GuidedView vs AnyDesk: remote desktop control, or screen viewing on a support call

At a glance

What is AnyDesk?

AnyDesk is a remote desktop application from AnyDesk Software GmbH. A licensed user connects to another device by its AnyDesk ID or an invitation, then views and controls it. On Windows, macOS and Linux, the person on the other end can run AnyDesk as a portable app without installing it, and AnyDesk's pricing FAQ says only the initiator of a session needs a license, so participants are free. AnyDesk supports interactive sessions, where someone accepts the connection, and unattended access, where a technician reaches a device with no one present. Even the single-user Solo plan includes 100 managed devices and session recording, while the Advanced and Ultimate tiers add device management features, with an on-premises deployment option on Ultimate. AnyDesk is built for technicians, freelancers and small IT teams who fix computers directly and want low-cost remote control. Its phone apps can share a screen as well, but how much control you get on a phone depends on the platform.

Can AnyDesk see or control an iPhone?

AnyDesk can view an iPhone or iPad screen but cannot control it. AnyDesk's documentation says 'direct remote control of iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS devices is not available.' The customer installs the AnyDesk app for iOS (iOS 12.0 or newer for remote viewing) and shares the screen, and the technician watches.

On Android, AnyDesk goes further. With a control plugin (the Universal plugin ad1 or a manufacturer plugin) enabled in Accessibility settings, on Android 7.0 or higher, the technician can control the phone. Without a plugin, AnyDesk for Android can only view the screen, and AnyDesk notes the universal plugin may allow only basic control on some devices.

GuidedView is view-only on iPhone, Android and computers alike. If you need to control Android phones, AnyDesk does something GuidedView does not. If you mostly need to see what a caller is looking at, the two are equal on iPhone, and the difference is in how the customer gets started.

What does the customer have to install?

With AnyDesk, the customer downloads the AnyDesk client and either installs it or runs it as a portable app, then reads you their ID or accepts your invitation. AnyDesk's documentation does not describe a browser-only way to join; invitation links lead to downloading or launching the client. On Android, controlling the phone also means installing and enabling a plugin.

With GuidedView, there is nothing to download on a computer. The invitation opens in a supported desktop browser, the customer confirms they are on a call with you, and the browser asks which screen or window to share. On iPhone or iPad, the link opens the free GuidedView app, or sends the customer to the App Store to get it first. Android customers use the free GuidedView app for Android. Neither product asks the customer to create an account.

Which works better while you are on the phone with a customer?

AnyDesk has no voice line of its own. It offers in-session text chat and is designed to run alongside whatever call or channel you already use. That works, though you will be reading out IDs or walking the customer through a download while you talk.

GuidedView was designed for that moment. The invitation itself asks the customer to share only if they are on a call with the sender right now. Before any private step, the customer taps Pause and you see nothing, and only they can resume. Every invitation works once, unused ones expire after 30 minutes, and only the agent who sent it can view the session. Sessions are live only and are never recorded. For more on the privacy side, see GuidedView security.

How does AnyDesk pricing compare with GuidedView?

AnyDesk Solo costs about the same per month as GuidedView, slightly less, if you commit to a year, and it includes full remote control and unattended access. AnyDesk says all plans are billed yearly and that it offers subscriptions on an annual basis. AnyDesk is free for personal use with limited features, but professional users need a license.

GuidedView is $29.99 per account each month, billed monthly, and you can cancel anytime from the portal. You are not paying for remote control, so the comparison comes down to what you need: if you control computers, AnyDesk Solo is strong value; if you only need to see screens during calls, GuidedView avoids the annual commitment. See GuidedView pricing.

Which should you choose?

AnyDesk is a technician's tool; GuidedView is a phone-support tool. Pick the one that matches where most of your help happens.

Can you use AnyDesk and GuidedView together?

Yes. A technician can keep AnyDesk for the computers they log into and fix directly, and use GuidedView for calls where a customer needs help with something on their phone. On iPhone both tools are limited to viewing, and GuidedView's text or email invitation keeps the whole exchange on the call you are already on. Read how to see a customer's screen during a phone call or sign up for GuidedView.