Quick comparison: 5 free alternatives to TeamViewer
| Alternative | Price | Platforms | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| RustDesk Top pick | Open Source | WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOS | Online |
| Chrome Remote Desktop | 100% Free | WebAndroidiOS | Online |
| Quick Assist | 100% Free | Windows | Online |
| Remmina | Open Source | Linux | Online |
| Parsec | Freemium | WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroid | Online |
A closer look at each alternative
-
RustDesk
Top pickOpen SourceOnlineWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroidiOS- Price
- Free and open source.
- Download
- Runs in your browser; nothing to install.
- Why it stands out
- Open source remote desktop that works much like TeamViewer, with the option to run your own server.
-
Chrome Remote Desktop
100% FreeOnlineWebAndroidiOS- Price
- Free, no paid plans.
- Download
- Runs in your browser; nothing to install.
- Why it stands out
- From Google: control your computer or help someone else from the browser, free and with no time limit.
-
Quick Assist
100% FreeOnlineWindows- Price
- Free, no paid plans.
- Download
- Runs in your browser; nothing to install.
- Why it stands out
- Windows’ own remote help tool: to help a relative or get help yourself, all you need is a code.
-
Remmina
Open SourceOnlineLinux- Price
- Free and open source.
- Download
- Runs in your browser; nothing to install.
- Why it stands out
- A remote desktop client for Linux that supports RDP, VNC and SSH.
-
Parsec
FreemiumOnlineWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroid- Price
- Free, with optional paid extras.
- Download
- Runs in your browser; nothing to install.
- Why it stands out
- A very low-latency connection designed for gaming and design; free for personal use.
Tip for students: Chrome Remote Desktop only needs the browser: handy for getting into your home computer from the library.
Independent: we have no commercial relationship, sponsorship or affiliation with TeamViewer or with these alternatives, and nobody pays us to recommend them. Links go to their official websites and are not affiliate links; the site is funded only by Google AdSense ads, which don't influence the selection. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions about alternatives to TeamViewer
What is the best free alternative to TeamViewer?
Our first pick is RustDesk. Open source remote desktop that works much like TeamViewer, with the option to run your own server. Chrome Remote Desktop and Quick Assist are also worth trying. The best one for you depends on the features you use most.
Are there open source alternatives to TeamViewer?
Yes: RustDesk and Remmina are open source: free, licence-free and with code anyone can inspect.
Which alternatives to TeamViewer work offline?
All of these run in the cloud, so you need a connection: RustDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop, Quick Assist, Remmina and Parsec.
Which alternatives to TeamViewer are there for Mac and Linux?
RustDesk and Parsec run on both macOS and Linux. Also, Chrome Remote Desktop runs in the browser on any system.
Can I use an alternative to TeamViewer on my phone?
Yes: RustDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop and Parsec have an app for Android or iOS.