Which One Is Better For Remote Work And Remote Gaming, Awesun or DeskIn?

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Remote work and remote gaming are becoming more and more common and our requirements on remote desktop software are also getting higher and higher. In this article, we will analyze the main requirements for remote desktop software during remote work and remote gaming and compare the performance of two popular remote desktop software — DeskIn and AweSun. Let’s see which one is more suitable for you.


Needs in remote work scenarios

1. Remote work—smooth and stable connection

Using mobile devices or portable laptops to access remote high-performance PCs for design, editing work is the most common usage scenario for remote desktop. To make the work experience feel like it is being done locally, we require remote software to provide stable, smooth and low-latency remote connection.

2. Remote collaboration - file sharing, collaboration features

During remote teamwork, it’s often the case that we need to collaborate with our colleagues. For example, sharing files or screens in remote meetings for instant communication and feedback, and editing the files together during brainstorming. Therefore, we need remote desktop software that can provide rich collaboration features and screen management functions that allow us to conveniently collaborate with team members on the other side of the earth.

3. Cross-system compatibility - Perfect mapping and efficient device management

Working on devices with different operating systems and brands at the same time is not something uncommon. For example, having a MacBook at home and a Windows PC at the office. Remote desktop tools should support multiple operating systems, and can perfectly map the use of keyboard, mouse or other external devices between different systems to ensure smooth use.

4. Remote technical support - access multiple devices simultaneously


Remote technical support is also a most common usage scenario for remote desktop tools, especially for distributed offices. IT engineers need to respond quickly and provide immediate assistance for trouble shooting, software installation, or system updates. Sometimes, they even need to support multiple people at the same time. It would be great if the remote desktop software allows real-time communication between the 2 parties, so that the engineer can quickly understand the problem and solve it.

Comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote work.

Based on user needs in remote work scenarios: Stable and smooth connection, remote collaboration functions such as file transfer, multi-platform support and fast communication, etc. We analyzed the related functions and performance of DeskIn and AweSun for remote work:

DeskIn excels in stability, file transfer speed, and multi-person collaboration, making it especially suitable for remote work and teamworks that require efficient collaboration, while AweSun is more suitable only for daily light work


Needs in remote game scenarios

1. Remote demanding games - stable and smooth without lags

For FPS games that require precise operation and quick response, a slight delay can mean the difference between winning and losing. Therefore, remote players expect remote desktop tools to provide stable, high frame rate, low latency remote connection and therefore, smooth remote gaming experience.

2. Cross systems remote gaming —perfect mapping of keyboard, mouse, and gamepad

When connecting between different systems, the remote desktop software must ensure perfect mapping of the local and remote keyboard and mouse to ensure accurate control of remote games. If it allows using the local controllers to control remote games, it can improve the remote game experience to the next level.

3. Immersive gaming experience---big screen/dual screen gaming

Gamers may want to project the game to a larger screen to play or have a dual screen that can zoom in the corner map details or open the group chat. That requires the remote desktop software to provide corresponding screen management functions, which can help players obtain a more immersive gaming experience.

4. Unblock keyboard and mouse

Some games—mostly Korean games—restrict the use of third-party mouse and keyboard, such as Blade & Soul, Summoners War, MU Online, etc., leading to a situation where you can't control the remote PC with the virtual mouse. To solve this problem, remote tools need to provide virtual keyboard and mouse, bypassing these restrictions to ensure that players can operate the game remotely.

Comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote gaming.

Game performance has an increasing influence affecting people’s choice of remote desktop software. High image quality, low-latency and stable connections are crucial to the gaming experience. Here's a comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote gaming:

DeskIn and AweSun both have good performance and feature support for remote gaming, but they have quite different charging models. If you have 4 or more devices, DeskIn may be a more cost-effective choice for you.

Why choose DeskIn?

DeskIn combines stability, efficiency and versatility to provide an excellent remote control experience for both remote work and remote gaming needs. Here are the main benefits of DeskIn:

  1. Stable and smooth: Provides stable and smooth connection, no connection time limit and won't drop.

  2. Low latency and high image quality: <40ms low latency, up to 4K image quality, suitable for immersive gaming and design work.

  3. Fast file transfer: Supports up to 12MB/S high-speed transfer of large files between PCs and mobile devices, no size and format limit.

  4. Powerful collaboration features: Supports multi-session connection extend screen, mirror screen and audio call, improving team collaboration efficiency.

  5. Cross-platform capabilities: Compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, easily manage all your smart devices.

Conclusion

DeskIn and AweSun are both excellent remote desktop software, if you are gamers, both DeskIn and Awesome can provide a very good remote gaming experience. If you mainly use it for remote working and collaboration, there is no doubt that DeskIn can provide richer functions and more stable connections, giving you a more efficient remote working experience. Download it now and give it a try!

