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Splashtop vs RDP

Author: Oliver Rieder
Oliver Rieder Article author

Regardless of which remote software someone decides to use, it must provide user-friendliness. Above all, implementing remote access into one’s workflow should be easy — no matter how technologically savvy the user is.

In the article below, we’ll be comparing two powerful and well – renowned remote access software options: Microsoft Remote Desktop and Splashtop.

✍️Note:  The Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store will no longer be supported after May 27, 2025. Users must switch to the Windows App to maintain access to services like Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop.

While Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) will remain available for Windows-to-Windows connections, it lacks cross-platform support and involves complex setup, prompting many to seek alternative remote desktop solutions.

Consider HelpWire — a simple, free remote desktop solution that works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, and Linux. Check out the Best Alternative section for more details.

Overview

Splashtop
by Splashtop
4.5 (90)

A highly effective, affordable, and beloved remote desktop tool is Splashtop. Even though it lacks a free version, its suite of fantastic features, ease-of-use, and low cost make it an excellent choice for small businesses and freelancers.

Conveniently, if the user requires tools like session-recording and live chat, Splashtop offers plan upgrades, as well.

For $99/year, users have access to features such as remote waking, multi-screen display, and so much more. This flexibility is why Splashtop is beloved by so many.

The Splashtop’s Solo plan provides access to 2 computers — an exceptional value for individual users since most single-user software only offers access to 1 computer.

The Enterprise plan is ideal for IT and customer support teams, offering even greater flexibility and an additional product for remote support.

Remote Desktop Connection
by Microsoft Corporation
4.5 (163)

Designed by Microsoft, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) helps users quickly and easily connect remotely to another computer or server. RDP has been standard (built-in) to Windows for many years.

When using Microsoft Remote Desktop, a graphical user interface (sometimes referred to as a GUI) allows (via a network connection) access and control over data on a different computer. With RDP, the user requesting remote access to another computer uses the RDP client software, while the remotely accessed machine must run RDP server software.

Feature Comparison

Splashtop

Splashtop offers specific features that provide specifically targeted remote desktop access solutions. Despite the targeted nature of their tool, Splashtop also boasts many notable features like a minimalistic UI and the ability to remotely access client computers without the client machine needing to install additional software.

Additionally, Splashtop provides users control over unmanned computers from any device. Connecting with multiple unmanned machines is useful because it means that critical information is always easy to access.

Pending on the user’s plan, Splashtop offers various exciting bonus features.

By default, all Splashtop plans include file transfer tools, while features like Session recording and support team-focused plans (those including built-in chat) are also available for a higher price.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Whether via a desktop machine or a mobile Android or iOS device, RDP allows users to access remote devices quickly and easily.

For those operating from a mobile device, the RDP app offers separate keys for modifiers like control, alt, and option that enable the user to execute keyboard shortcuts, just like one would if they were physically operating the computer.

In a similar vein, Microsoft Remote Desktop provides users with access to files housed on a remote computer. This means printing and sharing documents from any location is incredibly easy and convenient. Users can even configure their desktop to remain awake 24/7, ensuring that they are always prepared for a remote connection.

The administrator can also publish remote access resources like session-based desktops, virtual desktops, and RemoteApp programs.

FeaturesRDPSplashtop
File Transferring
Session Recording
Audio Support
Session Transferring
Remote Printing
USB Sharing
Real-Time Chat
Mobile Access

User Interface Comparison

Splashtop and RDP offered a straightforward and intuitive user interface. Navigating, understanding, and manipulating both apps felt fluid and simple. Splashtop and RDP also provided crisp, clear, and vibrant image scaling.

Splashtop and RDP’s remote computer connectivity and mobile-device compatibility also functioned equally well.

Splashtop

Remote Desktop Connection

Operating System Support

RDP and Splashtop support for a plethora of operating systems. Users can also compare RDP and Splashtop  based on the number of accessible OS for remote connectivity/support.

Operating SystemRDPSplashtop
Windows
MacOS
Android
iOS
iPadOS
Linux
Chrome OS
Raspberry Pi
FireOS

Pricing Comparison

RDP and Splashtop provide users with an extensive selection of plans to choose from. With all of the additional insight into these two products we’ve covered today, you’ll confidentally be able to compare pricing with other remote access software like Chrome Remote Desktop and Splashtop. That way you’ll know you’re making the best selection for your needs.

