Microsoft Remote Desktop Services vs TeamViewer comparison

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Comparison Buyer's Guide
Executive Summary
Updated on Sep 5, 2022

We performed a comparison between Microsoft Remote Desktop Services and TeamViewer based on our users’ reviews in four categories. After reading all of the collected data, you can find our conclusion below.

  • Ease of Deployment: Users of both solutions tell us they are easy and straightforward to deploy.
  • Features: Microsoft Remote Desktop users feel the solution is stable, reliable, and scales easily. The solution offers command line interface (CLI) capabilities, which make it easy to manage IDs, passwords, credentials, and more. Many users feel on-site multi-fact authorization and better integrations with other operating systems is needed.

    TeamViewer makes it easy for administrators to login, add simple connections, or lock the remote systems. Users find it is stable, works great remotely, and even performs well with very low bandwidth. Users would like to see improved security and more support for other operating systems.
  • Pricing: Microsoft Remote Desktop Services comes at no cost as part of Microsoft Windows; outside of Microsoft, licensing can be costly. TeamViewer has a free trial version available with limited features. Many feel the corporate licensing and pricing can be expensive.
  • Service and Support: For the most part, users of both solutions are satisfied with the service and support.

Comparison Results: Microsoft Remote Desktop Services slightly nudges out TeamViewer in this comparison. Microsoft Remote Desktop is a complete solution that is already a part of every Microsoft ecosystem. TeamViewer’s cost and security concerns make it less attractive for many users.

To learn more, read our detailed Microsoft Remote Desktop Services vs. TeamViewer Report (Updated: March 2024).
763,955 professionals have used our research since 2012.
Featured Review
Quotes From Members
We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use.
Here are some excerpts of what they said:
Pros
"The technical support is good.""The most valuable feature of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is managing the remote desktop end user or remote server.""The most valuable features of the solution are ease of use and the simple environment.""The initial setup is not that difficult. I have gone through the RDS initialization steps, which only seem easy.""The solution offers good value for money.""The solution is really fast.""The solution is user-friendly and has a good user experience.""Installing Microsoft Desktop Services is straightforward."

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"The most important feature of TeamViewer is its ease of use.""This solution is straightforward to use.""Ease of use was the number-one thing. It's an industry leader for ease of use, specifically on the client-side, which is the absolutely critical thing. If I want to connect to somebody, how easily can I — without seeing their computer — walk them through the steps to install it to a point where I can key in the code and help them resolve their situation?... TeamViewer is just a dead-solid, easy answer.""Our computers are spread amongst six physical locations. TeamViewer reduces the need to travel to those offices to help staff.""I am satisfied with TeamViewer, and its performance.""The product is easy to install.""It saves trips to customer sites, which saves time. I am able to get in there remotely and fix things.""We also use it a lot for remote site assistance. We've set up our internal authentication for unattended access to our remote sites. That makes it very easy and convenient to remotely connect with our users and our client machines whenever we need to. It's set as a direct, secure connection. As long as the station has internet access, we can see it and it makes remote support very simple."

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Cons
"It could offer better security for enterprises.""The initial setup of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is not the easiest. You need to have a certain understanding of how Microsoft is provisioning the solution to be able to set it up and use it.""Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is only available for the professional version of the Windows operating system. This restricts a lot of users. The feature should be available for all versions.""We'd like, in the future, if it would work with Linux or Unix-based operating systems or even Mac.""It could be made simpler from a management perspective.""We encounter challenges with portability, especially for users of iOS devices.""Updates sometimes impact the application and we have system crashes.""Security in the connection between us and our clients' servers is something that can be improved."

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"The security could improve in TeamViewer.""TeamViewer has a legacy and may not be using the latest UI trends.""I have noticed that when I access another person's computer, sometimes the tab is visible, and sometimes it is not, which can be difficult.""Sometimes we'll have a device in the field, and I'll click on remote control and it says "Can't authenticate." I'll double click in a different part of the TeamViewer interface and it'll say "Can't authenticate." Then I'll do it a third time and it connects. It's possible that it's just bad luck. It's also very possible that it's some bug within TeamViewer...""I would like to see TeamViewer support multiple platforms.""TeamViewer could improve by adding support for other operating systems, such as Linux and CAKE.""In the next release, I would prefer to have a voice integration and collaboration feature to support multiple teams simultaneously.""It would be useful if the solution could facilitate more than one remote user accessing my desktop at a time."

