Remote Control Software Like Teamviewer: Top 5 Picks (Free & Paid)

Looking for remote control software like TeamViewer? This ultimate guide compares top options based on security, features, pricing, and specific use cases to help you find the perfect fit.

The best alternatives to TeamViewer offer a range of features for different needs.

1Common Problems: Why Users Switch from TeamViewer

Users frequently look for TeamViewer alternatives due to its prohibitive costs for commercial use, rigid license restrictions, persistent security concerns, and a noticeable lack of specialized features required for managing unattended IoT devices like kiosks or digital signage.

Common Pain Points with TeamViewer

Users report several significant issues that drive them to seek out other options:

• Pricing and Licensing Complexity: TeamViewer’s commercial licensing is among the highest priced in the remote desktop industry. The free version comes with numerous, strict functional limitations and is strictly for non-commercial, personal use. Crucially, the free version is explicitly blocked for critical tasks like remote work.
• Sudden Session Termination: If TeamViewer detects suspected commercial use on a free account, it may limit or completely block remote connections. This often results in sessions abruptly terminating, severely impacting workflow and productivity.
• Poor Subscription and Cancellation Policy: The cancellation policy is widely criticized as unfriendly. Customers must provide written notice to cancel at least 30 days before the renewal date; otherwise, the subscription automatically renews and is charged. Furthermore, users often cannot disable the auto-renewal feature themselves. Customer support is notoriously difficult to reach for free users, and even paying customers report slow response times and inadequate solutions.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Multiple reports over the years have highlighted security issues with TeamViewer, including high-risk vulnerabilities, unauthorized access reports, and data breaches, leading to continuous security anxiety for enterprise clients.
• Feature Gaps for Specialized Needs: The platform lacks advanced features necessary for robust Android device management, such as a centralized app management service (AMS), Kiosk Mode, and Geofencing.

2Key Features to Look for in Remote Control Software

When choosing a remote control tool, your priorities should be robust security (end-to-end encryption, 2FA), wide cross-platform compatibility, high-performance screen sharing, reliable file transfer capabilities, and specific functions tailored to your needs, such as unattended access or session recording.

Must-Have Features Checklist

• Security: End-to-end encryption, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), compliance (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR).
• Performance: Low latency, high frame rates (FPS), stable connections, especially under low bandwidth.
• Compatibility: Support for all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
• Core Functions: Remote screen control, file transfer, in-session chat, and session recording.
• Advanced Functions: Unattended access (for remote reboots), remote wake-up, multi-monitor support, and user management tools.

34 Best TeamViewer Alternatives for General Use

1Splashtop - Best Overall Value

• Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and IT teams needing reliable remote support while prioritizing cost-effectiveness and high performance.
• Pros: It provides strong security for remote access and support, including TLS/256-bit AES encryption and 2FA. It offers excellent cross-platform compatibility and powerful management controls, alongside convenient remote tools like Wake-on-LAN, file transfer, remote print, and session recording.
• Pricing: Starts at $5/month for individual users, Starts at $22/month for remote IT & support.

2AnyDesk - Best for Performance and Speed

• Best for: Users needing fast, low-latency connections, especially for graphic-intensive tasks or stable long-distance control under poor network conditions.
• Pros: Highly lightweight and fast; utilizes its proprietary DeskRT video codec to deliver outstanding video compression, resulting in stable, low-latency streaming even in areas with poor internet connectivity. It also offers an On-Premises (local hosting) option, ensuring data never passes through AnyDesk servers, which maximizes security and control for enterprises.
• Pricing: Free for personal use; paid plans start at $$23.12/month.

3Chrome Remote Desktop - Best Free Option

• Best for: Personal use, simple file access, and users needing a zero-cost remote solution for quick, basic tasks.
• Pros: Completely free and extremely easy to use (the setup process is quick, requiring only app download and setting changes for access). It boasts excellent security, built on Google’s robust security infrastructure, and requires a PIN code for connection. It offers great cross-platform compatibility (supporting phones, tablets, or other computers for remote connection) and is minimalist with low resource consumption. It seamlessly integrates with the Google ecosystem and provides practical core functions like connecting to home/work computers, sharing screens, and viewing files on the go.
• Pricing: Free.

