Best remote desktop software: Top tools compared

Remote desktop software allows users to connect to and access computers from any location. But not every tool works the same way for every team. The right one needs to be fast, secure, and easy to set up, whether you support a few devices or manage a large fleet. Here's a close look at five remote desktop tools worth considering in 2026, including what each one does well and where it falls short.

Start your free trial

Key takeaways

  • Best browser-based remote support: Zoho Assist, TeamViewer, AnyDesk
  • Best for IT teams & MSPs: Zoho Assist, TeamViewer, Splashtop
  • Best affordable remote access: Zoho Assist, AnyDesk, Splashtop
  • Best enterprise remote support: Zoho Assist, TeamViewer, LogMeIn
  • Best unattended remote access: Zoho Assist, TeamViewer, Splashtop

Quick comparison: Top remote desktop tools at a glance

Choosing the best pc remote access software depends on your business size, support requirements, and budget. Some tools are designed for IT help desks and managed service providers (MSPs), while others focus on personal remote access or enterprise device management. Using the recommendations below will help you quickly identify the right solution for your needs.

Zoho Assist vs Splashtop vs TeamViewer vs AnyDesk

ProductBest audienceKey featuresPrice evaluationFree plan
Zoho Assist Enterprises, IT teams, MSPs, and SMBs Attended and unattended access, browser-based console with no downloads, built-in voice and video chat, 100 GB file transfer, session recording, 256-bit AES encryption, multi-monitor, helpdesk integrations Most cost-effective enterprise-grade tool; starts at $10/tech/month 1 technician, 5 unattended devices, unlimited on-demand sessions
SplashtopEducation, creative teams, SMBs High-performance video and audio streaming, multi-monitor, mobile access Budget-friendly; from $6/monthLocal network only
TeamViewer Large enterprises, OT and IoT environments AR remote assistance, IoT management, ITSM integrations, advanced reporting Premium pricing; Business plan from $50.90/monthPersonal non-commercial use only
AnyDesk Individuals, SMBs, low-latency access needs DeskRT codec, lightweight client, fast setup, file transfer Mid-range; Solo from $28.90/monthPersonal non-commercial use only

Feature-level comparison

FeatureZoho AssistTeamViewerAnyDeskSplashtop
Starting price Free, /month$50.90/month$28.90/month$6/month
Browser-based access (no download)YesNoNoNo
Built-in voice and video chatYes, nativelyAdd-on/higher tiersNoAdd-on
Unattended accessAll paid plansTier-dependentTier-dependentSplit licensing
Session recordingYesYesHigher plans onlyHigher plans only
Concurrent sessionsUnlimitedLimited by tierCapped at 50Limited
Helpdesk integrations Zoho Desk, Freshdesk, Zendesk, Jira, ServiceNowServiceNow, SAPLimitedLimited
Custom brandingYesHigher tiersHigher tiersEnterprise only
Mass deploymentYesYesNoYes

Evaluation criteria: How we compared the tools

To select the best personal remote desktop software and business platforms, we benchmarked each solution across critical performance, deployment, and financial data vectors.

Choosing the best remote desktop software involves more than comparing features and pricing. To identify the most reliable and widely adopted solutions, we evaluated each platform based on the factors that matter most to businesses, IT teams, MSPs, and remote workers.

Evaluation criteriaWeight
Security and compliance25%
Remote support and access capabilities20%
Ease of use and deployment15%
Platform compatibility15%
Pricing and value for money15%
Scalability and enterprise readiness10%
Total100%

Security and compliance (25%)

Encryption standards, multi-factor authentication, access controls, privacy features, and compliance capabilities

Remote support and access capabilities (20%)

Attended and unattended access, remote troubleshooting, file transfer, session recording, remote reboot, and device management features

Ease of use and deployment (15%)

Setup process, user interface, browser-based access, onboarding experience, and overall usability

Platform compatibility (15%)

Support for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, and cross-platform remote access

Pricing and value for money (15%)

Subscription costs, feature availability across plans, free plan offerings, and overall return on investment

Scalability and enterprise readiness (10%)

Support for growing teams, large device environments, integrations, reporting, and enterprise management capabilities

Top 5 Remote desktop software in 2026

Choosing the best remote computer access software directly affects how quickly your team resolves issues, how easily customers join sessions, and how efficiently your business scales support operations. Below is a detailed comparison of the top remote desktop software solutions in 2026, covering features, pricing, strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases.

