15+ Best TeamViewer Alternatives: Best Remote Desktop Software
Jul. 14, 2021TeamViewer surely ranks as one of the best remote desktop software, but recent outages and stability issues have forced users to look for an alternative. Not to mention, constant lag and complex UI/UX make the experience worse, especially for new users. So in this article, we have compiled a list of the best TeamViewer alternatives which are equally capable and feature a variety of useful features includingWake-on-LAN, unattended access, 2FA, and more. On that note, let’s go ahead and find programs like TeamViewer which are free, but don’t have any niggling issues.
1. Chrome Remote Desktop
If you are looking for a no-frills TeamViewer alternative that is simple to use and does the job amply well, go for Chrome Remote Desktop. You only need the Chrome browser and an extension, and you can connect to any machine in no time. I have been using it for some time toconnect to Ubuntu and Chrome OScomputers from my Windows PC, and it works without any latency issues. There are also apps for Android and iOS in case you want to access your PC from your smartphone. Do note that you will have to sign in with your Google account for Chrome Remote Desktop to work.
As for security, it uses thestandard SSL/ TLS encryptionto establish a remote connection over the web. Also, yeah, there are no extra features like video/audio calling and text chat that are available on TeamViewer. But again, it’s meant for general consumers who want to connect to their machines remotely. However, you get support for keyboard shortcuts, clipboard syncing, display scaling, and more. All in all, Chrome Remote Desktop serves as a lightweight alternative to TeamViewer. It should serve the purpose of most users, and I think you wouldn’t have to look any further.ProsConsSimple, free, and easy to useNo video/ audio/ chat featuresBest for general usersNo file transferNo bloatwareRequires Google accountAvailable on all major platformsSupports keyboard shortcutsClipboard syncing
Pricing:FreePlatforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, and iOSVisit Website
Whenever one starts talking about TeamViewer alternatives, AnyDesk is the first software that comes to my mind. Just like TeamViewer, AnyDesk packs a ton of features, allowing you toaccess your devices remotelyfrom anywhere you want. My favorite thing about AnyDesk is thatthe service brings one of the fastest data transmission rates with 60 FPS screen sharing.
AnyDesk also brings low latency support, which means your actions are immediately transferred to your remotely controlled device, and the user interaction feels more natural. Another key feature of AnyDesk is that it supports almost all the major platforms. That includes Windows, Linux, Free BSD, macOS, iOS, and Android, so it’s great as a remote support solution.
Just recently, AnyDesk launched a new AnyDesk 7 upgrade that brings several new features, including an overhauled and more intuitive user experience and a simpler website UI to boot. Plus, you get features like resetting remote screen resolution, global security settings, improved language support, stronger password requirements, and more. AnyDesk is a powerful remote desktop tool, and it is one of the best TeamViewer alternatives you should try out.ProsConsLow latency and fast data transmissionsNone as suchLightweight at around 4MB in sizeCross-platformFeature-rich softwareSupports 2FA, Unattended access
Pricing:Free, paid plans start at $14.90/monthPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi,Chrome OS, FreeBSDVisit Website
Windows users looking for a free and lightweight remote desktop app like TeamViewer might love what UltraViewer has to offer. Ithas a size of just 1.5MBand packs several features that you usually find on TeamViewer. To begin with, this substitute app offers both portable and EXE packages, in case you don’t want to install the program on your computer. In my testing, I found UltraViewer to be pretty fast and responsive.
UltraViewer supports features, such as file sharing, chat window, multi-computer support, and more. And similar to TeamViewer, it also brings audio chat, but that is available to paid customers only.
Even if we consider the paid plans, UltraViewer is cheap compared to TeamViewer. Thepaid plans start at $3.99 per month, whereas TeamViewer’s base plan sets you back by $50.90 per month. I think UltraViewer is quite a capable remote desktop application. You should definitely give it a try, especially if you wish to save some precious bucks.ProsConsPortable packageWindows-onlyFast and responsiveFile sharingMulti-computer supportPretty inexpensiveAudio chat
Pricing:Free,Paid plans start at $3.99 per monthPlatform:WindowsVisit Website
If you are looking for afree and open-source alternativeto TeamViewer, DWService is the best option out there. Much like Chrome Remote Desktop, you can use DWService to connect to any platform through a web browser. All you have to do is install the agent on the host computer, and you can access the client machine just like that. The best part is that it also brings file transfer via the browser, shell access for Linux systems, resource monitor, text editor, and more.
