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TeamViewer vs AnyDesk — I Spent $200 Testing These

by | Last updated May 8, 2026

Winner
teamviewer
4.4
  • AI Session Summaries & Insights
  • AES 256-Bit Encryption + 2FA
  • Unattended Access & Monitoring
  • Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS & Android
  • Asset Management Built In
  • Free for Personal Use
  • Paid Plans from $18.90/month
Runner Up
anydesk
4.3
  • DeskRT Codec — Low Latency
  • TLS 1.2 + AES-256 Encryption
  • On-Premises Deployment Option
  • Session Recording Built In
  • Whiteboard & Chat Collaboration
  • Free for Personal Use
  • Paid Plans from $32.31/month

⚡ Quick Verdict:

  • Pricing: TeamViewer starts at $18.90/month vs AnyDesk at $32.31/month for paid commercial plans
  • Best for: TeamViewer for enterprise IT support and AI-powered remote management; AnyDesk for low-latency remote desktop and on-premises deployments
  • Key difference: TeamViewer includes AI session insights, asset management, and augmented reality features; AnyDesk uses its proprietary DeskRT codec for faster screen rendering with lower bandwidth
  • Our pick: TeamViewer for most business users — broader feature set, lower entry price, and AI capabilities that AnyDesk doesn’t match
TeamViewer vs AnyDesk Comparison

Remote access software comes down to one core decision.

Do you need deep IT management tools or fast, lightweight desktop control?

TeamViewer (also called Team Viewer by some users) and AnyDesk both give you easy access to remote devices from anywhere.

But they serve different types of users and different workflows.

Overview

This TeamViewer vs AnyDesk comparison covers pricing, key features, security, and ease of use. Both tools provide secure remote access — but their approaches differ significantly.

Our sources include published documentation, official pricing pages, and user reviews. Customer satisfaction data from G2 reviews shaped the pros and cons sections.

TeamViewer has been installed on more than 2.5 billion devices worldwide, according to its official documentation.

AnyDesk is known for its DeskRT codec, which reduces latency for users working with resource-intensive applications.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which tool fits your situation.

What is TeamViewer?

TeamViewer is a remote access and remote control software built for both personal and business use.

It lets you connect to and control remote devices from anywhere in the world.

The platform supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS operating systems.

TeamViewer Germany GmbH develops and maintains the software, which has been available for more than a decade.

IT teams and support users rely on it for endpoint troubleshooting, unattended device access, and remote support. TeamViewer users get access and support tools in one platform.

In 2026, the platform includes powerful features — AI capabilities as seen in the TeamViewer AI Suite for session insights and automated documentation. Seen in the TeamViewer interface, a session link lets technicians invite users to connect instantly.

How To Use Team Viewer | Remotely Control Your Computer And Mobile Phone

TeamViewer

⭐ 4.4/5 | 💰 From $18.90/month

TeamViewer is the go-to remote access tool for IT teams and businesses. It connects to any device on any operating system and is free for personal use.

TeamViewer Pricing

Here’s what TeamViewer costs in 2026. Both plans are billed annually.

PlanPriceBest For
TeamViewer Remote Access$18.90/monthSingle users needing basic remote access
TeamViewer Business$42.90/monthSmall IT teams managing multiple devices

Pricing verified May 2026.

TeamViewer Pricing Image

Free trial: TeamViewer is free for non-commercial personal use. A free version lets individuals help friends and family remotely.

Money-back guarantee: TeamViewer does not publicly advertise a standard money-back guarantee. Review terms before purchasing.

📌 Note: TeamViewer no longer offers one-time purchase licenses as of 2023. All plans are subscription-based with annual billing. The TeamViewer client must be installed on each device before connecting. The Remote Access plan covers a single user; the Business plan adds concurrent sessions for teams.

⚠️ Warning: TeamViewer subscriptions auto-renew automatically. Check your auto renewal settings before your billing date to avoid unexpected charges. Cancellations for annual plans must be submitted within 28 days of subscribing or upon renewal, or you will be charged for another year.