1.Zoho Assist — Best remote desktop software for IT teams, MSPs, and businesses of all sizes

Zoho Assist is a secure and future-ready remote support solution that enables technicians to access and control desktops, laptops, mobile devices, and servers from anywhere. Designed as the best enterprise remote support software for businesses of all sizes, it combines remote support and unattended access capabilities in a single platform, helping teams streamline support operations and improve productivity.

Zoho Assist stands out with its browser-based technician console, allowing technicians to start remote support sessions without installing software locally. End users can join support sessions quickly through a lightweight session launcher, minimizing setup time and reducing support friction.

Technicians can launch sessions directly from open tickets through native integrations with Zoho Desk, Freshdesk, Zendesk, Jira, ServiceNow, Slack, Spiceworks, and Google Workspace.

FeatureWhat it does
File transfer Send or receive files up to 100 GB per session with end-to-end encryption.
Text, voice, and video chat Communicate with end users directly during support sessions.
Multi-monitor support Access and manage multiple displays during a session.
Session recording Record sessions for audits, compliance, and training.
Rebranding Customize the support experience with your company branding.
Bulk deployment Configure multiple unattended devices simultaneously.
Concurrent sessions Support multiple users at the same time.
Wake-on-LAN Wake remote devices from sleep or shutdown mode.
Reboot and reconnect Restart devices and reconnect automatically.
Screen darken Protect user privacy during remote sessions.
Cobrowse Assist users directly within web browsers.
Session analytics Monitor session activity and technician performance.
Role-based access controls Control technician permissions and device access.
256-bit AES encryption Secure remote sessions with enterprise-grade encryption.
Two-factor authentication Strengthen account security with additional verification.
Platforms:

Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Raspberry Pi, Android, iOS

Pricing:

Plans start at 0 per technician per month (billed annually). Free plan available. 15-day free trial included.

Pros

  • Browser-based technician console reduces deployment complexity
  • Supports both attended remote support and unattended access from a single platform
  • Free plan includes capabilities suitable for small businesses and IT teams evaluating remote support software
  • Built-in voice and video communication helps technicians collaborate with end users
  • Large file transfer support with secure encryption
  • Native integrations with leading help desk and ITSM platforms
  • Reliable performance across distributed and low-bandwidth environments

Cons

  • Session recording storage starts at 5 GB , with additional storage available separately
  • Large file transfers may take longer depending on network condition
Ratings: G2: 4.6/5 | Capterra: 4.6/5

See why growing teams choose Zoho Assist for fast and reliable remote support.

2. TeamViewer — Best for large enterprises with complex IT and OT environments

TeamViewer is a cloud-based remote access and support platform widely used across IT, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and enterprise environments. In addition to remote support, it offers capabilities such as augmented reality assistance and device management.

Certain capabilities, like mobile device support and advanced collaboration features, may require additional licensing or higher-tier plans depending on the TeamViewer edition selected.

Platforms:

Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Raspberry Pi, Android, iOS

Pricing:

Remote Access plan starts at $24.90/month. Additional plans available for businesses and enterprise teams.

Pros

  • Broad platform compatibility across traditional computers and legacy industrial infrastructure
  • Strong enterprise adoption and stable global network routing
  • Augmented reality integration for front-line industrial and mechanical support

Cons

  • Premium pricing tier makes it less ideal for small or mid-market operations
  • Advanced collaboration and mobile device support require higher-tier subscriptions or separate add-on licensing
  • Strict automated tracking flags commercial utilization on the free version
Ratings: G2: 4.4/5 | Capterra: 4.6/5
Compare: Zoho Assist vs TeamViewer

3. AnyDesk — Best for lightweight remote access on low-bandwidth connections

AnyDesk is a remote desktop solution built around its proprietary DeskRT codec, designed to deliver responsive remote sessions even on slower network connections. Its lightweight application and simple deployment make it popular among individuals and small IT teams.

Platforms:

Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Raspberry Pi, Android, iOS

Pricing:

Solo starts at $28.90/month . Standard and Advanced plans are available.