I used the service on my Chromebook and Windows 11 PC, and it worked flawlessly. Talking about security, it uses the sameSSL securitystandard used on the web for real-time communication. And similar to TeamViewer, you have security features like 2FA for protecting the remote connection. To sum up, DWService is one of the best TeamViewer alternatives that you should definitely check out.
Pricing:Free,Paid plans start at $3 + taxesPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, WebVisit Website
Another great remote access software is Parallels Access. It provides one of the fastest, simplest, and most reliable remote access to your PC, from anywhere. The service allows users to access all applications, files, and computers in one place. My favorite feature of Parallels Access is its mobile apps.
While most of the remote desktop software mentioned on this list comes with its own mobile apps, Parallels Access gives you thebest mobile viewing experience. The connection never dropped in my testing, and all your touch inputs are recognized instantly on the computer being controlled.
Parallels Access also brings along its proprietary andunique “Applification” technology. It lets you use your desktop applications as if they were native apps for your iPhone, iPad, or Android mobile device. This nifty feature makes it easy to interact with desktop apps while accessing them on your mobile remotely.
It also brings an easily accessible magnifying glass along with the ability to copy and paste texts and filesprecisely. While most remote desktop software, including TeamViewer, heavily focuses on the desktop experience, Parallels Access is the only one whose key focus is the mobile experience. That makes this software unique and useful. Further, it’s a free alternative to TeamViewer for personal use.
Pricing:Free trial for 14 days, starts at $19.99/yearPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Android, iOSVisit Website
If you are after ahighly efficient cloud-based TeamViewer alternativeto manage devices in the IT department or offer IT support to customers, give serious consideration to Zoho Assist. Probably the biggest highlight of this software is its wide range of tools available at your disposal. It allows you to set up unattended remote access (both inside and outside LAN) and manage laptops, PCs, mobile devices, and even servers with the desired flexibility. Just like TeamViewer, Assist also supports multiple platforms so that you can take control of devices across platforms.
Another thing worth noting is that itworks pretty fast in establishing secure connections. So, just in case you find TeamViewer a little sluggish in establishing connections, this could be the right answer to your needs. The support for multiple monitors and the ability to automatically detect active monitors play a pivotal role in letting you navigate between several desktops and control them remotely.
Furthermore, thevoice and video chat featuremakes it more convenient for you to interact with your customers and sort out issues. Plus, it also lets you reboot the connected remote desktop with just a single click and reconnect to the session right away. Perfect for the times when you are helping your customer to troubleshoot any stubborn issues. Again, Assist outsmarts TeamViewer on this front.
That’s not all. With aseamless file transfer feature during a live session, Zoho Assist ensures you can send updates, patches, or any essential files to the remote desktop with ease. In terms of providing security to personal information during file transfer, Assist can make a match with TeamViewer’s prowess thanks to theSSL 256-bit AES encryption.
Pricing:15-day free trial, premium version starts at $12/monthPlatforms:macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome OS,WebVisit Website
Another easy-to-use solution for remote desktop control is ISL Light. This feature-rich service offers multiple ways to connect to remote desktops, as well as support for unattended access to systems. ISL Light allows users to connect via their desktop app, through a browser, via a link, and a plethora of other options that you can utilize as per your needs.
Businesses will also appreciate the support forcustom logos, WebAPI2 support for integrationwith third-party apps and services, and a variety of other customization options. Further, ISL Light also supportsconnecting via RDP and SSH, as well as an Administrator mode which lets the remote user restart a remote computer and resume their session with ease.ProsConsAES 256-bit encryptionQuite expensiveEasy connections with multiple optionsLAN only mode
Pricing:15 days free trial; Paid plans start at $125 per 500 minutesPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Windows PhoneVisit Website
Supremo markets itself as a powerful, easy, and complete solution for remote desktop control and support. It allows users to access a remote PC or host meetings in just a few seconds. One of the good things about this software is thatyou don’t need to install or patch anything. There’s only one executable file that is small in size and doesn’t need any installation.
Supremo is also safe to use and supports reliableAES 256-bit encryption, along with USilio, the IT Management Console. If you are a business, you will also appreciate that Supremo allows you to customize its user interface to display your company’s logo, something that TeamViewer doesn’t allow you to do.