Remote work and remote gaming are becoming more and more common and our requirements on remote desktop software are also getting higher and higher. In this article, we will analyze the main requirements for remote desktop software during remote work and remote gaming and compare the performance of two popular remote desktop software — DeskIn and AweSun. Let’s see which one is more suitable for you.


Needs in remote work scenarios

1. Remote work—smooth and stable connection

Using mobile devices or portable laptops to access remote high-performance PCs for design, editing work is the most common usage scenario for remote desktop. To make the work experience feel like it is being done locally, we require remote software to provide stable, smooth and low-latency remote connection.

2. Remote collaboration - file sharing, collaboration features

During remote teamwork, it’s often the case that we need to collaborate with our colleagues. For example, sharing files or screens in remote meetings for instant communication and feedback, and editing the files together during brainstorming. Therefore, we need remote desktop software that can provide rich collaboration features and screen management functions that allow us to conveniently collaborate with team members on the other side of the earth.

3. Cross-system compatibility - Perfect mapping and efficient device management

Working on devices with different operating systems and brands at the same time is not something uncommon. For example, having a MacBook at home and a Windows PC at the office. Remote desktop tools should support multiple operating systems, and can perfectly map the use of keyboard, mouse or other external devices between different systems to ensure smooth use.

4. Remote technical support - access multiple devices simultaneously


Remote technical support is also a most common usage scenario for remote desktop tools, especially for distributed offices. IT engineers need to respond quickly and provide immediate assistance for trouble shooting, software installation, or system updates. Sometimes, they even need to support multiple people at the same time. It would be great if the remote desktop software allows real-time communication between the 2 parties, so that the engineer can quickly understand the problem and solve it.

Comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote work.

Based on user needs in remote work scenarios: Stable and smooth connection, remote collaboration functions such as file transfer, multi-platform support and fast communication, etc. We analyzed the related functions and performance of DeskIn and AweSun for remote work:

DeskIn excels in stability, file transfer speed, and multi-person collaboration, making it especially suitable for remote work and teamworks that require efficient collaboration, while AweSun is more suitable only for daily light work


Needs in remote game scenarios

1. Remote demanding games - stable and smooth without lags

For FPS games that require precise operation and quick response, a slight delay can mean the difference between winning and losing. Therefore, remote players expect remote desktop tools to provide stable, high frame rate, low latency remote connection and therefore, smooth remote gaming experience.

2. Cross systems remote gaming —perfect mapping of keyboard, mouse, and gamepad

When connecting between different systems, the remote desktop software must ensure perfect mapping of the local and remote keyboard and mouse to ensure accurate control of remote games. If it allows using the local controllers to control remote games, it can improve the remote game experience to the next level.

3. Immersive gaming experience---big screen/dual screen gaming

Gamers may want to project the game to a larger screen to play or have a dual screen that can zoom in the corner map details or open the group chat. That requires the remote desktop software to provide corresponding screen management functions, which can help players obtain a more immersive gaming experience.

4. Unblock keyboard and mouse

Some games—mostly Korean games—restrict the use of third-party mouse and keyboard, such as Blade & Soul, Summoners War, MU Online, etc., leading to a situation where you can't control the remote PC with the virtual mouse. To solve this problem, remote tools need to provide virtual keyboard and mouse, bypassing these restrictions to ensure that players can operate the game remotely.

Comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote gaming.

Game performance has an increasing influence affecting people’s choice of remote desktop software. High image quality, low-latency and stable connections are crucial to the gaming experience. Here's a comparison of DeskIn and Awesun’s performance for remote gaming:

DeskIn and AweSun both have good performance and feature support for remote gaming, but they have quite different charging models. If you have 4 or more devices, DeskIn may be a more cost-effective choice for you.

Why choose DeskIn?

DeskIn combines stability, efficiency and versatility to provide an excellent remote control experience for both remote work and remote gaming needs. Here are the main benefits of DeskIn:

  1. Stable and smooth: Provides stable and smooth connection, no connection time limit and won't drop.

  2. Low latency and high image quality: <40ms low latency, up to 4K image quality, suitable for immersive gaming and design work.

  3. Fast file transfer: Supports up to 12MB/S high-speed transfer of large files between PCs and mobile devices, no size and format limit.

  4. Powerful collaboration features: Supports multi-session connection extend screen, mirror screen and audio call, improving team collaboration efficiency.

  5. Cross-platform capabilities: Compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS and Android, easily manage all your smart devices.

Conclusion

DeskIn and AweSun are both excellent remote desktop software, if you are gamers, both DeskIn and Awesome can provide a very good remote gaming experience. If you mainly use it for remote working and collaboration, there is no doubt that DeskIn can provide richer functions and more stable connections, giving you a more efficient remote working experience. Download it now and give it a try!

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Chrome Remote Desktop and setup guide

Table of Contents

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What’s next?

Chrome Remote Desktop and setup guide

COMPARISONS

How to Set Up & Use Chrome Remote Desktop: Complete Beginner's Guide | DeskIn Japan

How to Set Up and Use Chrome Remote Desktop in Japan: A Complete Beginner's Guide to CRD

What You'll Learn in This Article

This article walks through the basic setup and features of Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD), Google's free remote access tool — explained clearly for first-time users.

