Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Microsoft Remote Desktop VS TeamViewer

Compare Microsoft Remote Desktop VS TeamViewer and see what are their differences

Microsoft Remote Desktop logo Microsoft Remote Desktop

Once that's done, another computer or device with the right credentials, called the client, can connect to the host and control it. Don't let the technical aspects of remote desktop software scare you away.

TeamViewer logo TeamViewer

TeamViewer lets you establish a connection to any PC or server within just a few seconds.
  • Microsoft Remote Desktop Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-09
  • TeamViewer Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-10

Microsoft Remote Desktop features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    Microsoft Remote Desktop provides a user-friendly interface that is simple to set up and navigate, making it accessible for users of varying technical expertise.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    Supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, allowing for versatile usage across different devices.
  • Performance
    Offers reliable and relatively fast performance with the ability to handle complex applications and operations through remote connections.
  • Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem
    Seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft services and products, such as Azure and Office 365, enhancing productivity for users within the Microsoft ecosystem.
  • Security
    Includes robust security features like network-level authentication, data encryption, and multi-factor authentication, ensuring secure remote connections.

Possible disadvantages of Microsoft Remote Desktop

  • Initial Setup Complexity
    For non-technical users, the initial setup can be challenging and may require additional resources or support to configure properly.
  • Internet Dependency
    Performance and usability heavily depend on a stable and high-speed Internet connection, which might be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.
  • Licensing Costs
    Some advanced features and integrations require specific Windows licenses or Azure subscriptions, which may incur additional costs for businesses and individual users.
  • Resource Consumption
    Running remote desktop sessions can be resource-intensive, potentially affecting the performance of both the client and the host machine, especially on older hardware.
  • Limited Customization
    The application may lack some customization options found in other remote desktop solutions, making it less flexible for users with specific needs and preferences.

TeamViewer features and specs

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    TeamViewer supports multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it versatile for various user needs.
  • Ease of Use
    The interface is user-friendly and intuitive, which makes it easy for both technical and non-technical users to navigate and use the software.
  • Comprehensive Features
    The software offers a wide range of features including remote control, file transfer, VPN, and remote printing, which can address various remote support needs.
  • High Security
    TeamViewer uses end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and other security measures to protect data and ensure safe remote connections.
  • Free for Personal Use
    TeamViewer offers a free version for personal, non-commercial use, allowing individual users to leverage its functionalities without cost.
  • Support for Multiple Users
    The software allows multiple users to connect to a single session, which can be beneficial for collaborative work or support scenarios.
  • Fast and Reliable Performance
    TeamViewer provides fast connection speeds and stable performance, minimizing lag and disruptions during remote sessions.

Possible disadvantages of TeamViewer

  • High Cost for Commercial Use
    The pricing for commercial licenses can be high, especially for small businesses, which can make it less affordable for some users.
  • Occasional Connection Issues
    Some users report occasional connection drops and latency issues, which can interrupt remote sessions.
  • Complex Licensing Model
    The licensing model can be complex and confusing, with various tiers and features that can be difficult to navigate for potential buyers.
  • Resource Intensive
    TeamViewer can be resource-intensive, potentially slowing down the performance of the host and client machines during remote sessions.
  • Limited Free Version
    The free version has limitations on functionality and usage time, which can restrict its utility for more extensive or professional use.
  • Privacy Concerns
    There have been concerns regarding privacy and data security, with some reports of unauthorized access, although these are relatively rare.

Analysis of Microsoft Remote Desktop

Overall verdict

  • Microsoft Remote Desktop is generally considered a reliable and effective tool for remote access to Windows machines, particularly for those already using Microsoft services or within a Windows-centric IT environment. Its full compatibility with Windows devices makes it a strong choice for personal and professional use.

Why this product is good

  • Microsoft Remote Desktop is widely regarded as a solid solution for those needing to access and manage their Windows environments remotely. It benefits from integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, offering good performance, security features, and ease of access. Users appreciate its seamless connection to Windows PCs and servers, efficient resource management, and straightforward setup.

Recommended for

  • IT professionals needing to manage Windows servers and workstations remotely.
  • Employees who require access to their office desktops from home or during travel.
  • Organizations using cloud-based environments such as Microsoft Azure.
  • Users already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem seeking integration with other Microsoft products and services.

Analysis of TeamViewer

Overall verdict

  • Overall, TeamViewer is considered a reliable and versatile tool for remote connectivity, offering a comprehensive set of features that are suitable for both personal and professional use. Its effectiveness and user-friendly interface are generally well-regarded by its users.

Why this product is good

  • TeamViewer is a popular remote access and support solution that is known for its ease of use, wide range of features, and robust security protocols. It allows users to remotely access and control computers, offer support, and collaborate with others across different devices and platforms. With features such as file transfer, screen sharing, and multi-language support, it caters to a broad audience from individual users to large enterprises.

