ConnectWise Control vs Microsoft Remote Desktop
Side-by-side from the Top 11 ranking of The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026). Last verified June 20, 2026.
The short answer
ConnectWise Control ranks higher on Top 11 (#3 vs #10) for IT teams and remote workers needing secure remote desktop and support access. A highly powerful and customizable tool favored by MSPs, with a steeper learning curve.
At a glance
| ConnectWise Control | Microsoft Remote Desktop | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #3 / The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026) | #10 / The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 8.8 | 7.4 |
| Best for | Best for MSPs and customization | Best free option for Windows |
| Pricing | $$ ($348 to $660/yr) | Free |
| HQ | Tampa, USA | Redmond, USA |
| Founded | 1982 | 1975 |
ConnectWise Control
A highly powerful and customizable tool favored by MSPs, with a steeper learning curve.
www.connectwise.com/platform/unified-monitoring-and-management/controlSee full entry in The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026)
Microsoft Remote Desktop
A free and reliable tool for Windows-to-Windows connections, but lacks advanced management features.
learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/remote/remote-desktop-services/welcome-to-rdsSee full entry in The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026)
Methodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.