8 Top Chrome Remote Desktop Alternatives for Seamless Remote Access in 2024
Chrome Remote Desktop is a fantastic, free tool that lets you control other devices remotely with one click. However, while Chrome Remote Desktop is an excellent choice for smaller tasks and personal use, it might not provide the security needed for larger projects or businesses.
Worry not—we've got you covered! If security is your priority, exploring alternatives to Chrome Remote Desktop is a smart move. In this article, we explore 8 standout Chrome Remote Desktop alternatives that are safer, more efficient, and perfect for both personal and professional needs.
Part 1: Why We Need Chrome Remote Desktop Alternatives
While Chrome Remote Desktop is a popular choice for remote access due to its ease of use and free availability, this application has several limitations. Below are the top reasons why you should not use it.
Limited Security Features
It is important to choose an application that is safe and doesn't have security issues. As we all know, free apps only provide basic security, so it is not a good idea to use them. Just like other free apps, Chrome Remote Desktop offers basic security measures, which might not be good for tasks where sensitive data is involved.
Lack of Advanced Features
Since it is a free version, you can't enjoy the advanced features that you can find in other applications, such as AirDroid Remote Support, TeamViewer, and more. The biggest disappointment is that it doesn't provide live chat and session recording.
No Unattended Access
As we all know, Unattended access is important for different tasks, such as IT support or system maintenance. However, this program doesn't offer this option, which is why you should use other Chrome Remote Desktop alternatives.
Not Suitable for Business
As we mentioned above, Chrome Remote Desktop is only suitable for smaller tasks and is not a good choice for bigger projects. It's not designed to handle multiple users at the same time and is not safe where sensitive data is involved.
Given these limitations, it's clear why many users and businesses might look for alternatives that offer enhanced security, advanced features, and greater flexibility. In the next section, we'll explore eight top-notch alternatives to Chrome Remote Desktop that are better and offer many customization options.
Part 2: List of 8 Best Chrome Remote Desktop Alternatives
After learning about the limitations of Chrome Remote Desktop, it is time to check out the 8 best alternatives that you can use. All these tools offer different packages you can use according to your business model. Also, they come with an intuitive interface, making them the best option for beginners and professional users. Let's get started!
- 1. AirDroid Remote Support
- 2. ConnectWise ScreenConnect
- 3. Getscreen.me
- 4. GoToMyPC
- 5. RemotePC
- 6. RustDesk
- 7. TeamViewer
- 8. UltraVNC
(* List in alphabetical order)
1AirDroid Remote Support
AirDroid Remote Support offers both free and premium plans to control remote devices using just a 9-digit connection code. It also offers different options such as unattended access, black screen mode, session recording and file transfer.
Availability of Free Version
Yes, it offers a free version that can connect up to three unattended Windows devices.
Compatibility
It supports Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, allowing seamless interactions across different operating systems. However, it currently only supports remote access to Windows from Windows and Mac. For mobile devices, you can support them remotely from any device.
✅Why Users Like It
- Quick access to the device using the 9-digit connection code.
- Users can manage up to 300 unattended devices. And it offers Black Screen Mode for privacy.
- You can also get the admin log, where you can check all the activities of your team members, including operation status, service duration and more.
- For mobile device support, it also has unique features such as tutorial gesture, AR camera.
- All remote support sessions secured by AES-256-bit encryption, TLS 1.2, and other industry-grade security features, such as two-factor authentication, conditional access and more.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Premium features require paid subscription.
- The installation and usage process is a bit confusing.
2ConnectWise ScreenConnect
ConnectWise ScreenConnect is a powerful remote access program that allows you to remotely view and control devices from anywhere you have an Internet connection. The tool features excellent customer support, incredible screen sharing options and more.
Availability of Free Version
It doesn't offer a free version, but you can request a 14-day free trial to enjoy premium features.
Compatibility
It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, so you can download it on all your devices and enjoy its features.
✅Why Users Like It
- When it comes to the interface, it is straightforward and easy to use, making it the best option for non-technical users.
- For better security, you will get end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA).
- It is possible to remotely support and share temporary session access with multiple agents.
- You can perform different tasks such as remote reboot, file transfer, and session recording.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Updates are too frequent.
- Poor customer support, limited to email and chat, no phone support.
- May be a bit bulky or difficult to use add-ons.
3Getscreen.me
Getscreen.me is a cloud-based software that allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, including your mobile devices. It is used for remote support, remote management and remote work, and you can also easily integrate it with your MDM system.
Availability of Free Version
Yes, you can enjoy the free version to remotely access up to two devices. If you need to support more devices remotely, you need to pay for the subscription.
Compatibility
It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The APK file can also be downloaded from the official website.
✅Why Users Like It
- There are many useful options for remote access. The layout of the various functions is intuitive and beautiful.
- Support staff responds quickly to issues.
- You can get your personal account from where you can check connection history, see integrations and more.
- There is no need to install a client as it can work entirely through a browser plugin.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Mobile apps are more difficult to configure.
- The remote connection process requires a good Internet connection and errors may occur when the Internet connection is poor.
4GoToMyPC
GoToMyPC allows you to remotely access the machine anytime from anywhere. It is a lightweight application available for different devices. It also has a drag-and-drop option so you can easily transfer files.
Availability of Free Version
It does not have a free version. But it offers a 7-day free trial, allowing users to explore its features and evaluate performance.
Compatibility
It supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
✅Why Users Like It
- It's reliable and the support team is responsive.
