Using remote desktop software is a simple yet powerful way to access any Mac or PC in another location whether it’s for work, support or sharing files. However, the best remote desktop software for Macs usually require a subscription but here we’ve tried and tested some excellent free options instead.
There is no Mac version of popular free Windows remote access apps like UltraViewer or MobaXTerm so you have to a look a little harder on macOS.
Previously, Mac users could use Apple’s free Back to My Mac app in macOS if they just wanted to remotely access another Mac for but Apple removed it from macOS in 2019.
The good news is there’s lots of free remote desktop apps that can not only connect from Mac to Mac but also to PCs and mobile devices.
Contents
- What We Looked for In These Free Mac Remote Desktop Apps
- 1. macOS Screen Sharing
- 2. Windows App (Microsoft Remote Desktop)
- 3. AnyViewer
- 4. Zoho Assist
- 5. TeamViewer
- 6. AnyDesk
- 7. Chrome Remote Desktop
- 8. Splashtop Personal
- 9. NoMachine
- 10. RealVNC Connect
- 11. Citrix Workspace
- 12. Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager
- FAQ
What We Looked for In These Free Mac Remote Desktop Apps
Choosing the right remote desktop tool – especially a free one – isn’t often easy with so many different types of apps suited to different needs. When evaluating options for macOS, here are some of the things we considered.
Platform Support
It’s important to make sure the software supports the devices you need to connect between.
- Mac-to-Mac: Built-in tools like macOS Screen Sharing are excellent for this.
- Mac-to-Windows: Tools like Microsoft Remote Desktop, AnyViewer, or Chrome Remote Desktop are designed for cross-platform access.
Ease of Setup and Use
A big advantage of remote desktop software is convenience.
- Look for tools with simple installation, intuitive interfaces, and easy discovery of other devices.
- One-click connections or address book-style lists of saved devices can save time.
Connection Security
Security is really important with remote desktop apps and one trade off with free tools is that you don’t always get the most secure versions.
- Secure authentication (login or keys), encryption, and optional two-factor authentication help guard remote sessions.
- Avoid tools that transmit unencrypted screens or keystrokes.
Performance and Responsiveness
Although a bit of latency is unavoidable with remote desktop apps, good remote desktop software should not be laggy, even over slow internet connections.
- Latency, screen redraw speed, and resolution quality all affect usability.
- Some free tools throttle performance or reduce image quality to conserve bandwidth – watch out for this test if responsiveness matters.
Features
Free tools vary widely in what they offer – consider what you need most:
- Unattended access: Important if you need to connect without someone on the other side.
- File transfer: Lets you copy files without launching a separate service.
- Multi-monitor support: Useful if you work with several displays.
- Session recording or chat: Helpful for support or documentation.
Network Flexibility
Not all free remote desktop apps handle different network conditions equally.
- Some require devices on the same local network, while others can traverse the internet via cloud servers.
- Tools that automatically handle NAT/firewalls typically require less configuration.
Account Sign-Up Requirements
Check whether a tool requires a login or cloud account, even for basic use.
- Tools like Chrome Remote Desktop or AnyViewer may require signing in.
- Others, like macOS Screen Sharing or VNC-based tools, can connect via direct IP without an account.
Free Plan Limitations
With free apps, you’re not going to get the same level of functionality or features as you do paid remote desktop software.
Make sure the free plan covers what you need especially if you plan to use it for commercial use or with multiple users.
Many free versions are for personal use only. Others limit features like file transfer, speed, or number of devices.
For options without these limits, check out out guide to the best Mac remote desktop software which covers paid software with less limitations.
Here then is our selection of the best free Mac remote access apps of 2026.
| Tool | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| macOS Screen Sharing | Free (built into macOS) | Simple Mac-to-Mac remote access & screen sharing |
| Windows App (Microsoft Remote Desktop) | Free | Connecting from Mac to Windows PCs & servers |
| AnyViewer | Free plan available (optional paid upgrades) | Easy remote access to Windows PCs from Mac |
| Zoho Assist | Free tier available | Remote support & unattended access for SMBs/IT teams |
| TeamViewer | Free for personal use | Cross-platform remote support & personal use |
| AnyDesk | Free tier available | Fast, low-latency remote desktop access |
| Chrome Remote Desktop | Free | Simple browser-based remote access for personal use |
| Splashtop Personal | Free for non-commercial local network use | Home LAN remote access and casual use |
| NoMachine | LAN remote access free for personal use only | High-quality, free remote desktop via LAN or remote access anywhere with multimedia support |
| RealVNC Connect | Free (Lite/personal) + paid options | Secure cross-platform access with limited free devices |
| Citrix Workspace | Free client; remote desktops delivered via Citrix services | Access virtual apps/desktops in Citrix environments |
| Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager | Free (solo edition) | Centralized management of saved remote connections |
1. macOS Screen Sharing
macOS Screen Sharing is Apple’s built-in remote desktop and screen sharing tool included free with every Mac.
