AnyDesk alternative for Mac: 8 tools you should try

As a freelancer, AnyDesk was once my tried-and-true for accessing files remotely and collaborating with clients. But sometimes, you just want to see what else is out there. You want to optimize your workflow, remove any room for frustration, and find a tool that fits your needs like a glove. AnyDesk is still a fantastic program, but maybe you feel like there’s a little something missing.

Ready to find an AnyDesk equivalent for Mac? Let’s go.

What is an AnyDesk?

AnyDesk sort of implies what it does through its name. It practically allows you to access and control devices no matter where you are, allowing you to work from “any desk.” For individuals, those who work remotely, or who need to provide IT support, its useful features make it ideal for easy remote access.

Is there an AnyDesk for Mac?

Yes! AnyDesk is available for practically every platform available, including macOS, Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and more. It offers just as strong an experience as its other counterparts, with access and control, collaboration, and security and privacy features that make it work for you right out of the box.

I’ve compiled a table of AnyDesk alternatives for Mac with a quick description of its main function, as well as a more detailed section below to learn more:

AnyDesk alternative	What it does in a nutshell	Pricing
Transloader	Download files remotely across multiple Apple devices.	Available on Setapp with 250+ other apps for $9.99/month
HelpWire	Remote assistance with communication tools.	Free with business subscription TBA
Jump Desktop	VNC and RDP support for larger teams that need to manage many users and simultaneous connections.	From $7.99
TeamViewer	Established remote desktop tool with features suited to enterprises.	From $3.49/month per device
RustDesk	Self-hosted servers with advanced configuration options.	Free with paid plan from $9.90
Splashtop	Tailored remote desktop software hosted on AWS.	From $5.00/month
HopToDesk	Suitable for personal and professional use without the frills.	Free
Chrome Remote Desktop	Simple browser-based remote desktop software.	Free

Best AnyDesk alternatives for Mac

Not sure which tool to go with? Take some time to check them out one by one. You'll definitely find the right one for you.

Transloader: Instant Mac downloads remotely

Transloader is the perfect app for downloading files across your Apple devices. I’ve been in a situation where I’ve needed to download a couple of articles and papers I found on the go on my phone, but I want to get them onto my Mac. Rather than waiting until I got home and went through the AirDrop process, I’ve used Transloader to take care of my business. It syncs perfectly between devices and helps me stay productive 24/7. What’s more, the app is easily accessible through the Share menu on iPhone or iPad, making it a one-tap task.

Wins:

✅ No complicated permissions

✅ Supports large downloads

✅ Remote login anywhere for downloads

Woes:

❌ Only one function — downloading files

HelpWire: Simple remote support

HelpWire is geared towards remote assistance. It lets businesses and support teams connect with users or customers in real-time, providing much deeper and clearer assistance through remote desktop control and live chat. With customer support more important than ever, this remote access has never been more valuable. It provides a comprehensive dashboard that collates client messaging, secure connection, and other control essentials.

Source: helpwire.app

Wins:

✅ Full suite of communication tools

✅ Simple and intuitive with drag-and-drop and single-click connections 

Woes:

❌ Lacks session recording

Jump Desktop: Powerful access control

If you want versatility, Jump Desktop provides just that. With support for virtual network computing (VNC) and remote desktop protocol (RDP), you can seamlessly connect to and control a variety of devices, including mobile devices and computers. It’s particularly suited for larger teams that need to manage an entire group of computers and several users, thanks to Single-Sign-On (SSO), cloud access logs, and customized installers.

Wins:

✅ Multiple connection protocols

✅ Unlimited simultaneous connections for each team

Woes:

❌ No built-in file transfer capabilities

TeamViewer: Remote control with AI

TeamViewer is one of the original remote desktop tools, first released in 2005. It was developed because IT teams wanted to avoid traveling to customers to perform tasks that could be handled online. Naturally, its functions and features have expanded since then, and it’s now available for a wide range of operating systems and smartphones. TeamViewer provides unique interfaces for many functions and apps, like Microsoft Teams and Salesforce, and even has augmented reality elements.

Wins:

✅ Session Insights AI-based feature

✅ Compatible with many apps, services, operating systems, and languages.

Woes:

❌ Unsuitable for casual, personal users

RustDesk: Remote access and support

What makes RustDesk stand out is its customizability, data sovereignty, and flexibility. While many might enjoy the preconfigured, ready-to-go nature of other AnyDesk macOS equivalents, others might want a program that gives them more control over their infrastructure and data. With self-hosted servers, you won’t need to rely on third-party servers and get a better handle on your own privacy and security.

Source: rustdesk.com

Wins:

✅ Self-hosted servers

✅ 90 advanced configuration options

Woes:

❌ Not a plug-and-play solution, requiring more technical knowledge

Splashtop: Remote access with high-performance features

Splashtop has three solutions: Splashtop Business Access, Splashtop SOS, and Splashtop Enterprise. That means those who require an endpoint management solution, on-demand remote support, or remote access can find an ideal solution. Splashtop allows you to browse by industry, role, or need so you can choose the right remote access and support software. As a bonus, its cloud infrastructure is hosted on AWS, which provides real peace of mind when it comes to security.

Wins:

✅ Optimized solutions by industry, role, and need 

✅ Strong security features to keep remote sessions secure

Woes:

❌ Some key features are only available in higher-tier plans (multi-monitor support/file transfer, etc.)

HopToDesk: Good fit for personal or commercial use 

HopToDesk doesn’t only cater to businesses. Instead, it’s designed to suit both personal and commercial use for a variety of operating systems. The app doesn’t have all the frills and fancy features that some of the other ones do but rather does the basics well, such as remote control, screen sharing, file transfer, and live chat. While many do have advanced features, they also require complex setups and for you to fork out a hefty monthly fee. In contrast, HopToDesk is free and open-source.

Wins:

✅ Secure remote access without the extra fluff

✅ Easy setup

Woes:

❌ Limited customization and features which make it unsuitable for large businesses and enterprises

Chrome Remote Desktop: Remote access from browser

Chrome Remote Desktop is the only browser-based remote access tool I’ve added to the list, partly because there aren’t very many and partly because it’s developed by Google — a reputable name in the tech biz. It’s conveniently tied to Google’s ecosystem, making setup a breeze and allowing it to match any need or workflow. It’s a simple, easy-to-use tool 

Wins:

✅ Backed up Google’s security protocols

✅ Easy setup that requires a Google account and the Chrome extension

Woes:

❌ No multi-user support

How to choose the best AnyDesk equivalent?

Choosing an alternative to AnyDeck on Mac becomes a lot more straightforward the more you understand what you’re looking for. Here are some considerations to get you started:

• Personal or professional use: Are you using the equivalent for personal use or for an enterprise setting where there are multiple users and devices to manage?
• Features: What sort of features are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves?
• Cost: How much does the software cost, and is it worth it in relation to its usage and purpose?
• Compatibility: Is it cross-compatible with a variety of operating systems and devices? Do you need that functionality?

Whenever possible, I recommend testing apps through free trials or demos. After all, there’s no better way to find out whether the app is suitable for you than trying it out first-hand.

AnyDesk for macOS: Final words

Well, it’s clear now that AnyDesk isn’t the only remote access tool out there for macOS. Maybe you need more customization, crave that self-hosted environment, or simply want a basic option without the extras. If you’re looking for an easy way to manage downloads across devices, Transloader is the ultimate tool of the trade. You can find the app on Setapp, which is a subscription service to over 250 apps for iOS and macOS. So, why not give it a spin with a 7-day free trial?