CRD is free, simple to configure, and integrates smoothly with your existing Google account and Chrome browser. It works across Windows, Mac, and smartphones, making it easy to get started with remote access from virtually any device.

For everyday personal use and one-off remote support sessions, it's an excellent option — though its features are limited to "Remote Access" and "Remote Support." For more advanced requirements — 4K display quality, low latency, or stable connections inside Japanese corporate networks — a professional-grade tool like DeskIn is worth considering.


Introduction

What Is Chrome Remote Desktop?

Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) is a free remote access tool developed by Google. All you need is the Chrome browser and a Google account to remotely control another PC over the internet, from anywhere. No additional hardware is required, making it one of the most accessible ways to get started with remote desktop access.

Why Remote Desktop Is Useful in Japan

Hybrid work has become a fixture across Japan's working culture. Many companies — especially in Tokyo and other major cities — now expect employees to split their time between the office and home. Students, too, often find themselves needing access to files or software left behind on a home PC. And for those who have just joined the workforce as shinshakajin (新社会人 — literally "new members of society," the term for fresh graduates entering their first job, typically in April when Japan's fiscal and academic year begins), juggling unfamiliar tools across multiple environments can be genuinely stressful. Chrome Remote Desktop offers a practical, low-barrier solution for all of these situations.

Recommended Reads:
Which One Is Better, Chrome Remote Desktop Or Microsoft Remote Desktop?

Chrome Remote Desktop's Two Core Features

  1. Remote Access — Connect to Your Own Devices, Anytime

The "Remote Access" feature lets you connect to your home or office PC from any location, at any time. Once the host machine is configured, you can control it remotely as long as it's powered on — even if no one is sitting in front of it. This is ideal for pulling up a file you left on your home PC while you're at school or the office, or for using your full desktop environment from a laptop while you're out.

  1. Remote Support — Temporary Screen Sharing for Troubleshooting

The "Remote Support" feature is built for one-off, temporary sessions. By sharing a connection code, you can let someone else view or control your screen — or do the same for them — without exchanging account credentials. It's a clean and simple way to help a classmate, colleague, or family member work through a technical issue remotely.

Chrome Remote Desktop is designed specifically around these two functions. That focused scope makes it particularly easy to pick up, even if you've never used a remote desktop tool before.

Chrome Remote Desktop feature switching

What You'll Need Before Getting Started

A Google Account

A Google account is required. If you don't already have one, register before you begin. If you're already using Gmail or Google Drive, that same account will work here.

Google Chrome Browser

CRD runs inside the Chrome browser, so Chrome needs to be installed on both the host (the PC you want to access remotely) and the client (the device you're connecting from). Chrome can be installed alongside any other browser without conflict.

A Stable Internet Connection

Remote desktop transmits live screen data over the internet, so a reliable connection on both ends matters. If your Wi-Fi is inconsistent, a wired connection will generally produce a much smoother experience.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Setting Up the Host PC (the Computer You Want to Control)

Start by configuring Chrome Remote Desktop on the machine you'll be accessing remotely.

  1. Open Google Chrome and navigate to the Chrome Remote Desktop page.

  2. Follow the on-screen prompts to add the extension and complete the installation.

Chrome Remote Desktop addition and installation procedure
  1. Enable "Remote Access" and follow the steps to set a PIN code of at least six digits.

  2. Once setup is complete, this PC will appear in your list of remotely accessible devices.

Connecting from the Client Device (the Device You're Using to Connect)

Next, prepare the device you'll be connecting from.

  1. Log into Chrome with the same Google account and open the Chrome Remote Desktop page.

  2. Select the host PC from your device list.

Chrome Remote Desktop device connection screen
  1. If connecting from a smartphone or tablet, download the dedicated iOS or Android app and select your target PC from within the app.

Authenticating with Your PIN Code

After selecting the host PC, you'll be prompted to enter your PIN to verify the connection.

  1. Enter the PIN you created during setup on the client device.

  2. Once authenticated, the host PC's screen will appear on your device and you'll be able to control it with your mouse and keyboard.

  3. The connection is encrypted and can be ended at any time.

Tips for Getting More Out of CRD

Make the Most of Keyboard Shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts deliberately can make a real difference to your efficiency in a remote session. This is especially worth thinking about if you're switching between Windows and Mac, where key behaviour differs — particularly around:

  • The difference between the Ctrl and Cmd keys

  • Full-screen toggling and window switching

Familiarising yourself with these basics in advance will help things feel more natural. If shortcuts are being captured by your local device instead of reaching the remote machine, check the settings for an option like "Send all keyboard input to remote" — this is usually the fix.

