Introduction
Getting a free Azure RDP in 2025 is still possible if you know where to look. Many students and developers need cloud resources for projects, coding, or testing – but can’t afford paid plans.
This guide reveals the top 5 legitimate ways to get free Azure Remote Desktop access without scams or hidden fees. Let’s dive in!
1. Microsoft Azure Free Tier (12 Months Free)
✅ Best for: New Azure users who need a full year of free RDP
🆓 What’s free: 750 hours/month of B1s VM (1 vCPU, 1GB RAM)
📆 Duration: 12 months
How to Get It:
- Sign up at azure.microsoft.com/free
- Verify with credit card (no charges if you stay within limits)
- Deploy a B1s Windows VM
- Always “Stop (Deallocate)” when not using to avoid charges
Pro Tip: Combine with Azure Dev Tools for free Windows licenses if you’re a student.
2. GitHub Student Developer Pack ($100 Azure Credit)
✅ Best for: College/university students
🆓 What’s free: $100 Azure credit + other developer tools
🎓 Requirements: Active student email (.edu) or verification
How to Get It:
- Apply at education.github.com/pack
- Verify student status
- Claim your $100 Azure credit
- Use it to run a better VM than free tier (e.g., B2s with 2 vCPUs)
Bonus: Includes free access to JetBrains IDEs, Canva, and more!
3. Microsoft for Startups (Up to $150k Azure Credits)
✅ Best for: Early-stage startups
🆓 What’s free: $1,000-$150,000 in Azure credits
🚀 Requirements: Registered startup in accelerator program
How to Get It:
- Apply at microsoft.com/startups
- Get accepted into the program
- Receive credits based on your startup stage
- Use credits for powerful VMs and cloud services
Note: Very competitive – need a real startup idea.
4. Azure Dev/Test Pricing (Up to 55% Discount)
✅ Best for: Developers who need occasional RDP
💰 Discount: 55% off regular prices
💻 Requirements: Visual Studio subscription
How It Works:
- Get a Visual Studio subscription ($45/month)
- Access discounted Azure rates
- Run a B2s VM for ~$10/month instead of $25
Best For: Developers who already use VS and need cheap (not free) RDP.
5. Azure Free Account + Free Tier Services
✅ Best for: Long-term free usage
🆓 What’s free: Always-free services beyond 12 months
∞ Duration: Some services never expire
What Stays Free:
- App Services: 10 web apps
- Functions: 1 million requests/month
- Cosmos DB: 1,000 RU/s + 25GB storage
- Static Websites: 5 sites
Smart Strategy: Use free services + minimal VM when needed.
Bonus: Free Azure Alternatives
If Azure doesn’t work for you:
- Google Cloud: $300 free credit
- AWS: 750 free EC2 hours
- Oracle Cloud: Always-free ARM VMs
- E2E Networks: Free Indian cloud credits
Final Verdict: Best Free Azure RDP Option?
| Method | Best For | Free Duration | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azure Free Tier | Beginners | 12 months | Small VM only |
| GitHub Student | Students | Until $100 used | Need verification |
| Microsoft Startups | Founders | Varies | Very competitive |
| Dev/Test Pricing | Developers | Ongoing | Requires VS subscription |
| Always-Free Services | Light users | Unlimited | No full RDP |
💡 For most users: Start with Azure Free Tier + GitHub Student Pack for maximum free usage.
What’s Next?
📌 Coming Soon: How to Get Free Windows 11 RDP on Azure Without Licensing Issues
Want more details on any method? Ask in the comments! 🚀