Ultimately, both Splashtop and Parallels Access provide easy ways to access desktops remotely. However, Parallels Access is designed to optimize the remote viewing experience on mobile devices.
All the remote access applications we reviewed are good. Parallels Access is slightly better because its interface emulates and enhances your remote software for the device you're working on. TeamViewer is free, however, and that's nice, too!
If you've used remote desktop software on a mobile device, you know that the index finger is a very imprecise substitute for a mouse pointer. When the desktop shrinks down to the size of a mobile phone display, it can be difficult to tap the icon you want—let alone use a program effectively once you successfully launch it. Parallels Access aims to be the "missing link" between mobile devices and desktop computers.
TeamViewer is the only remote software app that is completely free for home users. In a 2014 Lifehacker survey of 7,780 readers, TeamViewer was overwhelmingly named the best of all remote desktop applications with more than 60 percent of the vote. TeamViewer supports one of the widest audiences of all remote desktop products, including some platforms on which few remote desktop applications run. However, because all the apps reviewed here are so good, a few nits keep it from being our top pick.
If you are willing to put up with less-than-stellar gaming performance at times and don't want to be tethered to your desk when playing games, you're likely to love Splashtop Remote. Its intuitive gesture-based controls make a tablet's touch interface feel completely natural during gaming. Splashtop also moves smoothly from the home to most business environments with its robust security, multi-user deployment and Active Directory support. With many remote desktop products failing to take Active Directory into account, Splashtop Remote is an exception that's surprisingly affordable. However, we did find some performance and user interface issues.
Those seeking the freedom of remotely accessing their home computer from a mobile device or any other computer with an Internet connection can easily do so with GoToMyPC software. It lets you work anywhere to use programs like the Adobe suite and also write emails, edit invoices, access your home computer's control panel, invite guests for desktop sharing, access and print all files from your computer remotely. However, the set up was not flawless and its user interface is not quite as tid as Parallels Access's.
If you need a solid and popular solution for accessing a computer remotely and don't require the bells and whistles offered in more expensive remote desktop solutions, LogMeIn might be exactly what you're looking for. We found the installation and basic functionality to be solid and easy to use. However, we did have some issues with lag and the user interface for Android smart phones. LogMeIn is probably the most popular remote desktop app for off-site IT support teams.
Ultimately, both Splashtop and Parallels Access provide easy ways to access desktops remotely. However, Parallels Access is designed to optimize the remote viewing experience on mobile devices.
Overall, if a game is setup to be run with the necessary preferences, Parallels Access far and away was the easier and faster way to run and view a game from a mobile location.
LogMeIn has a distinctive “step one, step two” feel to it. Parallels Access make increasing one’s productivity is fluid, easy and fun. Both applications do what you want them to; Parallels Access, however, does it with flair.
I work in finance and often need to access files on my computer when I’m not in the office or at home. Using just my iPhone, I can access my home and office computers, view and download files, make changes and email the files to clients.
Although Parallels Access’ set up required a bit more work, the way it mimics native app behavior saves a lot of time and confusion when you’re actually working – it may not seem like a big deal, but when you’re busy and working on a small screen, it’s a real help.
Over the years, technology has advanced so much that I can easily keep in touch with those clients at a moment’s notice and extend my company’s brand without the need to leave my house.
I’m an executive assistant who works for a large company, and I’m always chasing my boss (who is in meetings all the time) and always on call whenever he needs me.
Had I not heard about Parallels Access, having the files readily available would not have been as easy. In fact, this program has helped me out several times when I was out of the office.
I’m on the road constantly as a traveling regional sales manager and need a way to access my Asus PC at home.