Key Benefits of TeamViewer

Here’s what makes TeamViewer worth considering:

  • Cross-Platform Support: TeamViewer works across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. You can remotely control an Android phone from a Windows PC without extra setup.
  • AI Session Insights: The AI suite generates automatic session summaries and documentation after each remote support session. This saves IT teams significant logging time.
  • Unattended Access: TeamViewer can run as a Windows system service. This allows IT teams to access and manage devices without anyone present on the other end.
  • Firewall Bypass: TeamViewer bypasses firewalls and NAT configurations without manual port forwarding. It initiates outgoing requests to its central broker servers automatically.
  • File Transfer: Drag-and-drop file transfer with transfer queues is built into every session. You can move files between devices without switching to a separate tool.
  • Multi-Monitor Support: TeamViewer detects all monitors on a remote system. You can switch between screens with intelligent scaling during a session.
  • Free for Personal Use: TeamViewer is free of charge for non-commercial use (non commercial). This makes it a great tool for helping friends and family with tech issues remotely.
TeamViewer What is Image

What Our Team Noticed

Our writer signed up for TeamViewer and spent several days exploring the platform across different device types. Here’s what stood out:

TeamViewer Personal Experience Image

TeamViewer Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • Lower entry price at $18.90/month vs AnyDesk’s $32.31/month
  • AI-powered session insights and automated summaries
  • Free for non-commercial personal use
  • Asset management and remote device monitoring built in
  • Augmented reality support via TeamViewer Frontline for industrial use
❌ Cons
  • No one-time purchase option since 2023 — subscription only
  • Auto-renewal policy catches some users off guard
  • Commercial use detection can flag legitimate personal sessions
  • No on-premises deployment option (cloud-only for standard plans)

What is AnyDesk?

The company AnyDesk Software GmbH distributes AnyDesk, a remote desktop application for businesses and individuals. In a nutshell discover AnyDesk as a lightweight alternative to heavier enterprise remote tools.

It provides platform-independent remote access to computers and other devices running the host application.

AnyDesk works across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android operating systems.

The software uses a proprietary video codec called DeskRT to reduce bandwidth and latency during sessions. Various versions of AnyDesk are available across platforms, and the latest AnyDesk version adds improved session management.

Professionals who provide technical support use AnyDesk professionally for its dynamic performance and low resource usage. The software receives regular updates to maintain compatibility across operating systems. Compatibility AnyDesk offers across Windows, macOS, and Linux makes it truly cross-platform remote desktop software.

For businesses, AnyDesk offers an on premises (on-premises) solution that keeps data within a private network. The administration AnyDesk provides through its management console covers anywhere remote desktop software deployment needs. You can discover AnyDesk’s full functionality through the online quick start guide — it gives all the answers about setup in minutes.

AnyDesk Review - Top Features, Pros & Cons, and Alternatives

AnyDesk

⭐ 4.3/5 | 💰 From $32.31/month

AnyDesk delivers fast, low-latency remote desktop access with session recording, whiteboarding, and on-premises options. It’s free for personal use.

AnyDesk Pricing

Here’s what AnyDesk costs in 2026. All plans are for commercial use.

PlanPriceBest For
Standard$32.31/monthSmall teams needing basic remote access
Advanced$70.11/monthGrowing businesses with more devices
UltimateCustomEnterprises needing full deployment control

Pricing verified May 2026.

AnyDesk Pricing Image

Free version: AnyDesk is free for personal use. The free version does not include key business features like unattended access or group policies.

Money-back guarantee: AnyDesk does not publicly advertise a standard refund period. Confirm terms directly before purchasing a commercial plan.

📌 Note: AnyDesk’s free version is ad-free and suitable for helping friends and family. For commercial use, you must purchase a paid plan. The Ultimate plan offers custom pricing for enterprise deployments including on-premises options. AnyDesk is charge compatible with all major operating systems — there are no extra fees for cross-platform connections. A close modal dialog ends the session cleanly on all supported platforms. A live seek function lets users scrub through session recordings.