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Pricing and Cost Advice
  • "The pricing is moderate."
  • "The solution has a perpetual license and it is purchased upfront."
  • "It will probably cost about $500 USD to get the resources set up in the cloud."
  • "Although not an expensive product, pricing is always something that can be improved."
  • "It's not an expensive solution."
  • "It's not an expensive product."
  • "Its licensing is on a yearly basis. We're on the educational or academic license, and our terms are good. We're very happy with the pricing."
  • "The pricing could always be improved."
  • More Microsoft Remote Desktop Services Pricing and Cost Advice →

  • "TeamViewer pricing is reasonable... The simultaneous controller licensing model of TeamViewer - compared to LogMeIn’s controlled Host licensing model - seems to benefit us so far. We’re currently saving about 30 percent on licensing cost... The savings from licensing have been eaten up by the soft costs involved in dealing with and working around TeamViewer’s deficiencies in allowing granular control by multiple controllers, and the issues with the various settings that are missing on the macOS Host."
  • "The cost of the licenses depends on how you buy them. They just had a buy one get one free deal going, and they do that every once in a while. Where you buy one license, and they will give you the second one free, or you can try to get discounts. Most of our licenses that we have we tried to do something like that just to save some money."
  • "It has probably saved us several thousands of dollars because we have quick access anywhere. We don't have to worry about finding people onsite or arranging conference calls. We also save time and money with it because we don't have to send somebody onsite to troubleshoot."
  • "TeamViewer offers a free version to try. Download and give it a shot. See what it's like and if you like it, then buy the license for it."
  • "...it will cost you $1,500 to $1,600 a year, but when I think of how much work I do through TeamViewer..."
  • "It does what I need it to do but I think it's expensive. It wasn't easy for me to get approval from the company to get it... It's costing us about $700 a year, per license."
  • "TeamViewer is $600 or $700 per port per year..."
  • "The cost is in the thousands of dollars per year."
  • More TeamViewer Pricing and Cost Advice →

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    Questions from the Community
    Top Answer:The number one advantage of TeamViewer for me is its ease of use, specifically as it relates to the client side. By far, one of its best features is the remote access it provides. I can control… more »
    Top Answer:The product allows easy access to any system in case of any issues.
    Ranking
    2nd
    out of 45 in Remote Access
    Views
    10,005
    Comparisons
    8,793
    Reviews
    38
    Average Words per Review
    405
    Rating
    8.1
    1st
    out of 45 in Remote Access
    Views
    11,099
    Comparisons
    9,177
    Reviews
    34
    Average Words per Review
    293
    Rating
    8.6
    Comparisons
    Also Known As
    Remote Desktop Services, MS Remote Desktop Services
    Learn More
    Overview

    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is a highly regarded remote access tool in addition to being a top-ranked Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution in the marketplace today.

    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a suite of valuable elements of the Windows operating system (OS) that serve specific desired objectives. Microsoft RDS integrates various features that allow approved users to gain access to graphical desktops and Windows applications remotely. Approved users are able to deploy applications or even a complete desktop without having to install anything on their devices. Everything remains in the cloud. This ensures that there are never any compatibility issues and keeps the organization's original network secure at all times. Administrators are also able to ensure that data cannot be stored in any unapproved location, such as the local device, unapproved drives, or any other location.

    Microsoft RDS makes it easy for business organizations to access Windows Desktops and other Windows applications remotely to ensure today’s busy enterprise organizations are able to maintain the highest levels of productivity at all times. There are two basic ways organizations can effectively utilize RDS.


    • Microsoft Remote Desktop Component: This allows users to connect with various alternate desktops from their current device. Once the user has gained a secure connection based on the approved administrative permissions, the user can seamlessly access and interact with the remote desktop. Users have the feeling of having this new virtual desktop installed directly on their machine.


    • RemoteApp: Users are able to easily access cloud-based applications via their own personal desktop computers or other approved mobile devices. This application ensures overall application management is centralized and consistent throughout the entire business enterprise.


    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services Benefits

    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services has many benefits. Some of its most valuable benefits include:


    • Access Windows applications remotely from any device
    • Enhanced consistent application performance
    • Increased computing resources
    • Secure cloud-based data storage.
    • Streamlined management processes
    • Reduction in technical administrative resources
    • Reduction in hardware and device costs.
    • Improved employee productivity
    • Cost-effective
    • Improved Profitability
    • Reduce carbon footprint


    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services makes it easy for busy enterprise organizations to stay productive and remain competitive in today’s aggressive marketplace. An organization's end-users can be given access to their own specific desktops from any location, anytime, using any approved device. Additionally, users can access Microsoft applications without having an effect on their device's resource capacity or performance.

    Reviews from Real Users

    “What I found most valuable in Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is accessibility because the solution lets you take control of your computer remotely, and that's a good feature.” Pascal B., IT consultant at Secoptrial

    “The most valuable features of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services are unification, central management, and accessibility.” Jan S. Solution Architect at a tech services company

    “The most valuable features are that it is fast and cost-effective. I am not aware of a replacement currently on the market.” Ramon H. Director at Empaco

    TeamViewer is a remote access solution that allows users to connect to any PC or server around the world within a few seconds. When using it, users can remotely control a computer, transfer files, and access various services such as video conferencing and virtual meetings. The solution works on various operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. As a well-recognized provider of remote control and online meeting software, TeamViewer is mainly used for remote technical support, remote access, and online collaboration.

