Introduction
As remote and hybrid work models have become the new normal, having access to the right remote desktop tools is essential for both employees and IT teams to stay productive while working from anywhere. However, with so many options available in the market today, it can be tricky to evaluate and select the software that best suits your specific needs. In this blog, we analyze and compare 15 of the top and most popular remote desktop solutions based on key criteria to help you make an informed decision.
Methods of Evaluation
We evaluated each software solution based on the following conventional evaluation methods: features and capabilities, platform support, pricing and plans, security, performance and reviews & ratings. Additionally, we also factored in more contemporary metrics like number of backlinks, traffic and search volume trends for the keyword phrase to assess popularity and search interest for each company.
1. Zoom
Zoom is a video communications app that offers cloud-based video conferencing, video webinars, and group chat across devices and platforms. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Jose, California, Zoom’s simple-to-use interface has made it one of the top remote desktop software solutions for both personal and business use.
Pros: Some key advantages of Zoom include: easy screen sharing, whiteboard, and annotation tools; robust security features like waiting rooms and password protection; integration with common platforms like Google Calendar and Outlook; support for large meetings of up to 1,000 video participants; and flexible paid plans for businesses.
Cons: Potential disadvantages include: free Basic plan limited to 40 minutes on group meetings; lack of end-to-end encryption on free accounts unless the meeting is password-protected via Personal Meeting ID; and reliance on an internet connection for online meetings.
Pricing: Zoom offers various paid plans for individuals and businesses starting from a Basic Monthly plan for $14.99 per host. Business plans range from $19.99 per month for up to 100 attendees to $200.00 per month for over 500 attendees. Custom pricing is also available for large enterprises.
Some key stats about Zoom include: hosting over 300 million daily meeting participants on average in 2022, availability on desktop and mobile platforms, secure data centers located worldwide, end-to-end encryption on paid plans, meetings limited to 24 hours for free users and unlimited time for most paid plans.
2. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a leading remote connectivity software that allows users to remotely access any computer, mobile device or server via an Internet connection. Founded in Germany in 2005, TeamViewer has over 2.5 billion devices connected and supports connections to over 190 countries worldwide.
Pros: Some key advantages of using TeamViewer include:
– Very easy to use with intuitive interface and one-click connections
– Wide range of supported platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and more
– Powerful features like remote control, file transfer, meeting and collaboration capabilities
– Remote access to computers even behind firewalls without port forwarding
– Commercial licenses provide additional features for business use
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version limits remote access to non-commercial personal use only. For commercial/business uses, an appropriate paid license needs to be purchased.
Pricing: TeamViewer offers the following pricing plans:
– Free version for non-commercial personal use
– Premium version from $49-349/year depending on number of supported devices
– Business/Enterprise plans starting at $799/year
Some key stats about TeamViewer:
– Has over 2.5 billion devices connected worldwide
– Supports remote connections to over 190 countries
– Over 2.5 million new devices are connected daily
– 14 different language versions available
– Integrates with other business tools like CRM, helpdesk etc.
3. Parallels Access
Parallels Access is a remote desktop software developed by Parallels, Inc. that allows users to securely access virtual desktops, apps, and files from anywhere via their web browser or mobile device. It offers remote access capabilities across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms.
Pros: Some key advantages of Parallels Access include:
– Cross-platform remote connection and file sharing.
– Optimized UX with seamless scaling and performance.
– Remote printing and cloud attachment access.
– Role-based access control and two-factor authentication.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the pricing can be higher than some other remote access solutions for large deployments or when scaling beyond a certain number of users or devices.
Pricing: Pricing for Parallels Access starts at $49 per user per year for the Standard plan. Other paid plans include Professional ($79 per user per year) and Enterprise (custom pricing).
Some key stats about Parallels Access include:
– Supported over 25 million users globally.
– Integrates with major RMM platforms like Kaseya, ConnectWise, and N-central.
– Available as an on-premise or SaaS-based solution.
4. WebEx
WebEx is a leading remote desktop and collaboration software developed by Cisco. Founded in 1995, WebEx helps organizations empower their distributed and hybrid workforces through seamless online meetings, training, events and video conferencing.
