Best Apple Device Management Software Shortlist
Apple device management software lets you control, monitor, and secure iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other Apple hardware across your organization from a central dashboard. If you’re responsible for managing growing fleets of Apple devices, keeping systems secure, and ensuring compliance, finding the right software is essential. Here, you'll get my take on the best Apple device management platforms, with up-to-date recommendations to help you compare features, see what meets enterprise standards, and prioritize tools that make your job easier.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing software since 2023. As tech leaders ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different tech use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our software review methodology.
Best Apple Device Management Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top Apple device management software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for Munki integration | 30-day free trial + free demo available | From $2.50/device/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for SMB multi-OS management | 14-day free trial + free plan available | From $2.75/device/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for real-time device monitoring | 14-day free trial + free demo available | From $8.25/Mac/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best built-in AI security analytics | 30-day free trial available | From $1.50/device/month (billed monthly) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for cross-platform endpoint control | 30-day free trial available | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for multi-OS profile provisioning | 30-day free trial + free demo available | From $1.28/device/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 7 | Best integrated Apple security features | Free plan + 30-day free trial available | From $0.46/device/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for automated issue fixing | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for automated device enrollment | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best open source management tools | Free plan + free demo available | From $7/host/month | Website |
Best Apple Device Management Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best Apple device management software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the features, integrations, and best use cases of each platform to help you find the best one for you.
SimpleMDM is a macOS and iOS device management platform for automating configuration, app management, device inventory, and policy enforcement, offering features tailored for administrators managing Apple device environments.
Who Is SimpleMDM Best For?
SimpleMDM is a strong fit for IT teams at midsize businesses and educational institutions managing large Apple device inventories.
Why I Picked SimpleMDM
I picked SimpleMDM as one of the best because I get a purpose-built Munki integration that simplifies creating custom app catalogues and managing heavy software deployments. I also like that I can automate patching and app distribution workflows easily.
SimpleMDM Key Features
- Zero-touch device enrollment: Set up and provision Apple devices remotely from first boot.
- Granular configuration profiles: Apply detailed device restrictions and preferences across fleets.
- Remote lock and wipe: Secure lost or stolen devices with centralized lock and data removal.
- Certificate and Wi-Fi management: Push network credentials and certificates directly to managed devices.
SimpleMDM Integrations
Integrations include Apple Business Manager, Apple School Manager, Microsoft Azure, OneLogin, Okta, ADFS, and JumpCloud.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple app catalogue creation Fast platform setup
- Automated Munki-based software deployment workflows
- Automated Munki-based software deployment workflows
Cons:
- No local agent for offline device control
- Limited Windows or cross-platform management
Miradore is a cloud-based mobile device management solution for SMBs that lets you enroll, monitor, secure, and control Apple, Android, and Windows devices from a single web console.
Who Is Miradore Best For?
SMB IT administrators who need an easy way to manage Apple and other device platforms across multiple locations will find Miradore a strong fit.
Why I Picked Miradore
I picked Miradore because I can manage iOS, Android, and Windows devices from one dashboard—ideal for SMBs with diverse device fleets. My team uses its over-the-air configuration and remote lock/wipe features to keep Apple devices secure.
Miradore Key Features
- Device inventory management: Track detailed hardware and software information for all managed Apple devices.
- Application whitelisting and blacklisting: Specify which apps can or cannot be installed or run on devices.
- Automated OS update management: Schedule and enforce operating system updates across enrolled Apple devices.
- Compliance monitoring: Monitor device status and security posture through real-time compliance dashboards.
Miradore Integrations
Integrations include TeamViewer, API, Microsoft Active Directory, Microsoft Entra ID, and Google Workspace.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Supports bulk device provisioning workflows
- Easy policy deployment to Apple devices
- Centralized web console for device oversight
Cons:
- Some restrictions on remote device actions
- Limited security compliance reporting tools
Addigy is an Apple device management platform that gives IT teams tools for centralized configuration, inventory management, remote monitoring, software deployment, and security policy enforcement across Macs, iPhones, and iPads.
Who Is Addigy Best For?
IT teams in midsize to large organizations that need to monitor, manage, and secure Apple devices across multiple locations.
Why I Picked Addigy
I picked Addigy as one of the best because I rely on its real-time device monitoring to quickly flag compliance issues and system failures. Its live dashboard and automated remediation let me react to critical changes as they happen, not hours later.
Addigy Key Features
- Automated onboarding workflows: Provision new Apple devices with custom scripts, configurations, and apps as soon as they join your network.
- Patch management: Schedule and deploy OS updates and application patches across your entire Apple device fleet.