The ability to display personal logos will come in really handy for anyone who wants to increase their brand awareness. Supremo is also easy to use.It uses a powerful data transfer protocol that doesn’t require any router/firewall configuration, allowing users to connect to everyone with just a few clicks. Also, Supremo is free to use for local networks. However, you need to buy a license if you want to access your PC from anywhere.ProsConsNo configuration or installation requiredNo voice supportUnattended remote accessNo remote printing supportMeetings supportIntegrated address bookModern and easy to navigate UI
Pricing:21 days free trial, starts at $6/month/user (paid annually)Platforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSVisit Website
Splashtop markets itself as an all-in-one solution for all your remote access needs. The service allows both individuals and teams to easily access their personal, as well as shared computers, with any device at any time. Splashtop focuses on security and ensures that your remote connection is always secured.
As such, all remote sessions are encrypted with TLS and 256-bit AES encryption (you can learn all aboutAES vs TKIPin our article). Access is further protected by the device authentication, two-step verification, and multiple 2nd-level password options. Splashtop seems to be geared towards companies that provide on-demand support, allowing MSPs, helpdesks, and service providers to provide attended/ ad-hoc support to clients.
The best part is that the clientdoesn’t need to install any software. The software allows companies to connect to clients’ desktops and mobile devices with the help of a simple 9-digit code. One more good thing about Splashtop is thatthe software is essentially free for personal use. Just like Supremo Control, you can use it to access devices on a local area network remotely without shelling out a penny.
So yeah, that makes Splashtop one of the cheapest remote access software for personal use, especially when compared to TeamViewer. The best part about this deal is that you are not losing on features as you get a full-fledged remote desktop experience.ProsConsHigh-quality video and audioFree version only works on a local networkGesture support on mobile appsComplicated variants of the software and plansGood ease of useCPU usage gets a little highGreat portable versionGood for businesses
Pricing:Free trial for 7 days, Paid plans start at $5/monthPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, LinuxVisit Website
LogMeIn Pro is another popular TeamViewer alternative that allows users to not only access their computers from any device but also to store and collaborate on files. Also, it allows for file sharing with just one click. Unlike TeamViewer and AnyDesk, whose primary focus is using remote desktop control to provide support, LogMeIn Proprovides users with remote access to their personal computers. This way, they can do their work no matter where they are.
While you can use either of the three services for both of those use-case scenarios, LogMeIn Pro specializes in the latter. And hence, it is a good option for any working professional who has to work remotely.
The features of LogMeIn Pro include the ability to access devices remotely, and 1TB offree cloud storage to quickly and securely share files with anyone. And if you use your ownaudio editing softwareto create music, you can stream high-quality audio on your nearby device using the files stored on a remote PC. You can also use its iOS and Android mobile apps to allow remote desktop access on the go, remote print, and more.
With LogMeIn Pro, you will also be able tocontrol Windows PC from Android. As you can see, LogMeIn Pro brings a fairly extensive feature set which will be especially helpful for people who have to access their files remotely. It frees them from the pain of carrying all the important files with them while allowing them to access those files instantaneously.
Pricing:Free trial for 14 days, pricing starts at $349.99per yearPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Android, iOSVisit Website
RealVNC Connect is yet another popular remote access software that you can use as a TeamViewer alternative. The software is used by a considerably large number of users, including over 90,000 enterprises. RealVNCsupports multiple platforms, including Android, Mac, Windows, and more. So you can easily use it to access pretty much any device you own remotely.
Among its many features, what makes RealVNC stand out is its simple and intuitive UI, as well as the fact that itcan stream audio and video from the remote computer. It also uses 256-bit AES encryption to ensure your connections are private and allows for attended and unattended access. Unlike other apps like TeamViewer, RealVNC doesn’t charge on a per-user basis. Instead, it charges you per device, meaning a single server with RealVNC can be used by any number of users without additional costs.ProsConsPer-device pricing instead of per-user pricingMultiple screen feature isn’t the best256-bit AES encryptionCan be buggy at times, especially using iOS devicesEasy to use and intuitive UI
Pricing:Free trial for 14 days, paid plans start at $3.70/computer/monthPlatforms:Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Raspberry Pi, LinuxVisit Website
The next TeamViewer alternative on our list is NoMachine, which is also a fairly capable remote desktop software.NoMachine uses its NX technology to bring one of the fastest and highest quality remote desktop experiences you have ever had. NoMachine allows users to stream live audio and video from their remote PC. You can also access files, transfer them, and record sessions for future reference.
