Top 10 TeamViewer Alternatives in 2025: Complete Remote Access Solutions Guide

Why Consider TeamViewer Alternatives?

Remote desktop software has become essential in our increasingly digital world. Whether you're an IT professional supporting distributed teams, a remote worker accessing your office computer, or simply helping a family member troubleshoot their device, remote access tools are invaluable. While TeamViewer has long been a popular choice, many users are exploring alternatives due to several factors.

TeamViewer offers robust features and reliable performance, but its commercial licensing model has undergone significant changes over the years. Many users report being flagged for "commercial use" despite using it for personal purposes, resulting in session time limitations or the need to purchase expensive commercial licenses. Additionally, some users have concerns about TeamViewer's past security incidents, performance on slower connections, and resource usage.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top TeamViewer alternatives available in 2025, comparing their features, pricing, performance, security, and best use cases. Whether you need a free solution for occasional personal use or a robust platform for enterprise-level IT support, you'll find options tailored to your specific requirements.

What Makes a Good Remote Desktop Solution?

Before diving into specific alternatives, let's establish the key criteria for evaluating remote desktop software:

Key Evaluation Criteria

1. Ease of Setup and Use: How quickly can you establish a connection? Does it require complex network configuration or administrative privileges?
2. Performance and Reliability: How responsive is the connection? Does it work well on slower networks? Does it maintain stable connections?
3. Security Features: What encryption standards are used? What authentication methods are available? Are there additional security options like 2FA?
4. Cross-Platform Support: Which operating systems and devices are supported? How consistent is the experience across platforms?
5. Feature Set: Does it offer file transfer, multi-monitor support, chat, session recording, and other advanced features?
6. Scalability: Can it be deployed across organizations of various sizes? Does it offer centralized management?
7. Pricing Structure: Is there a free tier? How are commercial licenses structured? Are there hidden costs?
8. Unattended Access: Can you access remote computers without someone physically present at the target machine?

Now, let's explore the top alternatives to TeamViewer that excel in these areas.

Top 10 TeamViewer Alternatives

1. AnyDesk

Overview: AnyDesk has risen to become one of TeamViewer's strongest competitors, known for its exceptional performance even on limited bandwidth connections. Founded in 2014, AnyDesk has rapidly gained popularity and now boasts over 500 million downloads worldwide.

Key Features:

• Proprietary DeskRT codec for smooth visual experience
• Very low latency (even on poor connections)
• Lightweight installation (less than 4MB)
• Unattended access capability
• File transfer with banking-standard TLS 1.2 encryption
• Custom branding options for businesses
• On-screen whiteboard and annotation tools
• Remote printing
• Multi-monitor support with easy navigation
• Session recording

Security: AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 technology with RSA 2048 asymmetric key exchange encryption. Each device receives a unique ID, and you can set additional access passwords and implement two-factor authentication for enhanced security.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux (multiple distributions), Android, iOS, FreeBSD, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS

Pricing (as of 2025):

• Free: For personal use
• Lite: $10.99/month (1 user, 3 devices)
• Professional: $20.99/month (1 user, unlimited devices)
• Power: $52.49/month (multiple users)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Best For: AnyDesk is ideal for users who need high-performance remote access on variable-quality internet connections. Its lightweight nature makes it excellent for quick support scenarios, while its enterprise features make it suitable for IT departments and managed service providers.

Limitations: The free version, while generous, displays a notification when connecting that can be obtrusive. Some advanced features like centralized deployment are only available in higher-tier plans.

2. Chrome Remote Desktop

Overview: Google's Chrome Remote Desktop offers a surprisingly robust and completely free remote access solution that works through the Chrome browser or as a standalone application. Its simplicity and zero-cost approach make it a compelling option for personal use.

