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With the rise of remote work and the need for flexible access to files and programs, remote desktop software has become a must-have. Mobile apps for remote desktops allow you to connect to your computer from anywhere, making it easy to work, study, or access personal files on the go.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to 15 of the best personal remote desktop software mobile apps to try this year, each offering features to fit different needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways Platform Compatibility is Crucial : When choosing remote desktop software , ensure it’s compatible with your mobile device and the operating system of your remote computer (Windows, macOS, etc.) for seamless access. Security Matters : Always prioritize remote desktop apps with strong encryption and secure connections to protect your data while working remotely. Performance and Smooth Access : For an efficient remote experience, choose apps that ensure high-speed connections and minimal lag, providing a smooth workflow. Enhance Functionality : Features like file transfer, remote printing, and unattended access can make your remote desktop experience more versatile and convenient, especially for complex tasks. Ease of Setup : Opt for remote desktop software that offers simple setup processes, especially for beginners, ensuring a hassle-free experience from installation to connection. Criteria for Choosing the Best Remote Desktop Software When looking for the best remote desktop software for personal use , a few key factors can make all the difference. You’ll want to make sure the remote access software you choose works well with your mobile device —whether it’s an Android phone or an iOS device . Let’s break it down!
Platform Compatibility You want to make sure the remote desktop app works with your Android device and Windows computer or any iOS device you might be using.
The best remote desktop software will offer a smooth experience whether you’re using your Android phone or accessing from a Windows or Mac system.
Some remote control apps let you use remote desktop connections across Android phones, tablets, and iOS devices, giving you the flexibility to choose the platform you prefer.
Security and Encryption Security is key when you’re accessing your devices remotely. The best remote access software will encrypt your data while using the app.
Whether you’re accessing your remote PC or any remote computer , ensure the software provides secure remote connections to keep everything safe.
Performance and Seamless Remote Access Speed and ease of use are important. You don’t want to be stuck waiting for a connection to load or dealing with a glitchy remote desktop connection .
Look for software that offers seamless remote access , ensuring a fast and smooth experience. Apps that allow you to access your remote computer without delays or interruptions are ideal for smooth workflows.
Additional Features: File Transfer and Remote Printing If you need to transfer files or even print remotely, choose a solution that includes features like file transfer , drag-and-drop file transfers , or remote printing .
These extra options are helpful for anyone needing to access computers remotely or handle more complex tasks like sharing documents or printing from a distance.
Ease of Setup and Use Make sure the software is easy to set up and use . Most good remote desktop apps are user-friendly and straightforward. You want to use remote desktop without dealing with too many complicated steps.
Apps that let you easily install the app on your phone using the Google Play Store or App Store and enable remote features quickly are a great choice for beginners. The simpler the setup, the more time you’ll have to actually enjoy remote access .
The 15 Best Personal Remote Desktop Software Mobile GoToAssist is perfect for personal users who need a reliable and easy-to-use remote desktop app . Its seamless connection ensures you can control your computer from anywhere with no lag.
The app offers remote support with a simple setup and great security features. It’s perfect for accessing your computer when you’re on the go. If you need remote support , this app has you covered!
Key Features
Quick setup and easy-to-use interface Supports remote support for both Windows and Mac Cross-platform compatibility (Android and iOS) Secure encryption for all sessions Instant access to files and applications RealVNC Connect offers a highly efficient remote desktop solution for both personal and professional use. It utilizes advanced encryption for secure connections and provides a flexible platform with cross-device compatibility, supporting Windows , macOS , Linux , and mobile devices . Its unattended access feature allows users to connect to remote computers without requiring the host to be present.
Additionally, RealVNC supports high-quality screen sharing and file transfer options for seamless workflows. The app is optimized for performance and reliability, ensuring smooth and consistent remote access. Installation is quick and straightforward, with minimal configuration required.
Key Features
Unattended access for ongoing connections Multi-platform compatibility (Windows , macOS , Linux , Android , iOS ) High-quality screen sharing and remote printing Strong encryption for secure data transmission File transfer and drag-and-drop support Zoho Assist offers a powerful, user-friendly experience for accessing your desktop remotely. It’s ideal for personal use, with features like unattended access and file transfer . The setup is fast and requires no technical expertise.
