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Choose UltraViewer if you and the people you support use Windows and you want a simple, low-cost way to provide remote help. Choose AnyDesk if you need macOS, Linux or mobile support, managed unattended access, or more extensive business administration. Neither is the universal winner: the right choice depends on your devices, number of technicians and endpoints, and whether you need personal or commercial use.
At a glance
| Need | Better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional help for Windows PCs | UltraViewer | Its ID-and-password workflow is straightforward, and the vendor says its free edition can be used for personal and commercial support, subject to its terms. |
| Support involving Mac, Linux, Android or iOS | AnyDesk | It offers clients across more platforms, although capabilities vary by operating system. |
| Solo Windows operator on a tight budget | UltraViewer | Its published paid plans start far below AnyDesk’s business plans. |
| Multiple technicians or a large unattended fleet | AnyDesk | Its business plans provide broader user, device-management and administration features. |
| Large file transfers on a low-cost plan | UltraViewer | Its pricing page publishes per-file limits up to 8 GB on Premium. |
| Self-hosting or full remote monitoring and management | Neither by default | Evaluate a product designed specifically for those requirements, such as RustDesk or MeshCentral for technically capable self-hosting teams. |
The fastest way to decide is to check operating-system compatibility first. If either the technician’s device or the computer being supported is outside UltraViewer’s Windows-focused scope, its price advantage may not matter.
Platform support can settle the choice
UltraViewer is a Windows desktop remote-control application. Its product documentation describes Windows support and its FAQ says the product is currently for computers running Windows. That makes it a practical fit for Windows-to-Windows support, but not a native cross-platform solution for a mixed-device home or help desk. See UltraViewer’s FAQ and download information for the vendor’s current details.
AnyDesk documents support for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS and other platform-specific cases. Support does not mean every feature works identically everywhere: its operating-system documentation notes, for example, that Linux incoming sessions require Xorg while Wayland supports outgoing sessions, and iOS has feature restrictions. Check both the host and controller requirements before deployment.
#1 Best Overall
- Share Multiple USB Devices between 2 Computer : The BENFEI 2 in 4 out USB 3.0 kvm switch supports 2 computers share 4 USB devices like keyboards, mouses, U disk, printers, scanners, USB cameras, headphones, etc. It's convenient for you to switch freely between your work computer and personal computer, driver free and compatible with multiple OS, such as windows 7/10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP and Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: With the 4x USB 3.0 ports, BENFEI USB Switcher supports up to 5Gbps data transfer speed. You can easily transfer data from U disk, mobile hard disk to computer. It's backward compatible with USB 2.0, too.
- Switch Easily: With the USB switcher button and LED indicator design, you can freely switch multiple USB devices between two computers with one click and clearly know the working status. Please note: When connected, it could work only when using the BENFEI USB A to USB A cable.
- Multiple USB Devices Support: BENFEI USB Switch provides an extra USB C(5V 3A) power supply slot. If you use some high power consumption devices such as HDD, USB cameras, headphones, etc, please connect extra power for stable performance. (The USB A-USB Charging cable is included, but the power adapter is not)
- 18 MONTH WARRANTY : Exclusive BENFEI Unconditional 18-month Warranty ensures long-time satisfaction of your purchase; Friendly and easy-to-reach customer service to solve your problems timely
How the products work
AnyDesk
AnyDesk supports attended sessions, where a person at the remote computer accepts or permits access, as well as configured unattended access. Its documented unattended-access setup involves enabling the feature on the remote device and setting a password; two-factor authentication can add another safeguard. The setup is available for Windows, macOS, Linux and Android, with platform-specific behavior. Follow the vendor’s unattended-access instructions for the relevant operating system.
Its paid plans add business-oriented functions such as user and role management, address books, deployment options, session logs or recording, and integrations. Which controls are included depends on the plan. The pricing page is the best place to verify current plan details.
UltraViewer
UltraViewer uses a simple connection flow: install or run the software on both Windows computers, get the remote computer’s ID and password, enter them on the controlling computer, and start the session. The vendor describes partner consent and the ability for the person at the remote computer to end a session. It also offers chat and file transfer.