Using CRD on Mobile: What to Expect

The mobile experience differs quite a bit from working on a desktop. Chrome Remote Desktop's mobile app is built around touch controls:

  • Swipe to move the mouse cursor

  • Pinch to zoom in or out

  • Toolbar at the bottom of the screen to access the keyboard and menu

Precise input — longer text entry, drag-and-drop, clicking small targets — is slower and more effortful on mobile than on a PC. In practice, mobile access works best for quick checks and light tasks. For anything more involved, a laptop or desktop will serve you much better.

Chrome Remote Desktop smartphone operation image

The Limitations of Chrome Remote Desktop

Simplicity Has Its Ceiling

Chrome Remote Desktop is, at its core, a tool built for "Remote Access" and "Remote Support" — nothing more. That focus is part of what makes it easy to use, but it also means that more specialised requirements hit a wall fast. If you need to transfer large files quickly, manage multiple users or devices, or keep detailed logs of remote sessions, you'll find CRD doesn't have the tools for the job.

Instability Inside Japanese Corporate Networks

Many Japanese companies — particularly larger organisations — maintain strict internal network environments managed by their IT departments (joho shisutemu-bu, 情報システム部). Firewalls, proxy settings, and restrictions on Google services are common, particularly in finance, manufacturing, and government-adjacent industries. In these environments, Chrome Remote Desktop connections can become unreliable, suffer significant lag, or fail entirely.

If you've started a new job in Japan and found that CRD simply won't connect from the office network, this is almost certainly why.

Network latency and firewall restrictions image

Dependency on Your Google Account

Because CRD is tied to a Google account, any disruption to that account — a forgotten password, an account lock, or a multi-factor authentication hiccup — directly affects your ability to access remote machines. For personal use this is manageable, but for anything business-critical, it's a meaningful single point of failure.

Ready for More? Meet DeskIn — A Professional Remote Desktop Solution

The Natural Next Step Up from CRD

Chrome Remote Desktop is a solid starting point, but as remote work needs become more regular and more demanding, many users find themselves running up against its limits. For those who need a more robust, feature-rich tool suited to daily professional use, DeskIn is the obvious step up.

Built to Handle Japan's Corporate Network Environments

DeskIn is engineered for stability in complex network setups — including the kind of strict firewalls and proxy configurations common in Japanese corporate IT infrastructure. Where CRD struggles in these environments, DeskIn is designed to maintain consistent, low-latency connections even under restrictive conditions.

Image comparison of image quality between Chrome Remote Desktop and Deskin

Professional Performance and an Intuitive Workflow

DeskIn supports 4K display quality and ultra-low-latency response, with a dedicated desktop client that isn't dependent on a browser. For creative work, detailed tasks, or simply getting through a full working day remotely without friction, this level of performance makes a tangible difference. 

→ Try DeskIn for free and explore what's possible

Summary

Chrome Remote Desktop is a free, easy-to-use tool that works well for personal use, occasional remote access, and basic screen sharing. If you're new to remote desktop tools — or if you just need a quick, no-cost way to access your own PC remotely — CRD is a perfectly reasonable place to start.

For day-to-day professional use in Japan, however, particularly within corporate network environments or when you need reliable performance and high display quality, CRD will likely fall short. In those cases, transitioning to or pairing CRD with a tool like DeskIn will give you a remote setup that's genuinely fit for purpose.

Recommended Reads:
9 Benefits of Remote Access & Best Practices for Modern Life

daughter helping her father troubleshooting windows home remote access

COMPARISONS

Your Windows Home PC Can't Host Remote Desktop. Here's How to Get Remote Access Without the $99 Pro Upgrade.

If you have ever tried to remotely access a second laptop from your Windows Home PC, only to be told that your Home edition does not support Remote Desktop, you already know the frustration. Three pain points hit hardest. First, Windows Home editions can't serve as Remote Desktop hosts, so your desktop/laptop can never be the host. Second, the only official fix is upgrading to Windows Pro, which costs an extra US$99 per licence. Third, Microsoft’s own Remote Desktop client apps are being discontinued through 2025 and 2026, leaving Home users with even fewer built-in options than before. The good news is that affordable (and in some cases free) alternatives exist. Here is what changed, how it affects everyday users, and which tools can get you back in control.

Before: What Windows Home Users Expected

When most people buy a Windows laptop, they assume they are getting the full Windows experience. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a native app that has been part of the Windows OS for over two decades. But Microsoft reserves the RDP host function, the ability to accept incoming remote connections, for Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions only. Windows Home can only act as a client, meaning you can connect out to a Pro machine, but nobody can connect in to yours.

For designers who need to reach a powerful desktop from a lightweight travel laptop, for students who left a file on their home PC, or for anyone helping a family member troubleshoot remotely, this is a real gap. The assumption was always “I’ll just remote in.” The reality is that Windows Home quietly says no.

