Install software: choose .msi or .exe?

Some software sites allow to download their software to be installed either as an .msi file or as an .exe file. When given the option, which one should one choose to download for installing software, i.e: what are the advantages of using the .msi file instead of the installer (.exe)?

I do understand the difference between both, in that the .msi file is an installation package that will be processed by a Windows installer executable. And the .exe file is an executable containing the installer and installation files. But what is the real benefit of choosing .msi over .exe. In the end, the result is the same. Or not?

Solution 1:

Usually msi packages are provided for system administrators who would have the need to deploy the software to several terminals over a network.

The results are no different from using an executable, but msi packages sometimes do have additional options such as doing silent or pre-configured installs.

If you are not a system administrator, use the executable.

Solution 2:

MSI files are relational databases and used by the Microsoft Installation Service. This service installs applications onto the computer. MSI files offer far more flexibility for application installation and maintenance than older scripted executable programs could ever provide, thus MSI files are the current recommended method for installations on Windows.