Posted by Thanks to the expansive nature of the internet, the world has been reduced to what may be referred to as a global village. This has made it very easier for people to connect from different parts of the world. As a result, the trend of working remotely is on a steady rise.
There is a wealth of different types of applications that make it possible for people to share their desktop screen with one or more people who are far away. Some of these apps are either paid for, while others are available for free. This piece is going to focus on the latter.
Why Are Remote Screen-Sharing Apps Important?
Screen-sharing apps simplify the whole collaboration process. Users can easily share their computer’s screen or a single application for any of the following purposes:
- Quick collaboration with colleagues during a meeting
- Presentations to clients, especially with proposals
- Technical support for troubleshooting or PC repair to solve a person’s computer problem remotely
10 Best Free Screen-Sharing Apps
Whatever your needs are, we have put together a list of ten free screen-sharing apps that will get the job done. Let’s dive right in:
Zoom
This app’s basic plan is free and it allows users to hold unlimited meetings that have no time limits for two people only. If the meeting has between three to a hundred participants, a time limit of 40 minutes applies. Upgrading to a paid plan allows multiple participants (up to 1,000), and they can also hold longer meetings.
This easy-to-use app can be used to host simple meetings, hold webinars, as well as teach online classes. It includes desktop-sharing, whiteboard, and application window sharing. You may also use the app to share the screen of an iPhone or an iPad that has been connected through Airplay.
Zoom also allows you to record your collaborations either locally or to the cloud for future reference. Lastly, this app offers a high level of end-to-end encryption and allows you to schedule your meetings from Gmail or Outlook.
Skype
This is one of the oldest video conferencing software. Skype is one of the world’s best VoIP solution providers as it’s highly responsive. It features several functionalities and makes it possible for users to video chat, send texts via the internet, and make international calls.
Skype, which is owned by Microsoft, is compatible with all devices, including computers, tablets, and phones. It’s easy to install and use and usually comes installed in most devices. Users can participate in video meetings without signing up or downloading the app first.
The app allows up to 250 users to join in the conference call and promotes collaboration by enabling group chats and image and file sharing.
TeamViewer
This app is an all-in-one solution for all your remote work needs. TeamViewer allows users to establish connections within a few seconds and control the other computer remotely. It works so smoothly, you’ll feel as if you are right in front of that computer.
Besides screen-sharing, this tool allows users to share videos and audios with other participants. One user can show the whole screen, parts of it, or an individual Windows application.
Additionally, TeamViewer also supports document sharing, chat, and whiteboard features. Using this app, you can fix complex issues and find Windows error solutions without actually having to go to their location.
This app allows screen-sharing on iOS devices from any desktop or phone and results in increased productivity and improved workflow. Another thing that is loved about TeamViewer is that it offers high security.
For users to start using this app, they first need to download it and receive a meeting invitation via email.
GoToMeeting
This web conferencing app is a great solution for businesses with an international presence. Some of its features that stand out include multi-national toll-free numbers that simplify connection with other people who are abroad.
GoToMeeting offers an intuitive interface that is so easy to use even for the not-so-techy people. It makes it easy for people to have meetings on-the-go by just asking Siri to start the conference call. This saves you so much time when you want to quickly start or join meetings.
Lastly, GoToMeeting offers great advanced security features such as SAML SSO login.
Mikogo
Mikogo’s free version enables the presenter to share his/her desktop, application window, or a document with another person. After the 14-day trial period of the Mikogo Professional plan, which supports 25 participants, the account automatically changes to the free version, which only allows screen-sharing with 1 participant.
Unfortunately, this app doesn’t’ support video conferencing. On the brighter side, users do not need to download or install plug-ins. It supports voice conferencing and remote support utilities.
Join.Me
This cloud-based app is widely used by individuals and organizations alike. Join.Me offers a user-friendly interface and allows users to share and discuss ideas through virtual meetings.
Participants are invited to join meetings using automated email notifications. What’s more, this app allows you to create a custom background setting and URL link that showcases your brand name. This is very useful for businesses.
Screenleap
This is yet another popular screen-sharing app that allows users to share their desktop on any device, including computers, tablets, and phones with a browser. To use Screenleap, you don’t even need to download the app – you can view the screen using the browser.
Screenleap allows you to share your screen with up to 1,000 viewers. One feature that is loved about this app is that it allows you to share control of your computer with the viewers. They can even point out things on your computer. This makes it a great option for giving an online guide to Mac issues and other support.
Note that the free version only supports 8 users and allows up to 40 minutes daily.
ShowMyPc
You have to download this app if you wish to share your screen. You then provide a passcode that other people may use to view your screen. The people that join in can see your screen but cannot control it.
This app doesn’t support audio or video calls.
MingleView
This remote screen-sharing app allows people to host virtual meetings or presentations with colleagues. The participants receive a 6-digit ID that they use to join the meeting. This is also a good tool to call your friends and family for regular catch-up.
MingleView allows for an unlimited number of participants to join.
Unfortunately, this app only works on Windows. No version for Mac computers is available.
Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is quite a popular information-sharing platform that allows users to engage in video and voice calls. It also allows users to send text messages in a secure environment. All you need to use Google Hangouts is a Gmail account.
Up to 150 participants may join the conference call. During the call, different presenters may be chosen, and then he/she can share his/her screen.
Conclusion
The modern workplace’s landscape has greatly changed, especially over the last couple of months due to the coronavirus pandemic. Businesses are adapting fast by adopting the ever-evolving technological tools that ensure people can still communicate and collaborate from wherever they are. The apps listed above have done a great job of eliminating the need for in-person meetings or gather-around-a-desk sessions.
Note: A lot of the free screen-sharing apps aren’t suitable for sensitive communication, so you shouldn’t use them to share very private company data. Additionally, most of them have time limits on meetings and the number of participants allowed.
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