Microsoft Hyper-V vs Citrix Hypervisor
We've analyzed the technical infrastructure and pricing tiers of both Microsoft Hyper-V and Citrix Hypervisor to see which comes out on top for Virtualization Software.
Microsoft Hyper-V
Windows Enterprise Users
Native hypervisor allowing you to run multiple operating systems as virtual machines on Windows.
Highs
- Included with Windows Pro/Enterprise
- Excellent performance for Windows guests
- Deep OS integration
Lows
- Can conflict with other hypervisors
- Linux support is improving but not perfect
Featured Capabilities
- Native Windows integration
- Hardware virtualization
- Live migration
- Dynamic memory
Citrix Hypervisor
Enterprise Deployments
A leading virtualization management platform optimized for application, desktop and server virtualization.
Highs
- Great for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI)
- Scalable for large datacenters
Lows
- Complex setup
- Expensive licensing
Featured Capabilities
- Enterprise-grade management
- Optimized for Citrix Virtual Apps
- Live migration
- GPU virtualization
The Final Verdict
After a head-to-head comparison of Microsoft Hyper-V and Citrix Hypervisor, the choice ultimately depends on your priority. If you value Included with Windows Pro/Enterprise, then Microsoft Hyper-V is your clear winner. However, if Great for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) is your main goal, Citrix Hypervisor might be the better fit.