Pros: Some key advantages of WebEx include:
– Online meetings, training and events
– HD video conferencing and screen sharing
– Integrated communication tools like messaging, whiteboarding and annotations
– Application and device sharing to enable collaboration
– Robust security features like encryption, authentication and access control
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the full featured WebEx plan is only available through a paid subscription whereas some competitors offer limited free accounts.
Pricing: WebEx offers the following paid plans on an annual subscription basis:
– Basic @ $12/host/month
– Business @ $24/host/month
– Business Plus @ $32/host/month
– Enterprise @ Custom Pricing
All plans include unlimited meetings and storage. Higher tiers provide additional features like single sign-on, advanced reporting and 24/7 phone support.
Some key stats about WebEx include:
– Over 400 million users globally
– Used in over 100 countries
– 24/7 online and phone support
– Integrations with 300+ apps including G Suite, Office 365, and Salesforce
– 99.9% uptime SLA
5. AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a leading remote desktop software that allows users to securely access any computer or mobile device from anywhere. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, AnyDesk has grown to support over 100 million devices worldwide.
Pros: Some key advantages of AnyDesk include:
– Fast remote connection speeds for seamless screen sharing and file transfers.
– Ability to share your full desktop or specific applications for remote support.
– Cross-platform support allowing remote access from any device to any other device.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version of AnyDesk lacks some advanced features like remote printing, wake-on-LAN, and remote reboot/shutdown found in the paid subscription.
Pricing: AnyDesk offers both free and paid subscription plans. The free version provides basic remote access functionality while paid subscriptions starting at $2.50/user/month unlock advanced features and support.
Some key stats about AnyDesk include:
– Supports over 50 platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS
– Used by over 30 million users monthly
– Supports automatic updates to ensure the latest features and security
– Works smoothly over low-bandwidth connections
6. LogMeIn
LogMeIn is a leading remote access and collaboration software provider. Founded in 2003, LogMeIn has grown to serve over 1 billion users and customers including 3M, BBC, and Cisco. LogMeIn’s flagship product allows users to remotely access desktops, servers, devices and applications from anywhere via its cloud-based platform.
Pros: Key advantages of LogMeIn include:
– All-in-one solution for remote access, meetings and collaboration
– 24/7 technical support
– Integrates seamlessly with tools like Slack and Salesforce
– Supports remote access across Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android devices
Cons: The main disadvantage is that LogMeIn offers a subscription-based pricing model which requires ongoing payments to use their software instead of a one-time purchase license.
Pricing: LogMeIn offers several paid subscription tiers starting from $19.99 per month for their core remote access software. Additional features like centralized management, unlimited mobile access and reporting are available in higher tiers starting at $29.99 per month.
Some key stats about LogMeIn include:
– Over 1 billion users worldwide
– Serves over 1 million businesses
– Supports remote access to over 20 million devices
– Integrates with over 5,000 third party apps like Salesforce and Slack
7. RealVNC
RealVNC is remote desktop software that allows users to remotely access and support computers across different devices and platforms. Founded in 1998, RealVNC is headquartered in Cambridge, UK and is one of the leading providers of remote access software. Their flagship product, VNC Connect, enables remote connectivity and support via desktop computers and mobile devices through direct connections or via the cloud.
Pros: Key advantages of RealVNC include:
– Extensive platform support including Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile operating systems
– Allows remote printing and file transfer capabilities
– Includes features like remote device lock/unlock, messaging and notifications
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version only supports one computer connection at a time. For multiple simultaneous connections, an paid plan is required.
Pricing: RealVNC offers various pricing plans starting from a free basic personal plan to feature-rich professional and enterprise plans suitable for business use. Paid professional plans start from $49 per year and provide multi-device access, admin controls and other advanced features.
Some key stats about RealVNC include:
– Over 150 million downloads globally
– Used by 90% of Fortune 500 companies
– Supports connections to Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android devices
8. Bomgar Privileged Access
Bomgar Privileged Access is a leading remote access and identity management solution from BeyondTrust. They have been providing secure remote access and identity solutions for over 20 years and currently serve over 17,000 customers worldwide. Bomgar Privileged Access offers a full-featured remote support platform for helping teams access and support any system or device remotely.