Key Features:

• No account needed beyond a Google account
• Persistent access with unattended connection capabilities
• Multi-monitor support
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Simple setup process
• Clipboard sync between devices
• High-quality screen sharing with adaptive quality

Security: All connections are fully encrypted and established through Google's servers, which act as a relay. Each computer generates a unique PIN for access, and connections require explicit approval.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, iOS

Pricing:

• Completely free for both personal and commercial use

Best For: Chrome Remote Desktop is perfect for personal use, family tech support, and small businesses with basic remote access needs. It's also an excellent backup solution when other remote access tools fail.

Limitations: The feature set is more limited compared to dedicated solutions. It lacks advanced features like file transfer tools (though you can use Google Drive), chat functionality, and session recording. Performance may not match specialized applications, especially for tasks requiring low latency like remote video editing.

3. Microsoft Remote Desktop

Overview: Microsoft Remote Desktop is built into Windows and provides official client applications for various platforms. This native solution offers excellent integration with Windows environments and enterprise-grade features through Remote Desktop Services.

Key Features:

• Seamless Windows integration
• Full access to system resources
• Multiple monitor support
• Local resource sharing (printers, drives, clipboard)
• Advanced GPU acceleration
• Smart card authentication
• Remote audio
• USB device redirection
• Session shadowing (for support scenarios)

Security: Microsoft RDP uses multiple security layers, including Network Level Authentication (NLA), TLS/SSL encryption, and integration with Windows security policies. When properly configured with an RD Gateway, it provides enterprise-grade security.

Platforms Supported:

• Host: Windows Professional, Enterprise, or Server editions
• Clients: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

Pricing:

• Basic functionality: Free (built into Windows)
• Enterprise deployment: Requires Windows Server licensing and possibly Remote Desktop Services CALs

Best For: Microsoft Remote Desktop is ideal for Windows-centric businesses, IT administrators managing Windows servers, and users who need deep integration with the Windows ecosystem. It's particularly strong in enterprise environments when deployed as part of Remote Desktop Services.

Limitations: The biggest limitation is that hosting requires Windows Professional, Enterprise, or Server editions (not available on Home editions). Direct internet access to RDP (port 3389) poses significant security risks, requiring additional configuration like VPN or Remote Desktop Gateway for safe external access. Non-Windows hosts are not supported.

4. Splashtop

Overview: Splashtop has positioned itself as a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to both TeamViewer and LogMeIn. It offers excellent value with a comprehensive feature set at more affordable price points.

Key Features:

• High-performance HD quality
• Low latency connections
• File transfer with drag-and-drop
• Remote print
• Chat functionality
• Session recording
• Multi-monitor support
• Wake-on-LAN
• Remote reboot
• User management and grouping
• Scheduled access

Security: Splashtop implements TLS and 256-bit AES encryption, device authentication, two-factor authentication, and multiple 2nd-level password options. Enterprise packages offer SSO integration and granular permission settings.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, Raspberry Pi OS), iOS, Android, Chromebooks

Pricing (as of 2025):

• Business Access Solo: $8.25/month (access up to 2 computers)
• Business Access Pro: $16.58/month (access up to 10 computers)
• SOS (Support): $17/month per technician (unlimited endpoints)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Best For: Splashtop is excellent for small to medium businesses, remote employees, and IT support teams seeking a balance of performance and affordability. Its SOS solution is particularly valuable for help desk scenarios.

Limitations: The free tier is very limited (local network only), and some advanced features require higher-tier plans. User interface, while functional, is not as polished as some competitors.

5. Zoho Assist

Overview: Part of the broader Zoho ecosystem, Zoho Assist focuses on remote support and unattended access with strong integration into service desk workflows. It offers a clean, web-based interface with robust features.