The Real Cost of “Just Upgrade to Pro”

Microsoft’s official answer is to purchase a Windows 11 Pro licence. A fresh Pro licence retails at US$199, while the in-place upgrade from Home to Pro costs US$99. If you own more than one machine—say a home desktop and a personal laptop—those costs add up quickly. For freelancers, students, and privacy-conscious home users, that is a steep bill just to unlock one feature. And even after upgrading, configuring RDP for use outside your local network still requires VPN setup or port forwarding, tasks that are far from beginner-friendly.

After: The Phasing Out of Microsoft’s Remote Apps Adds Urgency

To make matters worse, Microsoft retired the Remote Desktop Store app in May 2025 and will end support for the standalone MSI Remote Desktop client on 27 March 2026. Both are being replaced by the new “Windows App,” which focuses on cloud services such as Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365. The classic built-in tool (mstsc.exe) remains supported, but it still cannot turn a Home machine into a host. For everyday users who relied on Microsoft’s own apps to bridge devices, the transition adds confusion and reinforces that third-party software is now the practical path forward.

Solution: Third-Party Remote Desktop Tools

The simplest fix is to skip RDP entirely and use a remote access application that works regardless of your Windows edition. Three products are worth comparing and use AES-256 encryption as standard (even for financial institutions).

AnyDesk still technically offers a free tier for personal use, but recent restrictions have made it hard to rely on. Users report that sessions now disconnect in as little as five minutes, down from the 30 to 40 minutes previously allowed. File transfer has been removed from the free version entirely. The free tier is also capped at three devices, with only one session at a time. On top of that, AnyDesk’s commercial-use detection regularly flags and disconnects personal users who have done nothing wrong. Paid plans start at US$14.90 per month.

TeamViewer is one of the most recognised names in remote access. Its free tier covers personal use and includes encryption, file transfer, and multi-platform support. TeamViewer’s large user base means guides and troubleshooting resources are easy to find. However, it suffers from the same commercial-use detection problem as AnyDesk: personal users frequently get flagged and must appeal to regain access. Its paid tiers are also priced for business budgets rather than individual users, approximately around US$58.90 a month

DeskIn takes a different approach. Its free plan gives you full remote control of up to three devices at 1080p 30 FPS, with no session time limits and no commercial-use flags that cut you off mid-task. For the Windows Home user who just needs to reach a file on another PC, help an elderly relative troubleshoot, or check in on a home PC while travelling, the free plan covers it. It connects devices through its own cloud relay, so there is no need for VPN or port forwarding. File transfers run up to 12 MB/s with no size cap but limits to computer-to-phone transfer. The cross-platform capability allows you to control your home PC from a phone, or extend your laptop display to a tablet, all without a Windows Pro licence. 

For users who need more, paid plans start from US$9.90 per month with higher resolution streaming, faster file transfers, and support for up to 100 devices

DeskIn: Full Remote Access for Free

All three tools restore the remote control ability that Windows Home withholds. AnyDesk and TeamViewer are familiar names, but their free tiers have become increasingly limited: short session caps, removed features, and unpredictable commercial-use flags make them hard to count on for regular use. If you need colour accuracy for design work, transfer large project files every day, or simply want a reliable remote access experience without networking headaches, DeskIn offers the most complete set of features at a reasonable price, and its personal tier is free to start.

Upgrading to Windows Pro is still a valid option if you need RDP and other Pro features. But if remote desktop access is the main reason you are considering the US$99 upgrade, DeskIn offers a free alternative with low-latency connections that works on any Windows edition. Download DeskIn for remote work or explore its productivity features if this is the right tool for you before spending on a licence upgrade.

COMPARISONS

Why Is DeskIn Remote Desktop Better Than Splashtop?

If you are looking for a better alternative to Splashtop, this article will compare Splashtop and DeskIn in terms of mobile device support, functionality, and the price, and tell you why DeskIn remote desktop is better than Splashtop.

DeskIn vs Splashtop: Mobile device support

  • DeskIn:The free version already supports using on Android, iOS, Windows and Mac. Commercial use is also allowed

  • Splashtop:Free version doesn’t not support commercial use. You need to upgrade to the paid version to use on mobile devices. It also lacks the feature of searching devices.

DeskIn vs Splashtop: Functional richness

  • DeskIn: Provides rich free features, including Extend screen, Audio call, Annotations, Shared clipboard, etc. All are designed to improve users' remote collaboration efficiency and screen management efficiency. There are also Gaming keyboard, Gamepad features. specifically for remote games.

  • Splashtop: Although it also provides relatively rich functions, some of the paid functions are not suitable for individual users. The free version does not support file transfer and remote printing, you need a paid plan to use them.

DeskIn vs Splashtop: Device management ability

  • DeskIn:Supports up to 100 devices linked to one account. Suitable for individual users and small teams. With the unattended access feature, you can connect to your device anytime, anywhere.

  • Splashtop: Splashtop only supports 10 devices per account. This may limit flexibility for some users.

DeskIn vs Splashtop: Price

  • DeskIn: Providing 3 paid plans: Standard, Gaming and Performance with reasonable features and rights. Support monthly subscription.