    TeamViewer Features

    TeamViewer has many valuable key features. Some of the most useful ones include:


    • Remote control: TeamViewer enables users to control a remote computer as if they were physically sitting in front of it.


    • File transfers: Users can transfer files between computers in real-time.


    • Video conferencing: The solution supports high-quality video and audio conferencing for virtual meetings.


    • Cross-platform compatibility: TeamViewer works on a variety of operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.


    • Advanced security: The solution uses encrypted data channels to protect the privacy and security of user data.


    • Simple setup: TeamViewer does not require any complex setup, making it easy for users to start using the software immediately with little to no training needed.


    • Multi-language support: Because it supports multiple languages, the solution is easily accessible to a global user base.


    • Customizable: TeamViewer offers various customization options to meet specific user requirements.


    TeamViewer Benefits

    There are many benefits to implementing TeamViewer. Some of the biggest advantages the solution offers include:


    • Increased productivity: By allowing users to work from anywhere and at any time, the solution enables remote work and collaboration, thereby increasing productivity levels.


    • Cost-effective: The TeamViewer solution is cost-effective and offers more remote support and access compared to other traditional methods.


    • User data protection: TeamViewer provides secure data transfer and encrypted communication channels to protect user data.


    • Improved customer service: The solution allows for fast and efficient remote support, improving customer satisfaction.


    • Easy accessibility: TeamViewer makes it easy for users to access their work or personal computers from anywhere, at any time.


    • Available to a wide range of users: Because it offers cross-platform compatibility and works on multiple operating systems, TeamViewer is accessible to a wide range of users.


    • User-friendly interface: TeamViewer’s user-friendly interface is easy to navigate, even for those with limited technical expertise.


    • Scalability: The TeamViewer solution can be used by both individuals and businesses of all sizes, making it a scalable solution for different needs.


    Reviews from Real Users

    TeamViewer is a solution that stands out when compared to many of its competitors. Some of its major advantages are that it is user friendly, has a simple installation, and has good monitoring and remote access features.

    Samuel M., IT Supervisor at a financial services firm, says, “I think TeamViewer's most valuable feature is that it is user friendly. Creating passwords is easy and so is security.”

    “[The TeamViewer solution has a] good user interface, simple installation, and has a free version available,” mentions PeerSpot reviewer Alexandru V., Software Test Engineer at a tech services company.

    Another reviewer, David O., Managing Director, explains why he likes the solution: “[It] is a very good tool for monitoring and for remote access. Anyone is able to use it, it is simple to use."

    Sample Customers
    Bank Alfalah Ltd.
    Porsche Informatik, Philips, DHL, Intel, Motorola, Microsoft, IBM, Siemens, Fujitsu, American Red Cross
    Top Industries
    REVIEWERS
    Financial Services Firm17%
    Manufacturing Company12%
    Computer Software Company10%
    Healthcare Company7%
    VISITORS READING REVIEWS
    Computer Software Company13%
    Government9%
    Financial Services Firm8%
    Manufacturing Company8%
    REVIEWERS
    Healthcare Company10%
    Computer Software Company10%
    Manufacturing Company8%
    Comms Service Provider8%
    VISITORS READING REVIEWS
    Computer Software Company12%
    Manufacturing Company8%
    Comms Service Provider8%
    Government7%
    Company Size
    REVIEWERS
    Small Business47%
    Midsize Enterprise22%
    Large Enterprise32%
    VISITORS READING REVIEWS
    Small Business27%
    Midsize Enterprise15%
    Large Enterprise58%
    REVIEWERS
    Small Business43%
    Midsize Enterprise30%
    Large Enterprise27%
    VISITORS READING REVIEWS
    Small Business31%
    Midsize Enterprise16%
    Large Enterprise53%
    Buyer's Guide
    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services vs. TeamViewer
    March 2024
    Find out what your peers are saying about Microsoft Remote Desktop Services vs. TeamViewer and other solutions. Updated: March 2024.
    763,955 professionals have used our research since 2012.

    Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is ranked 2nd in Remote Access with 38 reviews while TeamViewer is ranked 1st in Remote Access with 33 reviews. Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is rated 8.2, while TeamViewer is rated 8.6. The top reviewer of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services writes "Light, built into the operating system, and requires no implementation". On the other hand, the top reviewer of TeamViewer writes "Good user interface, simple installation, and has a free version available". Microsoft Remote Desktop Services is most compared with VMware Horizon, VMware Workstation, Citrix Workspace, Parallels Access and Apache Guacamole, whereas TeamViewer is most compared with TeamViewer Tensor, Parallels Access, ISL Online, LogMeIn Central and BeyondTrust Remote Support. See our Microsoft Remote Desktop Services vs. TeamViewer report.

    See our list of best Remote Access vendors.

    We monitor all Remote Access reviews to prevent fraudulent reviews and keep review quality high. We do not post reviews by company employees or direct competitors. We validate each review for authenticity via cross-reference with LinkedIn, and personal follow-up with the reviewer when necessary.