17 Best VDI Solutions of 2025
Best VDI Solutions Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 17 tools reviewed.
Remote work is now a core part of how many businesses operate, and keeping that work secure and efficient is a top priority. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solutions make this possible by giving employees safe access to their desktops and apps from anywhere.
The best VDI tools help companies manage users, protect data, and reduce IT costs, all while ensuring smooth performance across devices. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, choosing the right platform can make remote work faster, safer, and easier to manage.
This guide highlights the top VDI solutions that combine strong security, simple management, and flexible deployment options to fit different business needs.
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Best VDI Solutions Summary
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for management of virtual apps | 30-day free trial available | $120/15 users/year | Website | |
| 2 | Best for non-technical businesses | 7-day free trial available | From $40/50 GB/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for containerized apps and desktops | Free version available | $5/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for concurrent user licensing | Free demo available | From $7.50/user/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for hybrid multi-cloud support | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for replacing a traditional desktop | Free tier available | From $7.25/1 vCPU, 2GB/month | Website | |
| 7 | Best for flexible virtual desktop delivery | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best VDI for startups | Free version available | From $50/user/lifetime | Website | |
| 9 | Best for secure remote access without VPNs | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for Windows desktops | $200 credit for 30 days | From $5.50/app/month | Website |
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Best VDI Solutions Reviews
In my research, I found 10 top VDI solutions that offer significant benefits to companies of all sizes:
Parallels RAS is software that lets you access Windows applications from shared servers or cloud systems. It creates virtual workspaces and automates deployments on popular platforms like Microsoft Azure, AVD, and AWS.
Why I picked Parallels RAS: I picked Parallels RAS for its streamlined deployment and management of IT infrastructures. It offers an intuitive management console and tools to deliver applications, desktops, and data to any device.
Parallels RAS Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I noted include providing a single workspace for accessing all necessary applications, which improves user productivity. It creates a central access point for apps from various sources, simplifying the user experience and offering controls for easy management.
Integrations with Parallels RAS include pre-built plugins from Microsoft, AWS, appCure, Lenovo, and Brocade.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Control who gets in and out of published application based on Active Directory privileges
- Logging which captures incoming connections, IP addresses, and sign in timestamps
- Good speeds for end-users no matter which client they use
Cons:
- Some error codes may be undocumented; outdated documentation may be present in general
- IP filtering for Parallels client has some issues
V2 Cloud is a user-friendly Desktop-as-a-Service solution that allows businesses to securely host and access applications in the cloud. It offers simplicity without extensive training or certifications to deploy cloud desktops.
Why I picked V2 Cloud: I chose V2 Cloud because it allows you to quickly deploy pre-installed desktops with your business applications. You can access them easily from your desktop, browser, or smartphone. Additionally, it offers secure and fast cloud desktops for remote work on employees' own devices.
V2 Cloud Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I encountered that make life easier for businesses by simplifying complex features include a single panel that provides access to cloud resources, user controls, billing, security settings, and backups. Also, the dashboard gives full administrator access to virtual machines and facilitates easy application installation.
Integrations are pre-built and encompass various applications, including Microsoft 365, Quickbooks, Okta, JumpCloud, and FlexManager.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy to specify and implement according to your requirements
- Quick and simple template system setup for easy customization
- Allows you to focus on your business, not on server maintenance
Cons:
- Slight typing and scrolling lag compared to a regular desktop
- Download processes may be slow and needs improvement
Kasm Workspaces delivers streaming containerized apps and desktops to end-users. With data-loss prevention and web streaming technology, it enables the secure delivery of containerized workloads to your browser.
Why I picked Kasm Workspaces: I picked Kasm Workspaces for its containerized desktop infrastructure, which includes a range of apps, desktops, and templates. These templates are open-source, allowing for easy customization to fit any use case.
Kasm Workspaces Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I found most useful in Kasm Workspaces were those that simplify the process of app containerization. They offer templates that can be used independently or within the Kasm Workspaces platform. Additionally, Kasm Workspaces provides open-source templates for popular operating systems like Ubuntu, CentOS, and NVIDIA CUDA.
Integrations come with pre-built plugins that work with third-party applications. Some of the supported integrations include Microsoft Azure, Docker, Digital Ocean, VNC Connect, and Ubuntu.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy installation
- Containerized applications deployments are versatile; can be hosted on-premise or in the cloud
- Web browser access is possible without agents or VPNs
Cons:
- File upload is through the control panel; easier interaction methods like drag-and-drop should be added
- Remote workers may spend additional time learning the application on different web browsers
Inuvika OVD Enterprise is a platform that delivers Windows and Linux applications and desktops through virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). It’s built to run on any hypervisor or cloud provider and uses a Linux foundation to give you more control over infrastructure and licensing.