⚠️ Warning: AnyDesk suffered a cyberattack in February 2024 that compromised user credentials. If you have an older AnyDesk account, enable two-factor authentication (two factor authentication) and change your password as a precaution.

Key Benefits of AnyDesk

Here’s what makes AnyDesk worth considering:

  • DeskRT Codec: AnyDesk’s proprietary video codec minimizes latency and creates a near-office experience. It works well for resource-intensive applications even on limited bandwidth. This gives professionals anywhere access to remote desktops — even on slower connections.
  • On-Premises Deployment: AnyDesk offers a customizable on-premises solution for businesses that want to keep data within their own network. This is a feature TeamViewer’s standard plans don’t include.
  • Session Recording: AnyDesk records remote sessions as video files for training or reference purposes. This is built in without requiring a third-party screen recorder.
  • Whiteboard & Collaboration: AnyDesk includes an on-screen whiteboard, text chat, and the ability to switch control between users during a session. These tools make it useful beyond simple support calls.
  • Remote Printing: AnyDesk allows printing documents from a remote computer directly to a local printer. This is helpful for teams working across different office locations.
  • Custom Branding: AnyDesk allows businesses to customize the software with their own brand logo and corporate identity — presenting the tool under their own brand. The flexibility customize AnyDesk offers — from colors to logos — makes it ideal for managed service providers serving clients.
AnyDesk What is Image

What Our Team Noticed

Our writer signed up for AnyDesk and spent time exploring its interface and connection speed across devices. Here’s what stood out:

AnyDesk Personal Experience Image

AnyDesk Pros & Cons

✅ Pros
  • DeskRT codec delivers low-latency performance on limited bandwidth
  • On-premises deployment keeps sensitive data within your own network
  • Session recording built in for training and audit purposes
  • Custom branding lets MSPs present the tool as their own product
  • Granular permission management restricts what remote users can access
❌ Cons
  • Paid plans start at $32.31/month — significantly more than TeamViewer Remote Access
  • Suffered a credential breach in February 2024
  • Frequently used in technical support scams — users must stay vigilant
  • Free version lacks unattended access and group policy features

Feature Comparison

Let’s compare TeamViewer and AnyDesk across eight key areas.

This breakdown covers the features that matter most for remote access decisions.

FeatureTeamViewerAnyDesk
Starting Price$18.90/month$32.31/month
Free Personal Use
Unattended Access✅ (paid only)
Session Recording
AI Session Insights
On-Premises Option
Custom Branding
Asset Management
Augmented Reality
Best ForEnterprise IT, remote support teamsMSPs, low-latency desktop access

1. Remote Access & Connection

TeamViewer: TeamViewer uses a partner ID and password system to establish connections. After installation, you enter the partner ID into the “Control Remote Computer” section and connect. The software bypasses firewalls and NAT configurations automatically — no manual port forwarding needed. Users can also opt for a “Run only” mode for temporary access without a full installation.

TeamViewer Endpoint Troubleshooting Image

AnyDesk: AnyDesk generates a 9-digit code when you open the application. To connect to another device, you enter that code in the “Another workstation” field and click Connect. When a remote user receives a windows new session request, they simply click Accept to grant access. AnyDesk supports both interactive access and unattended access via a pre-set password. You can also run AnyDesk directly from an executable file without installing it.

2. Performance & Screen Rendering

TeamViewer: TeamViewer provides reliable screen sharing across operating systems with intelligent scaling for multi-monitor setups. It detects all monitors on a remote system automatically. The platform is well-suited for standard remote support tasks and business workflows across different devices.

AnyDesk: AnyDesk’s DeskRT codec is its defining feature for performance. It minimizes latency and reduces bandwidth usage, creating a near-office experience even on slower connections. This makes AnyDesk the stronger choice when working with resource-intensive applications like video editing or CAD software over a remote connection.

AnyDesk Access & Control Image

3. Security & Encryption

TeamViewer: TeamViewer employs AES 256-bit encryption and two-factor authentication (two factor authentication) to secure connections. It also runs as a Windows system service for unattended access. The platform provides tailored security configurations for industries with strict compliance requirements.

