Top 10 Remote Desktop (RDP) Alternatives in 2024

RDP, Remote Desktop Protocol powered by Microsoft, is a renowned remote platform enabling administrators to remotely access user desktops to diagnose issues. Besides this, using this platform, users can also get access to physical work desktops – all remotely! 

Besides its multiple pros, RDP also has significant cons that end users looking for alternatives. Understanding this, we have listed ten of the best RDP alternatives you should consider investing in 2024. Their comprehensive explanation covering salient features, pros, cons, and more will assist you in making an informed decision. 

Part 1. Why Do You Need Microsoft Remote Desktop Alternatives?

RDP offers a plethora of noteworthy benefits, including bandwidth reduction, smart card authentication, 128-bit encryption for mouse and keyboard data using RC4 encryption, and more. However, its downsides also need attention. Here is why you need a Microsoft RDP alternative:

• No Administrative Access: If your goal is solely to obtain Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) access, you'll face obstacles without administrative privileges. The most effective approach to achieve this is by acquiring a Remote Desktop Protocol server, ideally. Alternatively, you may request the provider to install specific software for your RDP account.
• Daunting Setup: Setting up RDP can be challenging; it's not straightforward. While it may work smoothly within a local network, extending its use to accessing computers outside the network, such as in a work-from-home scenario, can be notably complicated and lacks scalability.
• Lack of Multi-Monitor Support: Unlike comparable platforms such as TeamViewer, RDP cannot utilize multiple screens within the terminal server environment. It lacks the functionality to seamlessly switch between multiple displays.
• Restricted Multimedia Performance: RDP is primarily designed for efficient text and image transmission, making it less ideal for tasks demanding advanced graphic capabilities like 3D rendering or video editing. Even basic audio and video content may experience performance drawbacks, resulting in uneven or delayed playback, potentially compromising the overall user experience.
• Compatibility Concerns: Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) functionality is exclusively accessible on specific Windows editions, such as Pro, Business, and Ultimate. Windows Home editions cannot accept remote desktop connections.
• Single User Access: By default, RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) restricts access to a single user for a remote desktop session. This limitation may pose constraints in scenarios requiring collaboration or accommodating multiple users.

Part 2. The 10 Best RDP Alternatives to Consider in 2024

Let's hop onto the main section, the best RDP alternatives to check out in 2024!

1. Avica Remote Desktop

Crowning our list of the best remote desktop connection alternatives, Avica is a master of its field. Offering 4k resolution, 4:4:4 color mode, lower latency, and robust security with end-to-end AES-256 encryption, this platform is indeed a must-have!

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, Android and iOS

Key Features

• Supports rapid file transfer
• Supports screen recording and voice syncing 
• Allows turning on Privacy mode, blacking out screens of remote computers under the master PC

Pros

• Various supported resolutions
• Multi-monitoring and multi-channel features
• Enables mouse lock

Cons

• Compared to some renowned names, newer ones on the market

Feel free to download Avica products by clicking the button below. If you're seeking additional information about Avica product downloads, you can visit the Avica download page. Rest assured, Avica guarantees the safety and virus-free nature of all products obtained from their official website or app store.

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2. Chrome Remote Desktop

Whether you need a remote desktop connection on a short-term basis for something like ad hoc remote support or a long-term one for enjoying access to your files stored at a remotely connected desktop, this alternative remote desktop is your best bet!

Compatibility

• Chrome OS, Android, Raspberry Pi, iOS, OS X, Windows, and Linux

Key Features

• Relies on WebRTC for securing infrastructure
• Pretty easy to use
• Allows screen sharing for real-time collaboration

Pros

• Free to use
• Ideal for short-term individual uses
• Cross-platform compatibility

Cons

• Face connectivity issues
• Not suitable for commercial-based tech support usage
• Unstable connections

3. TeamViewer

Next, we have TeamViewer! It supports end-to-end encrypted SSL encryption when offering reliable access to a centralized remote working system.

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, Android, and Web Services

Key Features

• Ideal features to support every type of enterprise
• Explicit 99.99% uptime with 2.5 billion downloads
• Integrates well with Salesforce, Freshworks, Microsoft Teams, etc.

Pros

• Snapshot recording
• Convenient to setup
• Intuitive and engaging UI

Cons

• Costly for startups
• Slower file transferring speed when connected to multiple devices
• Does not work through the proxy servers

4. AnyDesk

You must have heard of AnyDesk, as it’s one of the best Windows remote desktop alternatives. Though it comes with multiple benefits, its ability to compress image data before delivering to ensure swift transfer remains the best part.