Why I picked Inuvika OVD Enterprise: I picked Inuvika OVD Enterprise because it uses concurrent user licensing, which can better suit shift-based or hybrid teams and reduce total license requirements. It includes built-in tools like an enterprise gateway and user authentication, so you won’t need separate add-ons or Microsoft SQL Server, which helps keep your deployment lightweight. You can also manage the environment through a web-based admin console, without installing a separate client.
Inuvika OVD Enterprise Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include fast installation with minimal setup, support for both Windows and Linux apps, and native access from desktops, browsers, or mobile devices. You can manage access and permissions using a built-in Zero Trust model, including multi-factor authentication and granular policy controls. There’s also support for redirecting USB devices and optimized video performance for tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
Integrations include Cisco Duo, WatchGuard Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP), Zadara, AuthPoint, XenServer, Nutanix AHV, VMware ESXi, Verge-OS, and Microsoft Active Directory.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- No need for Microsoft SQL Server or separate management clients
- Supports both Windows and Linux applications
- Concurrent user licensing can reduce costs for hybrid or shift-based teams
Cons:
- Admin interface could feel dated compared to newer platforms
- Limited documentation for advanced configuration scenarios
Citrix is a virtualization platform that helps organizations deliver virtual desktops and applications to users, no matter where they are or what device they're using. It supports both cloud-based and on-premises deployments, giving IT teams flexibility in how they manage and secure access to resources.
Why I picked Citrix: I picked Citrix because it gives you flexible VDI options with hybrid multi-cloud support, so you can manage apps and desktops across Azure, AWS, Google Cloud, or on-premises setups. That flexibility makes it easy to scale and adapt to your team’s needs. Citrix also boosts performance with HDX optimization, keeping apps and video calls smooth even on weak connections.
Citrix Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include comprehensive security options like granular controls, session recording, and endpoint protection, helping you manage risk and stay compliant. Citrix also offers a lightweight user environment that speeds up logins, boosts server scalability, and enhances application response times.
Integrations include Microsoft Active Directory, Azure Active Directory, Microsoft Graph Security, Splunk, Elasticsearch, ServiceNow, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Citrix Secure Private Access.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced security policies and controls
- Highly flexible deployment options
- Strong performance even over weak network connections
Cons:
- Upgrades and patches sometimes cause temporary disruptions
- Setup and initial configuration can be complex
Amazon WorkSpaces is a cloud-based virtual desktop that can replace a conventional desktop. It includes an operating system, computing power, storage space, and software applications, enabling you to perform daily tasks just as you would on a regular desktop.
Why I picked Amazon WorkSpaces: I chose Amazon WorkSpaces for its virtual desktop solution, which enables remote management and avoids office computer crashes that require a manual reboot. It replaces physical desktops and enhances flexibility for companies with remote workers.
Amazon WorkSpaces Standout Features & Integrations:
Features that I think are beneficial to companies in Amazon WorkSpaces include bundled hardware and software options. Provisioning is straightforward, so I found it easy to choose suitable bundles for users and launch any preferred number of Amazon WorkSpaces.
Integrations are native but require initial configuration to set up. Integrations include Okta MFA, SAML 2.0, Datadog, and AWS KMS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Can quickly spin up new workstations quickly
- Gives companies control over employee and consultant workstations.
- Multi-factor authentication is enabled for better security
Cons:
- MFA is email-only
- Some initial setup is required
Omnissa Horizon is a platform that delivers virtual desktops and applications across on-premises and cloud environments. It’s designed to give users a high-quality experience no matter where they are or what device they’re using.
Why I picked Omnissa Horizon: I picked Omnissa Horizon because it delivers strong VDI capabilities through features like app volumes and apps on demand, which make it easy to provision and manage virtual desktops and applications without heavy setup. Its adaptive blast protocol ensures that users get a consistent, high-performance desktop experience even over unreliable network connections. Horizon also supports a wide range of client devices, so your team can flexibly access secure virtual desktops from anywhere without needing special hardware.
Omnissa Horizon Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include strategic workload placement that lets you deploy resources either on-premises or in the cloud, giving your team flexibility to match user needs and budget constraints. Horizon also offers automation for desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) deployments, supporting Windows Enterprise multi-session and reducing cloud costs through smart power management.