NoMachine also works with all the major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. But, if you are still not impressed, how about the fact that this is a free-to-use tool? There are no ads and no restrictions. If you don’t want to pay for your remote desktop needs, check out this software right away.
ScreenConnect used to be a separate entity, that is until ConnectWise acquired it and renamed it as ConnectWise ScreenConnect. The good thing is that the service became even better after the acquisition. The company offers ConnectWise ScreenConnectas a remote desktop product for companiesthat provide remote assistance to their clients.
While no one is stopping you from using the product as an individual, seeing how the company is marketing its product, it is better suited for businesses. The best part about ConnectWise ScreenConnect is that it offers a scalable experience for individuals and teams, large and small.
You canget started with just the features you need, and then upgrade the plan as their business scales. ConnectWise’s offering also comes with out-of-the-box security features like AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication, allowing users to securely connect to a client’s computers.
It also works with various third-party apps, including Slack, Google Analytics, FreshDesk, and more, allowing you to manage your business with ease. ConnectWise ScreenConnect’s third-party integrations certainly give it a huge advantage. And if that is something you need, you should definitely check out this TeamViewer alternative.
Pricing:Free trial for 14 days, starts at $27/monthPlatforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and ChromeOSVisit Website
If you’re only gonna be connecting with Windows devices, why not go with a solution from Microsoft itself? Microsoft Remote Desktop Assistant offers all the necessary features for remotely controlling other Windows PCs. This is a great TeamViewer alternative for PCs running Windows 10 Professional or Enterprise. It should also be a solidWindows 11 remote desktop software. Do note that while you can use this software on other platforms like Mac, Android, and iOS, it will only let you remotely access Windows PCs.
With Microsoft Remote Desktop Assistant, you will be able to remotely connect with other Windows PCs with ease. The software also lets you access remote resources using Windows Virtual Desktop. What’s more, if you have a touch-screen device, Microsoft Remote Desktop Assistantsupports touch inputs, as well as all Windows gestures. Obviously, it’s also secure and you don’t need to worry about unencrypted connections here.ProsConsOfficial app from MicrosoftDoesn’t offer some advanced features that enterprises might needPerforms really wellCould feel a little complicatedAllows seamless access to files and even function keys on mobile devices.
Pricing:FreePlatform:WindowsInstall
For Linux users who want a proper replacement for TeamViewer, I will highly recommend Remmina. It’s afree and open-sourceremote desktop application with support for file sharing, shell access, multi-monitor support, and more. Remmina is one of the few remote desktop programs that support a host of remote access protocols such as SSH, HTTPS, RDP, VNC, and more. Basically, you can connect to any and every client without any issues.
Other than that, Remmina packs feature such asclipboard synchronization, display scaling, screenshot shortcut, SSH tunnel, printer sharing, and a lot more. As I said, Remmina is packed with features and it’s available on more than 50+ Linux distributions. So go ahead and check out Remmina on your Linux machine.ProsConsBest for Linux usersConnectivity issues with RDP serversSupports multiple remote access protocolsMulti-monitor supportClipboard syncing
Pricing:FreePlatforms:LinuxVisit Website
A substitute to TeamViewer, SolarWinds’ Dameware Remote Everywhere is a remote access software for those looking for fast and secure remote connections. Dameware’s interface might be a little daunting at first, but it’s a service that offers a very high level of security. In fact,Dameware meets requirements set by the US Federal Government, and it uses the BSAFE Crypto-C Micro Edition cryptography module and is compliant with the Federal Information Processing Standards.
Aimed at large enterprises, Dameware is nowhere near being anything affordable for individuals or SMBs. However, it offers advanced encryption and support for multi-factor authentication. It alsobrings monitoring features and can send alertsif you set it up. It even allows access to computers that are sleeping or turned off withWake on LAN support. You also get support for in-session chat and VoIP calls, as well as video calls.ProsConsHighly secureQuite expensiveWake on LAN supportMonitoring and alerts
Pricing:Free trial for 14 days, with paid plans starting at $540Platforms:Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOSVisit Website
Passionate about Windows, ChromeOS, Android, security and privacy issues. Have a penchant to solve everyday computing problems.
