The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Microsoft’s transition away from the Remote Desktop app downloaded from the Microsoft Store affects some remote connections, but not all. That app stopped being supported and available for download on May 27, 2025. From September 30, 2025, it could no longer connect to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, or Microsoft Dev Box. Microsoft says direct connections to a remote PC and Remote Desktop Services were not affected by that block. Which client to use depends on what you’re connecting to and which device you’re using.
What changed—and what did not
Microsoft announced on March 10, 2025 that Windows App would replace the Microsoft Store Remote Desktop app for Windows. The announcement was updated September 26, 2025. Microsoft’s lifecycle notes give May 27, 2025 as the date the Store app stopped being supported and available for download and installation. Beginning September 30, 2025, connections through that app to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box were blocked. Microsoft’s lifecycle and release notes distinguish those services from direct remote-PC connections and Remote Desktop Services, which were unaffected by that specific block.
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“Remote Desktop” can mean a connection to a personal or work PC, a Remote Desktop Services deployment, or a hosted service such as Azure Virtual Desktop. The Store app’s end-of-support dates do not mean every Windows remote-access feature stopped working. Microsoft’s March announcement describes the app transition, not a separately verified general-availability date for remote-PC connections through Windows App.
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| What you’re connecting to | Windows device | Other platforms |
|---|---|---|
| A Windows PC directly | Remote Desktop Connection | Microsoft lists Windows App for macOS and iOS, and the Remote Desktop app for Android. |
| Remote Desktop Services | Remote Desktop client | Client availability depends on platform; Microsoft lists Windows App for macOS, iOS/iPadOS, and Android, while the Remote Desktop client covers Windows, web access, and the listed Apple and Android platforms. |
| Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, or Microsoft Dev Box | Do not use the retired Store app; choose a supported client for the service and device. | Confirm the current service and platform guidance before connecting. |
Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Services guidance cautions that Windows App is not available for connecting to that service from every platform, so some users may still need the Remote Desktop client. That statement concerns Remote Desktop Services; it should not be read as a rule for direct connections to a PC. Client support can change, so check Microsoft’s current platform guidance for Remote Desktop Services for your device.
#1 Best Overall
- Media-Friendly: The K400 Plus wireless touch TV keyboard gives you integrated, comfortable control of your PC-to-TV entertainment, eliminating the clutter of a separate keyboard and mouse
- Plug-and-Play: Simply plug the Unifying receiver into a USB port and the wireless touchpad keyboard is ready to go; adjust controls using the Logitech Options Software to save preferred settings
- Power-Packed: Built with laid-back control in mind, this wireless TV keyboard has a reliable and long battery life of up to 18 months (2), including an on/off button to help it go even longer
- Wireless Freedom: Designed for seamless comfort and control, this HTPC keyboard boasts a range of up to 33 ft (1) wireless connectivity, with quiet keys and a large touchpad for easy navigation
- Broad Compatibility: Designed for use with Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and later, Android 7 or later, and Chrome OS
Connect to a Windows PC from another Windows device
For a direct PC connection, the remote host must run Windows Pro. The PC you connect from can use Remote Desktop Connection.
- Check the remote PC edition. Confirm that the host PC runs Windows Pro.
- Enable Remote Desktop on the host. On that PC, open Settings > System > Remote Desktop and turn on Remote Desktop.
- Record the PC name. Note the name shown in the Remote Desktop settings; you’ll enter it on the device you’re connecting from.
- Connect from Windows. Open Remote Desktop Connection, enter the host PC name, select Connect, and sign in.
Microsoft provides separate connection instructions for macOS and iOS using Windows App, and for Android using the Remote Desktop app. Follow the instructions for your source device rather than assuming Windows App is the client for every direct PC connection. See Microsoft’s Remote Desktop setup guidance.
Rank #2
- 【Stable 2.4G Wireless Connection】TECKNET 2.4G wireless keyboard provides a fast, stable connection up to 13m (43 ft). Simply plug the USB receiver—stored in the battery compartment—into your laptop or PC. No drivers needed, just plug and play for seamless, uninterrupted typing
- 【Ergonomic & Full-Size Keyboard】The ergonomic wireless keyboard features 8° foldable tilt feet and crater-shaped keycaps that match your finger shape. The full-size layout with number pad ensures comfortable typing for long working hours at home or in the office
- 【Spill-Resistant Design with Drainage Holes】TECKNET spill-resistant keyboard designed for durability, it includes 4 bottom drainage holes to protect against minor liquid spills. Whether you’re working with coffee, tea, or water nearby, it keeps your workflow safe and steady
- 【Quiet Typing with 90% Less Noise】Engineered with PET film key switches and 3mm key travel, this quiet wireless keyboard reduces typing noise by up to 90%. Perfect for shared workspaces, home offices, libraries, or remote work—type freely without disturbing others
- 【Power Saving & Wide Compatibility】This wireless pc keyboard powered by 1 AA battery (not included), offers long battery life with auto sleep mode and LED low-battery alert. Compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7, and works with desktops, laptops, and more
Identify the service before troubleshooting
If a connection fails, first establish whether the destination is a Windows PC you control or an organization-provided service. A direct PC connection uses the host’s Windows Pro edition and its Remote Desktop setting. Remote Desktop Services, Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Dev Box have their own client and account requirements. The September 30, 2025 block was specific to the Microsoft Store app connecting to the latter three services; it did not disable direct PC connections or Remote Desktop Services.
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Microsoft’s Windows IT Pro announcement explains the app replacement, while the current lifecycle notes identify the Store app dates and affected services. For a service connection, use the organization’s instructions and Microsoft’s up-to-date client compatibility information rather than switching clients based only on the words “Remote Desktop.”
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Full Sized Keyboard: The US QWERTY keyboard features a tilt angle for the great typing position, which provides you with a comfortable and accurate typing experience, prevents wrist fatigue. Quiet clicks allow you to focus on your work or play without disturbing others
- Stable 2.4G Wireless Connection: Plug and play without any drivers. Advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology provides a powerful and reliable connection up to 33 ft with virtually no delays or dropouts, even in the busiest wireless environments. Note: The USB dongle is stored in the compartment next to the keyboard battery slot, and can be found by opening the keyboard battery cover
- Auto Sleep & Power Saving: The keyboard features automatic sleep function, when you stop using it for more than 15 minutes, it will go into sleep mode to save power and you can click any button to activate it, the battery life up to 6 months. The external keyboard is powered by 1 AAA battery (Batteries Not Included)
- Wide Compatibility: Easy to use, simply plug the USB receiver into the USB port and start working. This wireless keyboard compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Chrome OS, Linux and Mac OS. Works well with desktop, computer, PC, laptop, Chromebook, notebook and more. Perfect for office & home work, business travel. Enjoy your wireless freedom and keep your desk clean and tidy
- Multimedia Shortcuts: The full-sized cordless keyboard with numeric keypad features 12 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to your media player, E-mail, Internet, volume, play/pause, mute, computer and favorites, so you can easily check out your favorite sites. Ideal for office work and entertainment, it saves you time and makes work and life easier. Note: the 12 shortcuts are not fully compatible with the Mac system
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
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