Expert's Rating
Pros
- Powerful features at no cost for non-commercial use
- Supports unlimited numbers of computers
- Has built-in chat and audio/video conference tools
- Designed for many methods of sharing access with others and from others
Cons
- Expensive for commercial use
- Not very Mac like
Our Verdict
TeamViewer bundles together a great set of remote-access and conference tools, but except for personal uses, only makes financial sense for large enterprises.
Price When Reviewed
Free for private, non-commercial use
Best Prices Today: TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a powerful remote-access tool designed for large-scale use, and combining remote screen control, remote file access, and robust ability to share the observation or control of screens among users. It bundles in text, audio conferencing, and video conferencing, and a single-user license allows the remote control of unlimited computers.
It’s also the most generous company out there where personal use is concerned. TeamViewer allows unlimited use of the full version of its software for non-commercial purposes, which the company offers a clear definition of (no direct or indirect revenue or business support).
For personal users, it’s my number-one recommendation, because of the robust features supported. It’s also great for a single user with multiple desktops, whether for accessing on the same network or remotely.
Pricey for businesses
Outside of that use case, however, TeamViewer’s price will deter all but those building support systems in large companies, where having a central way to access large numbers of computers by support technicians is key. The software starts at $49 a month (billed annually at $588) for a single user and a single session to any of an unlimited number of computers on which the host software is installed. Licenses for multiple users and multiple simultaneous sessions go up from there, and aren’t out of line with enterprise pricing.
IDGThe TeamViewer remote control Mac client.
The macOS client isn’t very Mac like, but it’s relatively straightforward to use. A Remote Control tab shows computers in your account set, and you can select one and use it in a variety of ways, including for presentations and video calls.
The iOS client is a little thin compared to the desktop versions, but offers solid access to necessary features, including an easy swap among multiple monitors on a remote desktop.
TeamViewer’s desktop host software comes in versions for macOS, Windows, and some versions of Linux, and has mobile support for iOS and Android.
Bottom line
For personal use, TeamViewer is the standout choice. But for any business purpose except its intended enterprise-level support, consider other options.
Best Prices Today: TeamViewer
Author: Glenn Fleishman, Senior Contributor
Glenn Fleishman’s most recent books include Take Control of iOS and iPadOS Privacy and Security, Take Control of Calendar and Reminders, and Take Control of Securing Your Mac. In his spare time, he writes about printing and type history. He’s a senior contributor to Macworld, where he writes Mac 911.