4Zoho Assist - Best for Customer Support Teams

• Best for: IT helpdesks, Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and organizations requiring strong integration with support ticketing systems.
• Pros: Cloud-based and highly flexible, utilizing SSL 256-bit AES encryption for secure connections. It supports screen sharing, multi-monitor switching, as well as advanced features like session recording and video chat (in higher subscriptions). It features excellent session management tools (reboot, diagnostics) and integrates seamlessly with the Zoho ecosystem.
• Pricing: Starts at $10/month.

4TeamViewer Alternative for Unattended Access

If you manage a large fleet of devices, especially unattended ones like kiosks or digital signage, a standard remote control tool is simply not enough. You require a solution that merges high-quality remote control with Mobile Device Management (MDM) features for centralized control, enhanced security, and superior operational efficiency.

When Standard Remote Control Software Falls Short

• Managing dozens or hundreds of devices becomes chaotic and impractical.
• There is a lack of bulk actions (e.g., deploying apps, updating policies across a fleet).
• No ability to lock down devices into a single-purpose mode (Kiosk Mode).
• Limited monitoring and automated alerts for crucial device health metrics.

Introducing AirDroid Business: The Solution for Unattended & Android Devices

What it is: AirDroid Business is far more than just a remote control tool; it is a comprehensive Android Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution purpose-built for businesses managing unattended devices at scale.

How it solves the problem: It uniquely integrates powerful remote control capabilities with essential MDM features that general tools like TeamViewer and its alternatives typically lack.

Pricing: Starts at $1 per device per month.

5Comparison Table: TeamViewer vs. Top Alternatives vs. AirDroid Business

This table provides a quick side-by-side comparison of key features across TeamViewer, its top alternatives, and the specialized solution, AirDroid Business, highlighting MDM-specific tools.

6How to Choose the Right TeamViewer Alternative for You

To select the right tool, first clearly define your primary use case. For simple, occasional remote access, stick with a free tool. For professional IT support, choose a value-rich or speed-focused option like Splashtop or AnyDesk. For managing a fleet of unattended Android devices, a specialized MDM solution like AirDroid Business is the superior choice.

Scenario 1: You are a freelance IT professional.

Recommendation: AnyDesk (for speed/lightweight footprint) or Splashtop (for cost-effective, client-based access).

Scenario 2: You manage IT for a small business.

Recommendation: Splashtop (for maximum overall value) or Zoho Assist (if strong helpdesk integration is a requirement).

Scenario 3: You manage a fleet of digital signs, kiosks, or other unattended Android devices.

Recommendation: AirDroid Business is specifically designed for this. It delivers the security, control, and efficiency that standard remote control tools cannot offer at scale.

7Conclusion: Move Beyond Simple Remote Control

While many excellent TeamViewer alternatives exist for general remote control needs, the best choice is entirely dependent on your specific operational requirements. For businesses managing unattended devices, investing in a comprehensive MDM solution like AirDroid Business is not just an alternative—it represents a strategic upgrade that drastically improves security and operational efficiency.

Ready to take full control of your unattended devices? Start a free trial of AirDroid Business today and discover how our advanced MDM features can transform your remote operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1: Is there a truly free alternative to TeamViewer for commercial use?

Maverick

No. Most truly free versions (like Chrome Remote Desktop) are strictly limited to personal use and lack commercial features. Tools like AnyDesk and Splashtop offer free trials, but purchasing a paid plan is essential for commercial use to ensure security, stability, and full functionality.

2: What is the most secure TeamViewer alternative?

Maverick

Security relies heavily on features like end-to-end encryption and 2FA. Splashtop, Zoho Assist, and AirDroid Business are all highly regarded for their strong, enterprise-grade security measures and compliance certifications.

3: Is Chrome Remote Desktop truly free, and what are its limitations?

Maverick

Yes, Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) is completely free. Its main limitations lie in its feature set: it only offers basic remote control and file access, lacking many professional functions such as session recording, multi-session support, robust user management tools, or specific features for IT operations (like remote printing or diagnostics). Furthermore, it is strictly limited to personal, non-commercial use.

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