Chrome Remote Desktop and TeamViewer are popular remote access software solutions, but the limited features available in Chrome Remote Desktop may make TeamViewer a better choice for those who need full remote capabilities. like printing or sharing files.
There are several software and browser options for accessing your files and multiple devices remotely, and two of the most popular are TeamViewer and Chrome Remote Desktop. We will consider two remote desktop software and see if TeamViewer’s added features are necessary for you or if Chrome Remote Desktop can meet your needs.
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What is TeamViewer?
TeamViewer is a full featured remote access tool. In addition to remote access functionality, it also comes with collaboration features like scheduling, audio and video support, and whiteboard tools.
TeamViewer boasts some of the most compatible options among remote access solutions. It is considered by many to be one of the better performing options, with users commenting on its speed, optimized resource management, and sharp user interface.
What is Chrome Remote Desktop?
Chrome Remote Desktop is a free tool from Google to help users access their computers from anywhere regardless of the operating system being used. Chrome Remote Desktop is a Chrome extension that works with your existing Google account.
Chrome Remote Desktop has a lot to do with the fact that it’s free. It has the Google name behind it, as well as the core features a remote access tool needs.
Chrome Remote Desktop vs. TeamViewer: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Chrome Remote Desktop | TeamViewer |
|---|---|---|
| Secure remote access | It’s correct | It’s correct |
| File sharing | No | It’s correct |
| Printer sharing | No | It’s correct |
| Audio and video | No | It’s correct |
| Record session | No | It’s correct |
| Remote control to iOS or Android device | No | It’s correct |
Head-to-head comparison: Chrome Remote Desktop vs TeamViewer
Remote access
With TeamViewer, you have the option of installing the TeamViewer software and granting easy access. From here, you can connect easily with one click from whatever device you are using. There is the option of no installation when running the active software for one-time use.
With Chrome Remote Desktop, the connection process can be a bit more complicated depending on how often you need the remote. As a Google product, you will need a Google account already set up on your device. You will then need to download the Chrome Remote Desktop app. Once done, you can access your computer remotely through the Chrome browser. You will then generate a disposable PIN number that you must enter to grant access.
Support Android and iOS
Both Chrome Remote Desktop and TeamViewer have Android and iOS support. TeamViewer allows control and access of mobile devices from computers. With Chrome Remote Desktop, you can only access it via your mobile device, and you can’t remotely access that Android or iOS device.
Guard
Chrome Remote Desktop and TeamViewer both have built-in security options to keep your connection secure. With TeamViewer, connections are encrypted using RSA public/private key exchange and AES 256-bit session encryption. There is also an option to enable two-factor authentication for each connection.
With Chrome Remote Desktop, encryption is via HTTPS only. There are no options for 2FA other than a PIN that is automatically generated and used for each session. In this respect, TeamViewer is the safer of the two options.
Choose between Chrome Remote Desktop and TeamViewer
Chrome Remote Desktop is a miniaturized type of remote access software that is just essential and can be used easily by most people. It works best for individuals or families who just need quick access to a remote computer but don’t require advanced functions, security or other frills.
On the other hand, TeamViewer is for business users or those who require remote access that supports desktop. TeamViewer offers more functions like printing and file sharing.
If you just need basic remote access, Chrome Remote Desktop will do the work for you. For those who need more advanced functions and options like remote printing, file sharing, and device access, then TeamViewer is the right choice.
This article was written by James Forteze.