Zoho Assist ensures secure connections and supports both mobile and desktop devices. It’s best for small businesses and personal users alike. Reliable and safe, it’s a fantastic tool for remote tasks!
Key Features
Unattended access to remote control File transfer between devices High-level security encryption Easy to use on both Android and iOS Instant remote support without interruptions 4. ConnectWise ScreenConnect After testing ConnectWise ScreenConnect , we found it to be a top-tier option for personal remote desktop access. The app offers solid remote control with secure encryption and an intuitive interface.
Its ability to handle multiple remote sessions makes it perfect for those who need to manage more than one computer at once.
You’ll enjoy its seamless performance on both Android and iOS devices. Setting up and using ConnectWise ScreenConnect is a breeze, even for beginners. It’s a reliable choice for remote work or personal tasks!
Key Features
Excellent for managing multiple remote sessions Unattended access for constant connectivity Seamless file transfer between devices Cross-platform support for Windows , Mac , iOS , and Android High-level security encryption for safe connections Mobile support for Android phones and tablets AnyDesk is a powerful remote desktop tool known for its low latency and high performance. The app supports Windows , macOS , Linux , and mobile devices , making it highly versatile. AnyDesk offers a range of features, including file transfer , remote printing , and unattended access .
The software is optimized for performance, ensuring that remote connections remain stable and responsive, even on low-bandwidth networks. Additionally, AnyDesk utilizes encryption to secure all remote sessions. Its intuitive interface and fast setup process make it easy to use for both beginners and experienced users.
Key Features
Unattended access for consistent remote control High-quality file transfer and remote printing Low latency for fast remote sessions Encryption for secure communications Cross-platform support (Windows , macOS , Linux , Android , iOS ) Remote Utilities is a versatile remote desktop software that provides powerful tools for both personal and business use. The software offers unattended access , enabling users to connect to their remote computers at any time.
It supports Windows , macOS , and mobile platforms, providing a robust remote access solution. With features like file transfer , remote printing , and remote audio , users can fully interact with their remote systems.
Additionally, the software’s encryption ensures secure remote sessions. The setup process is straightforward, with options for configuring remote connections via IP or ID.
Key Features
Comprehensive remote printing and file transfer Cross-platform support (Windows , macOS , Android , iOS ) Unattended access to continuous remote control High-level encryption for secure connections Customizable remote desktop settings TightVNC is a top choice for personal use, offering a smooth and responsive connection. With its multi-device compatibility, you can remotely access your desktop from any mobile device . It supports both Windows and macOS systems.
TightVNC features strong encryption and is easy to install and set up. It also provides unattended access , making it even more convenient. TightVNC is a reliable and secure option.
Key Features
Unattended access to remote control Strong encryption for secure connections Supports Windows , Mac , and Linux Remote audio support for multimedia tasks Multiple device connection options Chrome Remote Desktop offers a simple, browser-based solution for remote access to your desktop . It integrates directly with the Google Chrome browser, making it easy to connect to Windows and Mac computers.
The app supports unattended access and is fully compatible with Android and iOS devices. Chrome Remote Desktop allows users to remotely access their computers with ease, providing essential features like file transfer and secure encryption .
It’s an ideal solution for those who need a quick, reliable way to access their desktops while on the move. The installation process is minimal, requiring just a Google account to get started.
Key Features
Browser-based remote desktop solution Unattended access with automatic reconnection High-speed remote sessions Supports Windows , macOS , Android , and iOS Easy installation via Google Chrome ISL Light is a simple yet effective solution for remote access, designed with personal users in mind. It’s incredibly easy to set up, even for beginners. The remote mobile version lets you control your computer from anywhere.
It provides high-quality screen sharing with remote audio for an immersive experience. ISL Light has solid security, ensuring your data stays protected. It’s perfect for those who need quick and secure access to their desktops. Whether for work or personal use, it’s a great choice.