Pros

  • Highly optimized performance across low-bandwidth environments
  • Extremely small application footprint with minimal setup requirements
  • Simple, stripped-back layout focused on rapid screen interaction

Cons

  • Lacks native built-in voice or video chat modules, requiring third-party tools for collaboration
  • The Solo plan limits technicians to a single concurrent connection and 100 managed devices
  • Fewer native ITSM or helpdesk platform integrations compared to Zoho Assist
Ratings: G2: 4.5/5
Compare: Zoho Assist vs AnyDesk

4. Splashtop — Best for education and high-performance media streaming

Splashtop provides remote access and support solutions for businesses, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and IT teams. It is particularly known for its high-performance remote streaming capabilities.

Splashtop offers separate products for remote access and remote support, which may require organizations to evaluate multiple plans depending on their requirements.

Platforms:

Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS, Raspberry Pi, Android, iOS

Pricing:

Plans start from approximately $6/month, depending on product selection and billing cycle.

Pros

  • Affordable entry-level pricing for individual personal and remote work access
  • Excellent performance and frame rates for video editing, CAD design, and media tasks
  • Tailored licensing packages available for school computer labs

Cons

  • Remote access (user-to-PC) and remote support (tech-to-user) sold as separate products
  • Personal free tier is restricted entirely to local network usage
  • Advanced integration options are gated behind high enterprise-level contracts
Ratings: G2: 4.6/5
Compare: Zoho Assist vs SplashTop

5. GoToMyPC — Best for individuals and small businesses needing reliable remote access

GoToMyPC provides remote access to computers from virtually any location. It focuses primarily on remote computer access rather than technician-led support workflows, making it suitable for professionals who need access to their own systems and files.

Platforms:

Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Pricing:

Personal tier starts at $35/computer/month (billed annually)

Pros

  • Highly reliable, consistent point-to-point desktop connectivity
  • Includes useful productivity features like remote printing and local multi-monitor stretching
  • Includes complimentary antivirus protection for endpoint machines

Cons

  • Pricing scales per managed host computer rather than per concurrent technician license, which can become expensive quickly
  • Lacks the diagnostic, ticketing, and user collaboration infrastructure required by corporate IT helpdesks
  • Doesn't offer an open-access free tier plan
Ratings: : G2: 4.2/5 | Capterra: 4.5/5

Best free remote desktop software

Many remote desktop providers offer free plans, but the available features and usage rights vary significantly. Some free versions are designed primarily for personal use, while others limit unattended access, device management, or remote support capabilities. For businesses evaluating remote desktop software, it's important to understand what's included before committing to a platform.

The table below compares the free offerings available from leading remote desktop solutions.

ToolBusiness useInternet based supportUnattended accessWhat is included
Zoho AssistYesYesUpto 5 devices 1 technician, file transfer, chat, remote support
TeamViewerPersonal use onlyYesLimited Basic remote access for non-commercial users
AnyDeskPersonal use onlyYesLimited Remote access for personal devices; connection duration limits may apply
Splashtop PersonalNoLocal network onlyLimited Free local access to devices on the same home network only
Microsoft Remote Desktop (RDP)YesRequires additional configurationYes Native Windows-to-Windows terminal services; no cross-platform casting

Zoho Assist offers one of the most business-friendly, free remote access plans , allowing organizations to test remote support workflows, unattended access, and technician collaboration features before upgrading to a paid edition.

How much does remote desktop software cost?

Remote desktop software pricing varies based on the provider, features, and licensing model. Zoho Assist makes it easy to get started with a free plan and a 15-day free trial of its paid plans.

Remote desktop software: Pricing matrix

ProductStarting pricePlan details
AnyDesk $28.90/month (Billed annually) Solo plan — 1 user, 100 managed devices, 3 registered login devices [Per user]
Zoho Assist0 Standard plan — Per technician or 25 unattended PCs [Per technician]
Splashtop$6/month Business Access Solo — 1 user, 2 computers [Per user/device capped]
TeamViewer$50.90/month Business plan — 1 technician seat, 200 managed devices, 1 active session [Per tech (single-session)]
GoToMyPC $35/computer/month Personal plan — 1 user, 1 managed host remote computer [Per computer]

How much do you save by choosing Zoho Assist?