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- 2 PCs Share Multiple Devices: UGREEN 2-In 4-Out USB switcher supports 2 computers sharing 4 USB devices like keyboards, mouses, printers, headphones, and USB cameras. Switch freely between your work computer and personal computer and boost your work efficiency. (NOTE: This USB Switcher is NOT a KVM switch and does not support connecting a monitor or video transmission)
- Connect USB C & USB A Devices: The USB 3.0 switch provides 1 USB C port and 3 USB A ports to support connecting various USB devices, extending more ports for two computers. (*It is recommended to power supply when using multiple devices simultaneously to avoid disconnection due to insufficient power.*)
- 5Gbps Data Transfer / Plug & Play: With 4 USB 3.0 ports, the USB 3.0 switcher supports data transfer up to 5Gbps and is backward compatible with USB 2.0; Simple plug and play for any modern operating system: Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux computers. (*The USB ports are primarily for data transfer and are not recommended for charging devices.*)
- Note: 1. If your input device uses a USB-C port, please purchase a USB-C to USB adapter before use. 2. When using a camera through the switcher, if your computer has a built-in camera, please select the UGREEN camera in the camera settings to ensure proper use. 3.The USB-C port on the product does not support video output and cannot be used with a dock to connect a display
- USB-C Power Supply: The USB switch is designed with a optional power supply for high-power devices like Hard Disk Drives, headsets, and other USB devices to work more stably; The upgraded USB-C Power port avoids the trouble of not finding a micro cable.
UltraViewer lists unattended access, startup behavior and wake-up options among its capabilities, but do not treat those as interchangeable. A saved password may permit access to an awake computer; starting at Windows boot, reaching a login screen after restart, and waking a sleeping PC are separate conditions. Wake-on-LAN also depends on compatible hardware and network configuration. Confirm the specific plan and test the exact reboot, sleep and login scenarios you need. The vendor’s plan comparison identifies some wake-up features as paid-plan benefits.
Pricing: a large gap, but not a like-for-like comparison
The following figures are the vendors’ published signals checked on August 18, 2026. Prices, taxes, limits and terms can change; confirm them on the linked pages before buying.
| Product and plan | Published price | Published positioning or allowance |
|---|---|---|
| AnyDesk Solo | $28.90/month equivalent, billed annually | One licensed user and connection; three registered devices and 100 managed unattended devices. |
| AnyDesk Standard | $49.90/month equivalent for one connection, billed annually | Up to 20 users; starts with 500 managed unattended devices. |
| AnyDesk Advanced | $111.90/month equivalent for two connections, billed annually | Up to 100 users; starts with 1,000 managed unattended devices. |
| AnyDesk Ultimate | Contact vendor | Enterprise customization, with cloud or on-premises deployment options. |
| UltraViewer Free | $0 | Core support functions; vendor advertises personal and commercial use. |
| UltraViewer Lite | $3.99/month, billed annually | One user/device, one concurrent session, three remote endpoints per month and files up to 2 GB. |
| UltraViewer Professional | $5.99/month, billed annually | Install on up to six computers, one user at a time, unlimited endpoints and files up to 4 GB. |
| UltraViewer Premium | $7.99/month, billed annually | Install on up to 12 computers, one user at a time, unlimited concurrent sessions and files up to 8 GB. |
AnyDesk lists its prices as annual-billing monthly equivalents and excludes taxes. UltraViewer says its displayed prices include taxes and advertises a 15-day money-back guarantee. Verify the current checkout terms. The structure matters as much as the sticker price: UltraViewer’s plans center on one operator and licensed installations, while AnyDesk emphasizes licensed users or concurrent connections and managed unattended devices. “Unlimited sessions” on an UltraViewer plan does not mean unlimited technicians or licensed users.
Rank #3
- 【KVM Switch 1 Monitors 2 Computers】This HDMI KVM Switch with two HDMI ports allows control of two computers, enabling them to share a single monitor along with keyboard and mouse. It's complete USB switch and HDMI switch rolled into one. This KVM Switch also supports various input devices such as PCs, Laptops, PS4, etc. It is compatible with various operating systems including Windows 7/8/10/11/Vista/XP, Linux, Mac, and more.
- 【Four USB 3.0 Ports (3×USB-A + 1×USB-C)】 This KVM switch features 4 USB 3.0 ports with ultra-fast data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps, including 3 USB-A ports and 1 USB-C port for broader device compatibility. It allows you to seamlessly share peripherals between two computers, reducing cable clutter and improving workspace efficiency. Perfect for connecting and sharing USB devices such as keyboards, mice, scanners, printers, flash drives, headsets, and webcams. The switch automatically detects and recognizes connected devices for stable and reliable performance.
- 【4K Resolution & HDCP 2.2】HDMI KVM Switch supports stunning 4K resolution at 60Hz, ensuring crystal-clear and highly detailed visuals for your monitors. Additionally, it is HDCP 2.2 compliant, allowing you to seamlessly view HDCP-protected content on your monitors without any interruptions. It also supports 4K@30Hz, 2K, 3D, and 1080P, offering flexibility for various display needs. This guarantees both exceptional image quality and a smooth, secure multimedia experience.