Pros: Key advantages of Bomgar Privileged Access include:
– Full-featured remote support for teams to access systems remotely
– Multi-factor authentication and secure connections for privileged access sessions
– Session scheduling, recordings and reporting for auditing and compliance
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the solution requires an ongoing subscription and does not offer a one-time perpetual license option.
Pricing: Bomgar Privileged Access pricing starts at $45 per concurrent session for their basic Remote Support package. Enterprise packages with additional features like jump sessions and reporting are priced starting at $75 per session.
Some key stats about Bomgar Privileged Access include:
– Over 17,000 customers worldwide across many industries
– Serves customers of all sizes from small businesses to large enterprises
– Secures over 1 billion privileged sessions per year
9. TightVNC
TightVNC is a free, open source remote desktop software originally based on Virtual Network Computing (VNC) technology. It allows users to access and control a remote desktop over networks in a cross-platform manner.
Pros: Some key advantages of TightVNC include:
– Free and open source – does not require a paid license
– Cross-platform support allows remote access from any device
– Feature rich with support for clipboard sharing, file transfers and more
– Includes compressive encoding options for low bandwidth connections
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as open source software, it does not have commercial support options. Users would need to rely on community support for any issues.
Pricing: TightVNC is completely free to download and use with no restrictions or paid tiers. Being open source, there is no commercial support available but an active user community provides assistance online.
Some key stats about TightVNC include:
– Has been in development since 2001
– Available for all major operating systems including Windows, Linux, MacOS, and BSD
– Millions of downloads every year
– Actively developed and supported open source community
10. ScreenConnect
ScreenConnect is a remote desktop and mobile support software created by ConnectWise. ScreenConnect allows IT providers and help desk teams to remotely access and support users’ desktops and mobile devices in order to troubleshoot issues and provide on-screen guidance. With ScreenConnect, technicians can see what users see and take control of their screens when needed to fix problems.
Pros: Some key advantages of ScreenConnect include:
– Robust remote support with unparalleled performance
– Centralized user and session management
– Live chat, remote printing and file sharing
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the full features of ScreenConnect require an ongoing subscription, so there is a continuous cost to using the software unlike some one-time purchase remote access options.
Pricing: ScreenConnect offers various pricing tiers including Pro, Team and Enterprise plans. Pricing starts at $49 per agent per month for the Pro tier which includes unlimited remote access sessions and support for up to 5 concurrent connections.
Some key stats about ScreenConnect include:
– Used by over 35,000 organizations worldwide
– Supports connections to Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices
– Average user rating of 4.7/5 stars on the ConnectWise Marketplace
– Named a ‘Leader’ in remote access vendors by Independent Research Firm
11. ConnectWise Control
ConnectWise Control (formerly known as ScreenConnect) is a leading remote desktop software and collaboration tool for MSPs and IT professionals. It allows users to remotely access and control other computers and mobile devices through a simple cloud-based interface.
Pros: Some key advantages of ConnectWise Control include:
– Robust remote support and collaboration tool
– Single sign-on for access across ConnectWise products
– HD video conferencing for remote screen sharing and collaboration
– Integrations and APIs for custom workflows and automation
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an all-in-one platform from ConnectWise, it may be overkill for some smaller MSPs or IT departments who don’t need the broader PSA, RMM and security capabilities.
Pricing: Pricing for ConnectWise Control starts at $35 per technician per month for the Essentials plan, which includes unlimited remote connections and sessions up to 2 hours. Additional premium plans are available for larger deployments with features like custom branding, SAML authentication and dedicated support.
Some key stats about ConnectWise Control include:
– Used by over 30,000 companies worldwide
– Supports remote access to over 20 million devices
– Available on all major platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
– Integrates tightly with the ConnectWise Manage PSA and Automate RMM platforms
12. NoMachine
NoMachine is a leading provider of remote desktop software founded in 2004. Their flagship product, also called NoMachine, allows users to access their desktops and applications from anywhere through a centralized remote access gateway. NoMachine is used by over 120 million users worldwide for both personal and commercial use cases.
Pros: Some key advantages of NoMachine include:
– Secure solutions tailored for remote access needs
– Centralized management console for hosts and clients
– Simplifies complexity through virtualization
– Cross-platform support allowing remote access from any device
– Robust feature set including clipboard sharing, printing, and 3D acceleration
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the full commercial version of NoMachine requires paid licenses, though they do offer free versions for personal and non-commercial use.
