AnyDesk vs Parallels Desktop

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Our analysts compared AnyDesk vs Parallels Desktop based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Remote Desktop Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

AnyDesk Software Tool
Parallels Desktop Software Tool

Product Basics

AnyDesk is a sophisticated remote desktop software that facilitates seamless access and control of computers from any location. It is particularly beneficial for IT professionals, customer support teams, and industries requiring remote assistance, such as healthcare and finance. The software's standout features include low latency, high frame rates, and efficient bandwidth usage, ensuring smooth and responsive remote sessions. Users appreciate its robust security measures, including encryption and two-factor authentication, which safeguard sensitive data during remote access. AnyDesk's user-friendly interface and cross-platform compatibility enhance its appeal, making it a versatile tool for various operating systems. Compared to similar products, users often highlight its speed and reliability. Pricing details are not explicitly available, so contacting SelectHub for a tailored quote is advisable. Overall, AnyDesk's unique combination of performance, security, and ease of use makes it a compelling choice for remote desktop needs.
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Parallels Desktop is a sophisticated virtualization software that enables users to run multiple operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS, on a single Mac device without rebooting. This versatile tool is particularly beneficial for professionals in industries like software development, IT, and design, where cross-platform compatibility is essential. Users appreciate its seamless integration, allowing for smooth file sharing and application switching between operating systems. Unique features include Coherence Mode, which lets Windows applications run as if they were native Mac apps, and the ability to allocate system resources dynamically for optimal performance. Compared to similar products, users often highlight its user-friendly interface and robust performance. Pricing varies based on the edition and licensing model, with options for annual subscriptions or perpetual licenses. For precise pricing tailored to specific needs, contacting SelectHub is recommended.
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Product Insights

