What is a Remote Desktop?

Microsoft Remote Desktop is a software application that allows users to remotely access and control a Windows-based computer or server from another device, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. It enables users to work on their computer from a different location, accessing files, applications, and resources as if they were physically present at the remote machine.

Remote Desktop empowers users to:

• Connect to their office networks, whether nestled at home or amidst the bustle of travel.
• Diagnose and fix software problems from afar, lessening downtime and increasing efficiency.
• Manage administrative responsibilities from any location, ensuring distance doesn't impede effective oversight.
• Effortlessly exchange files and data between different systems, fostering collaboration.

Why do you need Microsoft Remote Desktop alternatives?

While Remote Desktop boasts numerous advantages, such as bandwidth reduction, smart card authentication, and robust encryption, it's crucial to consider its drawbacks. Here's why exploring alternatives to Microsoft RDP is essential:

• Limited Administrative Access: Acquiring RDP access without administrative privileges presents challenges. The ideal solution involves setting up a Remote Desktop Protocol server or requesting specific software installation from the provider.

• Complex Setup Process: Setting up RDP can be daunting, especially for extending its usage beyond a local network, such as in remote work scenarios. Its lack of scalability adds to the complexity.

• Absence of Multi-Monitor Support: Unlike platforms like TeamViewer, RDP cannot utilize multiple screens within the terminal server environment, hindering seamless display switching.

• Impaired Multimedia Performance: RDP is optimized for text and image transmission, making it less suitable for tasks requiring advanced graphic capabilities like 3D rendering or video editing. Basic audio and video playback may suffer from performance issues, affecting the user experience.

• Compatibility Limitations: RDP functionality is limited to specific Windows editions like Pro, Business, and Ultimate, excluding Windows Home editions from accepting remote desktop connections.

• Single User Restriction: By default, RDP restricts access to a single user for a remote desktop session, posing challenges for collaborative scenarios or accommodating multiple users.

Top 10 Remote Desktop alternatives

As the pioneer in remote desktop software, Remote Desktop has faced growing competition from several emerging competitors in recent years. Here are the top 10 Windows Remote Desktop alternatives that you can choose from.

Option 1. AnyViewer

Topping the list of top remote desktop alternatives, AnyViewer excels in every aspect. With high performance, 4:4:4 color mode, minimal latency, and advanced security powered by end-to-end ECC-256 encryption, it’s a standout choice for any professional setup.

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS

Key Features

• High-speed file transfers
• Smooth and reliable screen sharing
• Screen walls for managing multiple devices at once
• Privacy mode to blackout remote computer screens under the master PC’s control

Pros:

• Free version available with no time limits
• End-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication ensure complete security and privacy
• Delivers high-performance remote connections
• User-friendly interface for quick and easy setup

Option 2. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is a remote control software developed by Google. It is widely compatible with different operating systems, like macOS, OS X, Chrome OS, Windows, and Linux. It only requires you to have Google Chrome installed on both computers and have a Google account, you can add Chrome Remote Desktop as an extension and start remote connection via it.

Compatibility

• Chrome OS, Android, Raspberry Pi, iOS, OS X, Windows, and Linux

Key Features

• Secured by WebRTC infrastructure
• Easy to use
• Real-time screen sharing for collaboration

Pros:

• Free usage model offers cost-effective solution
• Particularly well-suited for short-term individual needs
• Cross-platform compatibility enhances versatility

Cons:

• Encounters occasional connectivity issues
• Not recommended for commercial-oriented technical support purposes
• Stability of connections may be inconsistent

Option 3. Jump Desktop

Jump Desktop is made to function flawlessly on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android-based devices. While it is paid for Mac, iOS, and Android, it is free for Windows computers. So if you use a Windows system and need to connect to a Windows computer, you can choose Jump Desktop.

But Jump Desktop for Mac, iOS, and Android charge differently, and the payments don’t share. That means if you need to connect to a Mac from an iOS device, you need to purchase it twice. This is not very friendly for multi-device users.

Compatibility

• Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Android

Key Features

• Provides access to remote desktops with high frame rates and low latency
• Uses a secure encryption to ensure top-level security
• Facilitates easy troubleshooting of issues

Pros:

• Ultra-compatibility across various platforms
• Facilitates simultaneous access for two members to a single computer
• Budget-friendly pricing options available

Cons:

• Relatively slower performance compared to alternatives
• Majority of plans require annual billing
• Certain limitations apply when working with Linux systems as the master PC

Option 4. TeamViewer

TeamViewer is another application that can be used for remote control. It has a free version for private use. But if you use it for commercial purposes, you need to buy a paid license.

We should note that situations like a customer paying you for providing support and accessing a company computer for work-related activities will be detected by TeamViewer for a commercial purpose. It will block your connection after a few minutes. Therefore, if you need to work from home, TeamViewer may not be the best choice.