It allows you to remotely view and control another Mac over a local network or the internet using your Apple ID, iCloud, or standard VNC connections.
Screen Sharing is tightly integrated into macOS and can be launched directly from Finder, Spotlight, Messages, or System Settings, making it extremely convenient for quick access to other Macs.
While it works very smoothly between Macs, it’s primarily designed for basic remote access rather than advanced IT administration, and performance can drop over slower internet connections.
You can save frequently used connections and easily reconnect, although it lacks advanced features such as file transfer queues, session recording, or multi-monitor control found in dedicated remote desktop tools.
If you only need to access another Mac occasionally, help a family member, or manage Macs on the same network, macOS Screen Sharing is reliable, secure, and already installed.
For more, check out how to screen share on a Mac.
Pricing: Free (built into macOS)
Pros:
- Built directly into macOS
- Very easy to set up and use
- Excellent Mac-to-Mac compatibility
- Secure Apple-native authentication
- No additional software required
- Supports VNC connections
Cons:
- Limited features compared to third-party tools
- Not ideal for managing Windows PCs
- Performance depends heavily on network quality
- Basic controls for multi-monitor setups
2. Windows App (Microsoft Remote Desktop)
Windows App (formerly Microsoft Remote Desktop and Microsoft RDP for Mac) is the official free remote desktop software developed by Microsoft.
It enables users to connect to Windows PCs and servers remotely from Mac computers.
Windows App is very similar to the Windows version of the tool although the Mac version does not support more secure methods of login such as via smart cards, PIV and CAC cards etc.
You can save connections that you use regularly although you can’t yet create shortcuts on your Mac desktop to your most frequent connections.
If your company or organization requires you to use Windows App, then it’s much better then it used to be although connections can be laggy at times.
However, it’s completely free to use and you have the security of knowing that Microsoft are behind it.
Check out our Windows App review for more.
Pricing: Free
Pros:
- Officially developed by Microsoft
- Supports remote access to Windows PCs as well
- Free to use
- Easy to use
- Saves most frequent connections
- Very secure
Cons:
- Limited to connecting to Windows PCs and servers
- Mac version lacks some features present in Windows version
- Can be laggy
3. AnyViewer
AnyViewer for Mac is a free remote desktop and screen sharing application designed for remote access to Windows PCs from a Mac or other devices.
It allows users to remotely control Windows computers over the internet using an AnyViewer account, making it suitable for both personal and light business use.
AnyViewer is relatively easy to set up, with support for unattended access and the ability to save frequently used devices for quick connections.
The Mac version focuses mainly on connecting to Windows PCs rather than controlling Macs, and the interface is simpler than more established remote desktop tools.
Performance is generally smooth on fast connections, although image quality and responsiveness can drop on slower networks compared to premium alternatives.
If you need a straightforward, low-cost way to remotely access Windows PCs from a Mac, AnyViewer is a solid option, especially for casual or occasional use.
Check out our full hands-on AnyViewer review for more.
Pricing: Free (with optional paid upgrades)
Pros:
- Free plan available
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports unattended remote access
- Good performance on stable connections
- Allows saving frequent connections
Cons:
- Primarily focused on Windows PCs
- Mac version is more limited than Windows version
- Fewer advanced features than premium competitors
- Requires an AnyViewer account for full functionality
4. Zoho Assist
Zoho Assist is the one of the best remote desktop software on all platforms and includes a generous free version for small business and personal use.
Unlike many free remote desktop apps, the free version of Zoho Assist does not have any limits on connection times and can be used for anything from remote access of files to remote helpdesk support.
The Mac app makes it very easy to connect, access, control and see the screen of another computer including both Macs and PCs or mobile devices such as iPads and iPhones.
The free version also allows you to connect to up to 5 unattended computers although it only allows access by one remote support technician.
The Professional version of Zoho Assist however supports more technicians and advanced screen sharing as well as other advanced features like remote printing and custom branding of your company or organization.
Apart from these tools though, the free version of Zoho Assist for Mac includes all the most essential features including Instant Chat, Clipboard Sharing and Organization Roles.