Key Features:

• Browser-based remote control (no software installation for supporters)
• Screen sharing and remote control
• File transfer
• Chat functionality
• Session scheduling
• Multi-monitor navigation
• Voice and video chat
• Reboot and reconnect
• Session reporting
• Integration with Zoho Desk and other Zoho products
• Custom branding

Security: Zoho Assist provides 256-bit AES encryption, two-factor authentication, and SSL/TLS connections. All sessions require explicit permission from the end-user (for attended support), and you can set up granular role-based permissions.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, iOS, Android

Pricing (as of 2025):

• Free: Limited features, 5 unattended computers
• Standard: $12/month per technician
• Professional: $19/month per technician
• Enterprise: $29/month per technician
• Unattended Access plans start at $10/month for 25 computers

Best For: Zoho Assist is particularly well-suited for help desk environments, MSPs (Managed Service Providers), and businesses already using other Zoho products. Its workflow integration and session management features are excellent for organized support teams.

Limitations: The experience is more web-focused, which can sometimes impact performance compared to fully native applications. Some users report occasional lag on slower connections.

6. RemotePC

Overview: RemotePC by IDrive offers a straightforward, reliable remote access solution with a focus on security and ease of use. It has gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative with a comprehensive feature set.

Key Features:

• Always-on remote access
• File transfer
• Remote printing
• Whiteboarding and annotation
• Voice chat
• Recording capabilities
• Wake-on-LAN
• Remote reboot
• Mobile device access
• Multi-monitor support
• HelpDesk for on-demand support

Security: RemotePC implements TLS v 1.2 transport security with AES-256 encryption for sessions. It supports personal keys for additional security, two-factor authentication, and allows limiting access by time and date ranges.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android

Pricing (as of 2025):

• Consumer: $19.95/year (2 computers)
• SOHO: $59.95/year (10 computers)
• Team: $224.62/year (50 computers)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Best For: RemotePC is ideal for small businesses, home professionals, and individual users who need reliable remote access at affordable prices. Its annual pricing model offers significant savings compared to monthly subscription competitors.

Limitations: The user interface, while functional, isn't as modern as some alternatives. Some advanced features like computer grouping are only available in higher-tier plans.

7. VNC Connect

Overview: VNC Connect by RealVNC is built on the open-source Virtual Network Computing protocol, which has a long history in remote access. RealVNC offers a professional, enhanced implementation with additional security and features.

Key Features:

• Direct and cloud connectivity options
• File transfer
• Chat functionality
• Print to local printer
• Session scaling
• Multi-monitor support
• Team management
• Virtual desktops
• Strong encryption
• Granular access controls

Security: VNC Connect offers up to 256-bit AES encryption and can be configured to run on dedicated servers for organizations with strict security requirements. It supports SSO, system authentication integration, and session permissions.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi, iOS, Android, Chrome OS

Pricing (as of 2025):

• Free: Home subscription for personal use (limited to 3 computers)
• Professional: $4.99/month per computer
• Enterprise: $8.99/month per computer
• Volume discounts available

Best For: VNC Connect is particularly well-suited for technical users, cross-platform environments, and organizations that need both cloud and direct connectivity options. Its Raspberry Pi support makes it valuable for IoT and embedded systems remote management.

Limitations: The interface has a steeper learning curve compared to more consumer-focused alternatives. Performance can vary based on network conditions more than some competitors with proprietary protocols.

8. ConnectWise Control (formerly ScreenConnect)

Overview: ConnectWise Control is a professional-grade remote support and access solution popular among managed service providers (MSPs) and IT professionals. It offers extensive customization and integration capabilities.

Key Features:

• Highly customizable interface
• Robust unattended access
• On-demand remote support
• Advanced session management
• Extensive toolbox for technicians
• File transfer
• Remote command line
• Remote registry editing
• Wake-on-LAN
• Automated scripts and toolkits
• Meeting/presentation mode

Security: ConnectWise Control provides role-based security, AES-256 encryption, and detailed audit logs. It supports multi-factor authentication and can be deployed on-premises for environments with strict security requirements.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android

Pricing (as of 2025):

• One: $24/month (1 technician, 25 access agents)
• Standard: $39/month (1 technician, unlimited access)
• Premium: $54/month (includes advanced features)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Best For: ConnectWise Control is ideal for IT professionals, managed service providers, and technical support teams requiring advanced customization, integration with PSA (Professional Services Automation) tools, and extensive remote capabilities.