- Self-service portal: Provide users with access to a catalogue of approved apps and resources for easy, secure installation.
- Policy management: Centrally enforce and adjust compliance, security, and usage policies for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS devices.
Addigy Integrations
Integrations include Apple Business Manager, Okta, Google, ThreatDown, Autotask, Backblaze, BrightGauge, CloudRadial, Hudu, and Zapier.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Supports zero-touch provisioning
- Policy enforcement across device types
- Real-time monitoring for instant status updates
Cons:
- Fewer reporting templates
- Limited visibility into web content
IBM MaaS360 is a unified endpoint management platform designed for Apple device management, offering cloud-based control, real-time monitoring, remote configuration, and policy automation across iOS, macOS, and other devices.
Who Is IBM MaaS360 Best For?
IT security and compliance teams in regulated industries who need real-time monitoring and control over Apple devices at scale.
Why I Picked IBM MaaS360
I picked IBM MaaS360 because I rely on its built-in AI security analytics for advanced threat detection on Apple devices. I use its Watson AI-powered dashboards to quickly surface suspicious behaviours and automate compliance alerts across enterprise endpoints.
IBM MaaS360 Key Features
- Remote device wipe: Remotely erase data on lost or stolen Apple devices.
- Automated device enrollment: Configure and enroll new Apple devices at scale.
- Application catalogue: Deploy, update, and manage apps across managed Apple devices.
- Geofencing policies: Apply security and access rules based on device location.
IBM MaaS360 Integrations
Integrations include Zimperium Mobile Threat Defense (MTD), IBM Verify, IBM Cloud Pak for Security, TeamViewer, Zscaler, Microsoft Azure, and Microsoft 365.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Built-in mobile expense monitoring tracks data usage
- Supports granular device and app policy controls
- Proactively flags device security issues
Cons:
- Manual renewal needed for Entra ID synchronization
- Remote control requires separate TeamViewer license
Microsoft Intune is a unified endpoint management platform from Microsoft designed for IT teams to manage Apple, Windows, and Android devices, with tools for device configuration, security policy enforcement, and application deployment.
Who Is Microsoft Intune Best For?
Microsoft Intune is a strong choice for IT administrators at midsize and large organizations with diverse fleets of Apple and other devices.
Why I Picked Microsoft Intune
I picked Microsoft Intune as one of the best because I can create and enforce cross-platform security policies for Apple endpoints alongside Windows and Android devices. My team uses it to automate device enrollment, push custom compliance configurations, and manage app deployments from a unified dashboard.
Microsoft Intune Key Features
- Device lifecycle management: Manage provisioning, updates, and retirement for Apple hardware.
- Remote device actions: Remotely lock, wipe, or reset Apple devices from the console.
- Apple Business Manager integration: Sync and manage devices purchased through Apple Business Manager.
- Bulk application deployment: Install, update, or remove apps across large sets of managed devices.
Microsoft Intune Integrations
Integrations include Configuration Manager, Windows Autopilot, Endpoint analytics, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Windows Autopatch, Managed Google Play, Apple tokens and certificates, and TeamViewer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Manage enterprise deployment at scale
- Automated Apple device compliance enforcement
- Centralized device management for Mac and iOS
Cons:
- Advanced macOS settings require manual configuration
- Apple OS version controls can be restrictive
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus is an endpoint management solution for IT teams who need centralized control over Apple, Android, Windows, Chrome OS, and Linux devices, with features for device enrollment, configuration, and security policy enforcement.
Who Is ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus Best For?
IT teams at educational institutions and mid-sized enterprises managing large multi-OS device fleets will find ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus especially useful.
Why I Picked ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus
I picked ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus because I can provision and assign custom profiles across iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows from a single console. My team uses it to automate user- and device-based policy deployment, so we don’t have to manage multiple platforms separately.
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus Key Features
- Remote device troubleshooting: Remotely view and control Apple devices for support and diagnostics.
- App distribution management: Push, update, or remove apps on iOS and macOS devices over the air.
- Compliance reporting: Generate reports on device compliance status and security posture.
- Content management: Distribute, update, and secure documents on managed Apple devices.
ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus Integrations
Integrations include ServiceDesk Plus, ServiceNow, Zendesk, Analytics Plus, AssetExplorer, Zoho Creator, and Zoho CRM.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Remote troubleshooting for iOS and macOS devices
- Automated policy deployment for multiple operating systems
Cons:
- Limited customization for configuration templates
- Granular access controls are complex
- Allows remote device viewing
Mosyle is an Apple device management software platform that offers configuration, deployment, compliance controls, and security management for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS devices in business and education environments.
