RustDesk vs Splashtop: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between RustDesk and Splashtop 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 want to try before committing
- • 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).
Splashtop
Secure remote access and management for IT teams
Best for you if:
- • You need customer support features specifically
- • Remote desktop software with 4K streaming at 60fps and Retina 5K support for Mac
- • Cross-platform access to Windows, Mac, Linux, and VDI from any device including Chromebook
| At a Glance |  RustDesk |  Splashtop |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $9.99/user/monthBusiness Access |
Best For | Developer Tools | Customer Support |
Rating | 2.9/5 | 4.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose RustDesk or Splashtop?
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 customer support-shaped
Choose Splashtop if
Secure remote access and management for IT teams
- Remote desktop
- Good performance
- Fair pricing
- Your work is customer support-shaped, not developer tools-shaped
| Feature | RustDesk | Splashtop |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★2.9/5 6 reviews | ★4.7/5 1,253 reviews |
| Categories | Developer ToolsProductivity | Customer SupportProductivity |
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
Splashtop
Secure remote access and management for IT teams
Splashtop's pricing is quite fair, especially with the "Business Access" tier at $9.99 per user/month offering unlimited devices and remote access.
Watch out
All listed prices are billed annually.
Strengths
- +Remote desktop
- +Good performance
- +Fair pricing
- +Active development
- +Good features
Weaknesses
- -Per-computer pricing
- -Learning curve
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Feature gaps
- -Support varies
Key features
Pricing: RustDesk vs Splashtop
| Plan | RustDesk | Splashtop |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0/month USD Free | Free Personal |
| Tier 2 | $11.88/month USD billed annually Individual | $9.99 /user/month Business Access |
| Tier 3 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Basic | $40.98 /technician/month Remote Support |
| Tier 4 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Customized | custom Enterprise |
| Tier 5 | $23.88/month USD billed annually Customized V2 | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on RustDesk pricing and Splashtop pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
RustDesk has a free tier. Splashtop is paid only.
Go with: RustDesk
Want the highest-rated option?
RustDesk: 2.9/5 (6 reviews). Splashtop: 4.7/5 (1,253 reviews).
Go with: Splashtop
Value user reviews?
RustDesk: 6 reviews (2.9/5). Splashtop: 1,253 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Splashtop
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
RustDesk is freemium. Splashtop is paid. RustDesk lets you start free.
What's your use case?
RustDesk is a developer tools tool. Splashtop is in customer support. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Splashtop is rated higher: 4.7/5 vs 2.9/5.
Key Takeaways
Splashtop
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 2.9/5
- Larger review base (1,253 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
RustDesk
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for developer tools
The Bottom Line
Splashtop is our pick. RustDesk has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RustDesk or Splashtop better?
Splashtop is rated in our evaluation. RustDesk is freemium and Splashtop is paid.
What are RustDesk and Splashtop used for?
RustDesk: Open-source remote desktop, self-hostable and free client. Splashtop: Secure remote access and management for IT teams.
What does RustDesk cost vs Splashtop?
RustDesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Splashtop is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.