So you're knee-deep in a focused work session and bam, Parsec drops the ball. It's like planning an epic road trip only to find out your car has a flat. Don't worry, we've got the scoop on some of the best Parsec alternatives that'll get you back in the driver's seat.
Whether you're gaming or trying to get online for your remote job, you need a reliable tool to help you stay online. Over 70% of professionals globally work remotely at least one day a week. If you can't use Parsec or finding it's just not the tool for you, it can seem overwhelming to try to find something else. Good news: we've got your back,
We'll show you the all the best Parsec alternatives for 2024 that will help you have a better remote work experience and (if you're into it) gaming experience as well.
Gone are the days when lag was just part of the the remote work experience—these contenders make sure smooth streaming is not just possible; it’s expected. Plus, if playing isn’t enough and you want full remote desktop control, we’ve got solutions for that too.
Why Look For a Parsec Alternative?
Parsec is widely recognized for its high-performance remote desktop and gaming capabilities, allowing users to stream games and use applications from anywhere with an internet connection. However, users might seek alternatives for various reasons, including but not limited to:
Compatibility Issues
Parsec primarily supports Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and Raspberry Pi, but users with other operating systems might seek alternatives that better suit their needs.
Performance Requirements
Some users may experience latency or performance issues with Parsec, especially on slower internet connections or less powerful hardware. Alternatives may offer better optimization for their specific setup.
Features & Pricing
Although Parsec is feature-rich, some users might look for specific features not available on Parsec, such as advanced administrative controls for enterprise use, or integrated voice chat functionality.
Parsec offers a free tier and a paid tier (Parsec for Teams). Users who find the free version too limiting and the paid version too expensive might search for a more cost-effective solution.
Not as User Friendly or Secure
While Parsec is designed to be user-friendly, some users may prefer an alternative with a simpler interface or one that requires less configuration.
Users handling sensitive information might seek alternatives that offer more robust security features or different privacy policies that better align with their requirements or organizational policies.
Local Network Streaming
Parsec focuses on cloud-based streaming, which might not be optimal for users looking for a solution that emphasizes local network streaming with minimal latency.
The Best Parsec Alternatives for an Enhanced Remote Work & Gaming Experience
Gamers and remote desktop users are always on the lookout for alternatives to Parsec that can take their experience up a notch. With game streaming technology evolving, finding an ideal remote gaming platform is key to smooth gameplay and comprehensive access to your favorite games. Here's some top contenders:
1. Moonlight Game Streaming
If you're aiming for high-quality graphics without lag, Moonlight Game Streaming might just be what you need. This free app harnesses Nvidia's GameStream technology to let you play PC games across various devices with impressive low latency.
Whether it's from your primary gaming PC or even a Raspberry Pi, Moonlight ensures smooth gameplay by adapting video encoding settings in real-time based on network conditions.
The versatility of this service shines through its compatibility with multiple platforms; so whether you're using Windows, Macs, or web browsers on mobile devices, expect consistent performance. And if customization matters to you as much as quality does, then being able to tweak streaming options will surely enhance your user experience during those intense gaming sessions.
In a Google Play review, user Brian S. shares:
Moonlight rocks although steam links touch screen controls are better for games with two analog sticks. You'll never be able to press buttons and use two analog sticks at the same time which is pretty much all modern games. You also won't be able to run moonlight over Lan without either first using steam link or running moonlight over a cellular network. After that you can run moonlight on the go. South park fractured but whole is recommended as well as racing games.
2. Steam Remote Play
In contrast stands Steam Remote Play, which marries convenience with integration. It taps into your existing Steam library allowing seamless transitions between playing at home and elsewhere – all without moving a single file manually because everything lives in the cloud.
You get not only access but control over who joins in the fun since it supports multiplayer sessions too. So grab that mobile device or sit down at any web browser-equipped computer: every corner could turn into a gateway leading straight back into your personal digital world of entertainment.
In a Pcgamer review, Rachel W. says:
With a good internet connection and decent hardware, Remote Play Together works really well. It does make you fumble around in Steam Overlay's fiddly menus and download a bunch of apps for Remote Play Anywhere, but it's still a solid way to play couch co-op with your friends. For players who have a solid collection of local multiplayer games, Remote Play is a way to get more out of them.
3. Rainway
Gaming from afar has never been smoother, thanks to platforms like Rainway. With its user-friendly interface, it caters to gamers who crave a straightforward setup without sacrificing security. Rainway turns any web browser into your gaming canvas, allowing you the freedom to play games remotely on various devices with ease.
This free app ensures smooth gameplay by focusing on secure channels that keep your remote sessions safe from prying eyes. The importance of such security cannot be overstated when accessing your game library over the internet—Rainway gets this right.
