Remote desktop tools let users access and control their computers from another device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or another computer.
They’re most commonly used in business environments and for remote troubleshooting, but individuals also use them to check files, run applications, and manage remote systems while away from the desk. Requirements and setup will vary depending on the software, the number of machines involved, and the type of work being done.
And, as you might expect, some remote desktop options are a better fit than others in specific scenarios.
In this article, we’re taking a closer look at several remote desktop solutions to review their strengths, limitations, and typical use cases.
Let’s get started.
Key takeaways
- Remote desktop tools vary widely in performance and compatibility, with differences in speed, device support, and connection methods impacting overall usability.
- Different tools prioritize different use cases, meaning that features like access, control, and latency are handled differently by most providers.
- The best remote solution depends on your own setup, and you’ll need to make a selection based on your OS, the number of machines you need to control, and your intended use cases.
| Workbench | Jump Desktop | AnyDesk | TeamViewer | Splashtop | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | AI / Solo users | Solo power users | Teams / Business | Enterprise IT | Teams / Business |
| Platform | Apple | All major | All major | All major | All major |
| Headless | ✅ Native | ✅ Native | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Limited |
| Multi-monitor | ✅ Unified | ⚠️ Switch | ⚠️ Separate | ⚠️ Tabs | ⚠️ Multi |
| Voice input | ✅ Native | ❌ | ❌ | ⚠️ Desktop | ❌ |
| Apple Pencil | ✅ Full | ⚠️ Partial | ⚠️ Basic | ⚠️ Basic | ⚠️ Limited |
| Display quality | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Video codec | LIQUID | Fluid 2.0 | DeskRT | Varies | H.265 |
1. Workbench
- Best for: Monitoring AI agents and personal use; Apple users.
- Plans & cost: Free (20 minute daily limit) or $50/year.
- Supported systems: macOS, iOS, iPadOS.
- Implementation difficulty: Simple.
Workbench is a remote desktop tool designed specifically for Apple devices and features native apps for all modern Apple operating systems. Within the app, users can access a Mac from their iPhone or iPad and use the touchscreen and built-in keyboard to control it as if they were in front of the screen.
Like other technology tools in the Astropad lineup, Workbench offers unparalleled responsiveness and ease of use. LIQUID, our proprietary, low-latency streaming tech, was built specifically for situations where users would be working in digital environments. In short, this means that Workbench users will enjoy crisp visuals, connectivity that is constantly load-balanced based on network changes, and a better experience when compared to other remote access platforms.
These features make Workbench the best candidate for managing headless workstations and checking in on AI agents. Between Workbench’s native apps and LIQUID’s underlying latency technology, remoting into your machine is seamless and smooth. AI agents can be monitored in real time and, because you can get a real-time view of how they’re operating, it’s easy to spot and restart stuck jobs.
Want to know more? Check out Workbench over here and sign up for the Free plan to give it a test drive.
Key features of Workbench
- High-fidelity, low-latency connections. Workbench uses LIQUID, Astropad’s proprietary display protocol. LIQUID prioritizes responsiveness and visual clarity in an interactive environment, which matters when accessing remote machines in real time.
- Unified, seamless display. Within Workbench, multiple displays and screens can be consolidated into a single workspace that matches the resolution of your connected iPhone or iPad. Users with multi-monitor setups won’t need to switch between displays during remote sessions.
- Native support for headless systems. Once Workbench is installed on a Mac, peripherals like a keyboard or display aren’t needed for access. Users running headless setups can remote in easily from their iPhone or iPad, make changes, and close the connection when done. It’s fast, easy, and the connection is almost instantaneous.
- Voice dictation. While working remotely, Workbench users can dictate text to fill in fields or trigger inputs on their Mac. Using this feature reduces keyboard reliance (useful when operating your Mac from an iPhone).
- Apple Pencil support. Workbench users working on an iPad can use Apple Pencil to control their desktop remotely. Full precision, pressure, and gestures are supported.
Limitations of Workbench
- Apple-only products. Workbench is designed only for Apple devices and enables iPhones, iPads, and other Macs to control a specific, network-connected Mac.
- Focused on individual use, not teams or remote IT. Workbench was built to help individual users control AI agents, access remote files, and more, but it lacks many of the team-oriented features seen in remote solutions built for teams and IT support.
