Recommended Free Tools
You can remotely use a PC from a phone by setting up remote access on the computer, then connecting with a compatible mobile app. For a Windows PC, Microsoft’s built-in Remote Desktop option requires the computer being controlled to run Windows Pro. Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop instructions cover Android access to Windows, Mac, and Linux computers.
Choose a remote-access method that matches your PC and phone
Start with the computer you want to control, called the host. The host’s operating system and Windows edition determine which documented option fits. Your phone is the client that connects to it.
| Option | Host requirements documented | Phone support documented |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Remote Desktop | Windows Pro host. Microsoft says the client can run a different operating system. | Microsoft names Windows App for iOS and the Remote Desktop app for Android; current app names and availability may change. Microsoft’s setup guidance and Windows App documentation. |
| Chrome Remote Desktop | Google lists Windows, Mac, and Linux computers. | Google’s cited mobile instructions document Android access; they do not establish iPhone support. Google’s setup instructions and Chrome Remote Desktop. |
The available vendor instructions do not establish a like-for-like comparison of speed, connection quality, pricing, or every security detail. Choose by supported host and phone combination rather than assuming one option is faster or more secure.
Set up Microsoft Remote Desktop for a Windows Pro PC
Microsoft’s route is suitable when the PC you want to control runs Windows Pro. The phone can use another operating system, but install the client Microsoft identifies for that platform and check its current listing because app names and availability can change.
#1 Best Overall
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Confirm the host edition. Check that the PC being controlled runs Windows Pro. Microsoft’s Remote Desktop host instructions require Pro; a phone or other client can run a different operating system.
- Enable Remote Desktop on the PC. Open Settings > System > Remote Desktop, turn on Remote Desktop, and confirm the prompt. Follow Microsoft’s current setup instructions if the labels differ on your Windows version.
- Record the PC name. You will need the host’s PC name when creating the connection from the phone. Microsoft’s instructions explain where to find it.
- Install the phone client. Microsoft names Windows App for iOS and the Remote Desktop app for Android in its support guidance. Its Windows App connection documentation also describes Android and Chrome OS setup. Verify the current app listing for your platform.
- Add and open the connection. In the mobile app, add a PC and enter the PC name, then connect and authenticate with an account permitted to access that computer.
Use Chrome Remote Desktop from Android
Google documents Chrome Remote Desktop for accessing Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, with mobile access instructions for Android. Its cited instructions do not establish iPhone support, so do not assume the Android setup applies to an iPhone.
- On the host computer, open Chrome Remote Desktop and follow Google’s remote-access setup.
- On the Android phone, install and open the Chrome Remote Desktop app, then sign in with the Google account used for setup.
- Select the computer from the available list and enter the PIN configured for remote access.
Google’s detailed steps and current requirements are in Access another computer with Chrome Remote Desktop.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Keep the Windows connection protected
Microsoft recommends leaving Network Level Authentication (NLA) enabled where possible. NLA requires authentication before a remote session is established, adding a check before the desktop connection opens. Review Microsoft’s Remote Desktop security guidance before changing this setting.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check Windows support status before relying on the PC
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft says free updates, technical assistance, and security fixes stopped after that date. If the host still runs Windows 10, account for that support status when deciding whether to use it for remote access; see Microsoft’s Windows 10 support notice.
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 →Quick Recap
Best Value
- Ultra-Fast Data Transfers: Experience the power of 5Gbps transfer speeds with this USB hub and sync data in seconds, making file transfers a breeze.
- Long Cable, Endless Convenience: Say goodbye to short and restrictive cables. This USB hub comes with a 2 ft long cable, giving you the freedom to connect your devices exactly where you need them.
- Sleek and Compact: Measuring just 4.2 × 1.2 × 0.4 inches, carry the USB hub in your pocket or laptop bag and connect effortlessly wherever you go.
- Instant Connectivity: Anker USB-C data hub offers a true plug-and-play experience, instantly connecting your devices and enabling seamless file transfers.
- What You Get: 2ft Anker USB-C Data Hub (4-in-1, 5Gbps) , welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- 5 in 1 Connectivity: The USB C Multiport Adapter is equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 100W USB C PD port, a 5 Gbps USB A data port, and two 480 Mbps USB A ports
Rank #3
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