Key Features
Simple setup and easy to use Remote audio for sound support Secure encryption for all connections Supports Windows , macOS , and Linux High-quality screen sharing When we tested TeamViewer , it impressed us with its easy-to-use features and fast connection. The app provides an outstanding remote desktop solution for accessing your computer from anywhere. It supports both Android and iOS devices, ensuring versatility.
TeamViewer is widely recognized for its robust security and encryption measures, so you can trust your data is safe. Whether you need to remotely access a Windows computer or macOS , TeamViewer handles it all. It’s ideal for both personal use and small business tasks!
Key Features
Generous free version for personal use Cross-platform support (Windows , Mac , Android , iOS ) High-speed, lag-free remote connections Remote printing capability for documents Easy to use with unattended access Supremo is an excellent remote desktop solution for personal users who need remote access to their computers. It offers a fast and responsive connection with minimal setup. You can control your computer from your mobile device with ease.
Supremo is particularly known for its strong security and easy-to-use interface. It’s ideal for those who need to connect to their desktop remotely. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to enjoy all its features. Supremo’s simplicity makes it a standout option.
Key Features
Quick and easy setup for fast access Reliable remote connections for everyday use Secure encryption for data protection Cross-platform compatibility (Android, iOS, Windows) Affordable pricing with the generous free version We tested LogMeIn Remote Access and found it to be an exceptional tool for remote work and personal use. With powerful file transfer features and secure encryption , it’s a great choice for anyone who needs consistent access to their desktop.
It supports both android phones and tablets as well as iOS devices, so you can stay connected no matter where you are.
The app also allows remote printing , making it convenient for printing documents while on the go. The setup is straightforward, and the connection is reliable for everyday tasks.
Key Features
Remote printing and file management Secure and fast desktop connections Compatible with Windows , Mac , Android , and iOS Easy setup with unattended access Seamless file transfer for efficient workflows RustDesk surprised us with its straightforward setup and smooth performance. It’s an open-source remote desktop app that allows you to control your computer from your phone securely. The app provides excellent file transfer capabilities, making it easy to share files between devices.
It supports unattended access , which is great for always-on connections. RustDesk also features encryption , ensuring your data stays safe during remote connections . If you want a reliable, free remote access tool, RustDesk is definitely worth trying out.
Key Features
Open-source and free-to-use Unattended access for continuous control Secure encryption for safe remote connections Supports file transfer and drag-and-drop functionality Lightweight, with minimal resource usage GoToMyPC is a standout for personal remote access, offering a smooth experience with a fast setup. It allows you to remotely access your computer from any mobile device. The app’s seamless functionality lets you work on the go. GoToMyPC ensures your connection is secure with top-tier encryption.
Whether you’re using an Android phone or tablet, it’s easy to control your desktop. It’s designed for personal and professional users alike. If you want fast, reliable, and secure access, GoToMyPC is a great choice.
Key Features
Remote sessions with high-speed performance Secure encryption for all data transfers Easy to use with Android and iOS Supports file transfer and remote printing Unattended access for uninterrupted use After testing Splashtop , we can confidently say it’s one of the best remote desktop apps for personal use. The connection is smooth, and the interface is user-friendly. Splashtop is especially good at supporting remote control of Windows and Mac computers from your mobile device .
It allows remote access to your computer from your Android device or iOS , even over a mobile data connection. The file transfer feature is also super useful, and the encryption ensures your sessions are secure. It’s reliable, fast, and perfect for personal tasks.
Key Features
High-quality remote desktop sessions Supports remote audio for multimedia tasks File transfer between your phone and computer Mobile support for Android and iOS devices Ideal for Windows and Mac systems User Experience and Feedback User feedback on the best personal remote desktop software mobile apps this year highlights the importance of seamless performance and ease of use.
Many users appreciate the quick setup and intuitive interfaces that make connecting to remote computers hassle-free. Security features, such as strong encryption and secure remote connections, are often praised, with users valuing the peace of mind they offer.
Additionally, the ability to transfer files, use remote printing, and access multiple devices without interruption stands out as a major benefit for those balancing personal and work tasks on the go.