Integrations are achieved using Workspace One's pre-built plugins. It supports many integrations, including Horizon 7, Microsoft Azure, Datadog, ServicePilot, and VMware Tanzu.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhances security by keeping all data within an internal network
- Flexible configuration options
- Applications can be accessed from a centralized desktop
Cons:
- High cost of licensing and additional features
- Steep learning curve
VirtualBox is a popular, free, and open-source hypervisor that allows easy experimentation. It virtualizes machines quickly and reliably, leveraging the host machine's hardware. Despite being free, VirtualBox offers advanced features comparable to those of the paid tiers in other hypervisors.
Why I picked VirtualBox: I chose VirtualBox for startups because it enables companies to make new VDIs for free. I also liked the way it supports its own container format, which is used when creating a new VDI with a new disk.
VirtualBox Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I thought were useful are software packages that enhance guest system performance and integration with the host machine. It ensures compatibility across different host platforms, enabling easy transfer of virtual machines between hosts with different operating systems (e.g. Windows and Linux).
Integrations offer pre-built integrations known as Guest Additions. These integrations include PACE suite, Clarive, Forensic Explorer, and Huawei RDS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports virtualization of Windows and many Linux types
- Full product and options are free with unlimited usage
- Easy host and guest sharing and access for development work
Cons:
- Needs more software demonstrations to showcase the product’s capabilities
- Guest systems need to be shut down if you want to modify resources
Dizzion Frame is a Desktop as a Service (DaaS) provider that offers virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solutions tailored to various organizational needs.
Why I picked Dizzion: I picked Dizzion because it gives your team control over virtual desktops across public, private, or hybrid cloud environments with its Flex platform. It supports identity providers, Active Directory, and single sign-on, which keeps your environment secure and connected. Their Frame Streaming Gateway lets users access desktops remotely without relying on VPNs. It also includes high availability and native encryption for secure and reliable access.
Dizzion Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include native VoIP and video conferencing that enhance communication capabilities, 4K resolution and multi-monitor support for improved visual experiences, and an intuitive admin console simplifying management.
Integrations include Okta, Google Workspace, Microsoft Entra ID, ADFS, Duo, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable user experiences through REST APIs
- Secure remote access without traditional VPNs
- Flexible deployment across multiple cloud platforms
Cons:
- Dependence on internet connectivity for remote access
- May require additional tuning for optimal performance
Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a Microsoft Azure-powered solution that enables the virtualization of Windows operating systems. It allows secure access to virtualized desktops and applications hosted in the cloud.
Why I picked Azure Windows Virtual Desktop: I chose AVD because it allows easy deployment and management of virtual desktops and applications for Windows. You can assign users, monitor performance, and quickly provide Windows desktops with all your business applications.
Azure Windows Virtual Desktop Features & Integrations:
Features I found helpful for Windows users include delivering the only virtualized solution fully optimized for Windows 11 and Microsoft 365. I also appreciated the enhanced application and data security, which detects threats proactively and facilitates system compliance and protection.
Integrations are native and include hardware, such as Linux and NVIDIA GPU driver. You can also integrate with Stackify and Snapshot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Can publish multiple VMs for different workloads
- Reduces costs the more pooled VMs you have
- System configs can be customized for team needs
Cons:
- Users have little control over processes like restorations or system restarts
- Resources must be managed internally, no third-party solutions are available
Other VDI Solution Options
Here are a few VDI solutions that didn’t quite make it to the top 10 but are definitely worth checking out:
- Sangfor aDesk VDI
For media performance
- HPE GreenLake
For remote workforces
- Oracle VDI
For solutions in Oracle data centers
- NetApp VDS
For Azure desktops at a fixed-price
- Inuvika
For VDI processing speed
- NComputing vSpace
For hardware solutions
- Microsoft Remote Desktop Services
VDI for troubleshooting
Related VDI Solution Reviews
VDI Solutions Selection Criteria
When selecting the best VDI solutions to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like remote work efficiency and data security. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Deliver virtual desktops
- Provide remote access
- Ensure data security
- Support multiple operating systems
- Allow user session management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Hybrid cloud support
- Advanced security protocols
- Real-time collaboration tools
- Customizable user environments
- AI-driven resource optimization
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive performance
- Accessibility across devices
- Customizable user settings
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates and guides
- Webinars and live training sessions
- Supportive chatbots for guidance
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Response time efficiency
- Access to a knowledge base
- Availability of dedicated account managers
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible payment options
- Features included in base pricing
- Cost-effectiveness for small teams
- Discounts for long-term contracts
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Consistency in positive feedback
- Reports on system reliability
- User satisfaction with features
- Feedback on customer service
- Overall recommendations from users
How to Choose VDI Solutions
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the solution grow with your team? Look for tools that support your current and future user base without needing major upgrades or replacements. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your existing tools? Ensure the solution connects with your current software stack to avoid data silos and extra manual work. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? A flexible solution should allow you to adjust settings to fit your specific workflows and preferences. |
| Ease of use | How easy is it for your team to use? Choose a solution with an intuitive interface to minimize training time and boost productivity. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Consider solutions with clear onboarding processes and resources like tutorials to help your team hit the ground running. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare pricing plans, and check for hidden costs like add-ons or extra fees. Make sure it aligns with your financial goals. |
| Security safeguards | How secure is your data? Look for solutions with strong encryption, regular security updates, and compliance with industry standards to protect your information. |
| Support availability | What support does the vendor offer? Check for 24/7 support, multiple contact methods, and a responsive team to assist you when issues arise. |
What Is VDI Solution?
A virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) solution is a technology that enables remote access to a computer's operating system, applications, and data. It hosts these resources on a central server, allowing users to access them from their own devices, such as laptops or tablets. With VDI, you have a virtual desktop that can be accessed anytime, making it convenient for remote work or accessing files on the go.
The central server in a VDI solution manages and controls virtual desktops, ensuring personalized environments for each user. It offers familiar desktop functionality, secure data storage, simplified management, and scalability for organizations of all sizes.
Features
When selecting VDI solutions, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Multi-session support: Allows multiple users to access a single virtual desktop, optimizing resource use and reducing costs.
- Security measures: Provides encryption and compliance with industry standards to protect sensitive data.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with existing software tools to streamline workflows and reduce manual data entry.
- Customizable environments: Lets users tailor virtual desktops to their specific needs, enhancing productivity and satisfaction.
- Dynamic scaling: Adjusts resources based on demand, ensuring efficient performance and cost-effectiveness.
- Persistent storage: Saves data and settings across sessions, allowing users to pick up right where they left off.
- Remote access: Enables users to access their desktops and applications from anywhere, supporting flexible work arrangements.
- User-friendly interface: Offers an intuitive design that reduces the learning curve and improves user adoption.
- Centralized management: Simplifies the administration of desktops and applications, saving time for IT teams.
- Hybrid cloud support: Provides flexibility to deploy solutions across different cloud environments, accommodating various business needs.
Benefits
Implementing VDI solutions provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Cost efficiency: Multi-session support and dynamic scaling help reduce hardware costs and optimize resource usage.
- Enhanced security: Built-in security measures protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Flexibility: Remote access and hybrid cloud support allow your team to work from anywhere, adapting to various business needs.
- Improved productivity: Customizable environments and a user-friendly interface help users work more effectively and comfortably.
- Simplified management: Centralized management features save time for IT teams by streamlining the administration of desktops and applications.
- Data continuity: Persistent storage ensures users can seamlessly continue their work across sessions without losing data or settings.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting VDI solutions requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in VDI solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for VDI Solutions
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic virtual desktop access, limited storage, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Single-user access, basic customization, and standard support. |
| Business Plan | $30-$60/user/month | Multi-user access, enhanced security measures, integration capabilities, and priority support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $70-$120/user/month | Advanced customization, dedicated account management, hybrid cloud support, and 24/7 expert support. |
VDI Solutions FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about VDI solutions:
What does VDI software do?
VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) software delivers virtual desktops and apps from a central server so users can securely work from any device. Platforms like Parallels RAS and Citrix make managing these desktops simple for remote teams.
Which VDI is best for non-technical users?
V2 Cloud is great for small teams without dedicated IT staff. It offers quick setup, built-in security, and daily backups—all managed through a simple cloud dashboard.
Which software is best for hybrid or multi-cloud setups?
Citrix and Omnissa Horizon stand out for hybrid environments, allowing deployment across multiple clouds like AWS or Azure while maintaining centralized control.
How do pricing models differ?
Tools like Inuvika OVD Enterprise charge per active user (concurrent licensing), while Amazon Workspaces and Azure Virtual Desktop use a pay-as-you-go model that fits scalable teams.
Can VDI software integrate with business tools?
Yes. Most platforms connect with Microsoft 365, Active Directory, and Google Workspace for smooth logins and file access inside virtual desktops.
How do I choose the right VDI solution?
Pick software that fits your team’s size, technical skills, and security needs—like V2 Cloud for simplicity, Citrix for flexibility, or Dizzion for secure remote access.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching VDI solutions, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.