- 【Two Ways of Switching】4K HDMI KVM Switch features two switching options: On-KVM Switch Button and Wired Remote Switch. The Wired Remote Switch allows you to place the HDMI KVM switch in hidden or distant location, keeping your desk tidy. Simply place the remote control within easy reach on your desk for quick access. With a press, you can switch between computers seamlessly, enhancing productivity and reducing clutter on your monitors.
- 【Adaptive EDID & Plug and Play】This USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch features Adaptive EDID, ensuring stable and smooth image transmission by automatically optimizing display settings on your monitors. Easy to install, this HDMI KVM switch requires no power supply or driver software—just plug it in and connect all cables for seamless operation between two computers and one monitor.
AnyDesk says its free edition is for personal use, not unrestricted business support. Its paid licensing page explains that licensing depends on use and configuration; in some cases the initiator needs a license while participants can join without one. UltraViewer’s FAQ currently says its free edition may be used for commercial support, but that does not promise unlimited endpoints or every paid feature. Read the current terms for your use case: AnyDesk licensing and pricing and UltraViewer’s FAQ.
Feature-by-feature differences
Attended support and setup
Both tools can support a person who is present at the remote PC. UltraViewer’s ID/password process is especially direct for a one-to-one Windows support call. AnyDesk also supports interactive access and offers session permission controls according to plan. Whichever you use, explain what access the technician will have and ask the remote user to remain present unless unattended access is genuinely required.
Unattended access and device fleets
AnyDesk is the stronger fit when you need a documented unattended-access workflow across several supported operating systems and a managed fleet. Its published plans distinguish managed-device allowances, and its higher business tiers add administration features. UltraViewer can suit a smaller Windows setup, but check how its plan’s operator-computer, endpoint and concurrent-session limits map to your actual workflow.
Rank #4
- 2 PCs Share Multiple Devices: UGREEN 2 in 2 out USB switch supports 2 computers sharing 2 USB devices like keyboards, mouses, printers, webcam and more. Switch freely between your work computer and personal laptop, boost your work efficiency.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: The USB 3.0 switcher supports data transfer up to 5Gbps with and is backward compatible with USB 2.0; Easily transfer files from PC1 to PC2 and no more trouble with slow transmission speeds.
- Wide Compatibility & Driver-free: UGREEN USB switch selector is plug-and-play for Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux computers. Just plug in and enjoy efficient work.
- One-Button USB Switch: With the USB switcher button and LED indicator design, you can freely switch multiple USB devices between two computers with one click and clearly know the working status.
- Tip: This is Not a KVM switch and Not support a monitor, USB OUT port only supports data transfer but not video transfer; What's in the box: 1x 2 Port USB 3.0 Switch, 2 x 5 FT USB 3.0 A to A Cable,1*User Manual.
Before relying on either product for unattended service, test access after a reboot, at the sign-in screen, after an update, with a locked display, and after sleep. Test Wake-on-LAN separately. A feature label alone does not guarantee that a device is reachable in every power state or network.
File transfer and collaboration
Both products offer file transfer. AnyDesk provides a File Manager workflow and promotes transfers between remote devices; exact features can depend on operating system and plan. UltraViewer publishes per-file limits of 2 GB on Free and Lite, 4 GB on Professional, and 8 GB on Premium. Those numbers describe maximum file size, not a promise of folder synchronization, transfer resumption, audit logging, or unlimited total transfer. See AnyDesk’s file-transfer overview and UltraViewer’s pricing table.
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AnyDesk has the clearer advantage for organizations that need to administer a group of technicians and endpoints. Its plans list features such as role management, custom clients, command-line tools, MSI and Group Policy deployment, session logging or recording, REST API, custom namespaces and, at the enterprise end, SSO and cloud or on-premises options. Plan availability varies, so validate individual controls rather than assuming every tier includes them.
Best Value
- Share Multiple USB Devices between 2 Computer : The BENFEI 2 in 4 out USB 3.0/USB-C kvm switch supports 2 computers share 3 x USB 3.0 and 1 x USB-C devices like keyboards, mouses, U disk, printers, scanners, USB cameras, headphones, etc. It's convenient for you to switch freely between your work computer and personal computer, driver free and compatible with multiple OS, such as windows 7/10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP and Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS.
- 5Gbps Data Transfer / Plug & Play: With the 3 x USB 3.0 ports and 1 x USB-C port, BENFEI USB Switcher supports up to 5Gbps data transfer speed. You can easily transfer data from U disk, mobile hard disk to computer. It's backward compatible with USB 2.0, too. Simple plug and play for any modern operating system: Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux computers.
