Chrome Remote Desktop vs. TeamViewer – Which One Should You Choose?

TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop are both popular options for remote access to devices. While they have similarities, there are also significant differences between them. In this article, we will compare TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop to help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.

Cross-platform Compatibility

Both TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop have a wide range of platform compatibility. Chrome Remote Desktop is a web app that can be easily accessed without any additional installations. However, if you want to host remote access, you will need to download the CRD host app. Keep in mind that Google is phasing out Chrome apps, so CRD will only be available as a web app in the future. On niche platforms like Raspberry Pi or Linux, you can use Chrome Remote Desktop via the Chromium browser.

On the other hand, TeamViewer also offers a web app and a standalone app. To host remote access, you will need to install the TeamViewer standalone app. The app is available for various platforms including Linux, ChromeOS, macOS, and Raspberry Pi.

Set up Process

Chrome Remote Desktop is known for its convenient setup process. To remotely access a device, you can simply use the Chrome Remote Desktop web app. For Android and iOS devices, you will need to download the mobile app. To establish a remote session with a smartphone, you just need to log in with the same Google ID on both devices and enter your PIN for connection authentication.

TeamViewer follows a similar process, but it may require a few attempts before establishing a connection.

Features

Chrome Remote Desktop is a minimal app that doesn't offer many additional features. However, both apps allow you to sign up and register your devices under one account.

On the other hand, TeamViewer provides a wide range of features that meet the needs of most users. It offers a chat interface for communication with clients, annotation tools, file transfer capabilities, and more. If you register and sign in, you can also monitor your remote devices and take remote backups.

Limitations

One major limitation of Chrome Remote Desktop is that you cannot access your smartphone via the desktop. Additionally, if you want to remote control a random laptop, you cannot use a smartphone. Random access requires another laptop. In comparison, TeamViewer doesn't have these limitations. However, it does require separate apps to be installed on mobile devices for remote control and hosting.

Security

Security is a crucial concern for remote access. Both Chrome Remote Desktop and TeamViewer use AES/RSA encryption to secure the connection, which minimizes the risk of data being intercepted. Both apps also require user ID and password authentication when initiating a random connection.

One notable feature of TeamViewer is that the desktop wallpaper turns black during a screen-sharing session, and there is a dialog box indicating a screen sharing session. This helps users remain aware of the ongoing session. Chrome Remote Desktop does not have a similar feature.

Pricing

Chrome Remote Desktop is completely free and there is no paid version available. Additionally, there doesn't seem to be a limit to the number of computers you can add to a single account.

TeamViewer offers a free version for personal use, but it comes with a pop-up after each session stating that it is for non-commercial use. If you plan to use it for commercial purposes, you will need to opt for the paid version, which starts at around $19/month. The paid version offers additional features such as multiple concurrent sessions, detailed remote device information, event logging, and more.

Conclusion: Which one should you choose?

Although TeamViewer comes out as the winner, the choice between TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop is not binary. If you want to manage your own or family devices, Chrome Remote Desktop is a suitable option. It provides the necessary controls and features for most scenarios, including remote file transfer. On the other hand, if you need to provide remote support to multiple individuals with different operating systems, or if you require advanced tools and capabilities, TeamViewer is the more flexible choice.

For any further issues or queries, feel free to leave a comment below.

Also Read: Looking for Alternative to TeamViewer? Here are 5 Best of Them