Limitations: The pricing is higher than some alternatives, and the advanced customization capabilities come with a steeper learning curve. It's more complex than needed for personal or simple business use cases.

9. UltraViewer

Overview: UltraViewer is a lightweight, free remote desktop software that offers basic but effective remote control capabilities. It has gained popularity as a simple solution for personal use and small business support.

Key Features:

• Free for both personal and commercial use
• Lightweight installation
• Simple interface
• File transfer
• Text chat
• Multi-screen support
• Address book for saved connections
• Remote control and screen viewing modes

Security: UltraViewer encrypts connections and requires ID and password authentication. However, it doesn't offer advanced security features like 2FA or detailed access controls found in premium solutions.

Platforms Supported: Windows (host and client)

Pricing:

• Completely free

Best For: UltraViewer is best for Windows users who need a simple, free solution for occasional support or access needs. It's particularly suitable for helping friends and family or small businesses with basic requirements.

Limitations: Platform support is limited to Windows. The feature set is basic compared to premium alternatives, and it lacks advanced security options. No unattended access in the free version.

10. DWService

Overview: DWService is an open-source, web-based remote access solution that requires no installation on the client side, making it uniquely accessible. Everything works through a web browser, simplifying cross-platform support.

Key Features:

• Web-based access (no client software needed)
• File management
• Terminal access
• Full desktop control
• Multiple monitor support
• Screen recording
• Clipboard transfer
• Wake-on-LAN
• User management

Security: DWService uses HTTPS for all connections with TLS encryption. Authentication is handled through the DWService platform with options for enhanced security through access passwords and IP restrictions.

Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi (agent installation required on host)

Pricing:

• Free tier: Basic functionality, limited to 10 devices
• Private Cloud: Self-hosted option
• Premium: €20-100/year depending on devices (extended features)

Best For: DWService is ideal for users who need to access systems from public or restricted computers where installing software isn't possible. It's also excellent for organizations wanting an open-source solution or the ability to self-host their remote access infrastructure.

Limitations: Performance through the browser interface may not match dedicated clients. Advanced features require premium subscriptions. The open-source nature means support relies on community forums rather than dedicated support teams.

Feature Comparison Chart

*Free in Windows but requires Pro/Enterprise/Server editions for hosting **When properly configured

Choosing the Right TeamViewer Alternative for Your Needs

With so many options available, selecting the right remote desktop solution depends on your specific requirements. Here's a guide based on common use cases:

For Personal/Home Use

Best Options: Chrome Remote Desktop, AnyDesk (Free), UltraViewer Why: These offer free tiers with sufficient functionality for occasional use. Chrome Remote Desktop is particularly good for helping less technical friends and family since it requires minimal setup.

For Professional Remote Work

Best Options: Splashtop Business, RemotePC, AnyDesk Professional Why: These provide reliable, secure connections with features like multi-monitor support, file transfer, and strong performance needed for daily work.

For IT Support Teams

Best Options: ConnectWise Control, Zoho Assist, Splashtop SOS Why: These platforms offer robust session management, multiple technician accounts, and advanced support tools designed for help desk environments.

For Enterprise Environments

Best Options: Microsoft Remote Desktop Services, ConnectWise Control, AnyDesk Enterprise Why: These solutions provide centralized management, integration with existing security infrastructure, and scalability needed for large organizations.

For Cross-Platform Environments

Best Options: AnyDesk, VNC Connect, DWService Why: These offer consistent experience across different operating systems, making them ideal for heterogeneous environments with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.

For Low-Bandwidth/High-Latency Connections

Best Options: AnyDesk, Splashtop Why: Their optimized protocols and adaptive quality settings perform well even on poor connections.