Compatibility

• Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Android

Key Features

• Gives access to remote desktops with high frame rates and minimum latency
• Utilizes secured VPN latency to ensure end-level security
• Support convenient troubleshooting of issues

Pros

• A great extent of customization supported
• Connections secured by TLS 1.2 encryption technology
• Trusted by 170000+ customers

Cons

• Auto-reconnect not supported
• Poor working on low-resolution devices
• Doesn’t allow a convenient laptop to Android remote connection

5. Splashtop

This alternative to RDP mainly focuses on offering innovative solutions for organizations, letting them meet their HIPAA, FERPA, and PCI compliance requirements when ensuring security with TLS and 256-bit AES encryption.

Compatibility

• Splashtop Business supports Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iOS, and Android.

Key Features

• Can handle high-end graphics with up to 60 fps
• Uses robust security measures to keep the data safe
• Supports up to 30 fps in 4K resolution and up to 60 fps in 1080p

Pros

• Ultra-compatible
• Simultaneous access of two members to a single computer
• Budget-friendly pricing

Cons

• Relatively slow
• Most plans bill annually
• Certain limitations imposed on systems working with Linux as the master PC

6. FreeRDP

Released under the Apache license, FreeRDP offers the privilege of accessing your data and using your software remotely using any device. Its interoperability makes it stand out.  

Compatibility

• Windows, macOS, and Linux

Key Features

• Supports two command-line syntaxes
• Relies on a high-end command-line parsing engine
• Elevates your remote computing experience with its features

Pros

• Open source
• Dynamic resolution update
• Remote audio support

Cons

• Installation requires tech knowledge
• Limited community supported
• Doesn't offer that many innovative features

7. SupRemo

SupRemo is an all-in-one desktop solution available on Play Store and App Store. It’s UAC compatible and offers free Support to solve its customer issues. 

Compatibility

• Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux

Key Features

• Allows arranging meetings
• Budget-friendly plans start at just five euros per month
• A simple and lightweight platform

Pros

• Customization
• Free updates
• Unlimited installations

Cons

• Somehow difficult to use
• Lags in speed due to connection issues sometimes
• May face errors

8. AnyViewer

Want to ensure your remote desktop connections are secure, fast, and free? You must check out AnyViewer – the next-level alternative to Windows remote desktop!

Compatibility

• Windows, iPhone, and Android devices

Key Features

• Impressive data transfer speed on paid plans
• Supports stable and secure connection
• Offers additional security with ECC encryption

Pros

• Free version without time limit
• 100% guaranteed safety & privacy
• Ideal for PC-to-PC and Mobile-to-PC remote connections

Cons

• Lacks two-factor authentication
• Requires compulsory installation on every device
• Lags in speed when connected to multiple devices

9. Remmina

Here is another alternative to the remote desktop, Remmina! Its distinctive features include kiosk mode and copyleft. The best part? It’s free to use. 

Compatibility

• RDP, VNC, NX, XDMCP, and SSH

Key Features

• Supports 50+ distributions and 67 languages
• Allows swift file-sharing
• Plugins and multi-monitor features accessible

Pros

• Supports a broad range of protocols
• User-friendly interface
• Free and open-source
• Cons
• Limited compatibility
• Stability and performance issues
• Lack of Support

10. Quasar

If you are tired of the RDP’s lagging speed, you need to check out this Windows RDP alternative. It ensures swift connection – in just 12 minutes. That’s not all; hop on below to explore more!

Compatibility

• SPAs, SSR, PWAs, BEX, Android, iOS, etc.

Key Features

• Excellently handles heavy installations
• Allows comprehensive documentation
• Offers an intuitive interface

Pros

• One code-based integration
• Sponsored by renowned industry names
• Swift connection speed

Cons

• Limited tutorials
• Small community
• Complex configuration for non-tech-savvy

Part 3. Which Alternative Is the Best One: The Ultimate Battle

Coming to the main point, which is the best one out of all these? Hear us shouting, Avica! It has superb connection speed and supports innovative features like screen recording, one-click connection termination, and voice sync. Here is how to use it:

• Download Avica app and perform the installation steps. (Tips: You can download Avica by clicking the button below, or learning more about Avica products from the Avica download page.)

Free Download

• Once done, log in or sign up to your Avica account following the on-screen instructions.
• Share your ID and Password with your potential master PC and ask them to insert it into the designated box on the interface.
• That's it! Your master PC handler can now perform their desired action on your computer.

Conclusion

That was all about the best Windows remote desktop alternative! No doubt, each has its distinctive set of upsides and downsides, but one that stands out among the crowd is Avica. Thanks to its End-to-End AES-256 encryption, low latency, and multiple resolution support, they make remote working much easier. Hope you found this info helpful; stay tuned for more!