What Is Remote Desktop Software?
Remote desktop software lets you connect to and control a computer from another device — whether that's across the room or across the globe. It transmits the screen, keyboard, and mouse input over a network, giving you full control as if you were sitting right in front of the machine.
With remote and hybrid work now a permanent fixture for many, choosing the right tool matters more than ever. Here's a breakdown of the most widely used options.
Top Remote Desktop Tools Compared
| Tool | Best For | Platform Support | Free Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| TeamViewer | IT support & business | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android | Personal use only |
| AnyDesk | Speed & low latency | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android | Personal use only |
| Chrome Remote Desktop | Simple, free access | Windows, Mac, Linux (via Chrome) | Fully free |
| Microsoft Remote Desktop | Windows-to-Windows | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android | Fully free (built-in) |
| Splashtop | Streaming & education | Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android | Limited free plan |
Key Features to Look For
- Latency and performance: For real-time work, low latency is critical. AnyDesk is known for its fast DeskRT codec.
- Security: Look for end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and session logging.
- Cross-platform support: Ensure the tool works on all devices your team uses.
- File transfer: The ability to move files between remote and local machines saves significant time.
- Multi-monitor support: Essential for power users who work across several screens.
- Unattended access: Allows you to connect to a remote machine without someone accepting the connection on the other end.
Which Should You Choose?
For personal, occasional use
Chrome Remote Desktop is hard to beat. It's completely free, requires no installation beyond a browser extension, and works reliably for basic access tasks.
For Windows power users
Microsoft Remote Desktop (RDP) is built directly into Windows Pro and Enterprise editions. If both machines run Windows, this is the most native and cost-effective solution.
For IT teams and businesses
TeamViewer or Splashtop offer robust management features, audit logs, and centralized device management that individual tools lack.
For speed-sensitive tasks
AnyDesk is consistently praised for its snappy performance, even on slower connections, making it ideal for developers or designers working remotely.
Final Thoughts
There's no single "best" remote desktop tool — the right choice depends on your use case, budget, and the platforms involved. Start with a free tier where available, test the performance on your typical connection, and evaluate the security features before committing to a paid plan.