Top 8 Remote Desktop Tools: Features and Pricing Compared

We selected the following vendors based on their ease of use, security capabilities, and core features, including unattended access, session recording, and file transfer. Discover our methodology and the reasoning behind our recommendations by clicking on the product name links:

Remote desktop tools		Best for
1.	NinjaOne	Growing teams that need scalable IT solutions
2.	Teamviewer	Larger organizations with global support needs
3.	ScreenConnect	Advanced security needs
4.	Zoho Assist	Mobile device users
5.	Atera	AI powered automation
Show More (3)
6.	Syncro	Comprehensive system management needs
7.	Splashtop	Mac users
8.	ManageEngine Remote Access Plus	Help desk functionalities

1.

NinjaOne

Growing teams that need scalable IT solutions

2.

Teamviewer

Larger organizations with global support needs

3.

ScreenConnect

Advanced security needs

4.

Zoho Assist

Mobile device users

5.

Atera

AI powered automation

Show More (3)

6.

Syncro

Comprehensive system management needs

7.

Splashtop

Mac users

8.

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus

Help desk functionalities

Top 8 remote desktop tools comparison

Sorting in the above table: The table is sorted based on the number of reviews obtained from B2B review platforms. Sources:

• B2B user reviews from G2 and Capterra.
• Pricing information is gathered from the vendor websites.

Feature comparison

Integrations

Methodology

• Access the tool: Download the software or sign up for a free trial using an email and password.
• Security assessment: Evaluate encryption options and other security features.
• Usability testing: Assess ease of installation, configuration, and user experience across both browser and desktop versions.
• Integration analysis: Verify compatibility with ITSM, communication, security, and reporting tools.

Detailed evaluation of top remote desktop tools

With the rise of remote and hybrid work, businesses rely on remote solutions to maintain productivity, cybersecurity, and system reliability across distributed workforces. Remote monitoring and management (RMM) and remote desktop tools help address the growing security demands.

Explore remote desktop tools, how they compare to RMM solutions, and the key factors to consider when choosing the right option for your needs.

NinjaOne

NinjaOne is a cloud-based IT management platform designed for endpoint monitoring, patch management, remote access, and automation, serving MSPs and IT teams.

Why we picked NinjaOne?

NinjaOne is a good choice for team collaboration and IT support, allowing multiple users to manage remote access and device monitoring efficiently. It provides secure remote access to Windows and Mac devices, allowing support across various operating systems.

The software includes a built-in IT documentation solution and a self-service portal, enabling IT teams to manage and retrieve critical system information easily.

Teamviewer

TeamViewer is a widely used remote access and control software known for its secure and reliable connections. It enables users to remotely access computers, transfer files, and collaborate across different devices and platforms.

We tested TeamViewer’s free trial, and here are our observations:

• Security: Requires sign-in with an encryption password for enhanced security.
• User interface: Intuitive design with easy access to remote actions, including session creation, secure meetings, and collaboration tools.
• Support & documentation: Comprehensive knowledge base covering account management, installation, modules, remote control, device deployment, security, licensing, service management, remote management, and meetings.

Figure 1: TeamViewer’s quick access for remote actions.

Features:

• Monitoring: Disk space, disk health, CPU usage, security solution, and system update.
• Asset management: network discovery, device information, patch management, and software deployment.
• Endpoint protection: Malware protection, zero-day exploit protection, and web protection.

Why we picked TeamViewer?

TeamViewer stands out due to its extensive integration capabilities, specifically with Microsoft Teams and Slack for easier communication between teams. It ensures secure unattended access, enabling users to remotely connect to devices without requiring on-site interaction.

The software also supports file transfers, making it easy to share documents and resources between devices.

Additionally, its cross-platform functionality ensures compatibility across different operating systems.

ScreenConnect

ScreenConnect, also known as ConnectWise Control, is designed for IT teams needing a mix of remote access and comprehensive IT tools. It offers integration with major ticketing systems and CRM tools and provides advanced security features for industries requiring an added layer of security.

Why we picked ScreenConnect?

The platform is easy to use, ensuring quick deployment and adoption by IT teams. Additionally, it provides extra functionalities for remote access, support, and team meetings.

ScreenConnect’s Privileged Access Management (PAM) software enhances cybersecurity by eliminating shared passwords and enforcing least-privilege access controls. It offers real-time elevation request management, credential-free administrative logins, and comprehensive audit logs, ensuring secure and efficient access management for both IT professionals and end users.

