PuTTY vs MobaXTerm

by Gralio Feb 11, 2025

PuTTY and MobaXterm are both remote access tools, but they cater to different needs. PuTTY is a simple and free option for basic SSH connections, while MobaXterm provides a more feature-rich, but paid, solution for IT professionals requiring advanced functionalities like an integrated X server and SFTP client.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 452 reviews and 60 websites, saving 3 hours of reading.

PuTTY

Website

MobaXTerm

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About

PuTTY is a free tool that allows you to securely connect to computers from your Windows desktop. Think of it like a secure remote control for another computer, often used by IT professionals. While PuTTY itself is quite basic, it's known for being reliable and easy to use.

MobaXterm is a one-stop-shop application for working with remote computer systems. It's designed to be particularly useful for IT professionals, offering a range of tools like a terminal for running commands, a file transfer system, and the ability to run graphical programs from the remote computer on your Windows desktop. Essentially, it brings the most important elements of working with remote computers into one convenient package. MobaXterm offers a free version for home use and a paid 'Professional' version with more features for businesses.

Summary

Main difference

PuTTY is a lightweight, free, and open-source SSH client ideal for basic remote access. MobaXterm offers a more comprehensive suite of tools for remote computing, including an integrated X server and SFTP client, but comes with a paid license for professional use.

Relative strengths of PuTTY (compared to MobaXTerm)

Free and open-source.
Lightweight and portable.
Supports multiple protocols (SSH, Telnet, Serial).

Relative weaknesses of PuTTY (compared to MobaXTerm)

Limited UI customization and dated interface.
Difficult SSH key management.
No multi-tab feature for managing multiple sessions.

Who should use PuTTY VS. MobaXTerm

PuTTY is a free and open-source tool for secure remote computer access, popular among IT professionals for its reliability and ease of use. Users appreciate its lightweight portability and support for various protocols. However, some find SSH key management complex and the interface dated. It's ideal for those needing basic, reliable remote access without advanced features.

MobaXterm is a versatile remote access tool loved by IT professionals for its all-in-one design, user-friendly interface, and integrated SFTP browser. Users appreciate the seamless SSH session switching and built-in games. However, some have noted issues with monitoring file transfers and occasional crashes. MobaXterm offers a free version and a paid Professional version for enhanced features.

Ideal for small to enterprise-level businesses, especially those with IT teams.
Best fit for Software, IT & Telecommunications, suitable for various other sectors like E-commerce and Manufacturing.

Best for small to medium-sized businesses.
Ideal for IT professionals in software and education.

PuTTY and MobaXTerm features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

SCP transfer

Supported

PuTTY supports secure file transfers via its command-line tool, PSCP.

Supported

MobaXterm supports secure file transfers using SCP.
FTP transfer

Not supported

PuTTY does not support FTP but offers secure alternatives, PSCP and PSFTP.

Supported

MobaXterm supports FTP transfers, including setting up an FTP server.
SFTP transfer

Supported

PuTTY supports SFTP file transfers via its PSFTP component.

Supported

MobaXterm supports secure file transfers using the SFTP protocol.
SSH Support

Supported

PuTTY supports SSH connections for secure remote server access.

Supported

MobaXterm supports SSH connections, including advanced features like SSH gateways.
Telnet Support

Supported

PuTTY supports Telnet connections but its use is discouraged due to security risks.

Supported

MobaXterm supports Telnet connections for remote sessions.
Mac Support

Supported

PuTTY can access Macs via SSH if they have it enabled, but not full remote desktop.

Not supported

MobaXterm is not available for macOS and cannot be used to remotely access Macs.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

No data

No data
Customer Service

No data

No data
Ease of Use

+1

Strongly positive sentiment

+1

Strongly positive sentiment
Reliability and Performance

+1

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.43

Rather positive sentiment
Ease of Implementation

+0.33

Rather positive sentiment

No data
Scalability

No data

No data

PuTTY and MobaXTerm Pricing

No data

User sentiment

Strongly positive

We couldn't find a pricing page for PuTTY.

MobaXterm offers a free Home Edition with limited features and a paid Professional Edition with unlimited features and enhanced capabilities. The Professional Edition is available for $69 per user per year.

Plans

See full Pricing page

PuTTY and MobaXTerm review insights

451 reviews analysed from

Users love

Free and open-source, readily available.
Lightweight and portable; no installation required.
Supports various protocols (SSH, Telnet, Serial).
Simple and intuitive interface for basic use.
Allows saving of session configurations.