- No enterprise features. Some remote tools allow users to access hundreds or thousands of machines and conform to IT-based device management protocols. Workbench is built for a much smaller scale and isn’t meant for major deployments.
2. Jump Desktop
- Best for: Secure, cross-platform remote access.
- Plans & cost: Individual (free); Teams Pro ($7.99/month); Teams Enterprise ($15.99/month). Month-to-month plans available.
- Supported systems: macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS, Android.
- Implementation difficulty: Moderate.
Jump Desktop is a remote desktop tool that supports connections across Apple, Microsoft, and Android operating systems. It allows users to access and control machines from a range of devices, making it a flexible option for setups that span multiple platforms.
Similar to Workbench and other competitors on our list, Jump Desktop features its own proprietary video codec called Fluid, which balances latency, frame rate, and bandwidth usage. In practice, Fluid results in smoother interactions with more consistent responsiveness during remote sessions when compared to older or less optimized protocols.
Jump Desktop also includes built-in support for RDP and VNC, allowing it to integrate into existing environments without requiring additional tools. The added flexibility, along with its collaborative access controls, makes it practical options for users who need to work across different system configurations.
Key features of Jump Desktop
- High-performance remote connections. Jump Desktop uses its Fluid protocol to deliver low-latency, high-quality streaming. The company notes that Fluid allows for 60fps while using 1/10th the bandwidth of more traditional protocols.
- Collaborative access controls. Multiple users can access a single machine using Jump Desktop and control it together. While less common for daily use, this feature is useful for remote troubleshooting.
- Pen/tablet support (Teams Enterprise only). Users on the Teams Enterprise plan can use a stylus during remote sessions. Jump Desktop will send pressure, tilt, and rotation information through the connection, which can be used to control the remote machine.
Limitations of Jump Desktop
- Screens must be cycled individually. Unlike Workbench’s unified desktop approach, Jump Desktop requires users to cycle between monitors individually and doesn’t provide a unified desktop view on iOS or iPadOS.
- One-time purchase required for Mac / iOS users. While Jump Desktop offers a free client for Windows, Mac and iOS users will need to purchase the app in order to enable remote access.
- Two-part setup and configuration. Jump Desktop uses separate viewer and connector apps to manage access. Remote machines require the connector app, while client devices use the viewer app. This setup is far more complex than Workbench’s download-and-link approach.
3. TeamViewer
- Best for: IT teams and consultants.
- Plans & cost: TeamViewer Remote Access ($298.80/year); TeamViewer Business ($610.80/year). Teams and enterprise plan options available. All plans billed yearly.
- Supported systems: Windows, Apple, Linux, iOS, iPadOS, Android, ChromeOS.
- Implementation difficulty: Moderate.
TeamViewer provides remote access across Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices with a focus on supporting IT teams and service providers. It’s commonly used in cross-platform environments, where setups and configurations can vary greatly between users.
As a tool, TeamViewer is designed to handle a variety of remote support scenarios, including unattended access and shared sessions. Multiple users can connect when needed, which is useful to diagnose issues or guide someone through a specific process. The addition of AI options and modularized add-ons also offers unique customization based around how TeamViewer might be used.
When compared to a solution like Jump Desktop or Workbench, TeamViewer is clearly geared more towards IT support. The company even offers enterprise-grade products specifically for this reason, all of which act as the natural endpoint for companies using smaller-scale plans.
Key features of TeamViewer
- Built for remote support and IT teams. TeamViewer is largely designed to manage and troubleshoot devices across vast digital ecosystems. This platform offers tools that support unattended access, sessions management, and remote diagnostics.
- Modular products and services. Outside of the standard subscription plan, TeamViewer offers modularized services for asset management and device monitoring, so users can further extend TeamViewer capabilities and protections.
- AI integration options. Starting with the TeamViewer Business plan, users can leverage TeamViewer AI to assist with troubleshooting. This tool also provides access to session analytics and related insights.
Limitations of TeamViewer
- Limited managed devices. All TeamViewer plans have a device cap. While the rates are generally high for most plans, the entry level plan for single users is capped at three devices. If you’re planning to control or access more than three machines, you’ll be forced onto the TeamViewer Business plan, which is substantially more expensive than the entry level plan.
