Best Remote Desktop Software for Mac: Top 10 Picks
This guide reviews the top 10 best remote desktop software for Mac. This post compares key features, pricing, and pros and cons to help you find the best option for your remote access needs.
By @Ellie Last Updated December 17, 2024
What is the best remote desktop software for Mac?
If your IT setup primarily revolves around Mac computers, finding the ideal remote access software can be challenging. Many options on the market are designed with Windows users in mind, leaving Mac users with fewer tailored choices.
Fortunately, specific criteria were considered to identify the best remote desktop software for Mac:
Is there a dedicated Mac desktop client, or is it limited to a web-based interface?
Does it deliver fast and reliable connections?
Is it compatible with a variety of devices, including Macs, PCs, and mobile platforms?
Are robust security features in place to protect data?
Is there a free trial for users to test its features?
Through thorough testing and research, the top ten remote desktop tools for Mac were identified. Among these, AnyViewer for Mac stood out as the best choice, delivering an exceptional remote access experience for Mac users.
10 best remote desktop software for Mac
This is an in-depth review of the top 10 remote desktop software options for Mac computers.
Option 1. AnyViewer
AnyViewer is a cutting-edge remote desktop access and management tool that provides smooth and reliable connections to Mac endpoints. While it's widely recognized for its Windows compatibility, its Mac desktop client is equally impressive, offering instant connectivity to other Macs, PCs, and mobile devices.
Customizable settings for resolution, frame rate, image quality, and color ratio.
Pricing Plans
Free: Lifetime access and a Pro trial with a 15-day money-back guarantee.
Pro: $3.58/month or $42.96/year.
Enterprise: $16.58/month or $199/year.
Pros
Compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms.
Offers low latency for seamless performance.
Provides robust security with ECC-256 encryption and two-factor authentication.
Cons
Limited functionality in the free version.
AnyViewer can be downloaded easily through its official website or app store. The software is guaranteed to be secure, free of viruses, and safe for installation. For additional details, visit the dedicated AnyViewer download page and enjoy hassle-free access to this trusted solution.
If you're new to remote desktop connections, Microsoft Remote Desktop is an excellent starting point. This free remote desktop solution for Mac allows seamless access to your PC from multiple devices.
Key Features
Provides full control over authorization and access.
Supports a command-line interface for advanced users.
Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
Pricing Plan
Completely free for Mac users.
Pros
Centralized file storage and backup options.
Simple installation and setup process.
Flexible and cost-effective.
Perfect for personal use.
Cons
Complex setup process for use outside the office.
Requires Pro, Business, or Ultimate editions of Windows for compatibility.
Option 3. Apple Remote Desktop
Apple Remote Desktop is an ideal option for anyone looking for a built-in solution to access Mac computers. It offers a straightforward way to provide client support, deploy applications, and manage multiple devices directly from your Mac.
It provides two remote access options: granting access to all users on your Mac or enabling both local and network users to connect remotely. It's a versatile solution for managing and accessing Mac systems.
Key Features
Encrypts files for secure data transfers.
Allows copying and pasting information between two computers.
Supports Remote Spotlight search for quick file access.
Pricing Plan
Available on the Apple App Store for $79.99.
Pros
Includes a Task Server for generating inventory reports.
Supports UNIX shell scripts and command execution.
Prevents end-users from viewing the screen during sessions.
Enables performing multiple actions in sequence.
Cons
Limited compatibility with non-Mac devices.
May be challenging for beginners to navigate.
Option 4. TeamViewer
TeamViewer stands out as a top remote desktop client for Mac that offers impressive scalability, flexibility, and security, making it a reliable choice for remote desktop needs. TeamViewer stands out as a leading platform with exceptional compatibility for both desktop and mobile devices.
Key Features
Supports mass deployment via MSI.
Allows unlimited connections.
Advanced security features, including conditional access, two-factor authentication (2FA), and single sign-on (SSO).
Pricing Plan for Teams
TeamViewer Premium: $52.90/month.
TeamViewer Corporate: $102.90/month.
Pros
Supports concurrent sessions for each connection.
Provides detailed reporting on outgoing and incoming connections.
Ensures 99.99% average uptime.
Includes a free trial option.
Cons
Limited feature updates.
Lacks automated security and some other key features.
Option 5. Splashtop
Splashtop is a reliable remote desktop app for Mac, offering seamless remote access and management for both personal and professional use. With its smart mobile support, it ensures an optimal experience across various devices.
Key Features
Provides robust security with TLS and 256-bit AES encryption.
Supports two-factor authentication (2FA), endpoint MFA, single sign-on (SSO) integration, and a blank screen feature.
Includes full-session audit logging for detailed tracking.
