up to three months.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Identity and management
WorkSpaces DaaS supports AD and non-AD domain joined desktops, AWS IAM Identity Center brokering with providers such as Entra ID, and Intune endpoint management.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Identity integration
Windows WorkSpaces can use Microsoft Entra ID, Intune, managed Active Directory or an on-premises Active Directory connection.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Launch date
AWS announced Amazon WorkSpaces in limited preview on November 13, 2013.Read 14 Oct 2026 · press.aboutamazon.com
Limit: latency and cost
Independent reviewers repeatedly report network-dependent lag, slowdowns or disconnects and say high-specification bundles can make costs add up.Read 14 Oct 2026 · g2.com
Limit: mobile clients
App-store reviewers report connection failures and keyboard, sound or authentication problems in the Android and iPad clients.Read 14 Oct 2026 · apps.apple.com
Limit: outage recourse
A TechRadar report on the October 2025 AWS outage said service credits may be nominal and may not cover lost revenue or reputational damage.Read 14 Oct 2026 · techradar.com
Microsoft 365 and Office
Customers can bring Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise licenses to WorkSpaces DaaS or purchase Microsoft Office bundles from AWS.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Monitoring
CloudWatch, EventBridge and CloudTrail can provide WorkSpaces metrics, login events and API activity records.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
News: Advisor
On April 8, 2026 AWS announced WorkSpaces Advisor, which analyzes configurations and recommends fixes for troubleshooting.Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
News: AI agents
On June 30, 2026 AWS announced general availability of WorkSpaces for AI agents, including MCP tool forwarding and real-time session control.Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Operating systems
Supported desktop operating systems include Windows, Ubuntu Linux, Rocky Linux, Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Amazon Linux.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Ownership
Amazon Web Services, Inc. is listed by Amazon.com, Inc. as a wholly owned significant subsidiary.Read 14 Oct 2026 · sec.gov
Persistent desktops
WorkSpaces Personal gives users the same persistent virtual desktop when they sign in, with the ability to install applications and retain files and settings.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Platform limitation
AWS says support for PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal ends on October 31, 2027.Read 30 Sep 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Pools availability
WorkSpaces Pools stopped accepting new customers on July 31, 2026; existing customers can continue using it until December 31, 2027.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Praise: secure access
G2, Capterra and Software Advice reviewers repeatedly praise secure access from anywhere, centralized administration and AWS ecosystem integration.Read 14 Oct 2026 · g2.com
Protocol retirement
AWS says support for PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal ends on October 31, 2027.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Protocols
WorkSpaces supports the PCoIP and DCV streaming protocols.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Public API
The WorkSpaces API reference documents service actions, data types, parameters and errors, and resources can also be managed through the console, AWS CLI and SDKs.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Rating on Apple App Store
1.1 out of 5 from 58 ratingsRead 14 Oct 2026 · apps.apple.com
Rating on Capterra
4.3 out of 5 from 32 reviewsRead 14 Oct 2026 · capterra.com
Rating on G2
4.2 out of 5 from 110 reviewsRead 14 Oct 2026 · g2.com
Rating on Gartner Peer Insights
4.3 out of 5 from 523 ratingsRead 14 Oct 2026 · gartner.com
Rating on GetApp
4.3 out of 5 from 32 reviewsRead 14 Oct 2026 · getapp.com
Rating on Google Play
3.1 out of 5 from 865 reviewsRead 14 Oct 2026 · play.google.com
Rating on Software Advice
4.3 out of 5 from 32 reviewsRead 14 Oct 2026 · softwareadvice.com
Rating on TrustRadius
8.7 out of 10 from 39 reviews and ratingsRead 14 Oct 2026 · trustradius.com
SDK languages
CreateWorkspaces documentation links SDKs for C++, .NET, Go, Java, JavaScript, Kotlin, PHP, Python and Ruby.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Secure browser
WorkSpaces Secure Browser streams web content as encrypted pixels and offers controls for file transfer, printing, copy/paste, redaction and URL allow/block lists.Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Secure browser controls
WorkSpaces secure browser streams encrypted pixels from a browser session in AWS and offers controls for file transfers, printing, copy and paste, domain allowlists, and blocklists.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Security controls
Administrators can require MFA, encrypt volumes with AWS KMS, and restrict permitted client IP addresses.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Self-service
Users can be allowed to reboot, rebuild, change running mode or bundle and enlarge root or user volumes, with billing implications for some changes.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
Storage and backups
WorkSpaces DaaS includes persistent SSD-based user storage sized by bundle, with automatic backups; Amazon S3 or Amazon FSx can store selected user settings and files between sessions.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Support commitment
AWS states that WorkSpaces has a financially backed service-level agreement based on monthly uptime percentage and lists 99.9%.Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
System requirement
The current client table lists Windows 11, macOS 14-26, Ubuntu 22.04/24.04, current iPadOS and Android 14-16.Read 14 Oct 2026 · docs.aws.amazon.com
VDI integrations
The WorkSpaces family lists Citrix, Dizzion, Leostream, Omnissa and Workspot as VDI partners.Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com

