Comparison

Chrome Remote Desktop alternative

Name: RudyDesk
Author: RudyDesk

Chrome Remote Desktop is free and simple, but you cannot use it without a Google account. RudyDesk connects by device ID or an invite link — in any browser, with no account.

Download RudyDesk

Why people look for a Chrome Remote Desktop replacement

It needs a Google account — and older relatives often have none or do not remember the password.
The support code is single-use, and the person sharing confirms every 30 minutes that they want to keep sharing.
On a work or school network and on a managed account, the administrator can block access.
From a phone you can connect only through the separate Chrome Remote Desktop app.

Facts side by side

What we compare	RudyDesk	Chrome Remote Desktop
Free plan	2 devices forever	Free
First paid plan	$6/mo	No paid plans
Account required	Not needed	Google account
Connect from a browser	Yes, no install	Yes
File transfer	Yes	Yes
Your own server	Not yet	No

Competitor data is from their official site, checked on: 2026-10-04 · support.google.com

Product names are trademarks of their owners. Prices are for yearly billing, excluding taxes.

People who help relatives without a Google account, or without it at hand.

Anyone who wants voice and chat in the session, not just the screen.

Anyone who wants to wake a sleeping computer: through a neighbouring device, on a schedule or with an ESP32 board.

What RudyDesk cannot do yet

There is no self-hosted server yet — the service runs through our server.
The Windows sign-in screen and “Allow changes?” prompts are not visible remotely yet.
From an iPhone or iPad you can control other devices, but you cannot share the phone’s own screen — Apple does not allow it.

Frequently asked questions

Does RudyDesk need an account?

No. You connect with a device ID and password or a single-use invite link.

Is RudyDesk free like Chrome Remote Desktop?

Yes, on two devices — forever and including for work. You need a paid plan only for more devices.

Does RudyDesk work in a browser?

Yes, in any modern browser. The computer being controlled needs the RudyDesk app — it provides mouse and keyboard control.

Do I need to uninstall Chrome Remote Desktop?

No. The apps do not interfere with each other — you can compare them side by side.

Try RudyDesk for free

No sign-up, no card. Two devices free forever — including for work.