7 Best Linux Remote Desktop Clients of 2024

Remote desktop clients play a crucial role in connecting to other systems seamlessly. Whether you are troubleshooting, collaborating with a team, or accessing your files remotely, having a reliable remote desktop tool is a must for Linux users. This guide dives into the best Linux remote desktop clients in 2024, detailing their features, pros, and cons, and providing personal insights for each.

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Best Linux Remote Desktop Clients

1. Remmina: The Swiss Army Knife of Remote Desktop Tools

Remmina is one of the most popular Linux remote desktop clients, supporting various protocols like RDP, VNC, SPICE, SSH, and more. Designed specifically for Linux, it offers a clean, intuitive interface that is highly customizable.

During a critical system update, I relied on Remmina to handle multiple remote sessions simultaneously. Its tabbed interface kept things organized, and the performance was flawless, even over slower networks.

Features:

• Multi-protocol support.
• Pre-installed on several Linux distributions like Ubuntu.
• Plugin-based architecture.
• Customizable display settings, including scaling for high-resolution screens.

Why Use It?
Remmina is ideal for Linux users who frequently switch between multiple systems or networks. It’s a one-stop solution for IT professionals who need to manage multiple servers efficiently.

Try Remmina: Official Site

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2. TigerVNC: High-Performance Open-Source Solution

TigerVNC stands out for its speed and security, making it a favorite among those who prioritize performance. It uses the VNC protocol and offers a simple, no-frills interface for controlling remote desktops.

I found TigerVNC invaluable during a coding project. Its smooth rendering of GUIs and fast response times made it feel like I was sitting right in front of the remote machine.

Features:

• Cross-platform compatibility (Linux, Windows, macOS).
• TLS encryption for secure connections.
• Clipboard sharing between local and remote desktops.
• Advanced options for encoding, compression, and color settings.

Why Use It?
TigerVNC is perfect for users managing virtual machines or requiring a lightweight yet powerful remote desktop solution.

Try TigerVNC: Download TigerVNC

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3. AnyDesk: Lightning-Fast and User-Friendly

AnyDesk is a well-known Linux Remote Desktop Client that excels in speed and simplicity. Its lightweight architecture ensures minimal latency, making it one of the best options for real-time collaboration.

I used AnyDesk extensively during a tech support gig. Its low-latency performance and ability to connect quickly to clients’ machines made troubleshooting a breeze.

Features:

• Cross-platform compatibility, including Linux, macOS, Windows, and mobile devices.
• High-quality video and sound transmission.
• Built-in file transfer feature.
• Secure with RSA 2048 asymmetric encryption.

Why Use It?
Whether you’re providing IT support or simply accessing your files remotely, AnyDesk combines ease of use with high performance.

Try AnyDesk: Download AnyDesk

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4. Chrome Remote Desktop: Quick and Accessible

Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop is one of free, browser-based Linux Remote Desktop Clients that enables remote access without installing standalone software.

Features:

• Easy setup through a Chrome browser extension.
• Unlimited remote support for personal use.
• Works on Linux, Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
• Secure connections with Google account authentication.

Why Use It?
If you need a no-fuss remote desktop tool for quick tasks, Chrome Remote Desktop is a solid choice. It’s particularly useful for non-tech-savvy users.

Personal Experience: I often use Chrome Remote Desktop to access my home server while traveling. The ability to connect via any device with Chrome installed makes it incredibly convenient.

Try Chrome Remote Desktop: Set It Up Here

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5. RealVNC (VNC Connect): Security-Focused and Versatile

RealVNC, also known as VNC Connect, is a feature-rich remote desktop solution catering to both personal and professional users.

I’ve used RealVNC for remote collaboration on design projects. Its high-quality screen rendering and secure connections made it an excellent choice for sharing sensitive information.

Features:

• End-to-end encryption for secure communication.
• Multi-factor authentication.
• Cross-platform compatibility.
• Real-time screen sharing with exceptional responsiveness.

Why Use It?
RealVNC is ideal for users who need enterprise-grade security and flexibility. Its premium plans also include advanced features like remote deployment.

Try RealVNC: Explore RealVNC

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6. Apache Guacamole: Browser-Based Brilliance

Apache Guacamole is a clientless, web-based remote desktop tool that supports a variety of protocols, including RDP, VNC, and SSH. I appreciated Guacamole’s ability to work without needing dedicated software during a last-minute troubleshooting session on a borrowed laptop.

Features:

• No installation required—runs in any modern web browser.
• Supports multiple simultaneous connections.
• Fully open-source.
• Works on virtually any device.

Why Use It?
Guacamole’s browser-based approach is perfect for users who need quick and portable access to remote desktops.

Try Guacamole: Visit Guacamole

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7. X2Go: Low-Bandwidth Champion

X2Go is designed for users who need reliable remote access to Linux desktops, even in low-bandwidth conditions. It uses the secure NX protocol for optimized performance. While camping in a remote area, X2Go allowed me to manage my Linux server without connectivity issues. Its lightweight nature was a lifesaver.

Features:

• Supports multi-user environments.
• Built-in session suspension and resumption.
• SSH-based encryption for secure connections.
• Open-source and free.

Why Use It?
If you frequently work in areas with limited internet connectivity, X2Go ensures a smooth and secure experience.

Try X2Go: Get X2Go

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Conclusion

So here you had the list of Linux Remote Desktop Clients and let me help you a little more, see Choosing the right remote desktop client depends on your requirements. For lightweight, quick access, Chrome Remote Desktop shines. If security and professional features matter, RealVNC or AnyDesk are great options. For open-source enthusiasts, TigerVNC, Apache Guacamole, and X2Go provide reliable solutions.

Experiment with these tools to find your perfect match, and enjoy remote working like never before!