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Best Free Alternatives to Splashtop
Stop paying $5 - $8.25/mo (per user). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Remote DesktopVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
RustDesk
FREEBest Overall Open-Source Alternative
Why we like it
100% open-source and self-hostable for total privacy; works out of the box with zero configuration; supports P2P encrypted connections.
Keep in mind
Self-hosting the relay server requires basic Linux/Docker knowledge; the public relay servers can occasionally experience lag.
DWService
FREEBest for Browser-Based Access
Why we like it
Access any device from a standard web browser; no client software needed on the controlling end; completely free for commercial and personal use.
Keep in mind
The free tier is bandwidth-limited (6Mbps); does not support high-performance tasks like remote gaming or video editing.
MeshCentral
FREEBest for IT Management & MSPs
Why we like it
A full-featured open-source management portal; allows for unattended access, terminal control, and file management across thousands of devices.
Keep in mind
Requires a dedicated server for hosting the management console; steep learning curve for non-technical users.
HopToDesk
FREEBest Zero-Config Free Alternative
Why we like it
A fork of RustDesk that is completely free for both personal and commercial use; features end-to-end encryption and screen recording.
Keep in mind
Newer project with a smaller community; features may lag behind the official RustDesk branch.
NoMachine
FREEBest for High-Performance/Gaming
Why we like it
Uses the NX protocol for incredibly fast, low-latency streaming; better performance for multimedia/video work than Splashtop; free for individual use.
Keep in mind
Free version is limited to one concurrent session; setting up access over the public internet requires manual port forwarding or a VPN.
Chrome Remote Desktop
FREEBest for Simple Ad-Hoc Access
Why we like it
Extremely easy to set up; works through the Google ecosystem; reliable and safe for quick troubleshooting.
Keep in mind
Lacks advanced features like multi-monitor support, file drag-and-drop, and remote printing; requires a Google account.
AnyDesk
FREEBest for Professional Speed
Why we like it
Industry-leading DeskRT codec ensures high speed on low-bandwidth connections; ultra-lightweight client (3MB).
Keep in mind
The free version is strictly for personal use and frequently triggers 'commercial use' warnings; premium plans are expensive.
UltraVNC
FREEBest Classic VNC for Windows
Why we like it
Highly mature software with deep Windows integration; supports file transfer, chat, and auto-authentication.
Keep in mind
VNC is an older protocol that is generally slower than modern alternatives; lacks 'ID-based' connection (requires IP/DNS knowledge).
Remotely
FREEBest for Developers (Self-Hosted)
Why we like it
Modern web-based remote control built on .NET; supports script execution and command-line access remotely.
Keep in mind
Requires a self-hosted server to function; still in active development, so bugs may be present.
Remotix (by Netgate)
Best Native Mac/Windows UI
Why we like it
Highly polished interface; supports NEAR protocol for low-latency; excellent handling of VDI and Apple Screen Sharing.
Keep in mind
No permanent free version; moved primarily to a subscription model recently.
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