- 28-day cancellation requirement. Users who intend to discontinue service with TeamViewer must signal their intent 28 days prior to their renewal date. Keep in mind that no monthly plans are available. Missing the early cancellation deadline will result in another annual charge (minimum $300) for a plan that’s far more expensive than many competitors.
- No voice input; limited stylus support. TeamViewer doesn’t offer voice input options. While it’s possible to use a stylus as a mouse pointer, official support for other data inputs like pressure sensitivity or tilt aren’t available.
4. Splashtop
- Best for: IT professionals.
- Plans & cost: Solo ($72/year); Pro ($99/year); Performance ($149/year). Remote IT support plans and various add-ons available. All plans billed yearly.
- Supported systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, ChromeOS.
- Implementation difficulty: Simple to moderate.
Splashtop is built for situations where remote access is part of an ongoing workflow rather than a one-off scenario. Deployment is relatively quick and painless, requiring users to download an app and add a computer to their device list.
This platform is regularly used by IT teams and business users who need to manage systems across multiple locations. Access to unattended machines, the ability to restart systems remotely, and file transfer support all contribute to that use case.
Despite its admirable list of features, Splashtop’s costs are reasonable for single users. The Solo plan is $72/year — slightly more than Workbench’s $50/year — and provides unattended access from any device. The only major downside to the platform is its lack of a proprietary codec system. Splashtop uses H.265, which is great for streaming video but offers subpar performance for screen interactions.
Key features of Splashtop
- Fast setup and deployment. While not as easy as Workbench, Splashtop offers a quick installation and configuration process that’s easy for solo users to understand.
- Remote printing and reboot features. In addition to sending files remotely for printing, Splashtop supports remote reboot and can still access the machine after it comes back online.
- Multi-monitor and collaboration support. Splashtop users gain access to multi-monitor support and collaboration tools. However, to access these features, users will need to purchase the Pro plan ($99/year), which is a step up from the entry level Solo plan.
Limitations of Splashtop
- Limited machines per license. Similar to TeamViewer, Splashtop caps the number of user machines per plan. The Solo plan is only allotted two machines, which forces power users onto the Pro plan.
- H.265 codec only. While Workbench and other competitors use proprietary video codecs for streaming and real-time interactivity, Splashtop relies on H.265 video encoding. This compression method is a great fit for streaming and playback, but it falls short for interactive activities like drawing or manipulating remote screens.
- No voice inputs; Windows-only stylus support. Splashtop doesn’t offer voice inputs at all. The company also says that stylus support is available, but it’s restricted to higher-end plans and can only be used on Windows-connected devices. Put another way: You could use your Apple Pencil from an iPad to control your Windows computer but not your Mac.
5. Anydesk
- Best for: Cross-platform remote access and scalable IT support.
- Plans & cost: Solo ($454.80/year). Teams and enterprise plans available. Pricing billed annually.
- Supported systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome OS, FreeBSD
- Implementation difficulty: Moderate
AnyDesk is a general-purpose remote desktop tool that supports a wide range of devices and operating systems. As one of the giants in the remote desktop space, it’s regularly used by IT teams, consultants, and users who need to access multiple machines remotely.
Like many of its competitors, AnyDesk focuses on performance with DeskRT, its own proprietary codec aimed at maintaining responsiveness and visual clarity when bandwidth is limited. That, combined with the ability to handle a large number of connections with a single account, is a major reason that the software is popular in business scenarios.
However, for personal use, AnyDesk isn’t always the best fit. It’s more expensive than any other solution on our list, and it’s missing a handful of features found in newer solutions like Workbench. While AnyDesk offers strong collaboration and connectivity tools, many of those features also won’t make sense for personal use.
Key features of Anydesk
- Low-latency, high-frame-rate streaming. AnyDesk uses its proprietary DeskRT codec to deliver responsive performance with efficient bandwidth usage, which helps to maintain smooth interactions across a range of network conditions.
- Access 100+ managed devices. Even on the Solo plan, AnyDesk users can manage up to 100 managed devices. This is different from the device limits in TeamViewer or Splashtop, as it only applies to unattended access. Solo users are still limited to three devices, and a connection must be initiated from one of them.
