Shells vs vDeskWorks

Shells provides a cloud virtual desktop that can be accessed from devices including phones and tablets. Users can choose among multiple Linux distributions and access desktop applications from other device operating systems. Files can be downloaded, stored, opened, and edited across devices through the cloud desktop, and Shells says user data is backed up automatically. The company also states that it uses firewalls and end-to-end encryption. Shells identifies students, coders, workers, and small businesses as audiences, and says users can launch a virtual desktop in less than five minutes. Listed access platforms are web, iOS, and Android; the “Works with” list also names Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Android TV, PlayStation, Xbox, Oculus, and Tesla. Cloud desktop applications can include LibreOffice, OnlyOffice, or another document editor. Shells also describes dedicated virtual desktops for AI assistants with controlled access and persistent memory. A risk-free 7-day offer is advertised. The paid plans listed are Shells Basic at $14.95 a month, Shells Plus at $22.95 a month, and Shells Pro at $39.95 a month.

vDeskWorks offers desktop as a service, cloud VDI, Windows Cloud PCs, and virtual desktop solutions. Its manager centralizes administration of systems, VDI, users, and resources, while a resource monitor displays logs and current server and session information. Deployments can be on-premise, hybrid, or cloud-based; hosted DaaS and virtual PC services include Microsoft Azure and AWS. Windows desktops use RDP v10 or RDP over HTTPS, with Active Directory listed as an identity provider. Clients are listed for Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Windows, Chromebook, and HTML5 web. Listed client features include Windows multi-factor authentication and redirection for clipboard, local storage, USB, and printers. Security features include DDoS protection, backup and restoration, disaster recovery, and secure data storage. Plans include Standard at $59.95 a month, Power at $85 a month, and Pro at $125 a month; annual billing is presented with an extra 20% saving. A free trial is available, limited to three licenses, and there is no free plan.