Splashtop

Splashtop offers a range of plans to suit different user needs, all with a 7-day free trial.

Splashtop Solo: Priced at $60/year for a single user, it provides both on-demand and unattended remote access from anywhere.

Splashtop Pro: At $99/year per user, this plan includes User Role and Access Management, Multi-Monitor Support, as well as Chat and Session Recording features.

Splashtop Performance: This plan costs $149/year per user, offering advanced features like 240 FPS capability, High-Fidelity Audio, USB Passthrough, and more.

Splashtop Enterprise: For customizable licensing and pricing, it’s best to contact the Splashtop team directly. This plan includes all the features of the Performance plan, along with extras such as SSO Integration, Granular Access Controls, Scheduled Access, and Unattended Access for Android/IoT devices.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Microsoft Remote Desktop supports all versions of Windows 8, 10 and 11. However, only Windows Pro and Enterprise users can configure their computers to be remotely accessed.

I.e. computers running Windows 8, 10 and 11 (including the Home edition) can access another device, but the device being accessed must run Windows Pro or Enterprise.

Windows 11 Pro starts at $200

Pricing PlansMicrosoft RDPSplashtop
Free Version
Free Trial7 days
Level 1$200 (Windows Pro)$60.00/per year
Level 2$99.00/per year
Level 3$149.00/per year
Level 4Contact Vendor

Comparing The Pros And Cons

Now we’ll cover the specific pros and cons of Splashtop and RDP. We recommend, after reviewing the factors below, that users implement the information provided to compare against options like RDP and VNC.

RDP

Pros

  • Remote Desktop Protocol doesn’t require fast internet connections since individuals will use their remote server to run applications;
  • Simple monitoring and controlling connected devices;
  • Can quickly and easily connect from any device;
  • Simple files and folders access;
  • Fast troubleshooting.

Cons

  • Needs advanced configuration;
  • The entire network/system is inaccessible during downtime;
  • Expensive and complicated in multi-user environments;
  • No remote rebooting allowed;
  • Requires 3rd-party (in certain scenarios);
  • Bottlenecking can occur pending on the host machine’s power, and the volume of users trying to access simultaneously;
  • Only compatible with Windows devices.

Splashtop

Pros

  • Inexpensive plan options;
  • Simple and user-friendly GUI (Graphical User Interface);
  • Ultra-fast connection speed;
  • Easy drag-and-drop file transfers;
  • High-tier plans include full multi-monitor display;
  • Supports Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome OS;
  • Top-tier security: TLS and 256-bit AES encryption, device authentication, 2-step verification, and multiple 2nd-level password options.

Cons

  • Long and complicated installation process (especially on Mac);
  • High-cost plans required to access many features;
  • Priority tech support only accessible to users with more expensive plans (AKA: phone support hours not listed on the website).

Best Free Alternative for RDP and Splashtop

HelpWire is a fantastic, free alternative to Splashtop and a more capable option than RDP, offering all the essential features for seamless on-demand and unattended remote access. With its advanced functionalities, HelpWire still manages to be simple and intuitive, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.

Why Opt for HelpWire?

  • Multi-Platform Support
    Works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Quick Remote Assistance
    Connect instantly to devices with secure, auto-generated links.
  • Unattended Access
    Solve problems remotely without the need for anyone to be present at the device.
  • Team Collaboration
    Utilize real-time chat to let multiple technicians collaborate smoothly on the same session.
  • Client & Team Management Tools
    Efficiently manage client details, track session logs, and assign roles to enhance team workflow and productivity.

Pros

  • User-friendly and straightforward interface;
  • Extensive team and client management features;
  • Affordable and adaptable to various budgets.

Cons

  • No Android and iOS support;
  • Absence of session recording features.

Conclusion

Throughout this review, both RDP and Splashtop offered a variety of features that kept them on a very even playing field. While most users would surmise that all remote desktop apps perform similarly (and provide similar features), RDP and Splashtop are exceptions to this rule.

Quite frankly, both options have incredible benefits, but target two very different audiences with their services.

We hope this article has provided you with the insight and facts you’ll need if you’re trying to decide between these two apps.

The best way to decide is by you (and your team, if you have one), assessing your specific needs and goals. Once you understand what you want to achieve, finding the right remote access software will be a much easier task.

Tags:
Comparison, Microsoft Remote Desktop, Splashtop