  • Splashtop: Only annual subscription is allowed, and the price is high, which is not very friendly to individual users.

Comparison of DeskIn and Splashtop free and paid edition:

Easily get started with DeskIn

Go to DeskIn official website DeskIn Personal | Free Remote Desktop App with 40M+ Users download and install Deskin. Register an account with your email address and log in.

Enter the ID of the controlled device on the main control device, click connect, and use password connection or password-free connection to complete the verification. Then you can access the remote device.

Conclusion

DeskIn remote desktop is superior to Splashtop in terms of mobile device support, comprehensive functionality, user experience friendliness and cost-effectiveness under the WAN. These advantages make DeskIn remote desktop a more excellent and practical remote desktop solution, bringing a more convenient, efficient and secure remote operation experience to both individual users and corporate users.

Chrome Remote Desktop and setup guide

COMPARISONS

How to Set Up & Use Chrome Remote Desktop: Complete Beginner's Guide | DeskIn Japan

How to Set Up and Use Chrome Remote Desktop in Japan: A Complete Beginner's Guide to CRD

What You'll Learn in This Article

This article walks through the basic setup and features of Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD), Google's free remote access tool — explained clearly for first-time users.

CRD is free, simple to configure, and integrates smoothly with your existing Google account and Chrome browser. It works across Windows, Mac, and smartphones, making it easy to get started with remote access from virtually any device.

For everyday personal use and one-off remote support sessions, it's an excellent option — though its features are limited to "Remote Access" and "Remote Support." For more advanced requirements — 4K display quality, low latency, or stable connections inside Japanese corporate networks — a professional-grade tool like DeskIn is worth considering.


Introduction

What Is Chrome Remote Desktop?

Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) is a free remote access tool developed by Google. All you need is the Chrome browser and a Google account to remotely control another PC over the internet, from anywhere. No additional hardware is required, making it one of the most accessible ways to get started with remote desktop access.

Why Remote Desktop Is Useful in Japan

Hybrid work has become a fixture across Japan's working culture. Many companies — especially in Tokyo and other major cities — now expect employees to split their time between the office and home. Students, too, often find themselves needing access to files or software left behind on a home PC. And for those who have just joined the workforce as shinshakajin (新社会人 — literally "new members of society," the term for fresh graduates entering their first job, typically in April when Japan's fiscal and academic year begins), juggling unfamiliar tools across multiple environments can be genuinely stressful. Chrome Remote Desktop offers a practical, low-barrier solution for all of these situations.

Recommended Reads:
Which One Is Better, Chrome Remote Desktop Or Microsoft Remote Desktop?

Chrome Remote Desktop's Two Core Features

  1. Remote Access — Connect to Your Own Devices, Anytime

The "Remote Access" feature lets you connect to your home or office PC from any location, at any time. Once the host machine is configured, you can control it remotely as long as it's powered on — even if no one is sitting in front of it. This is ideal for pulling up a file you left on your home PC while you're at school or the office, or for using your full desktop environment from a laptop while you're out.

  1. Remote Support — Temporary Screen Sharing for Troubleshooting

The "Remote Support" feature is built for one-off, temporary sessions. By sharing a connection code, you can let someone else view or control your screen — or do the same for them — without exchanging account credentials. It's a clean and simple way to help a classmate, colleague, or family member work through a technical issue remotely.

Chrome Remote Desktop is designed specifically around these two functions. That focused scope makes it particularly easy to pick up, even if you've never used a remote desktop tool before.

Chrome Remote Desktop feature switching

What You'll Need Before Getting Started

A Google Account

A Google account is required. If you don't already have one, register before you begin. If you're already using Gmail or Google Drive, that same account will work here.

Google Chrome Browser

CRD runs inside the Chrome browser, so Chrome needs to be installed on both the host (the PC you want to access remotely) and the client (the device you're connecting from). Chrome can be installed alongside any other browser without conflict.

A Stable Internet Connection

Remote desktop transmits live screen data over the internet, so a reliable connection on both ends matters. If your Wi-Fi is inconsistent, a wired connection will generally produce a much smoother experience.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Setting Up the Host PC (the Computer You Want to Control)

Start by configuring Chrome Remote Desktop on the machine you'll be accessing remotely.

  1. Open Google Chrome and navigate to the Chrome Remote Desktop page.

  2. Follow the on-screen prompts to add the extension and complete the installation.

Chrome Remote Desktop addition and installation procedure
  1. Enable "Remote Access" and follow the steps to set a PIN code of at least six digits.

  2. Once setup is complete, this PC will appear in your list of remotely accessible devices.

Connecting from the Client Device (the Device You're Using to Connect)

Next, prepare the device you'll be connecting from.

  1. Log into Chrome with the same Google account and open the Chrome Remote Desktop page.

  2. Select the host PC from your device list.

Chrome Remote Desktop device connection screen
  1. If connecting from a smartphone or tablet, download the dedicated iOS or Android app and select your target PC from within the app.