Seamless switching between multiple SSH sessions.
User-friendly interface with self-explanatory icons.
Integrated SFTP browser and file transfer capabilities.
Built-in games (Snake, 2048) provide a fun break.
In-built editors for quick file edits.

Users dislike

Difficult SSH key management; requires conversion using PuTTYgen.
Lacks built-in support for common key formats like standard RSA.
Can time out or freeze during inactivity, requiring re-login.
Limited UI customization options and a dated interface.
No multi-tab feature for managing multiple sessions.

File transfers cannot be monitored easily, hindering audit trails.
Occasional crashes, especially with multiple active sessions.
Limited custom shortcut options.
No active check or status display for saved sessions.
Lacks a startup session preference; defaults to local machine.

PuTTY and MobaXTerm Ratings

G2

4.5/5

(347)

G2

4.6/5

(107)
TrustPilot

3.6/5

(1)

Company health

Employee growth

No data

Web traffic

No data

Financing

No data

How does MobaXterm's integrated SFTP compare to PuTTY's PSFTP?

MobaXterm offers a graphical, integrated SFTP browser within its main interface, allowing for easy file browsing, transfer, and management alongside its terminal. PuTTY, on the other hand, relies on the separate command-line PSFTP utility for SFTP transfers. This means users have to open a separate window and use commands, making MobaXterm's approach more user-friendly for file-related tasks.

Which product offers easier SSH key management for daily use?

MobaXterm offers easier SSH key management for daily use. PuTTY requires using the external PuTTYgen utility for key conversion, while MobaXterm has more streamlined key management features built-in. This simplifies setup and use for SSH connections.

What are the advantages of PuTTY?

PuTTY's advantages include being free and open-source, its lightweight and portable nature (no installation required), support for various protocols (SSH, Telnet, Serial), a simple and intuitive interface, and the ability to save session configurations. It's particularly beneficial for users who prioritize a basic, reliable, and free tool for remote access.

What are the disadvantages of PuTTY?

PuTTY's disadvantages include difficult SSH key management, requiring the use of a separate tool (PuTTYgen) and lacking support for common key formats. The interface is dated with limited customization and no multi-tab support for managing multiple sessions. It can also experience timeouts and freezes during inactivity.

Alternatives to PuTTY and MobaXTerm

Solar-PuTTY

Solar-PuTTY is a free, open-source terminal emulator and network file transfer application. It lets you securely access and manage remote computer systems using protocols like SSH and Telnet. Think of it as a secure window to work with your company's servers or network devices from anywhere. While offering a simple and familiar interface, it's powerful enough for IT professionals but easy enough for anyone comfortable with basic computer tasks.

AnyViewer

AnyViewer is a remote access tool that lets you connect to and control computers from anywhere using a simple security code. It allows for file transfer, remote support, and even gaming on a remote desktop. While offering features for personal use, it also provides solutions for businesses to enable secure remote work and IT support. AnyViewer is compatible with Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

NetSupport Manager

NetSupport Manager is a remote access tool that allows IT professionals to control computers and servers from anywhere. It offers a range of features for remote support, including screen sharing, file transfer, and remote command execution. NetSupport Manager prioritizes security, utilizing encryption and two-factor authentication. It's a good fit for mid-sized companies looking for a reliable and secure way to manage and support their IT infrastructure without recurring subscription fees.

TeamViewer Remote

TeamViewer Remote is a software solution designed for secure remote access and support, primarily aimed at small and medium-sized businesses. It allows you to access and control remote computers or mobile devices as if you were physically present, enabling IT support and troubleshooting from anywhere. This can be particularly useful for providing remote assistance to employees or resolving technical issues on unattended devices. A free version is available for personal use.

Cameyo

Cameyo is a cloud-based software that lets your employees access work apps from any device without the need for a company computer. It's like having a virtual work computer that can be accessed from anywhere. Cameyo is a cost-effective and secure alternative to traditional methods, such as VPNs, and is designed to be easy to use and quick to deploy. It is now part of Google.

AnyDesk

AnyDesk is a remote desktop software that allows you to access and control computers and devices remotely. It's known for its speed, user-friendliness, and strong security features. AnyDesk caters to a variety of users, from individuals to large organizations, and offers both cloud-based and on-premise solutions, making it suitable for different needs and security preferences. It's a versatile tool for remote support, work, and access.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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