Screen sharing software is a tool that enables users to share their desktop content—including browsers, documents, spreadsheets, and other files—with other users in real-time over the Internet. In doing so, remote users (viewers) can access, observe, and (in some cases) control the sharing party’s (presenters) screen. As a result, users can collaborate much more effectively. In addition to collaboration, this software has other applications also—i.e. remote help desk, web conferencing for online meetings, web tutorials, and the list goes on. That being said, it’s hard to deny how effective screen sharing can be, and developers know this. As such, there are several options fit with somewhat bloated pricing. While screen sharing can allow for greater efficiency/productivity, the cost can turn off many businesses to the prospect of these solutions; however, now there are a variety of free screen sharing solutions designed specifically for certain platforms (i.e. Mac, PC, etc.). So, to help enlighten users, (specifically Mac Users), we’ve compiled a list of 20 Free Screen Sharing solutions for Mac users.
1. Chrome Remote Desktop: Allows users to access another computer through the Chrome browser or a Chromebook. While this software contains basic functionality, it lacks many of the features found in a competitor’s software.
2. ScreenLeap: ScreenLeap also has several priced solutions; however, the free solution includes one-click sharing, 2 hours/day usage, shared servers, and public broadcasts. Users should note that this does not include encryption. This software also includes extensions for users’ browsers and Gmail accounts.
3. CrossLoop: CrossLoop features free screen sharing with unlimited sessions, 128-bit encryption for sessions, and quick connections (around 2 minutes). In addition to this, Remote Access is also free—which includes remote reboot and reconnect.
4. Quick Screen Share: This free software doesn’t require any installation (assuming users have Java) or registration. This is a “side project” from Screencast-O-Matic.com and is still in BETA. Currently, this works by creating a direct peer-to-peer connection.
5. FuzeBox: FuzeBox has several different solutions (some priced); however, their Free Solution allows for up to 3 participants, 3 HD video streams, Screen and Content sharing, 250 MB cloud sharing, meeting recordings, and unlimited VoIP audio.
6. TeamViewer: A free download that allows for remote support, remote admin ( 24/7 access to computers and servers), remote access (data and applications), and home office (access office computer from home).
7. WebEx: Allows users to meet online and share files, information, and expertise. With a Free Basic plan, users are privy to 3 people per meeting, 1 host license, standard-quality video, VoIP audio, desktop, whiteboard, and document sharing, support resources, and 250 MB of storage.
8. Jing: This screen sharing software allows users to customize and send screenshots to web-based social networks. Also, users can select regions of their screens for recording. Note Jing video is limited to 5 minutes.
9. Skype: With this users can share their screen with one contact in a voice call for free. For video calls, one would need Skype’s premium plan. As such, users can display presentations, display photos, and more.
10. AnyMeeting: The Free plan includes all Pro features—i.e. unlimited meetings, 6-way video conferencing, screen sharing, mobile attendee access, etc.—except recording. It also allows 200 max meeting attendees and is Ad-supported.
11. Free Screen Sharing: Includes unlimited free meetings, up to 96 participants, anywhere/anytime meeting, free audio conferencing, customization options, and much more.
12. Vyew: This browser-based service has advertisements (free version), but includes up to 10 real-time participants and a room limit of 20. Additionally, users can publish “rooms” on various platforms.
13. ScreenHero: Currently in Beta, this software utilizes peer-to-peer connection 92% of the time, and uses servers for the remaining 8%. Additionally, login credentials and every session are encrypted with the PSP TLS scheme.
14. ScreenStream Screen Broadcasting: This free downloadable software works to share screens so users can watch screens by typing the link address (and optional access code). Additionally, this software does not require users to install any special software to view their screen. Instead, all that’s needed is an Internet browser.
15. LogMeIn: LogMeIn Free provides users (up to 10 computers) with free remote access to one’s desktop enabling one to open files, check their email, run programs, and much more. As such, this software can be run from a mobile device or any computer as it works over the Internet.
16. Zoom.us: Zoom’s plan is free and allows up to 25 participants to join for free. Additionally, this plan includes unlimited 1-to-1 meetings, an unlimited number of meetings, up to 25 video streams per meeting, and 40 minutes per meeting. Some other key features include HD video, HD Voice, HQ desktop and application sharing, and more.
17. Join.me: With the free option, users can add up to 10 participants and have access to several features including screen sharing, as well as internet calling, share control, multi-monitor, chat, file send, and more.
18. TightVNC: Free for personal and commercial use. It allows users to both views and controls a remote desktop. Additionally, users can choose to download TightProjector, which projects a desktop onto many networked PCs.
19. Bosco’s Screen Share: Leverages bandwidth to avoid per-minute charges and works with any personal web sharing system to enable sharing through various web browsers.
20. ShowMyPC: This free trial is a tad more restrictive than others, including limited branding application, mobile phone support, screenshot sharing, application sharing, file transfer, 1 hour limit for scheduled meetings, limited max participants, 1-hour duration limit, and limited local server speed.
While the above software is available for Mac users, it’s important to note that the Mac OS X operating system featured a built-in screen sharing option. This option allows users to control Mac displays remotely; however, it does not support cross-platform usage and doesn’t include some of the features other software do. That being said, users can use the above software in conjunction with the built-in feature, too. The choice is ultimately theirs. As stated above, screen sharing can be an invaluable tool and know that there are free options, there’s no reason for users to refrain from at least trying some options out.