- Switch Easily with Two Modes: With the USB switcher button or Remote Control button and LED indicator design, you can freely switch multiple USB devices between two computers with one click and clearly know the working status. Please note: When connected, it could work only when using the BENFEI USB A to USB A cable.
- Upgrade Power Supply with USB-C Port: BENFEI USB Switch is designed with optional power supply If you use some high power consumption devices such as HDD, USB cameras, headphones, etc, please connect extra power for stable performance. BENFEI Switch adopts USB-C slot as power supply slot to avoid hassle to find legacy micro usb charging cable.
- 18 MONTH WARRANTY : Exclusive BENFEI Unconditional 18-month Warranty ensures long-time satisfaction of your purchase; Friendly and easy-to-reach customer service to solve your problems timely
UltraViewer offers a simpler set of paid additions, including address books on Professional and Premium and a custom client and recording options on Premium, according to its published plan information. That may be enough for a solo operator; a company with policies, offboarding needs, centralized deployment or audit requirements should assess whether the controls are sufficient.
Security and privacy
UltraViewer advertises AES-256-encrypted sessions, ID/password access and partner consent. The vendor also says it does not record or store remote-session video on its servers; treat that as the vendor’s stated policy, not an independent audit. Its privacy page and security guidance provide its claims and recommendations. AnyDesk lists security and administrative features including encrypted connections, two-factor authentication and permission controls; use its feature information and relevant technical documentation to confirm what applies to your plan.
Encryption is important, but it cannot stop a user from being tricked into granting access, protect a weak or stolen password, or make an already-compromised endpoint safe. For business use, review logging, identity controls, data handling, administrative access and contractual commitments—not just the cipher named on a product page.
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Speed and reliability
AnyDesk markets low-latency remote control; UltraViewer markets lightweight software and low-latency control. These are vendor claims, not an independent head-to-head benchmark. No defensible universal speed winner follows from them. If responsiveness matters, trial both on the same computers and networks, including a high-latency connection, multiple monitors, restricted upload bandwidth, file transfer during control, reconnects and remote restarts.
Legacy Windows and version details
UltraViewer’s download documentation lists Windows XP through Windows 11 and Windows Server editions, but that is a vendor-listed range, not a guarantee that every old build will work with every feature or remain supported indefinitely. AnyDesk support also varies by operating system version. UltraViewer’s related official sites have shown different version numbers: the .io download page has listed 6.6.127, while an older .net page listed 6.6.124. Check the specific official download page you use rather than assuming a single version number applies everywhere.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which should you choose?
- For personal help with family on Windows: UltraViewer is a sensible starting point if the free-use terms and Windows limitation fit. AnyDesk is preferable if the person you help uses a Mac or mobile device.
- For a freelance Windows technician: UltraViewer’s free or low-cost plans may cover straightforward support. Check operator-computer and endpoint limits, file-size needs and commercial-use terms.
- For a small business help desk: Choose AnyDesk if you need multiple technicians, managed unattended devices, deployment, roles or logs. A one-person Windows operation with modest needs may find UltraViewer more economical.
- For Mac, Linux or mobile support: AnyDesk is the clear fit between these two, after checking its platform-specific limitations.
- For unattended access at scale: AnyDesk is generally the stronger fit because of its cross-platform support and managed-device plan structure. Test real restart, login and sleep behavior before rollout.
- For large file transfers at low cost: UltraViewer’s published Premium limit of 8 GB per file is attractive if Windows-only support and its other constraints are acceptable.
- For enterprise governance: AnyDesk is positioned for broader business administration, but procurement teams should confirm plan entitlements, security documentation, data handling and contractual requirements with the vendor.
Compare total requirements rather than just monthly fees: technicians, simultaneous sessions, endpoints, operating systems, unattended access, mobile use, audit needs, deployment and procurement controls. If self-hosting or full remote monitoring and management is mandatory, evaluate a product built for that instead of stretching either tool beyond its purpose.
Quick Recap
Safer remote-support practices
- Accept a session only when you initiated the support request or verified the technician through a separate, trusted channel.
- Keep an eye on the screen during attended support, and end the session when the work is done.
- Use strong, unique unattended-access passwords and two-factor authentication where available; restrict access to approved users or devices when the product and plan allow it.
- Remove saved unattended-access credentials when they are no longer needed, and revoke access when a technician leaves.
- Download installers only from a trusted vendor source. UltraViewer provides SHA-256 verification guidance; use hashes or signatures where available.
- Do not permanently disable antivirus because a remote-access installer is detected. Stop if the source is uncertain, verify the file, ask the security vendor about a suspected false positive, and follow organizational policy for any narrowly scoped exception.
- Set rules for clipboard, file transfer, recording and retention, especially when supporting customer or regulated data.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
