TeamViewer vs. RustDesk vs. HelpWire: Which Remote Desktop Tool is Right for You?

With TeamViewer recently tightening the restrictions on its free tier, many businesses and personal users are now searching for effective, budget-friendly remote desktop alternatives. Two standout contenders in this space are HelpWire and RustDesk. Both offer compelling features, but with notable differences that cater to distinct user needs. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at these two popular TeamViewer alternatives, comparing them across various critical aspects, including pricing, security, performance, user experience, and more.

TeamViewer has long been the dominant player in the remote desktop software market. However, its recent changes to free-tier pricing, alongside increasingly aggressive commercial use detection, have left many users frustrated. Frequent software updates can also disrupt workflows or introduce compatibility issues, especially for users with limited IT support. This shift has made it clear that finding a reliable, cost-effective alternative is not just smart but essential for businesses aiming to control costs and maintain flexibility.

Overview of the Contenders

HelpWire

• Type: Proprietary
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Pricing: Free for both personal and commercial use
• Ideal for: Users seeking straightforward, no-cost remote access without the need for self-hosting

RustDesk

• Type: Open-source
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
• Pricing: Free with optional paid plans for advanced features
• Ideal for: Users seeking a highly customizable, self-hosting option with extensive platform support

Features Comparison

Feature	HelpWire	RustDesk
Unattended Access	Yes	Yes
File Transfer	Yes	Yes
Chat Support	Yes	Yes
Mobile Support	No	Yes (Android & iOS)
Multi-Monitor Support	Yes	Yes
Extra Paid Plans	No	Yes

Security & Privacy

HelpWire

HelpWire offers secure, encrypted connections using proprietary technology. While it lacks self-hosting capabilities, it provides a dependable and straightforward solution for those prioritizing ease of use over complete data control. This makes it a solid choice for businesses that prefer an off-the-shelf solution without the need for server management.

RustDesk

RustDesk stands out for its robust security options, including end-to-end encryption and self-hosting capabilities. This has been a critical factor in the rustdesk vs teamviewer debate, as businesses increasingly prioritize data control and privacy. This allows businesses to maintain full control over their data, aligning well with companies focused on privacy or those operating in highly regulated industries. RustDesk was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Singapore. While there is no direct evidence of ties to China, the company's legal address has been a topic of discussion within the community, leading to concerns about transparency. One Reddit user noted: "They are obfuscating their Chinese whereabouts... They have relay servers in China as well."

User Experience

HelpWire

Known for its clean, intuitive interface, HelpWire is designed for simplicity, making it accessible even for non-technical users. It offers a streamlined setup process with minimal configuration, reducing the learning curve for new users.

One Reddit user shared:

"Switched to HelpWire from TeamViewer about six months ago and haven’t looked back. It has a reliable connection, all the essential features, and is super easy to use."

RustDesk

RustDesk, while user-friendly, leans more toward tech-savvy users who appreciate advanced customization. This is another key point in the RustDesk vs TeamViewer discussion, as RustDesk’s flexibility appeals to users seeking a highly personalized remote desktop experience. Its open-source nature allows for extensive branding and server adjustments, ideal for those comfortable with self-hosting and more hands-on configuration.

One Reddit user mentioned:

"I've been digging in RustDesk, got my own working server and works nicely."

Performance & Reliability

HelpWire

HelpWire delivers stable connections optimized for desktop platforms, providing a reliable remote access experience without the complexities of self-hosted infrastructure. However, its lack of mobile support might be a drawback for some.

RustDesk

It provides solid performance across a wide range of devices, including mobile. In the RustDesk vs TeamViewer conversation, the first one often stands out for its ability to self-host, giving businesses more control over their data and reducing latency, though this comes with added technical overhead.

Pricing & Licensing

HelpWire

Completely free for both personal and commercial use, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses on a budget. There are no hidden fees or restrictive licenses, providing clear and predictable pricing.

RustDesk

Also free to use, with optional paid plans for those seeking additional features and priority support. Its open-source model means users can host their own servers without licensing costs, a major plus for those with technical resources.