On IGN, user Nick V. says:
Rainway can automatically populate its tiles with the games installed on your host computer, and I was delighted by how well the feature worked. It quickly pulled games from game launchers across Epic, Steam, Riot, and Uplay without being prompted. Occasionally, I had to refresh the client or open the games through their original launchers to get them to appear. When games don’t appear, which only happened twice for me, the solution was to add to Steam as a non-Steam game. This worked once and failed once. No matter what I tried, Rainway couldn’t load Hyper Scape.
4. AnyViewer
If speed is what you're after, AnyViewer won't disappoint. Known for swift connections, this tool gives users quick control over their PCs as if they were sitting right in front of them—a boon for those times when latency can break an immersive experience or hinder productivity during remote work.
The best part is that it's a free alternative that doesn't skimp on features essential for high-end gaming or video editing tasks requiring rapid response times. Whether using Windows Mac systems or other operating systems, check out AnyViewer to get started with stable remote desktop access at no cost.
In a TrustPilot review, user Stuart M. says:
A giveaway site I know, SharewareOnSale.com, had AnyViewer PRO (for one year) license giveaway, so i signed up - boom! No time limit, the person you are helping out still has control over the session, etc, file transfer, unlimited sessions.
5. Shadow
If your device struggles with advanced tasks like video editing or playing the latest PC games, consider turning to Shadow. This service provides desktop access through data centers housing powerful computers that stream content directly to your machine. It feels just like having a full-fledged Windows computer right in front of you—minus all the hassle of maintenance and upgrades.
The versatility is real; connect from various devices including mobile phones and tablets for an uncompromised user experience no matter where life takes you. And for those who dabble in development or need specialized software environments that their primary machines can't handle? Shadow becomes an invaluable tool ensuring they always have necessary computing resources at hand.
This isn't limited strictly to personal use either—it's an ideal remote work solution when team members require uniformity in processing capabilities despite disparate hardware setups across locations. By utilizing this form of desktop service, businesses too can ensure smooth operation while cutting down on physical tech investments.
In a TrustPilot review, one user shares:
Regular Vidéos and sounds lags (or server lacking ? ) in the evening and weekend with the latest games. Tolerable&acceptable, but 3/5 stars at most if you want to play BG3 for example. With the subscribing price taken into account you could hope a little better than that.
6. TeamViewer
While gaming commands the spotlight in remote access technology, platforms like TeamViewer stretch the horizon into realms of work and collaboration. Imagine sitting on a beach while your PC miles away springs to life at your fingertips; this is what comprehensive remote solutions are about.
TeamViewer, known for its robustness, transcends mere game play. It's trusted by professionals who need dependable access to their files and desktops across various devices. With TeamViewer, you're not just streaming games remotely but also transferring important documents securely or working alongside colleagues on a shared project—without compromising security or performance.
Beyond these features lies something even more valuable: peace of mind. Knowing that you can control every aspect of your digital workspace from any corner of the globe makes TeamViewer a linchpin in modern business operations—and all through just one intuitive interface.
In a TrustPilot review, user GD S. says:
So I only use Teamviewer for personal reasons - to help do computer things for my parents (ie help them fill out online forms, write emails, etc etc). It's come in so handy over the last... What - 5 years or so of me using this? Being able to just log into my mom's laptop remotely and do things is super smooth, I also really appreciate the android app for the same reasons (help my parents with app problems, or downloading something, or even posting an ad on their local facebook market place).
7. Microsoft's RDP Protocol
When it comes to remote desktop access, the versatility of Microsoft's Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) stands out. This proprietary protocol is tailored for Windows users and operates seamlessly across a variety of devices including those running on Mac and through various web browsers. It offers strong security features ensuring that your connections are both safe and reliable.
Security in remote sessions is paramount, especially when sensitive data is involved. Microsoft has developed its RDP technology with robust security measures at its core, specifically optimized for Windows operating systems. With end-to-end encryption, you can rest assured that your data remains protected from unauthorized access while transmitting between client and server.
In a PCworld review, reviewer Jon J. says:
RDC offers basic remote desktop control and very good scaling of the remote interface. As mentioned up top, there are clients for just about all operating systems and devices, though they don’t generally offer file transfer. For that, I suggest an online storage service such as Dropbox or the like.
Make Remote Work More Productive
If you've been using Parsec (or any of the best Parsec alternatives) for remote work, you might also be interested in the free Magical Chrome extension. This handy little app can help you automate repetitive tasks like messaging, data entry, and filling out spreadsheets. You can use Magical AI to write and respond to your emails for you, even draft personalized responses in one click. Give it a try to see how it can make you even more productive in your remote work.