For Security-Conscious Organizations

Best Options: ConnectWise Control (self-hosted), Microsoft RDS with proper gateway configuration, VNC Connect (on-premises) Why: These offer on-premises deployment options, granular security controls, and compliance-friendly features.

Security Best Practices for Remote Access

Regardless of which solution you choose, implementing these security practices is essential:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords for remote access and never reuse them across different services.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Whenever available, 2FA adds a crucial layer of security.
3. Limit Access Rights: Provide users with only the access levels they need to perform their tasks.
4. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your remote access software to protect against vulnerabilities.
5. Use Access Logs: Monitor and review connection logs to detect unauthorized access attempts.
6. Implement Session Timeouts: Configure automatic disconnection after periods of inactivity.
7. Never Expose RDP Directly to the Internet: Always use a VPN, Remote Desktop Gateway, or cloud-brokered connection.
8. Configure Firewall Rules: Restrict remote access connections to trusted IP addresses when possible.
9. Use Granular Permissions: Take advantage of features that allow temporary or scheduled access.
10. Consider Network Segmentation: Separate remote access networks from critical infrastructure where possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a completely free alternative to TeamViewer with no limitations?

Chrome Remote Desktop is the closest to a completely free solution with no significant limitations for basic remote access. AnyDesk and UltraViewer also offer free tiers that are quite functional for personal use, though with some feature limitations.

Which TeamViewer alternative has the best performance on slow internet connections?

AnyDesk consistently performs best on low-bandwidth and high-latency connections thanks to its custom DeskRT codec, which was specifically designed for this purpose. Splashtop also performs well in challenging network conditions.

What is the most secure TeamViewer alternative?

For maximum security, self-hosted solutions like ConnectWise Control, VNC Connect (on-premises), or properly configured Microsoft Remote Desktop Services with RD Gateway provide the highest levels of security and control. Among cloud solutions, AnyDesk and Splashtop offer excellent security features including end-to-end encryption and 2FA.

Which alternatives work best across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux)?

AnyDesk, VNC Connect, and DWService offer the most comprehensive cross-platform support, covering Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile devices, and even niche platforms like Raspberry Pi.

Are there any TeamViewer alternatives specifically designed for business use?

ConnectWise Control, Zoho Assist, and Splashtop's business tiers are specifically designed for professional and business use cases with features like user management, advanced reporting, and integration with business systems.

Can I use these alternatives to access my computer when I'm away from home?

Yes, all the alternatives discussed (except the free tier of UltraViewer) support unattended access, allowing you to connect to your computer remotely without someone physically present at the machine.

Do any of these alternatives allow multiple concurrent users or sessions?

Yes, ConnectWise Control, Microsoft Remote Desktop Services, and Zoho Assist Enterprise tier support multiple concurrent sessions. AnyDesk and Splashtop Business also support concurrent sessions in their higher-tier plans.

Conclusion

While TeamViewer remains a popular remote desktop solution, the alternatives discussed in this guide offer compelling features, often at more attractive price points or with specialized capabilities that might better suit your specific needs.

For personal use, Chrome Remote Desktop and AnyDesk's free tier provide excellent functionality without cost. Small businesses and professionals might find Splashtop or RemotePC offers the best balance of features and affordability. Enterprise users with complex requirements should consider ConnectWise Control or Microsoft's Remote Desktop Services for their advanced management capabilities.

When selecting a remote desktop solution, consider not just the immediate features and pricing, but also factors like scalability, security, and how well the solution integrates with your existing workflows. The right choice will depend on your specific use case, technical requirements, and budget constraints.

By implementing a suitable TeamViewer alternative along with proper security practices, you can achieve efficient, secure remote access that enhances productivity while maintaining robust protection of your systems and data.

Disclaimer: Pricing information is accurate as of the publication date but may change. Always check the official websites for the most current pricing and features. This article contains no affiliate links.