Skip to content

Microsoft Gadgets vs NetSpeedMonitor

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Microsoft Gadgets icon
Microsoft Gadgets
NetSpeedMonitor icon
NetSpeedMonitor

Microsoft Gadgets vs NetSpeedMonitor: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Microsoft Gadgets: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

NetSpeedMonitor: NetSpeedMonitor is a free open source internet speed monitoring tool for Windows. It allows you to track your network speeds and usage over time. Useful for diagnosing connectivity issues.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Microsoft Gadgets NetSpeedMonitor
Sugggest Score — —
Category Os & Utilities Network & Admin
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Description: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Type: software

NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor

Description: NetSpeedMonitor is a free open source internet speed monitoring tool for Windows. It allows you to track your network speeds and usage over time. Useful for diagnosing connectivity issues.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets Features
  • Mini-applications that run on Windows desktop
  • Displayed information like news, weather, clocks, calendars
  • Customizable widgets for personal use
  • RSS/Atom feed support
  • Sidebar for organizing gadgets
  • Scripting support
NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor Features
  • Real-time monitoring of network speed
  • Graphical display of network usage over time
  • Ability to log network speeds for diagnostics
  • Alerts for network speed thresholds
  • Lightweight and resource friendly

Pros & Cons Analysis

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Pros

  • Convenient at-a-glance information
  • Highly customizable and personalizable
  • Added functionality to the desktop
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Performance impact on some systems
  • Limited selection of gadgets
  • Discontinued in Windows 8
NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Provides useful connectivity diagnostics
  • Customizable logging and alerts
  • Low resource usage

Cons

  • Limited to Windows platform
  • No advanced reporting features
  • Basic interface lacks polish
  • Alerts could be more configurable

Pricing Comparison

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
  • Not listed
NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor
  • Open Source

Related Comparisons

Paessler PRTG Network Monitor
vs Microsoft Gadgets vs NetSpeedMonitor

Learn More About Each Product

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

Microsoft Gadgets Alternatives
NetSpeedMonitor Alternatives
Browse More Software