In terms of security, Zoho Assist Free uses all the security measures you’d expect including two factor authentication, SSL and 256-bit encryption.
There’s also an activity log viewer to see who’s accessing your network in real time.
You can also read our full review of Zoho Assist for more.
Pricing: Free Forever plan / Paid plans start at $10 per month
Pros:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Includes core remote support features in free tier (chat, clipboard sharing, multi-monitor navigation, unattended access)
- No forced upgrades or hidden costs on the free plan
- Secure remote sessions with strong encryption and authentication options
- Easy setup and intuitive interface for both technicians and clients
Cons:
- Free version has limited advanced features compared to paid tiers
- Can experience occasional lag or connectivity issues during sessions
5. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a widely-used remote desktop software that makes it easy enough for anyone to connect to and control a Mac or PC anywhere in the World.
It offers cross-platform compatibility, file transfers and session recording, and is known for its ease of use.
One of the best things about TeamViewer is that for home users it’s free to use although for small businesses and corporations, there are added enterprise features available.
TeamViewer used to be particularly popular with gamers for sharing gaming sessions although it has since been replaced in this area by apps like Parsec, Moonlight and Steam Remote Play.
TeamViewer has now shifted more towards providing remote support and also offers a simple free “QuickSupport” app for those that just need to receive support from someone using TeamViewer.
All you need to do is install the TeamViewer client on both machines and enter the ID of the computer you want to connect to.
Alternatively, you can give someone your partner ID and password to allow them to connect to you.
The most recent version of TeamViewer has also finally added support for audio on Macs too.
For other options, you can also check our look at the best TeamViewer alternatives for Mac.
Pricing: Free for personal use
Pros:
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Easy to set up and use
- Features include file transfer, chat, and session recording
- Good performance even on slower connections
Cons:
- Free version limited to non-commercial use
- Can be resource-intensive
6. AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a lightweight remote desktop software known for its lightning-fast performance and low latency. It offers simple setup and a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for quick remote access tasks.
AnyDesk has an intuitive setup wizard that even beginners to remote desktop connections will be able to follow.
You can also drag and drop files between Macs and PCs for quick file sharing or use the built-in file transfer manager for more control.
Other features include customization of the quality of the remote display, configure access permissions and the ability to record sessions for reviewing later.
The free version of AnyDesk is only for personal use and connecting to one device only but plans are available for connecting to multiple devices.
If AnyDesk detects that you are using it professionally on a free personal plan, it can revoke access to it.
Pricing: Free for personal use, Plans start at $14.90/month
Pros:
- Lightning-fast performance
- Low latency
- Simple interface
- Supports cross-platform connections
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- May not be suitable for complex tasks
7. Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a browser-based remote access tool developed by Google. It allows users to remotely access other computers or provide remote assistance directly from their Chrome browser, with no installation required.
It works simply via Google Chrome although it does require a small helper app to be installed in order to connect to other computers.
Just enter the ID of the computer you want to connect to, and Chrome Remote Desktop will connect instantly.
Since it’s only browser based, it is limited in features and there’s no way to share sound between computers with it.
However, as 100% free and cheerful remote desktop solution that requires very little software on your Mac, it’s very effective.
In terms of privacy, Google claims that it does not record any of your activity using Chrome Remote Desktop.
Connections are protected by SSL and are directly from host to remote session without any Google servers in between.
Pricing: Free
Pros:
- Completely free to use
- Minimal installation as browser based
- Simple setup process
- Works well for basic remote access needs
Cons:
- Limited features compared to dedicated remote desktop software
- Requires a Google account
- Doesn’t support sound
8. Splashtop Personal
Splashtop Personal is a user friendly remote desktop software that supports high-definition streaming and a free version for personal use.
Splashtop is popular for remote gaming needs as it streams 3D graphics, sounds and video extremely well.
The downside is that Splashtop is only free for local use which means the computer you want connect to must be on the same same WiFi or LAN network as you.
For remote access to any Mac or PC anywhere, you must purchase a plan.
There are restrictions on port forwarding for those that need to customize the setup but Splashtop is generally very easy to use over local connections.
Pricing: Free for Personal Use, Plans starts from $5/month
- High-definition streaming
- Supports up to 5 computers locally
- Easy setup
- Cross-platform support
- Free for personal use
Cons:
- Not suitable for commercial use
- Free version only connects to computers on your local network
9. NoMachine
NoMachine is a powerful remote desktop software that also has a free version for personal use.
The free version is limited to LAN connections and requires you to know the IP address and port number of the computer you want to connect to.