  • Seamless Connectivity: AnyDesk allows users to connect to remote devices effortlessly, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted access to files and applications from anywhere in the world.
  • High Performance: With low latency and fast data transmission, AnyDesk provides a responsive experience, even over low-bandwidth connections, making it ideal for remote work and support.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: AnyDesk supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing users to connect across different devices without compatibility issues.
  • Security and Privacy: Utilizing banking-standard TLS 1.2 technology and RSA 2048 asymmetric encryption, AnyDesk ensures that all remote sessions are secure and private, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access.
  • Customizable Interface: Users can tailor the AnyDesk interface to suit their preferences, enhancing usability and productivity by focusing on the tools and features they use most frequently.
  • Efficient Collaboration: AnyDesk facilitates real-time collaboration by allowing multiple users to connect to the same device simultaneously, making it easier to work together on projects or provide technical support.
  • Lightweight Application: With a small file size and minimal system requirements, AnyDesk can be quickly installed and run on almost any device without consuming significant resources.
  • Unattended Access: AnyDesk enables users to set up unattended access to remote devices, allowing them to perform tasks or maintenance without needing someone on the other end to grant access.
  • Session Recording: The ability to record remote sessions provides a valuable tool for training, auditing, and compliance purposes, ensuring that all interactions can be reviewed and analyzed as needed.
  • Scalable Solutions: Whether for individual use or enterprise-level deployment, AnyDesk offers scalable solutions that can grow with the needs of the user or organization, providing flexibility and adaptability.
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  • Seamless Integration: Parallels Desktop allows users to run Windows applications alongside macOS applications without rebooting, providing a smooth workflow for those who need both operating systems.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: It enables the use of Windows-only software on a Mac, such as Microsoft Access or Internet Explorer, which is crucial for professionals who rely on these tools.
  • Resource Efficiency: The software optimizes the use of system resources, ensuring that both the host and guest operating systems run efficiently without significant performance degradation.
  • Easy Setup: Parallels Desktop offers a straightforward installation process with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for those with limited technical expertise.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Features like Coherence Mode allow users to hide the Windows desktop while using Windows applications, creating a more focused and distraction-free environment.
  • Security Features: It includes robust security measures such as isolated virtual machines, which protect the host system from malware and other threats that may affect the guest OS.
  • Regular Updates: Parallels Desktop provides frequent updates to ensure compatibility with the latest macOS and Windows releases, keeping systems up-to-date and secure.
  • Customizable Settings: Users can tailor the virtual machine settings to their specific needs, such as adjusting the amount of RAM or CPU cores allocated, optimizing performance for different tasks.
  • Support for Multiple OS: Beyond Windows, Parallels Desktop supports various Linux distributions and other operating systems, offering flexibility for developers and IT professionals.
  • Snapshot Functionality: The ability to take snapshots of the virtual machine state allows users to experiment with software or system changes without risk, as they can easily revert to a previous state.
  • Business and IT Solutions: Parallels Desktop for Business includes centralized administration and management tools, making it ideal for IT departments managing multiple users and devices.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: By enabling the use of multiple operating systems on a single machine, Parallels Desktop reduces the need for additional hardware, saving costs for businesses and individuals.
  • Remote Access: With Parallels Access, users can access their virtual machines remotely from any device, providing flexibility for remote work and travel.
  • Comprehensive Support: Parallels offers extensive support resources, including tutorials, forums, and customer service, ensuring users can resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
  • Performance Optimization: The software includes tools to optimize virtual machine performance, such as disk space cleanup and memory management, ensuring smooth operation even under heavy workloads.
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  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: AnyDesk supports a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, allowing seamless remote access across different devices.
  • High Frame Rates: With up to 60 frames per second on local networks and most internet connections, AnyDesk ensures smooth and fluid remote desktop experiences.
  • Low Latency: The software is designed to minimize latency, providing near-instantaneous responses to user inputs, which is crucial for tasks requiring precision.
  • Efficient Bandwidth Usage: AnyDesk optimizes data transmission to function effectively even with low bandwidth, making it suitable for various network conditions.
  • Banking-Standard Encryption: Utilizing TLS 1.2 technology, AnyDesk ensures secure connections with robust encryption, safeguarding sensitive data during remote sessions.
  • Customizable User Interface: Users can tailor the interface to their preferences, enhancing usability and comfort during extended remote sessions.
  • Remote Printing: This feature allows users to print documents from a remote device to a local printer, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.
  • File Transfer: AnyDesk facilitates easy file sharing between connected devices, supporting drag-and-drop functionality for quick transfers.
  • Session Recording: Users can record remote sessions for documentation or training purposes, ensuring important interactions are captured for future reference.
  • Address Book: The integrated address book helps manage contacts and connections efficiently, providing quick access to frequently used devices.
  • On-Screen Whiteboard: This feature enables real-time collaboration by allowing users to draw and annotate directly on the screen during a session.
  • Unattended Access: AnyDesk supports unattended access, enabling users to connect to remote devices without requiring manual acceptance, ideal for IT support and maintenance tasks.
  • Multi-Session Handling: Users can manage multiple remote sessions simultaneously, enhancing multitasking capabilities and efficiency.
  • Mobile Device Support: AnyDesk offers mobile apps that provide full remote desktop functionality on smartphones and tablets, ensuring flexibility and mobility.
  • Custom Alias: Users can create personalized aliases for their AnyDesk addresses, making it easier to remember and share connection details.
  • Wake-on-LAN: This feature allows users to wake up sleeping devices remotely, ensuring access even when devices are in power-saving modes.
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Enhancing security, AnyDesk supports two-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of protection to remote access.
  • Session Permissions: Users can set specific permissions for each session, controlling access to features like file transfer and clipboard synchronization.
  • Custom Client: Businesses can create a custom AnyDesk client with their branding, providing a personalized experience for their users.
  • REST API: AnyDesk offers a REST API for integration with other software and systems, enabling automation and customization of remote access workflows.
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  • Seamless Integration: Run Windows applications alongside macOS applications without rebooting, providing a cohesive user experience.
  • Coherence Mode: Hide the Windows desktop while using Windows applications, making them appear as native macOS apps.
  • Drag and Drop Functionality: Easily transfer files, text, and images between Windows and macOS environments by dragging and dropping.
  • Touch Bar Support: Utilize the MacBook Pro's Touch Bar for Windows applications, enhancing productivity with quick access to app controls.
  • DirectX and OpenGL Support: Run demanding graphics applications and games with support for DirectX 11 and OpenGL 3.3, ensuring smooth performance.
  • Snapshot and Rollback: Create snapshots of your virtual machine to save its state and revert back if needed, providing a safety net for testing and development.
  • Shared Folders and Cloud Integration: Access files from your Mac, Windows, and cloud storage seamlessly, ensuring all your data is at your fingertips.
  • Multiple OS Support: Run a variety of operating systems including Windows, Linux, and older versions of macOS, catering to diverse testing and development needs.
  • Resource Management: Allocate CPU and memory resources to your virtual machines efficiently, optimizing performance based on your needs.
  • USB and External Device Compatibility: Connect USB devices and external hardware to your virtual machines, ensuring full functionality and integration.
  • Automatic Optimization: Parallels Desktop automatically adjusts settings for optimal performance based on your hardware and usage patterns.
  • Parallels Toolbox: Access a suite of handy tools for everyday tasks such as taking screenshots, downloading videos, and more, directly from your desktop.
  • Cross-Platform Access: Use Parallels Access to remotely access your Mac from any device, ensuring you can work from anywhere.
  • Virtual Machine Encryption: Protect your data with virtual machine encryption, ensuring sensitive information remains secure.
  • Easy Setup: Quickly set up your virtual machines with pre-configured settings and installation wizards, reducing setup time and complexity.
  • Retina Display Support: Enjoy crisp and clear visuals with full support for Retina displays, enhancing the visual experience of your virtual machines.
  • Business and Pro Editions: Access advanced features such as network conditioning and Visual Studio plug-in, tailored for professional and business use.
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Product Ranking