Pricing: NoMachine offers various pricing tiers starting with a free personal license. Commercial licenses start at $49 per year for up to 5 concurrent connections. Larger volume licenses with additional features are available as well through their sales team.
Some key stats about NoMachine include:
– Used by over 120 million users globally
– Available on all major operating systems including Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS
– Supports remote connections from over 500 device types
– Features multi-factor authentication and advanced encryption for security
NoMachine – Free Remote Desktop for Everybodynomachine.com
13. AirServer
AirServer is a leading remote desktop and screen mirroring software developed by Anthropic. It allows users to mirror their iOS, Android, Windows and macOS screens to compatible displays and receivers over a local network or remotely. Some key features of AirServer include supporting AirPlay, Google Cast and Miracast to display content from various devices.
Pros: Some key advantages of AirServer include:
– Stream, mirror and control screens from iOS/Android
– Supports both local network and remote connections
– Zero-configuration mirroring within seconds
Cons: The main disadvantage of AirServer is that the free version only allows one device to connect at a time. For multiple simultaneous connections, an AirServer Connect subscription is required starting at $14.99 per year.
Pricing: AirServer offers both free and paid versions. The free version allows basic screen mirroring from one device at a time. For access to premium features like multiple simultaneous connections, remote access over the internet and commercial use, an AirServer Connect subscription is required starting from $14.99 per year.
AirServer has over 10 million downloads and supports mirroring to all major platforms including macOS, Windows, iOS, Android and Linux. It can transform computers, projectors or TVs into wireless display receivers within seconds with zero configuration needed. AirServer is also one of the top-rated remote display apps on the Mac and Windows platforms.
14. Bomgar Remote Support
Bomgar Remote Support is remote desktop software developed by BeyondTrust to enable quick and secure remote support sessions. It allows technical support teams to access and control remote computers and devices from their own desktops in order to provide instant support.
Pros: Some key advantages of Bomgar Remote Support include: – Feature rich remote support software for enterprises. – Secure remote connections & sessions management. – Record, monitor and audit all remote sessions. – Customizable interface & reporting dashboards.
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the software is best suited for large enterprises and may have more features than needed for some smaller businesses.
Pricing: Bomgar Remote Support pricing starts at $36 per agent per month for the basic package. Enterprise packages with additional features are also available and pricing varies based on number of agents, endpoints supported etc.
Some key stats about Bomgar Remote Support include: – Supports over 40,000 customers worldwide across various industries. – Enables support for over 150 million endpoints globally. – Over 95% customer retention rate.
15. mRemoteNG
mRemoteNG is an open source, multi-protocol, remote connections manager developed by Anthropic. Unlike other remote desktop software, mRemoteNG allows users to remotely access computers and servers using multiple protocols like RDP, VNC, SSH, Telnet and more in a single tabbed window. The tabbed interface allows users to easily manage multiple simultaneous connections.
Pros: Some key advantages of mRemoteNG include:
– Open source and free to use
– Tabbed interface for managing multiple simultaneous remote sessions
– Supports multiple connection protocols like RDP, VNC, SSH in a single client
– Available on Windows, Linux and macOS
– Customizable interface and feature-rich with options like session grouping
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an open source project, it lacks official technical support services. Users will need to refer to online documentation or community support for help.
Pricing: mRemoteNG is completely free and open source. There are no fees or limitations on features for personal or commercial use.
Some key stats about mRemoteNG include:
– Used by over 3 million users worldwide
– Supports connections to Windows, Linux, Mac and more operating systems
– Supports remote protocols including RDP, VNC, SSH, Telnet and more
Conclusion
While every business has unique requirements, we hope this comprehensive guide provides you a solid starting point and framework to evaluate your options for remote desktop software. Some key takeaways are – Zoom, TeamViewer and LogMeIn offer great all-around functionality but larger enterprises may prefer Bomgar or ConnectWise products. For price-conscious smaller teams, AnyDesk or RealVNC can be excellent affordable options. Choosing the right tool will enable your team to work productively from anywhere. We wish you all the best in choosing the software that aligns best with your remote work needs.