How to Build Your Own Parsec
Replace Parsec with a custom build. Remote desktop reimagined – a seamless 4k experience at up to 60 frames per second with near-zero latency
Build Difficulty: 5/5
Build a working replacement in a weekend with AI tools
Estimated Timeline
Based on 33 features at Weekend Project difficulty, expect about One weekend with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 33 features
Administration(8 features)
Centralized admin panel for managing team access and settings
Access logs to track team activity and connections (7 days for Teams, full logs for Enterprise)
Manage billing for entire team from admin panel
Fine-grained control over team member access and permissions
Create granular admin roles with specific permissions
+3 more in this category
Security(7 features)
Host can control exactly which apps connected guests are approved to see and interact with
All connections are encrypted for data security
MFA support to keep password and login locked down
All connections are peer-to-peer and never pass through Parsec infrastructure
Privacy mode to hide sensitive information during sessions
+2 more in this category
Collaboration(3 features)
Invite external users to connect for up to five days with temporary access credits
Share a session with team members to capture over-the-shoulder or on-the-couch feel for real-time review and co-op gameplay
Share a single link to allow friends or team members to connect
Input(3 features)
Full gamepad/controller input support with customizable keyboard mapping
Full keyboard and mouse input support for remote control
Pressure and tilt sensitive Wacom tablet support for professional creative work
Performance(3 features)
Frame rates up to 240 FPS (up to 60 FPS at 4K) for smooth experience
High-performance relay server for added performance, security, and connection reliability at scale
Proprietary technology and direct peer-to-peer connections mean virtually no latency
Compatibility(2 features)
Play games on PC, Mac, tablet, laptop, or phone
Host connections on Windows 10+ and macOS 10.15+
Display(2 features)
Support for streaming up to 3 monitors simultaneously
Support for virtual monitors for extended display configurations
Integration(2 features)
Seamless Discord integration for chat and collaboration
API access to automate Parsec deployment and manage team access programmatically
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying Parsec
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 33 features at very easy complexity.