Plans and prices

WorkSpaces free tier Free First 3 months 2 Standard bundles up to 40 combined hours/month · 5 Performance Ubuntu AutoStop bundles up to 100 combined hours/month Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Standby WorkSpace $3.25 a month $3.25/month plus $0.22/hour Standby WorkSpace · hourly usage charge Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
WorkSpaces applications — Windows single-session user fee $4.19 a month $4.19 per user per month, plus provisioned instance-hour charges Windows Server streaming sessions · instance price varies by type, size, and operating system Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
WorkSpaces secure browser — standard.regular (US East/Northern Virginia) $7 a month $7 per monthly active user; $0.035 per additional streaming hour over 200 Up to 200 streaming hours per monthly active user · regional pricing varies Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Ubuntu Power hourly $7.25 a month $7.25/month plus $0.66/hour 80GB root volume · 10GB user volume · hourly metering Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
WorkSpaces Personal AutoStop — Ubuntu Linux Power example (US West/Oregon) $7.25 a month $7.25 per month + $0.66 per hour 80 GB root volume · 10 GB user volume · Ubuntu Linux Power bundle Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com
Windows Value monthly $25 a month $25 per machine/month Windows bundle · monthly subscription Read 14 Oct 2026 · aws.amazon.com
WorkSpaces Personal AlwaysOn — Windows Standard example (US West/Oregon) $44 a month $44 per machine per month 175 GB root volume · 100 GB user volume · Windows Standard bundle Read 30 Sep 2026 · aws.amazon.com

Every Amazon WorkSpaces plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Persistent desktops retain applications, files, and settings.
  • AlwaysOn and AutoStop billing options are listed.
  • Free Tier offers desktops for up to three months.
  • Clients cover Windows, macOS, Linux, iPad, Android, and Chromebook.
  • A 99.9% monthly uptime SLA is listed.

Limits

  • WorkSpaces Pools no longer accepts new customers.
  • PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal support ends October 31, 2027.
  • AutoStop examples add hourly charges to monthly fees.

Who it suits

WorkSpaces suits remote and hybrid users who need managed cloud desktops or streamed applications. It may also suit organizations looking for persistent desktops, GPU options, or endpoint management integrations.

Amazon WorkSpaces in depth

Read the full write-up

Overview

Amazon WorkSpaces is a managed cloud service for delivering desktops and applications. It suits organizations that need persistent virtual desktops, streamed applications, or a secure browser across a broad range of client devices. Its range is a strength, but buyers need to choose the right WorkSpaces offering and account for usage-based charges and product retirement dates.

Key features

Persistent desktops and flexible billing

WorkSpaces Personal keeps a user’s desktop, installed applications, files, and settings available at sign-in. That continuity is useful for people who need a consistent work environment; persistent SSD storage and automatic backups add resilience, though storage size depends on the selected bundle. AlwaysOn charges a monthly subscription, while AutoStop combines a monthly base fee with hourly metering. AutoStop can suit intermittent use, but its hourly component makes the final cost sensitive to time in use.

Application delivery and browser access

WorkSpaces applications supports image building and streaming on general-purpose, compute-optimized, memory-optimized, and GPU instance families. That breadth can accommodate different application workloads, but instance charges sit alongside the monthly user fee. The secure browser streams encrypted pixels from a browser session in AWS and lets administrators control file transfer, printing, copy and paste, and allowed or blocked domains. It is a focused option for browser-based access rather than a full desktop.

Identity, storage, and security

WorkSpaces DaaS supports domain-joined desktops with or without Active Directory, AWS IAM Identity Center brokering with providers such as Entra ID, and Intune endpoint management. Organizations can bring Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise licenses or purchase Microsoft Office bundles from AWS. Amazon S3 or Amazon FSx can retain selected settings and files between sessions. WorkSpaces requires TLS 1.2, recommends TLS 1.3, and uses cipher suites supporting perfect forward secrecy. AWS states a financially backed service-level agreement based on monthly uptime percentage and lists 99.9%.

Lifecycle and compatibility

WorkSpaces Pools stopped accepting new customers on July 31, 2026; existing customers can continue using it until December 31, 2027. AWS says support for PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal ends on October 31, 2027. These dates matter for new deployments and migration planning: Pools is not an option for new customers, and PCoIP-based Personal deployments need a transition plan.