Authenticating with Your PIN Code

After selecting the host PC, you'll be prompted to enter your PIN to verify the connection.

  1. Enter the PIN you created during setup on the client device.

  2. Once authenticated, the host PC's screen will appear on your device and you'll be able to control it with your mouse and keyboard.

  3. The connection is encrypted and can be ended at any time.

Tips for Getting More Out of CRD

Make the Most of Keyboard Shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts deliberately can make a real difference to your efficiency in a remote session. This is especially worth thinking about if you're switching between Windows and Mac, where key behaviour differs — particularly around:

  • The difference between the Ctrl and Cmd keys

  • Full-screen toggling and window switching

Familiarising yourself with these basics in advance will help things feel more natural. If shortcuts are being captured by your local device instead of reaching the remote machine, check the settings for an option like "Send all keyboard input to remote" — this is usually the fix.

Using CRD on Mobile: What to Expect

The mobile experience differs quite a bit from working on a desktop. Chrome Remote Desktop's mobile app is built around touch controls:

  • Swipe to move the mouse cursor

  • Pinch to zoom in or out

  • Toolbar at the bottom of the screen to access the keyboard and menu

Precise input — longer text entry, drag-and-drop, clicking small targets — is slower and more effortful on mobile than on a PC. In practice, mobile access works best for quick checks and light tasks. For anything more involved, a laptop or desktop will serve you much better.

Chrome Remote Desktop smartphone operation image

The Limitations of Chrome Remote Desktop

Simplicity Has Its Ceiling

Chrome Remote Desktop is, at its core, a tool built for "Remote Access" and "Remote Support" — nothing more. That focus is part of what makes it easy to use, but it also means that more specialised requirements hit a wall fast. If you need to transfer large files quickly, manage multiple users or devices, or keep detailed logs of remote sessions, you'll find CRD doesn't have the tools for the job.

Instability Inside Japanese Corporate Networks

Many Japanese companies — particularly larger organisations — maintain strict internal network environments managed by their IT departments (joho shisutemu-bu, 情報システム部). Firewalls, proxy settings, and restrictions on Google services are common, particularly in finance, manufacturing, and government-adjacent industries. In these environments, Chrome Remote Desktop connections can become unreliable, suffer significant lag, or fail entirely.

If you've started a new job in Japan and found that CRD simply won't connect from the office network, this is almost certainly why.

Network latency and firewall restrictions image

Dependency on Your Google Account

Because CRD is tied to a Google account, any disruption to that account — a forgotten password, an account lock, or a multi-factor authentication hiccup — directly affects your ability to access remote machines. For personal use this is manageable, but for anything business-critical, it's a meaningful single point of failure.

Ready for More? Meet DeskIn — A Professional Remote Desktop Solution

The Natural Next Step Up from CRD

Chrome Remote Desktop is a solid starting point, but as remote work needs become more regular and more demanding, many users find themselves running up against its limits. For those who need a more robust, feature-rich tool suited to daily professional use, DeskIn is the obvious step up.

Built to Handle Japan's Corporate Network Environments

DeskIn is engineered for stability in complex network setups — including the kind of strict firewalls and proxy configurations common in Japanese corporate IT infrastructure. Where CRD struggles in these environments, DeskIn is designed to maintain consistent, low-latency connections even under restrictive conditions.

Image comparison of image quality between Chrome Remote Desktop and Deskin

Professional Performance and an Intuitive Workflow

DeskIn supports 4K display quality and ultra-low-latency response, with a dedicated desktop client that isn't dependent on a browser. For creative work, detailed tasks, or simply getting through a full working day remotely without friction, this level of performance makes a tangible difference. 

→ Try DeskIn for free and explore what's possible

Summary

Chrome Remote Desktop is a free, easy-to-use tool that works well for personal use, occasional remote access, and basic screen sharing. If you're new to remote desktop tools — or if you just need a quick, no-cost way to access your own PC remotely — CRD is a perfectly reasonable place to start.

For day-to-day professional use in Japan, however, particularly within corporate network environments or when you need reliable performance and high display quality, CRD will likely fall short. In those cases, transitioning to or pairing CRD with a tool like DeskIn will give you a remote setup that's genuinely fit for purpose.

Recommended Reads:
9 Benefits of Remote Access & Best Practices for Modern Life

daughter helping her father troubleshooting windows home remote access

COMPARISONS

Your Windows Home PC Can't Host Remote Desktop. Here's How to Get Remote Access Without the $99 Pro Upgrade.

If you have ever tried to remotely access a second laptop from your Windows Home PC, only to be told that your Home edition does not support Remote Desktop, you already know the frustration. Three pain points hit hardest. First, Windows Home editions can't serve as Remote Desktop hosts, so your desktop/laptop can never be the host. Second, the only official fix is upgrading to Windows Pro, which costs an extra US$99 per licence. Third, Microsoft’s own Remote Desktop client apps are being discontinued through 2025 and 2026, leaving Home users with even fewer built-in options than before. The good news is that affordable (and in some cases free) alternatives exist. Here is what changed, how it affects everyday users, and which tools can get you back in control.