Pricing Plans
Business Access Solo: $5 per month
Business Access Pro: $8.25 per month per user
Business Access Performance: $12 per month per user
Enterprise: Custom pricing
Pros
GDPR and SOC 2 compliant for enhanced security.
24/7 intrusion detection.
Offers a free trial.
Ensures data privacy during sessions and remote sharing.
Cons
Complex billing options.
Whiteboard feature is only available on mobile devices.
Option 6. Parsec
Next on the list is Parsec, a remote desktop app for Mac that offers secure and easy connections with the added benefit of seamless 4K streaming at 60 frames per second. Parsec stands out due to its features like audit logs, SAML single sign-on, and advanced group and computer management capabilities.
Key Features
Supports privacy mode and multi-monitor streaming.
Provides seven-day audit logs for enhanced tracking.
Offers centralized billing options for ease of management.
Pricing Plans
Individuals (Warp): $9.99 per user/month
Teams: $35 per user/month
Enterprise: Custom pricing
Pros
Exceptional input accuracy for smooth interactions.
Reduced latency for a more responsive experience.
Secure connection establishment in just seconds.
SOC 2 Type 1 certified for higher security.
Cons
Relatively expensive compared to other options.
Some features still require improvement.
Option 7. Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a hassle-free solution for those tired of cluttered interfaces and complicated controls. This free remote desktop app for Mac combines speed and simplicity with seamless screen-sharing capabilities, making it a reliable option for personal and professional use.
Key Features
Free to use with the Chrome browser and a Google account.
Offers one-time screen sharing as well as unattended access.
Secured with modern web technologies like WebRTC.
Pricing Plan
Completely free remote desktop client for Mac.
Pros
Effortless setup process.
Quick and straightforward connection establishment.
Supports one-off screen sharing for convenience.
Delivers smooth performance with minimal lags or errors.
Cons
Lacks support for multiple-display setups.
No built-in chat feature.
Option 8. Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist stands out with its comprehensive features, offering everything from consulting and customization to onboarding users with enterprise-grade capabilities. With seamless integration and broad compatibility across Linux, iOS, Windows, Mac, Android, and Chromebook, it's a versatile choice for remote access.
Key Features
Provides outsourced MSP and IT support services.
Enables smart IT help desk solutions.
Supports unattended remote access for efficiency.
Pricing Plan
Remote Access:
Standard: $10/month
Professional: $15/month
Enterprise: $24/month
Unattended Access:
Standard: $10/month
Professional: $15/month
Pros
Secured with TLS 1.2 and AES 256-bit encryption.
No installation required for use.
Supports rebranding and custom domain integration.
Broad cross-platform compatibility.
Cons
Lacks remote audio transfer.
User interface can feel cluttered.
Option 9. Jump Desktop
Jump Desktop is an enterprise-grade RDP client for Mac designed to streamline remote access with top-tier security and convenience. With features like Cloud access logs to monitor employee activity and no need for VPNs or gateways, it's a robust solution for businesses.
Key Features
Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Customizable installers for saving time during setup.
Cloud storage of team access logs for up to 90 days.
Pricing Plan
Pro: $9.99 per user/month
Enterprise: $19.99 per user/month
Pros
Single Sign-On (SSO) for easy authentication.
Supports open standards for flexibility.
Allows unlimited simultaneous connections.
Offers convenient billing options.
Cons
Remote printing and audio streaming are unsupported in some scenarios.
Pricing may be steep for smaller startups.
Option 10. LogMeIn
LogMeIn provides a comprehensive IT management platform tailored to meet the needs of IT professionals and businesses. Its GoToMyPC solution ensures reliable remote access for Mac users, enabling organizations to manage Mac devices from any remote PC (Mac, Windows, or Linux) or mobile device.
Key Features
Advanced security with MFA, SSO, banking-grade encryption, and host access codes.
Integration with antivirus software and existing network security infrastructure for enhanced protection.
Drag-and-drop file transfer, remote printing, and guest invite functionality for improved flexibility.
Pricing Plans
Personal: $35 per computer/month — For individuals needing unlimited remote access with complimentary antivirus.
Pro: $33 per computer/month — Ideal for teams requiring admin controls and advanced billing features.
Corporate: $28 per computer/month — Designed for large teams with enhanced security and management tools.
Pros
Unified IT management suite that includes remote access for Mac.
Easy deployment and usability with minimal training.
Flexible tools for seamless Mac device management.
Cons
Expensive compared to other remote access options.
Performance issues, especially during file transfers, may affect productivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best remote desktop software for Mac depends on your unique needs and preferences. Among the options explored, AnyViewer for Mac stands out as the top choice for accessing other devices from Mac, offering fast connections, strong security, and easy cross-platform compatibility. With its user-friendly features and competitive pricing, it's a reliable solution for all your remote access needs.