Zoho Assist

Zoho Assist is a cloud-based remote support and access tool designed for IT professionals and customer support teams. It offers remote troubleshooting for desktops, mobile devices, and servers, making it a valuable asset for businesses managing multiple endpoints.

We tested Zoho Assist’s free trial, and here are our observations:

Remote access & support:

• Access customers’ screens for troubleshooting.
• Share a computer for demos or training.
• Host meetings or webinars with screen sharing.
• Customers can request remote support at any time via the Service Queue, which logs requests as service cases and assigns them to technicians for efficient troubleshooting.

Deployment options: Zoho Assist offers multiple ways to install and deploy its unattended access agent:

• Distributor deployment: Set up a distributor and domain for unattended access.
• Email invitation: Send an unattended installer link via email or copy it for customers. Once installed, the device can be accessed remotely.
• Microsoft Azure deployment: Deploy agents using Microsoft Intune with Storage Account or Azure Automation Service to manage devices in Azure AD.
• Windows GPO Deployment.
• Microsoft SCCM Deployment.

Security considerations: The absence of an additional security step might be a drawback for users with advanced security requirements.

Augmented Reality (AR) Assistance: Zoho Assist includes AR Assistance Sessions, allowing experts to guide customers or field technicians remotely via their smartphones:

• Initiate an AR session from the browser and connect with Android or iOS devices globally.
• Invite users via email or SMS, allowing them to join by clicking a link to download the Zoho Lens app.
• Technicians provide real-time guidance using AR annotations, text, and voice chat.

Reporting: Zoho Assist offers comprehensive reporting options for remote support and unattended access, including:

• Session count & duration.
• Technician performance (by session count & duration).
• Service queue status.
• Live reports.
• Geo insights.

Figure 2: Zoho Assist enables users to schedule remote support sessions, ensuring the timely resolution of issues.

Features:

Unattended access diagnostic tools:

• Command prompt: Execute commands to automate tasks, run scripts, and perform advanced functions.
• Task manager: Provides limited control over running programs.
• Device manager: Lists connected devices and allows enabling or disabling drivers.
• Services: Remotely start, stop, restart services, and set startup modes for optimal performance.
• Groups: Manage local users and groups, including adding or removing groups.
• Hardware: View and manage installed hardware.
• Printers: Displays connected printers.
• Registry editor: Access and manage application configurations and file details.
• Software: View and manage installed software.

Why we picked Zoho Assist?

Zoho Assist offers remote support for mobile devices, allowing users to remotely control smartphones and tablets. This feature is especially useful for IT professionals managing mobile fleets.

It also supports remote printing, allowing users to easily print documents from a remote device to a local printer. Businesses can leverage custom branding options to personalize the remote support experience and match their identity.

The software features multi-monitor navigation, making it easier for users to switch between different screens. Additionally, unattended remote access allows technicians to troubleshoot issues even when the end-user is not present. Security is a top priority for Zoho Assist, with advanced security features that ensure encrypted and protected connections.

Atera

Atera is an all-in-one RMM and IT service management platform that combines remote access, monitoring, automation, and AI-powered support.

Why we picked Atera?

Atera provides real-time monitoring and alerting, ensuring IT professionals receive immediate notifications for potential issues.

Its AI-powered Tier 1 support automates common tasks, such as password resets, and generates AI-driven ticket summaries, thereby reducing the manual workload.

The platform also features automated patch management with customizable automation, enabling IT teams to deploy software updates efficiently while ensuring security compliance.

Syncro

Syncro is an all-in-one remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform designed for IT service providers. Syncro’s remote access capabilities allow managing a device’s registry, event logs, and file system, and modifying registries, inspecting event logs, and browsing files efficiently.

Why we picked Syncro?

Syncro enables businesses to monitor an unlimited number of endpoints, making it a suitable choice for IT service providers looking to scale operations. It allows organizations to expand their remote management capabilities as their business grows without facing limitations.

The one-click remote access feature ensures quick connections, enabling IT professionals to troubleshoot and resolve issues on any device instantly.

Splashtop

Splashtop is designed to cater to various functions such as businesses, IT teams, and individual users. It offers secure remote connections with minimal latency, making it ideal for tasks requiring smooth remote operation.