How to Set Up and Use Remote Desktop Software on Mobile Setting up remote desktop software on your mobile device is easier than you might think. Whether you have an Android phone or an iOS device , here’s a simple guide to help you remotely access your Windows devices and control your computer right from your phone.
Step 1: Choose the Right Remote Desktop App The first thing you need to do is choose a remote desktop solution that works best for you. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and free to use , you can start with apps like Microsoft Remote Desktop .
Many of the best remote access apps are available in the Google Play Store or the App Store. Some offer a generous free version, while others might have a limited free option. If you want remote access to your remote PC or a Windows computer, make sure the software you choose is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems.
Step 2: Install the Software Once you’ve picked your app, it’s time to install such software on your phone. For example, with Microsoft Remote Desktop , you just need to install the app on your mobile phone . If you have an Android phone , you can download it from the Google Play Store .
Suppose you’re using an iOS device , head to the App Store . Installing remote desktop apps is quick and easy, and these apps usually walk you through the process with step-by-step instructions.
Step 3: Set Up the Connection After installation, you’ll need to configure the app to allow remote connections to your computer . You’ll usually need to enable unattended access to let you connect to your remote computer even if no one is at the desk.
Don’t worry if this sounds complicated—most apps make this process simple with mobile support and helpful prompts.
For example, with Microsoft Remote Desktop , you can set up your Windows devices by entering the IP address or the name of the computer you want to access remotely .
If you’re setting up a free remote access solution, follow the instructions provided by the app, and you’ll be good to go.
Step 4: Connect and Control Your Computer Once everything is set up, you’re ready to remotely access your desktop computer from your Android or iOS device . Open your remote desktop app and log in.
The app lets you control your computer from your phone , so you can open files, browse the web, or use software just like you would on your desktop computer.
If you need remote access to multiple computers, some apps allow you to manage multiple remote sessions at once, so you can switch between different devices without missing a beat.
Step 5: Enjoy Seamless Remote Access Now that you’re all set up, you can enjoy seamless remote access . Whether you’re using a remote desktop for remote work or mobile support , you’ll find it convenient to access and control your remote computer from anywhere. You can even enjoy features like remote audio and file transfer , making it easy to work on the go.
Most remote desktop apps make it simple to turn your phone into a remote mobile workspace, allowing you to remotely access and control your computer.
Whether you want remote access for personal use or to manage work remotely, these apps are reliable remote solutions that let you control your computer from your phone with just a few taps.
Step 6: Try for Free The great news is that many of these remote desktop apps offer a free version , and some are even completely free to use ! If you’re not sure which one to choose, you can try for free to test out the features and see which remote desktop software works best for your needs.
Plus, many apps offer technical support to help you with any questions you may have along the way.
Wrapping Up The right personal remote desktop software mobile app can truly enhance your flexibility and productivity, whether you’re working from home, traveling, or simply need access to your computer on the go.
Each of the 15 options we’ve discussed offers something unique to cater to different needs, so you can pick the one that suits you best.
If you’re looking to save on your favorite apps, be sure to get deals and promotions by subscribing to our website for the latest updates.
And if you want to explore even more options, check out our Top 10 Remote Desktop Software review articles to find more insights and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions Can I Access My Computer From Any Mobile Device? Yes, many remote desktop apps are available for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to access your computer from almost any mobile device.
Do I Need To Install Software On My Computer To Use These Apps? Yes, in most cases, you will need to install the remote desktop software on your computer, which will allow you to connect to it via the mobile app.
Can I Use Remote Desktop Apps For Gaming? Yes, some remote desktop apps are fast enough for gaming, but the experience may vary depending on your internet speed and the app’s performance. Apps like Parsec are specifically designed for gaming.
How Reliable Are Remote Desktop Apps For Business Use? Remote desktop apps are reliable for business use, offering secure, stable connections for remote working. Choose an app with enterprise-level security and high-speed performance for optimal results.
Can I Access My Files On The Go With Remote Desktop Software? Yes, remote desktop software allows you to access your files on the go, as long as you have an internet connection and the software is properly set up.