Who Is Mosyle Best For?
IT teams in education and business settings who need specialized security and management for mixed fleets of Apple devices.
Why I Picked Mosyle
I picked Mosyle as one of the best because I get tight integration of Apple-specific security features like device encryption, endpoint protection, and automated compliance checks directly in the management platform. This lets me address both security and configuration from one place.
Mosyle Key Features
- Remote device deployment: Provision and configure Apple devices without on-site setup.
- Application management: Install, update, and remove apps across managed endpoints.
- Profile-based configurations: Apply tailored settings based on user groups or device types.
- Live device monitoring: Track hardware status and compliance in real time.
Mosyle Integrations
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 for Business, Okta, Ping Identity, AD Federation Services (AD FS), and LDAP Active Directory.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes encryption management
- Detailed Apple-centric compliance tools
- Native security for Apple devices
Cons:
- Lacks advanced scripting features
- Limited customization for compliance reporting
Omnissa Workspace ONE is a unified endpoint management platform for Apple devices that offers app management, device compliance, zero-touch enrollment, and real-time monitoring in a cloud-based environment.
Who Is Omnissa Workspace ONE Best For?
IT teams in large enterprises need to automate Apple device management, monitoring, and issue remediation across complex device environments.
Why I Picked Omnissa Workspace ONE
I picked Omnissa Workspace ONE because I’ve used its automation engine to fix routine Apple device issues before they hit end users. My team relies on intelligent remediation workflows and granular policy enforcement that go beyond what typical MDM platforms offer.
Omnissa Workspace ONE Key Features
- Zero-touch provisioning: Set up and enroll Apple devices remotely without manual configuration.
- App catalogue management: Distribute and manage approved applications across your fleet of Apple devices.
- Device encryption controls: Enforce encryption policies to secure sensitive data on all managed Apple devices.
- Remote lock and wipe: Remotely lock or wipe devices if they are lost or compromised.
Omnissa Workspace ONE Integrations
Integrations include Omnissa Access, Okta, Microsoft Entra ID, ServiceNow, Horizon 8, Horizon Cloud, and Omnissa Intelligence.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Detailed role-based access for IT teams
- Experience score tracking improves support
- Automated remediation for common
Cons:
- High server memory load during certificate shifts
- Extra license required for custom reports
Ivanti Neurons for MDM is a cloud-based Apple device management platform that offers over-the-air provisioning, security policy enforcement, remote device management, and app distribution for enterprise IT environments.
Who Is Ivanti Neurons for MDM Best For?
IT administrators in mid-sized to large organizations who need to automate Apple device setup and management across geographically distributed teams.
Why I Picked Ivanti Neurons for MDM
I picked Ivanti Neurons for MDM as one of the best because I’ve configured automated device enrollment using Apple Business Manager, saving hours on bulk provisioning. I also like how my team can enforce setup workflows and quickly push managed configurations right out of the box.
Ivanti Neurons for MDM Key Features
- Remote device wipe: Remotely erase data on lost or stolen Apple devices.
- Application distribution: Distribute, update, and manage apps on enrolled Apple devices.
- Policy compliance monitoring: Continuously monitor devices for security and compliance policy adherence.
- Conditional access controls: Set device access rules based on security posture or compliance status.
Ivanti Neurons for MDM Integrations
Integrations include Google Admin Console, Microsoft Entra ID, LDAP, Splunk Enterprise, and ServiceNow.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Detailed device health and security dashboards
- Cloud-based MDM simplifies scaling
- Applies conditional access rules
Cons:
- Requires manual setup for VPP apps
- Initial configuration process can be complex
Fleet is a cross-platform device management and security platform that gives you open source tools for real-time asset inventory, configuration monitoring, software tracking, and query-based device controls, including Apple endpoints.
Who Is Fleet Best For?
Fleet works well for IT and security teams at organizations that prioritize open source solutions and need visibility across diverse device environments, including Apple hardware.
Why I Picked Fleet
I picked Fleet as one of the best because I use its open source system to run live OSQuery queries across Apple endpoints, track device health, and customize inventory workflows down to the code level.
Fleet Key Features
- MDM enrollment and enforcement: Register Apple devices for policy compliance and secure management.
- Application inventory: List and monitor all installed software on managed devices.
- Configuration policy management: Push and update settings or restrictions to device fleets remotely.
- Remote lock and wipe: Remotely protect or erase devices to prevent unauthorized access.