Why we picked Splashtop?

Splashtop is known for its drag-and-drop file transfer capability, which simplifies sharing files between connected devices. This feature enhances workflow efficiency by allowing users to move files quickly without additional setup.

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus is a comprehensive remote support tool designed mostly for help desk operations.

Why we picked ManageEngine Remote Access Plus?

ManageEngine Remote Access Plus offers a full-featured help-desk solution and supports ticketing, asset management, and account management.

Additionally, it provides extensive integration capabilities with Zoho CRM and Jira, helping businesses to manage IT service management processes effectively.

Remote desktop tools use cases

1. IT support and help desk services

Organizations, especially those managing large networks, rely mostly on remote desktop services to provide technical support to end users. Features such as screen sharing, remote printing, and file transfer help with issue resolution.

2. Remote work and accessing office computers

With the rise of remote work, employees require secure access to their host computer from a remote PC, mobile app, or web browser.

Features such as multi-monitor support, offline mode, and cloud-based remote support ensure seamless workflows.

Solutions that incorporate two-factor authentication, multi-factor authentication, and end-to-end encryption help safeguard sensitive data.

3. Secure access to enterprise applications

Enterprise users need remote desktop tools that integrate with their servers and support single sign-on (SSO) for maximum security. Mass deployment capabilities allow IT administrators to roll out remote access software across thousands of connected devices efficiently.

Advanced features such as full visibility, access code validation, and factor authentication help mitigate cyber threats.

Latest developments in the remote desktop industry

Security and performance innovations

As remote sessions become an essential tool for IT teams and managed service providers, vendors have introduced improvements in streaming protocols.

These updates include smarter compression techniques, dynamic bandwidth adjustment, and error handling designed to keep remote connection tools stable even on slower connections. Such improvements help users transfer files, share screens, or remotely control a computer with fewer disruptions.

At the same time, securing remote access has become a growing challenge. Widespread adoption of remote support and remote file transfer functions has introduced more opportunities for security vulnerabilities.

Organizations are increasingly focused on strategies such as user training, stronger firewall settings, and two-factor authentication to protect sensitive information.

Microsoft’s shift

Microsoft has introduced significant changes to its remote desktop strategy. In May 2025, the company retired its classic Microsoft Remote Desktop app and transitioned users of Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Dev Box to the new Windows App.

This change affects individual users, IT teams, and enterprises that rely on Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol for secure remote connections.

The Windows App is designed to provide multi-monitor support, dynamic resolution, and more reliable remote access to work computers and home computers across operating systems. It works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Chrome OS, and web browsers, providing a more comprehensive solution for remote desktop access.¹

Shifting towards daas (desktop as a service)

Another development in the industry is the shift toward Desktop as a Service (DaaS). Gartner forecasts that by 2027, DaaS could be more cost-effective than providing laptops for up to 95% of the workforce. Spending in this segment is projected to rise from $4.3 billion in 2025 to $6 billion by 2029.²

This shift has implications for remote work strategies. DaaS enables companies to provide employees with secure remote access to a computer environment without the need for extensive hardware management.

It supports remote screen access, file sharing, collaboration tools, and remote printing directly from the cloud. For small businesses and larger enterprises alike, this model eliminates hidden fees, streamlines server management, and provides IT teams with a more comprehensive solution to manage unlimited users and multiple devices securely.

What to look out for when choosing the right remote access solution?

Key features

Unattended vs. attended access

• Unattended access allows IT teams to connect to devices without requiring user approval. This is crucial for remote monitoring, mass deployment, and enterprise-wide IT management.
• Attended access requires user confirmation before a remote session begins, making it ideal for technical support scenarios where user involvement is necessary.

File transfer & session recording

• Secure file transfer enables the movement of data between a host computer and a remote PC connection using drag-and-drop functionality.
• Remote sessions can be recorded for auditing, compliance, or training purposes, ensuring transparency in technical support interactions.

Multi-monitor & multi-user access

• Multi-monitor support enhances efficiency for users working across multiple screens, especially in IT and creative industries.
• Multi-user access enables multiple professionals to collaborate within a remote session, making it an essential feature for IT teams and small businesses.

Cloud vs. on-prem deployment

• Cloud-based remote support solutions offer scalability, enabling access from any location with an internet connection.
• On-prem remote desktop tools provide greater control over sensitive data, making them ideal for organizations with strict security requirements.

