RustDesk vs AnyDesk: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between RustDesk and AnyDesk comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
RustDesk
Open-source remote desktop, self-hostable and free client
Best for you if:
- • You need developer tools features specifically
- • Open-source remote desktop. The client is free. Self-host the server if you do not want their public relays.
- • Server Pro is a self-host license, not SaaS: Individual, Basic, billed annually (rustdesk.com/pricing).
AnyDesk
Remote desktop for support and unattended access
Best for you if:
- • You need productivity features specifically
- • Free for personal use. Paid licenses are billed annually, not month-to-month.
- • Paid tiers available for different needs. Extra connections available.
| At a Glance |  RustDesk |  AnyDesk |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Productivity |
Rating | 2.9/5 | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose RustDesk or AnyDesk?
Choose RustDesk if
Open-source remote desktop, self-hostable and free client
- You can read the client source and self-host. That is the reason to pick it over TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
- Printed Server Pro prices. Individual and Basic are on the public pricing page.
- Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS. Server Pro adds a web console, 2FA, and (on Basic) OIDC/LDAP.
- Your work is developer tools-shaped, not productivity-shaped
Choose AnyDesk if
Remote desktop for support and unattended access
- Free personal license for occasional home use
- Public Solo / Standard / Advanced prices on anydesk.com/en/pricing
- Add-on connections are a published price, not a hidden SKU
- Your work is productivity-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | RustDesk | AnyDesk |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★2.9/5 6 reviews | ★4.5/5 2,892 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsProductivity | ProductivityScreen Sharing |
In-Depth Analysis
RustDesk
Open-source remote desktop, self-hostable and free client
RustDesk's pricing is generous for self-hosters, with a fully functional free tier and the Individual plan at $11.88/mo being a steal for power users.
Watch out
Annual billing only, no monthly option
Strengths
- +You can read the client source and self-host. That is the reason to pick it over TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
- +Printed Server Pro prices. Individual and Basic are on the public pricing page.
- +Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS. Server Pro adds a web console, 2FA, and (on Basic) OIDC/LDAP.
Weaknesses
- -Self-hosting is ops work. The free OSS server has no web console.
- -Server Pro is annual. It is not a cloud remote-desktop subscription you can cancel next month.
Key features
AnyDesk
Remote desktop for support and unattended access
Use Free at home.
Watch out
Annual billing, paid up front.
Strengths
- +Free personal license for occasional home use
- +Public Solo / Standard / Advanced prices on anydesk.com/en/pricing
- +Add-on connections are a published price, not a hidden SKU
- +Unattended access and custom clients on paid team plans
Weaknesses
- -Paid plans are annual, paid up front
- -Standard starts with only one concurrent outgoing connection
- -Solo is one user. It is not a helpdesk seat pack
- -Ultimate has no public dollar price
Key features
Pricing: RustDesk vs AnyDesk
| Plan | RustDesk | AnyDesk |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0/month USD Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $11.88/month USD billed annually Individual | $28.9 month Solo |
| Tier 3 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Basic | $49.9 month Standard |
| Tier 4 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Customized | $111.9 month Advanced |
| Tier 5 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Customized V2 | custom Ultimate |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on RustDesk pricing and AnyDesk pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: RustDesk
Want the highest-rated option?
RustDesk: 2.9/5 (6 reviews). AnyDesk: 4.5/5 (2,892 reviews).
Go with: AnyDesk
Value user reviews?
RustDesk: 6 reviews (2.9/5). AnyDesk: 2,892 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: AnyDesk
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
RustDesk is a developer tools tool. AnyDesk is in productivity. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
AnyDesk is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 2.9/5.
Key Takeaways
AnyDesk
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 2.9/5
- Larger review base (2,892 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
RustDesk
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
AnyDesk is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RustDesk or AnyDesk better?
AnyDesk is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are RustDesk and AnyDesk used for?
RustDesk: Open-source remote desktop, self-hostable and free client. AnyDesk: Remote desktop for support and unattended access.
What does RustDesk cost vs AnyDesk?
RustDesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). AnyDesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.