Zoho Assist Enterprise is $24/month billed annually. Here's how that compares with equivalent plans from competing vendors:

CompetitorMonthly PriceMonthly SavingsAnnual SavingsSaving %
TeamViewer$199/month$175/month~$2,100/year88%
AnyDesk $49.90/month[Standard]$25.90/month~$310/year52%

Annual cost for a team of five technicians:

  • Zoho Assist (Standard Remote Support):~$600/year
  • Splashtop (Remote Support Premium):~$1,500/year
  • AnyDesk (Standard Team Plan):~$2,394/year
  • TeamViewer (Multi-user Team Plan):~$3,054/year

Teams switching from TeamViewer also stop having to pay for features Zoho Assist includes by default:

  • Mobile device support is available as an add-on in TeamViewer, whereas it's included in Zoho Assist Professional.
  • Video chat often requires an add-on or higher-tier subscription in competing solutions, while Zoho Assist Enterprise includes it by default.
  • Help desk integrations are built into Zoho Assist, whereas many alternatives either charge extra for integrations or offer limited support.
  • TeamViewer Business limits users to a single concurrent session, while Zoho Assist Enterprise supports up to six concurrent sessions per technician.

How to choose the best remote desktop software

Most teams start by comparing feature lists. A better place to start is the experience on both sides of the support session.

The easier it is for customers and employees to connect, the less time technicians spend explaining steps, troubleshooting connections, or waiting for downloads to finish. A remote support tool should simplify the support experience for everyone involved, not just the technician.

As you evaluate options, look beyond the core feature set and consider how the platform performs at scale. Pay close attention to:

  • Session capacity: Understand how many remote sessions your team can run simultaneously and whether those limits align with your support volume.
  • Pricing model: Some platforms charge per managed device, which can become expensive as your environment grows.
  • Included Capabilities: Features such as mobile device support, session recording, file transfer, and communication tools may be included in some solutions and offered as paid add-ons in others.
  • Deployment flexibility: Consider whether the platform supports attended and unattended access, cross-platform devices, and distributed teams.
  • Administrative controls: Role-based permissions, audit trails, reporting, and security controls become increasingly important as support operations expand.

Which remote desktop software is best for you?

TEAMVIEWER

FeaturesZoho Assist Standard (0)Zoho Assist Professional (0)Zoho Assist Enterprise (0) TeamViewer Business ($50.90) TeamViewer Premium ($112.90) TeamViewer Corporate ($229.90)
Concurrent sessions(single session)
Integrations with other software
Multi platform connectivity
Departments
Raspberry Pi support
Unattended access
Session recording
Remote support(limited in Business)
Rebranding
Manage Devices
File transfer(limited in business)
User access reporting
Unlimited unattended technicians
Cancellation policyCancel anytime28-day notice

Remote desktop software security and compliance checklist

Security is one of the most important factors in choosing remote desktop software. A compromised session exposes customer data, internal systems, and business continuity. Here's what to verify before selecting any tool:

  • Encryption: All session data should be encrypted with AES-256 and transmitted over TLS. Anything less is insufficient for business use.
  • Two-factor authentication: Technician and administrator accounts should require a second verification step beyond a password.
  • End-user visibility and control: The person being supported should see what is happening on their screen and be able to end the session at any time.
  • Audit logs: All session activity, like who connected, when, to which device, for how long, and what actions were performed, should be logged and exportable.
  • Role-based access controlsTiered permissions ensure each technician only accesses the devices and functions relevant to their role.
  • Compliance certifications: For regulated industries, look for SOC 2 Type II, GDPR alignment, and HIPAA-ready configurations.

How Zoho Assist handles security

Zoho Assist functions within Zoho's multi-layered infrastructure framework to deliver hardened, enterprise-grade connection control.