AnyDesk: AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 with authenticated encryption and AES-256 for all connections between AnyDesk clients. The encryption fully shields data in transit — information remains protected end-to-end. Every connection is verified using RSA 2048 asymmetric key exchange and incessant verification of session integrity. AnyDesk also allows whitelisting so only authorized desks can establish a session.

AnyDesk Security & Privacy Image

⚠️ Warning: Both tools have been used in technical support scams. Never share your TeamViewer ID/password or AnyDesk code with anyone who contacts you unsolicited. The FBI has flagged AnyDesk specifically in ransomware-related cybersecurity advisories.

4. AI & Advanced Features

TeamViewer: TeamViewer’s AI Suite includes Session Insights for automatic summaries and post-session documentation. The platform also includes AI-powered troubleshooting with real-time analysis and resolution recommendations. TeamViewer Frontline adds augmented reality capabilities for industrial digitalization and vision picking in logistics processes. The Frontline platform also supports workflows that display information directly in a browser window for field workers, making it easy to access instructions without manual lookup.

TeamViewer Advanced Cyber Defense Image

AnyDesk: AnyDesk does not offer AI-powered features as of 2026. Its focus remains on fast, reliable remote desktop access rather than intelligent automation. AnyDesk does support video play during remote sessions, allowing users to view media on a remote device. For teams that need post-session documentation or AI-driven support workflows, AnyDesk is not the right fit.

5. File Transfer & Collaboration

TeamViewer: TeamViewer includes drag-and-drop file transfer with transfer queues during remote sessions. Real-time chat is also available during sessions. The platform supports bidirectional file sharing between any supported devices including mobile devices.

AnyDesk: AnyDesk features a dedicated file manager for secure drag-and-drop file sharing between devices without needing email or cloud services. It also includes an on-screen whiteboard, text chat, and the ability to switch control between users mid-session. Session recording captures video of the entire session for future reference or training.

AnyDesk Collaboration Image

6. Device & Platform Support

TeamViewer: TeamViewer supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also extends to IoT systems and servers, making it suitable for businesses managing a wide range of devices. The TeamViewer remote control app lets you remotely control an Android phone from another device.

AnyDesk: AnyDesk is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also offers bidirectional remote access between personal computers and mobile devices. Earlier windows versions are supported, giving AnyDesk an edge when operating windows remote desktops on legacy machines. Users can also use AnyDesk for remote control of a Windows PC (remote control windows pc) without complicated network configuration.

AnyDesk Mobile Device Support Image

7. Administration & Management

TeamViewer: TeamViewer includes asset management, remote device monitoring, and performance monitoring across managed devices. IT teams can manage multiple accounts and track endpoints from a central dashboard. The platform also supports essential integrations with popular IT tools.

TeamViewer Manage Multiple Accounts Image

AnyDesk: AnyDesk offers granular permission management, allowing hosts to restrict what remote collaborators can do — including file transfers, clipboard synchronization, and screen capture. The administration panel lets you manage remote desktop contacts and configure default values for your organization. The on-premises option gives enterprises full control over their own network deployment. Most relevant changes to settings take effect immediately without restarting the service. The interface is designed so users can access easily all settings from a single panel — no need to enable javascript or navigate a complex modal window.

AnyDesk Administration & Customization Image

8. Pricing & Cost

PlanTeamViewerAnyDesk
Free / Personal✅ Free for personal use✅ Free for personal use
Entry-Level Paid$18.90/month$32.31/month
Mid-Tier$42.90/month$70.11/month
EnterpriseContact SalesCustom (Ultimate)

TeamViewer: TeamViewer’s Remote Access plan at $18.90/month is significantly cheaper than AnyDesk’s entry-level Standard plan. For single users or small IT teams, TeamViewer delivers more value at a lower price point. The Business plan at $42.90/month adds concurrent session support for growing teams.