#3

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#12

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Remote Desktop Software

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Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Fast Performance: AnyDesk is known for its quick and dependable performance, ensuring a smooth user experience for remote connections.
Intuitive Interface: The software boasts a user-friendly interface that simplifies remote computer access, making it easy for users of all skill levels to navigate.
Flexible Customization: AnyDesk offers a variety of customizable settings, allowing users to tailor their remote access experience to their specific requirements.
Robust Security: Security is prioritized with end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication, safeguarding connections and protecting sensitive data during remote sessions.
Cost-Effective Solution: AnyDesk provides a free version for personal use and budget-friendly paid plans for businesses, making it an accessible choice for various users and organizations.
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Run Legacy Software: Parallels Desktop enables users to run legacy Windows software on their Macs, even if it's incompatible with the latest macOS versions. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on older applications that are essential to their operations.
Streamlined Workflow: By providing a way to run Windows and macOS applications side-by-side, Parallels Desktop eliminates the need to switch between operating systems, leading to a more efficient and productive work environment.
Testing Across Operating Systems: Developers and IT professionals can leverage Parallels Desktop to test software and websites across multiple operating systems, ensuring compatibility and identifying potential issues before deployment.
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Cost After Initial Subscription: Some users have reported a significant price increase for license renewal after the first year, prompting them to seek more affordable alternatives.
Inconsistent Account Access: Users have experienced difficulties logging into their AnyDesk accounts from their primary devices, even when using the correct credentials, while simultaneously being able to access the AnyDesk website.
License Management Issues: Difficulties managing licenses, such as transferring licenses to different devices or removing the "Free License" banner from licensed accounts, have been reported.
Potential for False Positives: AnyDesk's system for detecting professional use may mistakenly flag personal use as commercial, leading to restrictions and interruptions even for users with paid licenses.
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High Resource Consumption: Even with resource limitations configured, some users observe significant RAM usage, potentially impacting overall system performance, especially on older hardware or when running demanding applications concurrently.
Occasional Software Glitches: While generally stable, some users report infrequent instances of Parallels Desktop freezing or requiring a restart, which can disrupt workflow and lead to minor productivity losses.
Coherence Mode UI Quirks: Although Coherence Mode enables seamless integration of Windows apps, the duplication of system icons like battery and network status in both macOS and Windows can clutter the menu bar and create a less streamlined user experience.
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Is AnyDesk the desk you should be working at? User reviews from the last year suggest that AnyDesk is a highly competitive player in the remote desktop software arena, particularly lauded for its speed, user-friendliness, and attractive free plan for personal use. Users rave about its snappy performance, even on dodgy internet connections, and its intuitive design that makes it a breeze to use, even for tech newbies. The free version is a steal for personal use, offering a bunch of features like file transfer and on-demand access, which is perfect for quick tech support sessions with friends and family.However, some users point out that AnyDesk's free version has limitations, especially when it comes to unattended access, which is a bit of a bummer for businesses. The pricing for paid plans can also be a bit steep for some, especially those needing access for a whole crew of users or devices. While AnyDesk gets high marks for its security features, it's important to be aware of potential scams where shady characters try to trick users into giving them the keys to their digital kingdoms. Despite these drawbacks, AnyDesk is a solid choice for individuals and small teams looking for a zippy and user-friendly remote desktop solution without breaking the bank. Its ease of use and focus on personal use make it a great option for those who need a reliable tool for remote access and support.

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Is Parallels Desktop truly parallel to its competitors, or does it fall short? User reviews from the last year paint a largely positive picture of Parallels Desktop, particularly for its ability to seamlessly blend the Windows and macOS experiences. Users rave about Coherence Mode, which allows them to run Windows applications as if they were native to macOS, making multitasking and file sharing a breeze. This tight integration is a key differentiator for Parallels Desktop, as it eliminates the need to constantly switch between operating systems, boosting productivity for users who rely on both Windows and macOS applications. Imagine having a toolbox where you can effortlessly grab the right tool for the job, regardless of whether it's designed for woodworking or metalworking – that's the kind of convenience Parallels Desktop offers.However, some users find the pricing structure to be a sticking point, especially for personal use, with some feeling that the cost outweighs the benefits if they only occasionally need Windows applications. Additionally, the App Store version of Parallels Desktop has been criticized for lacking certain features compared to the full version, which can be a source of frustration for users who unknowingly purchase the less-featured version. Overall, Parallels Desktop shines as a robust solution for Mac users who frequently require access to Windows software, particularly those who value a seamless and integrated experience. Its ability to effortlessly bridge the gap between Windows and macOS, coupled with its impressive performance, makes it a worthwhile investment for users who rely on both operating systems for their daily workflow.

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