Side by side
TightVNC vs x11vnc
Both stand on remote desktop software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
TightVNC covers remote control across major desktop and mobile platforms, with file transfer and configurable access. Users on untrusted networks should use SSH tunneling, and proprietary integrations require commercial licensing.
Visit TightVNC Free plan LinuxMacSelf-hosted
x11vnc offers extensive protocol, authentication, and networking options for self-hosted remote display access. Its unmaintained status is an important consideration despite the documented security features and broad display support.
Visit x11vncThe facts
| TightVNC | x11vnc | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Commercial source code license for TightVNC Server 2.x for Windows: €12,000, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | x11vnc |
| Website | tightvnc.com | github.com |
| On remote desktop software | #60 of 135 | #64 of 135 |
TightVNC: what it does well
- Free GPL plan
- Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android support
- File transfer and mobile apps
- Separate full-control and read-only passwords
- RFB compatibility and SSH tunneling
What to know first
- Non-password traffic is unencrypted
- Commercial integration requires a paid license
- Free users lack commercial technical support
- Windows release requires Windows XP or later
x11vnc: what it does well
- Controls physical X displays remotely
- Supports VNC viewers
- Includes file transfer
- Lists SSL/TLS and VeNCrypt
- Supports IPv6 and Zeroconf
What to know first
- Project is currently unmaintained
- Latest listed release is version 0.9.17
- Internet access guidance requires SSH or VPN
Alternatives to TightVNC Alternatives to x11vnc The whole list