Parallels Access 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
Parallels Access ranks higher on Top 11 (#9 vs #10) for IT teams and remote workers needing secure remote desktop and support access. Provides a superior user experience for accessing desktops from mobile devices like iPads.
At a glance
| Parallels Access | Microsoft Remote Desktop | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #9 / The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026) | #10 / The 11 Best Remote Desktop Software for Business (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 7.6 | 7.4 |
| Best for | Best mobile-to-desktop experience | Best free option for Windows |
| Pricing | $ ($19 to $99/yr) | Free |
| HQ | Bellevue, USA | Redmond, USA |
| Founded | 1999 | 1975 |
Parallels Access
Provides a superior user experience for accessing desktops from mobile devices like iPads.
www.parallels.com/products/access/See 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.