The NoMachine Network service allows you to access any computer worldwide remotely but this requires a subscription.
It offers advanced features like session recording and file transfers plus a host of high-level security features to meet the needs of Enterprises.
You can use NoMachine either via a Mac desktop app or in the Cloud although the web version is self-hosted so requires some technical knowledge to setup.
Check out our full NoMachine for Mac review for more.
Pricing: Free
Pros:
- Fast and reliable
- Desktop and Cloud access
- Supports multiple operating systems
- LAN connections are free for personal use
- Offers advanced features like session recording and file transfer
Cons:
- Can be complex to set up for beginners
- User interface could be more intuitive
- Web version requires a subscription
10. RealVNC Connect
RealVNC Connect is a remote desktop software that offers secure connections with encryption. The main product is a paid solution but the RealVNC Connect Lite version is free for personal use.
You can add up to 3 devices with the free version and can even be used to connect Macs to a Rasberry Pi.
The free version also includes two factor authentication and end-to-end encryption.
Pricing: Free
Pros:
- Simple setup process
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Secure connections with encryption
- Free for personal use with limited features
Cons:
- Limited to 3 remote devices in the free version
- Some advanced features require a paid subscription
11. Citrix Workspace
Citrix Workspace is the replacement for Citrix Receiver which was discontinued in 2018.
Although you can still download old versions of Citrix Receiver for Mac, it lacks all of the new features and enhancements that have been made to Citrix Workspace.
Citrix Workspace allows you unified access to apps, desktops, and other resources from anywhere on any device.
Some of the resources you can access with Citrix Workspace include Citrix DaaS, Content apps, local and mobile apps, SaaS and Web apps and Browser apps.
Citrix Workspace is also one of the very few remote desktop solutions that supports Retina Displays on MacBooks.
Citrix isn’t aimed at those that just want to connect to another Mac or PC for personal use but is popular amongst Enterprises and those looking for a corporate solution.
Pricing: Free
Pros:
- Backed by Citrix
- More advanced than the original Citrix Receiver for Mac
- Free to use
- Supports MacBook retina displays
Cons:
- Complex for individual use
- Aimed more at Enterprises
12. Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager
Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager is more of a remote desktop connection manager aimed at system admins and small businesses managing a network of computers.
One of the handy things about it is that it’s integrated with other popular RDP clients such as Teamviewer, Microsoft Remote Desktop and even Telnet.
The interface is also well designed allowing you to organize sessions by groups or folders and if you already use the Windows version, you can connect to the same databases with the Mac version so you can access all previous sessions.
Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager isn’t quite as novice friendly as other options, but it’s one of the few remote desktop tools aimed at the Enterprise market.
Pricing: Free “solo” version
Pros:
- Great for managing multiple connections on a Network
- Integrated with other RDP apps
- Well integrated with Windows PC version
Cons:
- Complex for beginners
FAQ
What is the best free remote desktop software for Mac?
For Mac-to-Mac access, macOS Screen Sharing is the simplest option. For connecting to Windows PCs, Windows App, Zoho Assist, and AnyDesk are among the best free choices depending on your needs.
Is macOS Screen Sharing secure?
Yes. macOS Screen Sharing uses Apple’s built-in authentication and encrypted connections. When accessed over the internet via iCloud, it benefits from Apple’s security infrastructure.
Can I remotely access a Windows PC from a Mac for free?
Yes. Tools like Windows App, AnyViewer, Zoho Assist, Chrome Remote Desktop, and AnyDesk all allow free Mac-to-Windows remote access with varying limitations.
Which free remote desktop tool is best for businesses?
Zoho Assist is the most business-friendly free option, offering unattended access, encryption, and no session time limits, although it’s limited to one technician.
Are free remote desktop tools safe to use?
Most reputable tools (Apple, Microsoft, Google, Zoho, TeamViewer) use strong encryption. Avoid obscure tools and always enable two-factor authentication where available.
Do free remote desktop apps support file transfers?
Some do. Zoho Assist, AnyDesk, TeamViewer, NoMachine, and Splashtop support file transfers. macOS Screen Sharing and Chrome Remote Desktop offer only limited or basic options.
Can I use free remote desktop software for commercial use?
Usually no. Many free plans (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Splashtop) are restricted to personal or non-commercial use. Zoho Assist is a notable exception with limited business support.
Which free remote desktop tool works best on slow connections?
AnyDesk, Zoho Assist, and NoMachine generally perform best on slower or unstable networks due to better compression and latency handling.