Security & compliance

With the rise of remote work, ensuring secure access to corporate systems has become a critical priority.

Businesses are investing heavily in cybersecurity, with global spending nearly doubling from just under $100 billion in 2017 to almost $200 billion in 2023.

The majority of these investments focus on security services, infrastructure protection, and network security equipment, reflecting the growing need for comprehensive defense measures.³

• End-to-End Encryption: To safeguard sensitive data from interception, remote access solutions must implement strong encryption protocols, ensuring that information remains protected during transmission and storage.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Strengthening login security with an additional authentication step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, a pressing concern as remote work expands. In 2023, 72% of global respondents expressed at least some level of concern about the security risks associated with employees working remotely, emphasizing the need for advanced authentication measures.⁴

Cost analysis

The financial aspect of implementing a remote access solution goes beyond the initial licensing fee. It includes factors such as maintenance, scalability, and hidden costs associated with additional security features or advanced functionalities.

You should evaluate whether a solution provides long-term value by balancing affordability with essential security and performance capabilities. If you are a small business, you can look for remote access software with a free trial or a free version. When deciding between an RMM and a remote desktop solution, many businesses start with remote desktop tools and upgrade to RMM as they scale.

Usability

A remote access tool should not only be functional but also user-friendly, ensuring smooth operation for both IT administrators and end-users:

• Intuitive dashboard: A clear, well-organized interface displaying key details like connected devices and session status ensures easy navigation and efficiency.
• Easy connectivity: Remote sessions should be quick to initiate, requiring only a simple code or authentication to establish a secure connection.
• Role-based access: Customizable permissions help IT teams control user access, reducing security risks and operational errors.
• Comprehensive user support: Detailed documentation, tutorials, and responsive support enable quick issue resolution and user onboarding.

Which type of solution is right for you?

Whether you’re a small business, a large enterprise, or an individual user, the right choice depends on key factors such as scalability, security, automation, and IT management capabilities.

Small businesses: Prioritizing cost & simplicity

Best for startups, freelancers, and SMBs with limited IT resources, teams needing occasional remote access for troubleshooting or work-from-home flexibility, and companies that don’t require large-scale IT automation.

The best solution for small businesses is remote desktop tools. Here is why:

• Lower cost and more straightforward setup compared to RMM solutions.
• Provides essential remote access for troubleshooting and file sharing.
• Ideal for IT teams offering occasional remote support.
• Cloud-based options for easy accessibility without dedicated infrastructure.

When to upgrade to RMM?

• If your business expands, it will require centralized IT management and automation.
• If you need proactive security monitoring and bulk patch management.
• If you want to support multiple users and endpoints more efficiently.

Enterprises: Managing large-scale IT operations

Best for large organizations with distributed teams and global IT operations, IT departments managing hundreds or thousands of endpoints, and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) needing automation, security, and compliance.

The best solution for enterprises is remote monitoring and management (RMM). Here is why:

• Comprehensive system monitoring and automation reduce manual IT workload.
• Ensures security compliance with advanced access controls.
• Ideal for large-scale IT support with real-time monitoring and alerting.
• Proactive issue resolution through automated patching and security updates.

Individual users: Remote work & personal access

Best for remote workers and freelancers needing access to office computers, IT consultants providing ad-hoc remote support, and professionals needing secure access to enterprise applications

The best solution for individual users is remote desktop software. Here is why:

• Lightweight, easy-to-use, and does not require complex setup.
• Works well for personal access to office/home computers.
• Supports file transfers, remote printing, and secure authentication.

Key features to look for if you are an individual user:

• Cross-platform access: Ensures usage on Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android.
• Cloud vs. on-prem deployment: Cloud for flexibility, on-prem for security-sensitive tasks.
• Session recording & audit logs: Ideal for compliance and training purposes.
• End-to-End Encryption: Essential for secure access.

When to upgrade to an RMM?

• If you manage multiple clients as an IT consultant, you need automation.
• If security and compliance are major concerns in your work.
• If you want proactive monitoring rather than just remote access.

FAQs

External Links

• 1. Windows App to replace Remote Desktop app for Windows - Windows IT Pro Blog.
• 2. https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/6828434
• 3. Global information security spending by segment 2024| Statista. Statista
• 4. Cybersecurity concern level in remote work 2023| Statista. Statista