Before: What Windows Home Users Expected

When most people buy a Windows laptop, they assume they are getting the full Windows experience. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a native app that has been part of the Windows OS for over two decades. But Microsoft reserves the RDP host function, the ability to accept incoming remote connections, for Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions only. Windows Home can only act as a client, meaning you can connect out to a Pro machine, but nobody can connect in to yours.

For designers who need to reach a powerful desktop from a lightweight travel laptop, for students who left a file on their home PC, or for anyone helping a family member troubleshoot remotely, this is a real gap. The assumption was always “I’ll just remote in.” The reality is that Windows Home quietly says no.

The Real Cost of “Just Upgrade to Pro”

Microsoft’s official answer is to purchase a Windows 11 Pro licence. A fresh Pro licence retails at US$199, while the in-place upgrade from Home to Pro costs US$99. If you own more than one machine—say a home desktop and a personal laptop—those costs add up quickly. For freelancers, students, and privacy-conscious home users, that is a steep bill just to unlock one feature. And even after upgrading, configuring RDP for use outside your local network still requires VPN setup or port forwarding, tasks that are far from beginner-friendly.

After: The Phasing Out of Microsoft’s Remote Apps Adds Urgency

To make matters worse, Microsoft retired the Remote Desktop Store app in May 2025 and will end support for the standalone MSI Remote Desktop client on 27 March 2026. Both are being replaced by the new “Windows App,” which focuses on cloud services such as Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365. The classic built-in tool (mstsc.exe) remains supported, but it still cannot turn a Home machine into a host. For everyday users who relied on Microsoft’s own apps to bridge devices, the transition adds confusion and reinforces that third-party software is now the practical path forward.

Solution: Third-Party Remote Desktop Tools

The simplest fix is to skip RDP entirely and use a remote access application that works regardless of your Windows edition. Three products are worth comparing and use AES-256 encryption as standard (even for financial institutions).

AnyDesk still technically offers a free tier for personal use, but recent restrictions have made it hard to rely on. Users report that sessions now disconnect in as little as five minutes, down from the 30 to 40 minutes previously allowed. File transfer has been removed from the free version entirely. The free tier is also capped at three devices, with only one session at a time. On top of that, AnyDesk’s commercial-use detection regularly flags and disconnects personal users who have done nothing wrong. Paid plans start at US$14.90 per month.

TeamViewer is one of the most recognised names in remote access. Its free tier covers personal use and includes encryption, file transfer, and multi-platform support. TeamViewer’s large user base means guides and troubleshooting resources are easy to find. However, it suffers from the same commercial-use detection problem as AnyDesk: personal users frequently get flagged and must appeal to regain access. Its paid tiers are also priced for business budgets rather than individual users, approximately around US$58.90 a month

DeskIn takes a different approach. Its free plan gives you full remote control of up to three devices at 1080p 30 FPS, with no session time limits and no commercial-use flags that cut you off mid-task. For the Windows Home user who just needs to reach a file on another PC, help an elderly relative troubleshoot, or check in on a home PC while travelling, the free plan covers it. It connects devices through its own cloud relay, so there is no need for VPN or port forwarding. File transfers run up to 12 MB/s with no size cap but limits to computer-to-phone transfer. The cross-platform capability allows you to control your home PC from a phone, or extend your laptop display to a tablet, all without a Windows Pro licence. 

For users who need more, paid plans start from US$9.90 per month with higher resolution streaming, faster file transfers, and support for up to 100 devices

DeskIn: Full Remote Access for Free

All three tools restore the remote control ability that Windows Home withholds. AnyDesk and TeamViewer are familiar names, but their free tiers have become increasingly limited: short session caps, removed features, and unpredictable commercial-use flags make them hard to count on for regular use. If you need colour accuracy for design work, transfer large project files every day, or simply want a reliable remote access experience without networking headaches, DeskIn offers the most complete set of features at a reasonable price, and its personal tier is free to start.

Upgrading to Windows Pro is still a valid option if you need RDP and other Pro features. But if remote desktop access is the main reason you are considering the US$99 upgrade, DeskIn offers a free alternative with low-latency connections that works on any Windows edition. Download DeskIn for remote work or explore its productivity features if this is the right tool for you before spending on a licence upgrade.

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Don't miss out.

Contact Us

Email: support@deskin.io

Office: 991D Alexandra Road #02-17, Singapore 119972

Copyright © 2026 Zuler Technology PTE. LTD. All rights reserved.

Contact Us

support@deskin.io

991D Alexandra Road #02-17

Singapore 119972

Copyright © 2026 Zuler Technology PTE. LTD. All rights reserved.

Contact Us

Email: support@deskin.io

Office: 991D Alexandra Road #02-17, Singapore 119972

Copyright © 2026 Zuler Technology PTE. LTD. All rights reserved.

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