- Quickly access the computer as if you were there in person.
- Very easy to use for the non-tech savvy.
- You can also print documents from your remote computer to a local printer with a one-click.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Too expensive for individual users.
- There is a slight delay in use, which can be annoying.
- Connection lost or connection slowed down due to poor network.
5RemotePC
RemotePC is another best Chrome Remote Desktop alternative that you can try without worrying about security issues. Its powerful option, "always-on," helps you access your remote computers anytime you want. Furthermore, it makes transferring files between your local and remote computers easier.
Availability of Free Version
You can use a 7-day free trial to check all its features. But once the trial is over, you will be asked to purchase a subscription.
Compatibility
You can download it for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS and Raspberry Pi. It is also available for Chromebook devices.
✅Why Users Like It
- It offers unique features such as multi-monitor support, remote printing and more at an affordable price.
- It uses TLS v 1.unique2/AES-256 encryption to protect your remote sessions.
- Easy to set up and able to get it up and running quickly.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Pricing is based on the number of computers, which can be frustrating at times.
- Changing subscription plans is confusing, such as upgrading and downgrading.
- The user interface is a bit outdated, although the buttons are very clear.
6RustDesk
RustDesk is an open-source application that allows you to remotely control different devices without paying anything. All its core features are free, making it the best option for newcomers. In addition, it has customizable self-hosting plans.
Availability of Free Version
It is an open-source application, so you can download it from Git Hub for free.
Compatibility
RustDesk works seamlessly on different devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and the Web.
✅Why Users Like It
- You can enjoy self-hosted options.
- It supports VP8 / VP9 / AV1 software codecs, and H264 / H265 hardware codecs.
- No need to install the app, as it works directly on your devices.
- RustDesk supports unattended access, allowing you to connect to your remote devices anytime.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- Some users claim that its server components are closed source.
- Multiple engines recognize it as dangerous software and it may be a security risk.
7TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a famous app known for its comprehensive free version, which is available for personal use. In addition, it has advanced features for both small and large businesses, making it the best remote monitoring application for everyday use.
Availability of Free Version
Yes, it has a free version that you can use without limitations. For business and commercial use, TeamViewer offers various subscription plans as well.
Compatibility
TeamViewer excels in cross-platform compatibility, which means it supports a wide range of apps, including Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android.
✅Why Users Like It
The top features of this app are discussed below.
- It offers end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and other features for better security.
- It is known for its high-performance connections and stable remote sessions.
- TeamViewer supports both multi-user and multi-session support.
- It integrates seamlessly with a wide range of third-party applications and services, including Slack, Salesforce and Microsoft Office.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- It has a higher subscription cost for commercial plans.
- The customer support team is not responsive.
- The free version times out too frequently.
8UltraVNC
UltraVNC is a free open-source remote desktop software that uses the VNC protocol to allow users to remotely access and control Windows PCs over the network. It ensures secure remote connections with strong encryption protocols to keep your sensitive data secure.
Availability of Free Version
Since it is an open-source application, you don't have to purchase its subscription or other plans.
Compatibility
The client supports Windows and Linux, but the server only supports Windows.
✅Why Users Like It
- UltraVNC provides full access to its source code, allowing users to test all its features.
- It offers powerful customization options such as file transfer, chat and deployment.
- It supports various encryption plugins for a secure connection that you can't find in Chrome Remote Desktop.
❌Why Users Dislike It
- The official website is inadequate and there are too many misleading downloads.
- Outdated UI which would not attract new users.
- User security can be a bit tricky to configure.
Part 3: Help You Make Faster Choices: Factors to Consider
When selecting a Chrome Remote Desktop alternative, it's crucial to evaluate several key factors, such as performance, security, cost, and more. Continue reading, as we have discussed four different important factors below.
Cost and Free Trial
If you're looking for a Chrome Remote Desktop alternative, you'll definitely want a remote desktop software that's as free as it is.
Next, we will show you the availability of the free versions of the 8 remote desktop software mentioned above more clearly in a table:
Remote Desktop Software | Availability of Free Version | Note |
AirDroid Remote Support | ✅ | Connect up to 3 unattended Windows devices |
ConnectWise ScreenConnect | ❌ |
|
Getscreen.me | ✅ | Connect up to 2 unattended devices |
GoToMyPC | ❌ |
|
RemotePC | ❌ |
|
RustDesk | ✅ | Self-hosted plans require subscription fees. |
TeamViewer | ✅ | The free version is for personal use only. |
UltraVNC | ✅ | Completely free |
In addition, choose those apps that offer free trials because then you can test all their features. If you are a beginner, make sure you choose a reasonably priced program.
Performance
Choose apps that provide high-performance functionalities so that you can enjoy smooth connections without lag. AirDroid Remote Support, TeamViewer, and RustDesk are the best options.
Security
As discussed above, Chrome Remote Desktop is not a secure application, so it is important to choose those tools that offer both end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA). Also, don't forget about the other encryption protocols, such as AES-256, TLS, etc.
Scalability
Choose software that allows multiple users to connect simultaneously and manage multiple sessions. You can download AirDroid Remote Support because it offers extensive enterprise features and integration capabilities that are suitable for large businesses.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing alternatives to Chrome Remote Desktop, there are many options, but the above 8 are the best apps that you can use.
Moreover, choosing the right Chrome Remote Desktop alternative involves several critical factors, including performance, security, scalability, and cost. By considering these aspects carefully, you can select a solution that meets not only your current requirements but also your future needs.
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