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rdesktop VS Chrome Remote Desktop

Compare rdesktop VS Chrome Remote Desktop and see what are their differences

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Remote support software that just works. Securely access attended or unattended computers from anywhere. featured
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rdesktop logo rdesktop

rdesktop is a free and open source remote desktop protocol client designed to make the users able to manage their PCs in a new way.

Chrome Remote Desktop logo Chrome Remote Desktop

The easy way to remotely connect with your home or work computer, or share your screen with others.
  • rdesktop Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-07-23
  • Chrome Remote Desktop Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-26

rdesktop features and specs

  • Open Source
    rdesktop is an open-source software, which means it is free to use and has a community of developers contributing to its improvement.
  • Lightweight
    The application is lightweight, requiring minimal system resources, which makes it suitable for older hardware or systems with limited resources.
  • Compatibility
    rdesktop is compatible with multiple versions of the RDP protocol, allowing users to connect to different versions of Windows operating systems without issues.
  • Cross-Platform
    It is designed to work on various Unix-based operating systems, including Linux and BSD, giving users flexibility in their choice of operating system.
  • Simple Configuration
    The configuration and setup of rdesktop are straightforward, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.

Possible disadvantages of rdesktop

  • Lack of Active Development
    rdesktop has seen a decline in active development and updates, which might lead to vulnerabilities or incompatibilities with newer systems.
  • Limited Features
    Compared to other RDP clients, rdesktop provides a more basic set of features, lacking modern enhancements like multimedia redirection.
  • Security Concerns
    Being an older software, rdesktop may not support the latest security protocols and features, potentially making it less secure.
  • No GUI by Default
    rdesktop primarily operates through the command line, which might be challenging for users who prefer a graphical user interface (GUI).
  • Potential Compatibility Issues
    There might be compatibility issues with newer Windows features or versions as development has waned, limiting connectivity options.

Chrome Remote Desktop features and specs

  • Ease of Use
    Chrome Remote Desktop offers a straightforward setup and user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for individuals with minimal technical expertise.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    The service supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, allowing for convenient access regardless of the device being used.
  • Cost
    It is a free service, making it an economical choice for users requiring remote desktop access without investing in premium software.
  • Security
    The service uses Google's robust security protocols, including SSH and SSL, ensuring that connections are encrypted and secure.
  • Integration with Google Services
    Seamless integration with other Google services such as Gmail and Google Drive can enhance productivity and user experience.

Possible disadvantages of Chrome Remote Desktop

  • Limited Features
    Compared to other remote desktop solutions, Chrome Remote Desktop lacks advanced features such as file transfer, remote printing, and screen sharing with annotations.
  • Internet Dependency
    A stable internet connection is essential for effective use. Performance may degrade with slower connections, making it less reliable in areas with poor internet service.
  • No Multi-Monitor Support
    The service does not natively support multiple monitors, which can be a significant limitation for users who rely on multi-screen setups.
  • Limited Customization
    The application has limited customization options, making it less adaptable to specific user or business requirements compared to more flexible solutions.
  • Google Account Requirement
    A Google account is mandatory for using the service, which may be a drawback for individuals or organizations that prefer not to use Google services.

Analysis of rdesktop

Overall verdict

  • rdesktop can be considered a decent choice if you are looking for a basic, open-source RDP client. However, newer alternatives like FreeRDP or Remmina might offer better performance, security, and features due to more active development and support for modern RDP features.

Why this product is good

  • rdesktop is an open-source client for Microsoft's RDP protocol, historically used for accessing remote desktops on Windows machines. It is lightweight and has been a popular choice for Linux users who need to connect to Windows servers. However, development activity has slowed down, and it may lack some of the more advanced features found in other RDP clients. It is still a viable option for users seeking a straightforward, no-frills remote desktop connection.

Recommended for

    rdesktop is recommended for users who need a simple and lightweight RDP client on Linux platforms, particularly for accessing older Windows servers or when minimal configuration is desired. Users requiring advanced features or handling of modern Windows environments may want to explore other options.

rdesktop videos

+ Add

Difference between Rdesktop and Freerdp

More videos:

  • Review - rdesktop - Remote Desktop to Windows OS from Linux - Linux CLI

Chrome Remote Desktop videos

+ Add

How To Set Up Chrome Remote Desktop to WFH

More videos:

  • Review - Review - Free Chrome Remote Desktop - It is amazing!
  • Review - Access Your Desktop Remotely With Google Chrome Remote Desktop

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to rdesktop and Chrome Remote Desktop)

rdesktop

Chrome Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop
22 22%
Remote Desktop
78% 78
Remote PC Access
18 18%
Remote PC Access
82% 82
Office & Productivity
100 100%
Office & Productivity
0% 0
Remote Control
18 18%
Remote Control
82% 82

User comments

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Reviews

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

rdesktop Reviews

We have no reviews of rdesktop yet.
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Chrome 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...
Source: www.helpwire.app
14 Best TeamViewer Alternatives of 2022
Chrome Remote Desktop is not really a proper remote access terminal. It is just a browser extension enabling remote connection. This means that it is a browser-based tool, making it platform-independent.
Source: www.cloudzat.com
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.
Source: www.techradar.com
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...
Source: www.lifehack.org

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Chrome Remote Desktop seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 94 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

rdesktop mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of rdesktop yet. Tracking of rdesktop recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Chrome Remote Desktop mentions (94)

  • Has anyone successfully used your Chromebook just to remote to your regular pc when traveling?
    This works pretty well with Chrome Remote Desktop. Source: over 1 year ago
  • Show HN: Another way to use an old tablet as an extra screen
    When I had to work on my desktop but had to watch some educational videos on the side I just used https://remotedesktop.google.com/. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • ChromeOS is Linux with Google’s desktop environment
    They do, but for the googlers I know it's just as a thin client for their remote desktop software (https://remotedesktop.google.com/). - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Is it possible to run remote Access sofrwares via steamdeck?
    I use ipvanish on steamdeck for pirating movies and shows. I also use google https://remotedesktop.google.com/ to control my work computer without having to to go through windows l2tp vpn or cisco anyconnect. You just need a a browser plugin on the pc you want to control called Chrome Remote Desktop. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Remote control of a Chromebook to give someone support?
    I help my mom all the time. She just bring up https://remotedesktop.google.com/ and then select the option to get help to generate a code. You just need to use chrome browser on another machine and enter the code. You should get a pop up asking for permission. Once approved you should be able to remotely control the Chromebook. Source: about 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing rdesktop and Chrome Remote Desktop, you can also consider the following products

mRemoteNG - mRemoteNG is a fork of mRemote, an open source, tabbed, multi-protocol, remote connections manager.

TeamViewer - TeamViewer lets you establish a connection to any PC or server within just a few seconds.

X2Go - Get X2Go. Installing X2Go (client/server). Download X2Go Client (Windows installer (XP and Later), OS X 10. 9 and higher DMG, OS X 10. 10 and higher DMG or macOS 10.

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.

Remote Desktop Manager - Remote Desktop Manager is a remote connection and password management platform for IT pros trusted by more than 300 000 users in 130 countries.‎Add-ons - Remote Desktop .

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

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