  • TLS 1.2+ and 256-bit AES encryption
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA) support
  • Role-based access controls
  • Session logs and audit trails
  • Session recording capabilities
  • Idle session timeout controls
  • Screen blanking for unattended access
  • Customer consent for remote support sessions
  • IP-based access restrictions
  • Secure unattended access
  • GDPR-aligned privacy practices
  • Backed by Zoho's security and compliance framework

Why Zoho Assist is the best remote desktop software

Zoho Assist offers an array of features for providing top-notch remote support and remotely accessing unattended devices, making it the best remote desktop software compared to its competitors. Here are a few of our essential features:

  • Built on Zoho's trusted technology ecosystem
  • Designed to scale with businesses of every size
  • Enterprise-grade security built for modern remote support
  • Purpose-built for today's evolving IT support needs
  • Fast deployment with minimal setup and training
  • Trusted for reliable, business-critical remote support operations
  • Future-ready platform built for long-term growth
  • Simplifies remote support across distributed teams and devices

Remote desktop solutions across various industries

Remote desktop software has become a critical component of modern workplace operations. Organizations across industries rely on remote access software to maintain productivity, support distributed teams, and ensure business continuity regardless of location.

Industry How remote desktop software helps
Information technology (IT) IT teams remotely troubleshoot devices, install software, apply patches, configure systems, and resolve technical issues without requiring on-site visits.
Managed service Providers (MSPs) MSPs remotely manage client devices, perform maintenance, monitor systems, and deliver support across multiple customer environments from a centralized location.
Healthcare Healthcare organizations use remote desktop software to access electronic health record (EHR) systems, support administrative staff, manage devices, and assist healthcare professionals across locations.
Education Schools, colleges, and universities provide remote access to learning resources, computer labs, and educational applications while supporting students and faculty with technical assistance.
Financial services Banks, insurance providers, and financial institutions use remote access tools to support employees, maintain business continuity, and securely access critical applications and systems.
Retail and Commerces Retail businesses remotely manage point-of-sale (POS) systems, support store locations, troubleshoot devices, and maintain operational continuity across branches.
Manufacturing Manufacturing organizations use remote desktop software to monitor production systems, support plant operations, manage industrial computers, and assist remote facilities.
IT help desk page Support teams remotely access customer devices to diagnose issues, demonstrate solutions, and reduce resolution times without requiring in-person assistance.
Screen Sharing Sales teams conduct product demonstrations, onboarding sessions, and training programs remotely, enabling engagement with prospects and employees regardless of location.
Remote work Employees securely access office computers, business applications, and files from anywhere, helping organizations maintain productivity across distributed work environments.

How Zoho Assist supports modern workplace operations

Organizations need remote control software that can adapt to evolving workplace requirements without adding complexity. Zoho Assist helps businesses streamline remote access and support workflows through a cloud-based platform that's easy to deploy and manage.

Key advantages include:
  • Quick remote connections without complex setup processes
  • Support for both attended and unattended access scenarios
  • Centralized management for technicians and devices
  • Cross-platform compatibility across major operating systems
  • Flexible deployment options for businesses of different sizes
  • Integration capabilities that fit into existing IT workflows
  • Scalable plans designed to support organizational growth

By combining accessibility, flexibility, and ease of management, Zoho Assist enables organizations to maintain efficient remote operations while supporting changing business needs.

Best ratings across software review sites

  •  
     4.6 / 5
  •  
     9 / 10
  •  
     4.6 / 5

“Easy connection, not require admin privileges in the users’ PC, and works behind firewalls."

Javier MolinaJavier Molina, iSy TEk SAS

Zoho Assist, the best remote desktop software for enterprise

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can establish a remote connection through Zoho Assist, a web-based remote support tool, to view, access, and control any device.

Remote access software is widely used by businesses of all sizes. Assist helps many enterprises, SMBs, and technicians connect with their customers instantly and resolve issues with remote computers.

Zoho Assist is built on robust security protocols, such as two-factor authentication and 256-bit AES encryption, to ensure the protection of users and their data during each remote support and unattended access session.

You can access and transfer files from a remote computer after establishing a remote connection using a remote support tool. With Zoho Assist, you can effortlessly transfer up to 5GB of files.

When someone remotely accesses your device, they leave behind cyber footprints. Indicators of unauthorized access may include unknown applications running in the background on your device, unexplained battery drain, unfamiliar noises during calls, and increased service messages/pop-up ads.

Yes, Zoho Assist is reliable remote support software with cross-platform compatibility. Technicians can remotely access Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook devices, and mobile devices when needed.