Fleet Integrations
Integrations include Okta, Snowflake, Tines, runZero, Ansible, AWS, Chef, Elastic, GitHub, and Jira.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Customizable policy and query management
- Real-time device inventory
- Open source with active community support
Cons:
- Limited built-in Apple-specific automation tools
- Requires technical knowledge for advanced setup
Other Apple Device Management Software
Here are some additional Apple device management software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Deel IT
Compliance for international teams
- JumpCloud
For automated user-to-device setup
- Scalefusion
Kiosk and single app mode controls
- NinjaOne
Remote troubleshooting for Macs
- Hexnode
Role-based access control
- Jamf
For education environments
- Iru
API extensibility for automation
- Rippling
Unified HR and IT device management
- Cisco Meraki Systems Manager
Network-driven device controls
- iMazing
Local device backup management
How I Evaluate Apple Device Management Software
Apple device management software is what keeps IT teams in control when a new Mac shows up at an employee's doorstep already enrolled, or when a lost iPhone needs a remote wipe before sensitive data walks out the door. When I evaluate tools in this space, I look at two things: whether a solution clears the baseline required to manage Apple devices reliably, and what actually sets it apart from the rest of the pack.
Core Functionality (Table Stakes for This List)
For apple device management software, the core functionality I test and evaluate is:
- MDM protocol support: I check for full Apple MDM framework coverage across macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and tvOS, including the ability to push profiles, issue remote commands, and query device status.
- Zero-touch enrollment: Integration with Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager is essential so devices configure themselves right out of the box without IT touching them.
- App lifecycle management: I evaluate how each tool handles VPP-based app distribution, silent installs on supervised devices, and Managed App Configuration for apps like Outlook or Zoom.
- OS update control: The ability to enforce, defer, and schedule software updates matters. I look for deadline enforcement and deferral windows that keep devices current without disrupting users.
- Security commands: Remote lock, remote wipe, Activation Lock bypass, and Lost Mode are baseline. I check that these work reliably across both Mac and mobile device types.
- Configuration profiles: Every tool needs to deliver Wi-Fi, VPN, email, certificate, passcode, and restriction payloads scoped to devices or users based on group membership.
- FileVault & encryption: On the Mac side, I evaluate whether the tool can enable FileVault, escrow recovery keys, and report encryption status across the fleet.
- Inventory & reporting: Real-time device inventory covering hardware specs, OS versions, installed apps, and compliance status is something I look for to gauge fleet visibility.
A tool has to deliver most of these capabilities to earn a spot on the list. From there, I consider what sets each tool apart.
Standout Features (What Separates the Picks)
When sizing up standout features, I look for things like automated macOS third-party app patching and native scripting engines that streamline custom workflows for Mac-heavy fleets. I also evaluate built-in endpoint security, including threat prevention and compliance baselines mapped to frameworks like CIS or NIST, since not every MDM tool steps into protection and remediation. The depth and flexibility of self-service portals for end users can make all the difference in environments where IT wants to empower staff to solve routine tasks themselves.
What I Weigh Beyond Features
I evaluate how well each tool fits different buyer profiles, from lean IT teams managing 50 Macs to enterprise shops with thousands of iPhones across multiple offices. Identity provider integrations with Okta, Microsoft Entra ID, or Google Workspace matter because device trust policies often gate access to corporate resources. I also consider whether a vendor keeps pace with Apple's annual OS release cycle, since slow adoption of new frameworks like Declarative Device Management or Platform SSO can leave your fleet behind.
How to Choose Apple Device Management Software
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 handle your current and projected Apple device count? Watch for per-device pricing and limits on organizational units. |
| Integrations | Does it natively connect to your identity provider, device inventory, ticketing, or network security tools? Check for support with Apple Business Manager. |
| Customizability | Will you be able to create granular policies, automate workflows, or adapt the dashboard to your workflows? Test admin controls in a trial if possible. |
| Ease of use | Is the admin dashboard intuitive? Can staff quickly enroll and manage devices without extensive training or manual processes? |
| Implementation and onboarding | How long will device rollout and policy configuration take? Ask about vendor support, import tools, and migration help for large fleets. |
| Cost | Are licensing, support, and upgrade fees predictable? Calculate expected monthly and annual spend, not just listed price. |
| Security safeguards | Does the platform align with your compliance requirements and internal standards for data privacy, encryption, and access controls? |
| Support availability | Can you access timely support in your region and time zone? Find out about live chat, phone support hours, and escalation processes. |
What Is Apple Device Management Software?