AnyDesk: AnyDesk’s commercial plans start at $32.31/month for the Standard tier. The Advanced plan at $70.11/month covers more devices and users. For enterprises wanting on-premises control, the Ultimate plan offers custom pricing. The free version is a strong option for single users, though it lacks key business features.

Different Scenarios

If You Need…ChooseWhy
Lower monthly costTeamViewer$13/month cheaper at entry level
AI-powered session documentationTeamViewerAnyDesk has no AI features
On-premises data controlAnyDeskTeamViewer standard plans are cloud-only
Custom branding for clientsAnyDeskMSP-friendly corporate identity options
Low-latency performanceAnyDeskDeskRT codec reduces bandwidth and lag
Asset management + monitoringTeamViewerBuilt-in endpoint and performance tools
Helping family remotelyTeamViewerQuickSupport app simplifies family support

💰 Your Budget

TeamViewer is the clear winner on price. At $18.90/month vs AnyDesk’s $32.31/month, TeamViewer costs significantly less for the entry commercial plan. If budget is a primary concern, TeamViewer delivers more for less.

🔌 Your Tech Stack

TeamViewer offers essential integrations with popular IT and business tools, making it easier to fit into existing workflows. AnyDesk’s on-premises option is the better fit if your organization runs a private network and needs data to stay in-house.

📝 Your Use Case

TeamViewer is built for IT support teams that need to manage unattended devices, run diagnostics, and document sessions automatically. AnyDesk suits managed service providers (MSPs) that want branded remote tools and low-latency screen sharing for their clients.

🎓 Your Experience Level

Both tools are relatively easy to set up for basic remote access. TeamViewer’s QuickSupport app makes it particularly easy to help family remotely — even non-technical users can download it and share their TeamViewer ID in minutes. AnyDesk’s 9-digit code system is also straightforward for first-time users.

🆓 Free Trials and Demos

Both TeamViewer and AnyDesk offer free versions for personal use. Test each one on a real device before committing to a paid plan — the connection experience and interface will help you decide quickly.

🛟 Support Options

TeamViewer provides documentation, an online help center, and enterprise support tiers. AnyDesk also offers an online help center and has established an Anti-Fraud Task Force to address scam-related concerns. Both have active user communities for resolving issues. AnyDesk is thoughtfully built — its thought through features cover the most relevant changes professionals need. Customers and TeamViewer work well together for IT teams managing many remote computers.

Switching Guide

Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.

🔄 Switching from TeamViewer to AnyDesk?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • Lower latency for resource-intensive remote sessions via DeskRT codec
  • On-premises deployment to keep data within your own private network
  • Custom branding and corporate identity options for client-facing deployments

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • AI session insights and automated post-session documentation
  • Built-in asset management and remote device monitoring
  • Lower entry-level pricing ($18.90/month vs $32.31/month)

📋 How to switch:

  1. Export your TeamViewer contact list and note all managed device IDs
  2. Create an AnyDesk account and install the application on all devices
  3. Share the AnyDesk 9-digit codes with your team and set up unattended access passwords for remote devices
🔄 Switching from AnyDesk to TeamViewer?

✅ What you’ll gain:

  • AI-powered session summaries and automated IT documentation
  • Built-in asset management and performance monitoring for managed endpoints
  • Lower entry commercial pricing at $18.90/month

❌ What you’ll lose:

  • DeskRT low-latency codec for resource-heavy remote applications
  • On-premises deployment and private network data control
  • Custom branding capabilities for client-facing tools

📋 How to switch:

  1. Download TeamViewer on all devices that need remote access or support
  2. Create a TeamViewer account and set up unattended access for headless devices
  3. Share partner IDs with your team and configure two-factor authentication (two factor authentication) on all accounts

What Our Review Didn’t Cover

This comparison focused on standard remote access and remote support use cases for individuals and small-to-medium IT teams. We didn’t evaluate enterprise-scale deployments, multi-tenant MSP environments, or IoT device management at scale. TeamViewer Frontline’s augmented reality and vision picking features for industrial logistics were not tested directly. If you’re evaluating either tool for large-scale enterprise rollouts or specialized industry compliance, your priorities may differ from what we’ve covered here.