Recommended for

  • IT professionals providing remote support
  • Remote workers needing access to office computers
  • Collaboration among team members in different locations
  • Personal users who need occasional remote access to their devices

Microsoft Remote Desktop videos

How to use Chrome Remote Desktop

More videos:

  • Demo - Windows 11 Remote Desktop Connection (RDP) | 2023

TeamViewer videos

Teamviewer Remote Access - How to use and Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Microsoft Remote Desktop and TeamViewer)
Remote Desktop
21 21%
79% 79
Remote PC Access
20 20%
80% 80
Remote Control
100 100%
0% 0
Group Chat & Notifications

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Microsoft Remote Desktop and TeamViewer

Microsoft Remote Desktop Reviews

Top 10 Android Remote Access Tools
Microsoft Remote Desktop is very similar to Chrome Remote Desktop and provides the functionality necessary to access remote Windows computers. Since this software was developed by Microsoft, it is compatible with all of the company’s applications and versions of the Windows OS. Users who need to simply connect to distant Windows systems may find this to be the best free...
25 Best TeamViewer Alternative Software (Free/Paid) in 2021
Remote desktop software needs to be installed on both the client as well as server-side. It uses Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to Windows systems. Once installed, it captures inputs like mouse and keyboard from the client’s computer and sends them to the server computer. This way, the client can use and manage the server-side computer from a remote location. It...
Source: www.guru99.com
Best remote desktop software of 2021: Paid and free choices for businesses
Chrome Remote Desktop is a free remote access program that’s available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android devices. It's extremely limited when compared to some of the paid options on this list, but it’s the best free software we’ve come across and is a great option for personal use.
10 Best Free Remote Desktop Tools You Should Know
Remote desktop tools and features have been around for years. Most such tools and features were built with IT administrators and managers in mind – they make it easy for IT support personnel to access connected computers via a ‘master’ computer. But with the increasing popularity of smartphones and tablets, the average user also feels the need to access their home or work PC...
13 Best TeamViewer Alternatives Of 2019
If you are looking for a free desktop sharing tool for your Windows platform, then you might not need to look any further than the built-in tool known as Remote Desktop Connection. It enables Windows users to connect their desktop to another Windows based computer securely over LAN or via the internet.
Source: www.rankred.com

TeamViewer Reviews

  1. cico3466
    · user at PCHardware ·
    First Organization

    TeamViewer is a beginner-friendly, feature-rich remote desktop management tool that boasts exceptional security features, an intuitive user interface, and a great selection of extra screen sharing and conferencing tools.

    🏁 Competitors: Microsoft Teams, AnyDesk
    👍 Pros:    Beginner-friendly interface
    👎 Cons:    Could be expensive for some

Top Remote Desktop Software for Gaming
TeamViewer is one of the most well-known remote desktop software worldwide. As one of the fastest remote desktop for gaming solutions, TeamViewer is unique in delivering support in more than 30 languages.
Source: cloudzy.com
10 Best Teamviewer Alternatives
The first remote access program that comes to mind when looking for an alternative to Teamviewer is Anydesk. The office of this company is also located in Germany and it is believed that the founders of Anydesk are former employees of Teamviewer.
Source: medium.com
Top 10 Duet Display Alternatives (Free and Paid) Reviewed | 2022
Duet Display vs TeamViewer: The app allows you to monitor devices remotely and is a bit different than Duet Display Therefore, it is obvious that you can use Team Viewer to add a second screen to your computer. The process is quite simple as you just need to download and install the app and you can remotely transfer the screen.
Source: mediapeanut.com
Top 10 Android Remote Access Tools
TeamViewer is considered by many to be the best remote access software Android users can obtain. The tool requires a bit more effort to set it up, but the advanced feature set and performance make it worth your time. While the free version is stable for personal use, businesses that want to implement TeamViewer need to purchase a paid subscription. The tool is great for...
15 Best Parsec Alternatives [Remote Desktop Tools] in 2022
TeamViewer is an app that allows remote access and control to any desktop and mobile platform. It gives you access to any computer or mobile device and allows you to operate them as if you are there. It is a great alternative to Parsec as you can access your gaming PC through your mobile phone or any device of your choice and will be able to play your games from there easily.
Source: phreesite.com

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Microsoft Remote Desktop and TeamViewer, you can also consider the following products

AnyDesk - AnyDesk is the world's most comfortable remote desktop application. Access all your programs, documents and files from anywhere, without having to entrust your data to a cloud service.

LogMeIn - LogMeIn gives you fast, easy remote access to your PC or Mac from your browser, desktop and mobile...

join.me - Instant screen sharing. Instant Aha!

TightVNC - TightVNC - VNC-Compatible Remote Control / Remote Desktop Software. Download TightVNCDownload TightVNC 1. 3. 10 - TightVNC Server - F. A. Read more about TightVNC.

Chrome Remote Desktop - The easy way to remotely connect with your home or work computer, or share your screen with others.

GoToAssist - RescueAssist, formerly GoToAssist, identifies, diagnoses & solves issues fast with our remote desktop support software. Learn more about RescueAssist today!