Remote work with cloud servers or office PCs from anywhere in the world is no longer a luxury, but a standard. A smartphone or tablet on Android allows you to check reports, upload files, or fix code “on the go.” The main thing is to choose a reliable bridge between your gadget and the remote machine.
In this review, we will analyze the best RDP clients from Google Play, their cross-platform capabilities, and key features
Important note regarding hardware: The performance of RDP sessions on Android depends heavily on the server-side CPU power. We recommend choosing configurations with a CPU clock speed of 2.5 GHz or higher: Compare current Windows VPS plans.
What to look for when choosing a client?
Before installation, evaluate the application according to five criteria:
- Security: Support for NLA (Network Level Authentication), TLS encryption, and two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Usability: How convenient is it to control the cursor with your fingers? Is there an on-screen keyboard with Win, Alt, and Ctrl keys?
- Cross-platform: If you need to switch between a smartphone, MacBook, and a Linux laptop, choose universal developers.
- Stability: Regular updates are a guarantee that the application will not “crash” after the next Android patch.
- Additional functions: Sound redirection, printing to a local printer, and a shared clipboard.
1. Windows App (formerly Microsoft Remote Desktop)
This is the official “gold standard” from Microsoft. Recently, the company rebranded, combining all access services into one powerful application.
- Features: Ideal integration with Windows and Azure. Supports multi-touch gestures and work with external monitors.
- Platform support: Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, web version. There is no version for Linux directly from Microsoft.
- Pros: Completely free, highest level of security, support for Android 11+.
- Cons: Minimum settings for advanced admins.
2. Parallels Client
Oriented towards the business sector and working in conjunction with Parallels RAS.
- Features: Allows you to run remote applications as if they were installed directly on your Android device. Works great with a weak internet connection.
- Platform support: Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS.
- Pros: Support for RemoteFX graphics acceleration and microphone.
- Cons: Full potential is revealed only in a paid Parallels corporate environment.
3. Remote Desktop Manager (RDM)
A “Swiss army knife” tool from Devolutions for those managing dozens of servers.
- Features: This is not just a client, but a connection manager. Stores passwords, supports SSH, VNC, Telnet, and integration with Bitwarden/LastPass.
- Platform support: Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS.
- Pros: Powerful teamwork, shared connection databases, highest protection (TOTP, Push notifications).
- Cons: Overloaded interface for a regular user.
4. aRDP: Secure RDP Client (Free)
A popular open-source solution built on the basis of FreeRDP.
- Features: Maximum flexible interface and control settings.
- Platform support: Android (client). Allows connecting to Windows and Linux (via xrdp).
- Pros: Built-in SSH tunnel, support for importing .rdp files.
- Cons: Contains ads; the design looks a bit ascetic.
5. RemoteToGo RDP/VNC
A simple and lightweight client for those who need to quickly connect to a desktop without extra add-ons.
- Features: Supports two protocols — RDP and VNC. There is a possibility to mount the smartphone’s SD card as a disk on the remote PC.
- Platform support: Android. Allows controlling Windows, Linux, and macOS (via VNC).
- Pros: Low system requirements for the gadget.
- Cons: Outdated interface and presence of ads (disabled by purchasing a license).
6. aRDP Pro: Secure RDP Client
The paid version of aRDP, which turns a smartphone into a full-fledged workstation for a system administrator.
- Features: Support for right-click emulation, scroll wheel, and a master password for data protection.
- Advantages: No ads, support for several simultaneous sessions, optimization for high resolutions.
- Summary: The best choice for pros who need SSH tunnels “out of the box” and stability without banners.
Summary table of capabilities
| Application | Type | PC/Mac/Linux Support | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows App | Free | Yes / Yes / No | Official standard |
| aRDP Free | Free | Android only | Open source, flexibility |
| RemoteToGo | Free/Paid | Android only | RDP + VNC in one |
| aRDP Pro | Paid | Android only | SSH tunnels, no ads |
| RDM | Business | Yes / Yes / Yes | Centralized session management |
| Parallels | Business | Yes / Yes / Yes | Traffic optimization (RAS) |
Security Tips
- Forget about public Wi-Fi: If connecting in a cafe, be sure to use a VPN.
- Complex passwords: Do not use the standard port 3389 without NLA protection.
- Updates: Update the client in Google Play immediately after a new version is released — they often close critical vulnerabilities.
- 2FA: If your server allows it, always enable two-factor authentication.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Of course, in this review, we have considered far from all available tools. Many other RDP clients can be found in Google Play; however, one should be careful: applications such as AccessToGo, Remote RDP, or Remote RDP Enterprise have not been updated by developers for a long time. Using outdated software is a direct risk to security and stability, so we recommend choosing only those solutions that receive regular patches.
Your choice of RDP client should depend on specific tasks and technical background:
- For basic needs and personal use: the official Windows App, the universal RemoteToGo, or the free version of aRDP are excellent fits.
- For business and teamwork: Parallels Client or the powerful connection manager Remote Desktop Manager will be the best choice.
- For professional administration and maximum protection: aRDP Pro: Secure RDP Client stands without competition. This is the choice for those who value work without ads, support for multiple simultaneous sessions, and built-in SSH tunnels for secure access to servers.
We hope this review helps you find the optimal tool for remote access from your Android device. Remember that a correctly chosen client combined with a reliable server infrastructure is the key to ensuring your work is comfortable and safe anywhere in the world. If you need help setting up a remote desktop or choosing a server configuration, you can always contact specialized professionals for a consultation.