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, Android, and Web Services

Key Features

• Perfect features for any enterprise
• 99.99% uptime with 2.5 billion downloads
• Seamless integration with Salesforce, Freshworks, Microsoft Teams, and more

Pros:

• Snapshot recording functionality enhances user experience
• Convenient setup process facilitates quick deployment
• Intuitive and engaging user interface enhances usability

Cons:

• Cost-prohibitive for startups or budget-conscious users
• File transfer speed decreases when connected to multiple devices simultaneously
• Incompatibility with proxy servers restricts accessibility

Option 5. Splashtop

This RDP alternative is designed to provide innovative solutions for organizations, ensuring they meet HIPAA, FERPA, and PCI compliance requirements with strong security measures like TLS and 256-bit AES encryption.

Compatibility:

• Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iOS, and Android

Key Features:

• Supports high-end graphics with up to 60 fps
• Implements robust security to protect data
• Delivers 4K resolution at up to 30 fps and 1080p at up to 60 fps

Pros:

• Highly compatible across various devices
• Allows two users to access a single computer simultaneously
• Cost-effective pricing

Cons:

• Performance can be slow at times
• Most plans require annual billing
• Limited functionality for systems using Linux as the master PC

Option 6. FreeRDP

FreeRDP, released under the Apache license, provides seamless remote access to your data and software from any device, standing out for its impressive interoperability.

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, and Linux

Key Features

• Supports two command-line syntaxes
• Powered by an advanced command-line parsing engine
• Enhances remote computing with practical features

Pros

• Open-source and free to use
• Offers dynamic resolution updates
• Supports remote audio

Cons

• Installation requires technical expertise
• Limited community support
• Lacks innovative features

Option 7. SupRemo

SupRemo is a versatile desktop solution available on both the Play Store and App Store. It’s UAC-compatible and provides free support to address customer concerns.

Compatibility

• Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux

Key Features

• Facilitates meeting arrangements
• Budget-friendly plans starting at just five euros per month
• Simple, lightweight design

Pros:

• Customizable features
• Free updates included
• Unlimited installations

Cons:

• Can be challenging to use for some
• Occasional speed lags due to connection issues
• Prone to occasional errors

Option 8. Remmina

Remmina is another excellent remote desktop alternative, known for its unique features like kiosk mode and copyleft. Best of all, it’s completely free to use.

Compatibility

• RDP, VNC, NX, XDMCP, and SSH

Key Features

• Supports over 50 distributions and 67 languages
• Enables fast file sharing
• Offers plugins and multi-monitor functionality

Pros:

• Broad protocol support
• Intuitive, user-friendly interface
• Free and open-source

Cons:

• Limited compatibility with certain platforms
• Occasional stability and performance issues
• Lacks dedicated support

Option 9. Parsec

Parsec is a top-tier remote desktop app, delivers secure and effortless connections with 4K streaming at 60 fps. Its standout features include audit logs, SAML single sign-on, and advanced management tools for groups and computers.

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS

Key Features

• Supports privacy mode and multi-monitor streaming
• Provides seven-day audit logs for better activity tracking
• Offers centralized billing for simplified management

Pros:

• Exceptional input accuracy for smooth interactions
• Low latency for a highly responsive experience
• Secure connections established within seconds
• SOC 2 Type 1 certified for top-notch security

Cons:

• Comparatively expensive
• Some features need further refinement

Option 10. Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist is a feature-rich remote access solution, offering everything from consulting and customization to onboarding users with enterprise-level tools. Its seamless integration and compatibility across Linux, iOS, Windows, Mac, Android, and Chromebook make it a versatile option.

Compatibility

• Windows, Linux, iOS, Mac, Android, Chromebook

Key Features

• Provides outsourced MSP and IT support services
• Delivers smart IT help desk solutions
• Supports unattended remote access for improved efficiency

Pros:

• Secured with TLS 1.2 and AES 256-bit encryption
• No installation needed for quick access
• Allows rebranding and custom domain integration
• Excellent cross-platform compatibility

Cons:

• Does not support remote audio transfer
• The user interface can appear cluttered

Which alternative is the best?

When it comes to selecting the best remote desktop solution, our top pick is AnyViewer! It offers blazing-fast connection speeds and cutting-edge features like file transfer, screen sharing, and unattended remote access.

Here’s how to get started with AnyViewer:

Step 1. Install and run AnyViewer on both of your computers. Navigate to Log in and then Sign up on the Controller computer (if you have already registered on the official website, you can log in directly).

Step 2. You should now see that you have successfully logged into AnyViewer. Your device will be assigned to the account to which you have logged in automatically.

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the two devices. On the Controller computer, you can click One-click control to achieve a direct connection to the remote computer, or click File transfer to share files between computers.

Notes:✎...

AnyViewer extends its offerings to include Professional and Enterprise plans tailored to individuals and businesses with elevated requirements. These plans encompass:

Expanded device allocation within the same account for unattended access.

Increased allowance for concurrent connections simultaneously.

Privacy enhancements such as blacking out the remote PC screen and disabling remote keyboard and mouse clicks.

Accelerated file transfer speeds.

Additional screen walls for efficient management and monitoring of multiple devices.

Creation of enterprise device groups for streamlined management of extensive device portfolios.

Closing words

That wraps up our guide to the best Windows remote desktop alternatives! Each option has its unique strengths and weaknesses, but AnyViewer truly shines. With End-to-End ECC-256 encryption, ultra-low latency, and multi-resolution support, it simplifies remote work like no other. We hope you found this information useful—stay connected for more insights!