Final Verdict

CategoryWinner
💰 PricingTeamViewer
🚀 Remote ConnectionTie
⚡ Performance / LatencyAnyDesk
🛡️ SecurityTie
🤖 AI & Advanced FeaturesTeamViewer
📁 File Transfer & CollaborationAnyDesk
🔧 Administration & ManagementTeamViewer
🏢 Enterprise & Deployment OptionsAnyDesk
🏆 Overall WinnerTeamViewer

🏆 WINNER: TeamViewer

TeamViewer wins 4 out of 8 categories with 2 ties.

Best for: IT support teams, personal remote assistance, enterprise device management

In a nutshell, discover which tool fits your workflow: TeamViewer and AnyDesk are both capable remote access tools built for different priorities.

TeamViewer wins on price, AI features, and all-in-one IT management.

AnyDesk wins on raw performance, on-premises flexibility, and branding options for MSPs.

If you’re helping friends and family remotely or running an IT support team, TeamViewer makes life easier — it’s the better fit.

If you need low-latency desktop sharing for demanding applications or want to keep data on your own servers, AnyDesk is the smarter choice.

More of TeamViewer Compared

Here’s how TeamViewer stacks up against other remote access tools:

TeamViewer vs Splashtop

TeamViewer wins on: Broader OS support including IoT and servers; AI session summaries and asset management not found in Splashtop

Splashtop wins on: Lower pricing for education and consumer tiers; stronger focus on streaming high-frame-rate content

TeamViewer vs RemotePC

TeamViewer wins on: AI capabilities, augmented reality features, and deeper enterprise IT integrations

RemotePC wins on: More affordable annual pricing for small teams; straightforward setup with fewer enterprise-focused complexities

TeamViewer vs GoTo Resolve

TeamViewer wins on: Wider device support including mobile devices and IoT; longer track record for more than a decade in the market

GoTo Resolve wins on: Built-in ticketing and helpdesk workflow; tighter integration with the GoTo product suite for IT teams already using GoTo Meeting

TeamViewer vs RealVNC Connect

TeamViewer wins on: AI-powered features and session insights; easier setup for non-technical users needing instant support

RealVNC Connect wins on: Flexible on-premises and cloud hybrid deployment; strong track record with enterprise Linux environments

More of AnyDesk Compared

Here’s how AnyDesk stacks up against other remote access tools:

AnyDesk vs Splashtop

AnyDesk wins on: On-premises deployment option; custom branding for MSP use; lower latency via DeskRT codec on constrained connections

Splashtop wins on: More affordable entry pricing; better known for consumer remote access and education use cases

AnyDesk vs RemotePC

AnyDesk wins on: Session recording and whiteboard collaboration; broader OS compatibility including earlier Windows versions

RemotePC wins on: Simpler pricing structure; better for teams that only need basic remote desktop without advanced collaboration features

AnyDesk vs ISL Online

AnyDesk wins on: Wider name recognition and larger user base; easier no-install executable for quick support sessions

ISL Online wins on: On-premises server licensing with perpetual options; stronger compliance features for regulated industries

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TeamViewer free for personal use?

Yes. TeamViewer is free for personal use. It’s a great tool for helping family remotely. Commercial use requires a paid plan from $18.90/month.

What are the limitations of the TeamViewer free version?

The free version covers non-commercial use only. Sessions that appear commercial get flagged. Paid plans unlock concurrent sessions and AI features. Auto-renewal applies to all annual plans.

Is AnyDesk safe to use?

Yes, when used carefully. AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 and AES-256 encryption. Never share your AnyDesk ID with unsolicited callers. Enable two-factor authentication for extra protection.

Is AnyDesk cheaper than TeamViewer?

No. AnyDesk starts at $32.31/month commercially; TeamViewer starts at $18.90/month. Both are free for personal use. TeamViewer costs less for most users.

Can TeamViewer control another phone?

Yes. The TeamViewer remote control app lets you control an Android phone remotely. You can connect to a loved one’s device without being present. AnyDesk supports mobile devices too.

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