- Strong collaboration tools. AnyDesk includes features like remote printing, session recording, and the ability to restart and reconnect to remote devices. Many collaboration features (chat, whiteboard, etc.) that are only available on higher-tiered competitor plans are available on the AnyDesk Solo plan.
Limitations of Anydesk
- Highest cost versus competitors. Compared to other tools, AnyDesk is the most expensive, especially at the entry level. Two months of AnyDesk costs more than one full year of access with Workbench.
- Limited multi-monitor support. While AnyDesk supports multi-monitor setups, each screen can only be viewed in a separate window. Where solutions like Workbench allow users to consolidate multi-monitor setups into a single view, AnyDesk users are forced to hop between screens on mobile devices where consolidation would create a more intuitive experience.
- No voice input; limited stylus support. AnyDesk doesn’t include built-in voice dictation, and stylus functionality isn’t officially supported. Although it’s possible to use an Apple Pencil as an input device when connected to an iPad, AnyDesk only carries positional / location information, not pressure sensitivity or tilt.
Other alternatives
While we’ve taken a close look at some of the leading remote desktop solutions, keep in mind that there are a number of additional options on the market. Depending on your setup and requirements, one of the solutions below might be a better fit.
However, note that many of the options below are niche or specialized in a way that won’t make them viable for many users. They’re still a viable choice in specific scenarios (gaming, lightweight access, etc.) but may lack the features and capabilities of the options shown on our main list.
- RealVNC. Built on the VNC protocol, RealVNC provides remote access across devices with options for both cloud-based and direct connections. Performance and setup will vary depending on how the connection is configured.
- Zoho Assist. This tool focuses more on browser-based remote support but still includes features like unattended access, session recording, and integrations with business software. Since it’s part of the Zoho family of products, Zoho Assist is commonly used within those ecosystems.
- ConnectWise Control. Designed more for managed service providers and IT teams, ConnectWise Control supports access across large numbers of devices and features extensive customization options. Users gain a high level of control, but the initial setup and configuration can become very involved.
- Parsec. With an emphasis on low latency and high frame rates, Parsec tends to be used most often for gaming and creative workflows. The platform offers full Wacom support, multi-monitor displays, 60 fps desktop capture, and more.
- Microsoft / Apple Remote Desktop. Microsoft and Apple users may each have access to built-in remote desktop software via the desktop — with a few caveats. Windows RDP was discontinued in May 2025 (not supported) but may still be available for some users. Apple Remote Desktop is more heavily geared toward MDM setups and admin rather than solo operator support.
- Chrome Remote Desktop. A browser-based solution, Chrome Remote Desktop allows users to access a machine using a Google account. While easy to set up and use, it lacks many of the features found in more advanced solutions.
These alternatives highlight just how broad remote desktop software options have become. Some tools are built for simplicity, but others focus on performance and large-scale device management.
Choosing the best fit will come down to how much control, flexibility, and setup your workflow requires.
Best remote desktop tool by use case
Remote desktop tools are usually grouped together into one major category, but each tool is built for a different type of workflow.
The right option will depend less on feature lists and more on how you intend to use or connect to your existing systems. Occasional users might be able to get by with a minimal-use solution while power users and IT pros will need something far more robust.
Best remote desktop to control AI agents: Workbench
Workbench is built for users who want to stay connected to their Mac while away from home. If your machine is running tasks continuously in the background or you have sensitive files stored locally, Workbench provides a straightforward way to check in, make changes, and interact with your systems from an iPhone or iPad.
Compared to most other solutions on our list, Workbench is unique in that it’s primarily designed for personal or limited commercial use, and the setup is much simpler than almost every other solution. Users only need to create an account and install the Workbench app on access-ready devices.
For users who want to manage personal Apple devices, control AI agents remotely, and do all of it at a minimal cost, Workbench is the best solution.
Best remote desktop for cross-platform access and remote IT support: TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or Jump Desktop
If you’re in an environment where you need to access both Microsoft and Apple products, any of the more traditional solutions on our list may be a better fit.
Solutions like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or Jump Desktop offer flexibility and deployment options at scale. Many plans even offer specialized features for remote IT support and technical troubleshooting. Features like endpoint deployment, additional security add-ons, and unique collaboration abilities make these tools valuable in support scenarios.
For IT teams and consultants who need to access dozens or hundreds of devices remotely, the major players are the go-to option.