Pricing

WorkSpaces is paid, with a stated starting price of $25/mo, and it also offers a free plan and free trial. The Free Tier runs for up to three months and includes either two Standard AutoStop desktops with 40 combined monthly hours, or five Performance AutoStop Ubuntu desktops with 100 combined monthly hours. Those shared hour limits make it a limited evaluation, not an open-ended free service.

OptionPrice and termsBest fitWorkSpaces applications — Windows single-session user fee$4.19 a month, billed $4.19 per user per month, plus provisioned instance-hour charges; Windows Server streaming sessions. Instance price varies by type, size, and operating system.Application streaming when per-user fees alone are not the full cost picture.WorkSpaces secure browser — standard.regular (US East/Northern Virginia)$7 a month, billed $7 per monthly active user; $0.035 per additional streaming hour over 200. Up to 200 streaming hours per monthly active user; regional pricing varies.Browser access within the stated monthly hours.WorkSpaces Personal AutoStop — Ubuntu Linux Power example (US West/Oregon)$7.25 a month, billed $7.25 per month + $0.66 per hour; 80 GB root volume and 10 GB user volume.Ubuntu Linux Power desktops with usage-based billing; the hourly charge can raise the monthly total.WorkSpaces Personal AlwaysOn — Windows Standard example (US West/Oregon)$44 a month, billed $44 per machine per month; 175 GB root volume and 100 GB user volume.A persistent Windows Standard desktop with a fixed monthly machine charge.These examples cover different offerings and regions, so they are not directly interchangeable prices. The cheapest monthly examples still have important qualifications: the applications fee excludes instance-hour charges, secure browser adds a charge beyond 200 hours, and AutoStop adds hourly costs. AlwaysOn avoids hourly metering in this example, but costs more per machine each month.

Platforms

Clients are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iPad, Android, Chromebook, and supported web browsers. That range accommodates mixed-device workforces, although PCoIP-based WorkSpaces Personal support ends on October 31, 2027.

Who it's for

WorkSpaces is a strong fit for organizations that need centrally managed, persistent desktops or streamed applications across remote and hybrid teams, especially when identity, endpoint management, or VDI integrations matter. It is less suitable for buyers seeking a single predictable per-user price: costs vary with the service, region, bundle, and usage, and some options add instance-hour charges.

Pros and cons

Pros: Persistent desktops retain applications, files, and settings, with SSD-based user storage and automatic backups.

Pros: Application delivery spans general-purpose through GPU instance families, while secure browser provides granular session controls.

Pros: Broad client support and integrations with Citrix, Dizzion, Leostream, Omnissa, and Workspot can suit varied environments.

Cons: Billing is fragmented across monthly fees, hourly metering, and provisioned instance charges, making cost comparison less straightforward.

Cons: The Free Tier is capped by combined monthly hours and ends after up to three months.

Cons: Pools is closed to new customers, and PCoIP-based Personal support has a stated end date.

Alternatives

For a wider comparison, see Cloud PC Services, Desktop as a Service Software, and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Software.

Ace Cloud Hosting Desktop as a Service offers a 100-user Windows Server 2022 Enterprise team-desktop plan at $352.19 a month, billed per user/month, and a free trial.

V2 Cloud is worth comparing for basic user workloads such as front-desk, data-entry, call-center, and administrative tasks; its Basic Users plan is $35 a month, billed from $35.00/mo.

MacinCloud may suit buyers who want day-based billing: Pay-As-You-Go starts at $4 a month, billed starting at US$4/day, with RDP, a static IP, and no admin/root access.

Shadow PC offers time-capped plans: Neo Lite is $29.99 a month for 120 hours and sessions up to 4 hours; Neo is $37.99 a month for 210 hours and sessions up to 6 hours.

Dizzion Cloud PC offers dedicated persistent desktops with Core or Complete tiers and CPU or GPU workload configurations; pricing is custom.

Infosaic Cloud Virtual Desktop has a Light plan at $11.95 a month, with 3 GB RAM, 4 virtual cores, an 80 GB system drive, and a 10 GB data drive.

Vagon Cloud Computer may suit buyers looking for an hourly-priced cloud computer.

Workspot Cloud PCs uses configurable desktop resources and use-based payment, with custom pricing.

Verdict

Choose Amazon WorkSpaces if your organization needs persistent desktops or application delivery across a broad client mix, and can manage multiple billing models and lifecycle dates. Look elsewhere if a simple, predictable per-user cost is the priority or if a closed or retiring option would disrupt your deployment.

Verdict

WorkSpaces offers multiple desktop and application delivery options, with persistent storage and broad client support. Review the retirement dates and compute charges carefully, since listed examples can add hourly costs.

Where Specifiction places it

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