Apple device management software is a platform for centrally enrolling, configuring, securing, and monitoring fleets of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices. IT teams use it to automate device provisioning, push policies, enforce compliance, and support users remotely. These tools help manage updates, restrict functions, and protect sensitive data across all managed Apple devices in an organization.
Features of Apple Device Management Software
When selecting Apple device management software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automated device enrollment: Enroll new iPhones, iPads, or Macs in bulk via ABM or Apple School Manager, so they’re ready for use right out of the box, reducing manual setup time for IT teams.
- App distribution and updates: Push, update, or remove applications on managed devices remotely to ensure users have the right tools and always run supported software from the app store.
- Remote lock and wipe: Remotely lock or erase lost, stolen, or retired devices to protect sensitive data and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
- Policy and configuration management: Define and enforce security settings, Wi-fi details, VPN settings, content filtering, and passcode restrictions across devices to maintain compliance and consistency.
- Compliance and reporting dashboards: Monitor device and user compliance status, generate reports on security posture, and quickly identify devices falling out of policy.
- Device inventory tracking: Maintain a real-time inventory of all managed Apple devices, including hardware details, active payloads, and software versions, to support asset management and planning.
- Location tracking and geofencing: Track device locations and enforce location-based restrictions, such as disabling features or blocking access outside approved boundaries.
- Identity and access integration: Connect with identity providers to enforce user-based policies, manage Single Sign-On (SSO) and authentication, and require secure logins or multi-factor authentication on all devices.
- Self-service portals: Allow users to install apps, perform password resets, or handle device registration without IT intervention, whether utilizing a shared iPad, corporate deployment, or BYOD models via user enrollment.
- Role-based admin controls: Assign different permission levels to administrators, such as external MSPs or internal teams, so you can delegate device management without compromising security or compliance.
Benefits of Apple Device Management Software
Implementing Apple device management software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Centralized device visibility: Monitor and manage all company Apple devices through a single dashboard for better oversight and control across iOS, macOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and even Visionos.
- Automated security enforcement: Set and enforce security policies across devices automatically, minimizing manual errors and protecting sensitive data.
- Faster device onboarding: Get new employees up and running quickly with automated device enrollment and pre-configured configuration profiles.
- Regulatory compliance support: Track compliance status and generate detailed reports to help meet industry or organizational security standards across every endpoint.
- Reduced support workload: Empower users with self-service tools, troubleshoot remotely, and automate common IT tasks to lighten the day-to-day support burden.
- Consistent user experience: Deliver standardized apps, access, and settings so all users have the same secure and productive working environment.
- Remote response capabilities: Lock, wipe, or push upgrades to devices remotely to address incidents or changes in business needs without requiring physical access.
Costs and Pricing of Apple Device Management Software
Selecting Apple device management software 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 Apple device management software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Apple Device Management Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Supports a limited number of devices, includes basic enrollment, basic app management, and limited support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$10/user/month | Adds advanced app distribution, remote lock and wipe, device inventory tracking, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $10-$25/user/month | Includes policy enforcement, compliance dashboards, integration with identity providers, reports, and admin controls. |
| Enterprise Plan | $25-$50/user/month | Offers advanced security analytics, automated compliance, geofencing, custom onboarding, premium support, and SLAs. |
Apple Device Management Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about Apple device management software:
Can I manage both Macs and iPhones with the same tool?
Yes, most Apple device management software lets you manage Macs, iPhone models, iPad models, and sometimes even Apple TV units from a single admin console. This unified approach across the Apple ecosystem simplifies policy enforcement and inventory tracking across all your hardware.
Do I need Apple Business Manager to use device management software?
No, but integrating with Apple Business Manager unlocks zero-touch device enrollment and deeper control. Without it, you may have to manually enroll devices using tools like Apple Configurator, which can be slower and limit automation for larger fleets.
What happens if an employee loses their managed device?
You can remotely lock, locate, or wipe lost or stolen Apple devices through your management platform to secure devices instantly. This protects company data and helps prevent unauthorized access even if the device is outside the office.
How do updates and new iOS/macOS versions get managed?
Most platforms support pushing updates and controlling when a new operating system rolls out to managed devices. This lets IT teams test compatibility before OS updates are installed and helps avoid disruptions.
Can IT control personal accounts on company-owned or employee-owned hardware?
No. While MDM software allows organizations to manage corporate configurations, applications, and security parameters, it cannot access or manage personal data, private iCloud accounts, or personal photos.
What is the typical onboarding time for a new device?
With automated device enrollment, a new device can be set up for users in minutes. Manual onboarding takes more time, but most tools provide step-by-step guides and templates to help speed up the process.