Best remote desktop for solo power users: Splashtop or Workbench
While many of the leading solutions offer more bells and whistles, some of these features are just too much for most solo users. For example, AnyDesk’s Solo plan might allow an individual user to connect to 100 remote devices, but that’s unlikely to be useful outside of a professional setting.
For individuals who need reliable remote access with strong controls, Workbench or Splashtop are great options. Both are affordable for individual users and strongly emphasize fast, easy deployment.
Workbench is the best solution for Apple products, but we’ve included Splashtop here for its low cost and cross-platform capabilities. Even though Splashtop relies on H.265, which isn’t the best for interactive streaming, it’s affordable enough for personal use and performs well in most environments.
Best remote desktop for free, occasional remote access options: Workbench or Chrome Remote Desktop
Sometimes, you just need to hop into your computer for a minute, grab a file or check on something, and then close the connection. If that’s the case, Workbench or Google Remote Desktop are probably your best options.
Workbench offers 20 minutes of free access each day. No payments are required, and the allotment resets automatically at the end of the day. Aside from the time limit, there aren’t any restrictions, and unlimited access is only $50/year.
Chrome Remote Desktop is browser-based, and it can be set up for unattended access if pre-configured. No installation is required, and access is reliable, but features are limited. Since it’s free, we’d recommend testing this connection thoroughly while on the same network to test its limitations before using it remotely.
Try Workbench for remote Mac access
If your setup involves checking in on your Mac throughout the day — especially to manage background tasks, AI agents, or personal workflows — Workbench will be a great fit for you.
Workbench provides a straightforward way to connect to a Mac from an iPad or iPhone and is designed for quick access and easy setup. During your session, our LIQUID technology helps to minimize latency and boost overall performance, so lag is minimal and visuals remain crisp.
Plus, a free tier is available with a 20-minute daily allotment. That’s enough to check in, grab a file, or restart a task. If you need more time, the Unlimited plan ($50/year) provides unlimited, unrestricted access. Try Workbench for free →
FAQ
How can I control my Mac from my iPhone?
You can control a Mac from an iPhone by using a remote desktop app that connects your phone to your computer over a network. These tools let you view your Mac screen, interact with applications, and manage files as if you were using the machine directly.
Options vary in terms of performance, setup, and mobile usability, so the experience will ultimately depend on the software you choose.
What is a “headless” machine?
A headless machine is a computer that runs without a connected monitor, keyboard, or mouse. In most situations, these machines are initially configured using those peripherals, but those devices are removed once the system is up and running.
Typically, headless machines are accessed remotely using other devices, like a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. When connected, the remote device renders the virtual interface needed to control the unit.
Headless setups are regularly used for servers, automation tasks, and systems that run continuously in the background.
What’s the best remote desktop app for Mac?
There’s no single best option for every use case. Some tools are designed for personal access and mobile control, but others are built more for IT support or managing multiple systems.
The right choice depends on how you plan to use your Mac, how often you need to connect, and what level of performance or setup complexity you’re comfortable with.
For solo Mac users who only need to access a handful of devices, Workbench will be a great fit. For an IT consultant needing to access hundreds of Macs, something like AnyDesk or Apple Remote Desktop are likely to be better candidates.
What makes Workbench stand out from other remote desktop options?
Workbench is designed specifically for accessing a Mac from another device in the Apple ecosystem (iPad, iPhone, another Mac).
When building the app, our team focused heavily on performance, ease of setup, and ongoing access. The UI is newer and sleeker than competitors and is packed with unique features like voice input, Apple Pencil support, and (our favorite) a unified display mode for multi-monitor setups.
On top of that, Workbench is free for anyone to use for 20 minutes each day. All features are unlocked, so the only difference between the Free and Unlimited plans is time.
Users who need more than 20 minutes can upgrade to the paid plan ($50/year) and add Workbench to their daily loadout.
Do remote desktop setups need specialized connections?
Not always.
Some options require manual setups or specific configurations, such as configuring network settings to enable port forwarding or including specific software as part of a disk image. Other solutions can handle connections automatically or only require an account or user login.
The level of setup required will depend on the software you use and the network connecting your machines to the internet. Many modern options, like Workbench and Chrome Remote Desktop, require minimal setup and can get you up and running in under five minutes.
