Navigating the 24 Best IoT Platforms of 2024
10 Best IoT Platforms Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing industries by enabling smarter, more connected environments. As businesses look to scale their IoT projects, choosing the right platform is crucial for efficient connectivity, device management, and data insights.
In this guide, we navigate the best IoT platforms available today, breaking down their unique features and benefits to help you make an informed choice for your IoT needs—whether you're a startup looking for agility or an enterprise striving for scalability.
What is an IoT Platform?
IoT platforms are foundational software frameworks that facilitate the connection, management, and data flow between devices and applications in the Internet of Things ecosystem. Platform as a service (PaaS) is a complete development and deployment environment in the cloud, with resources that enable you to deliver everything from simple cloud-based apps to sophisticated, cloud-enabled enterprise applications.
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These platforms provide essential tools and services to develop, deploy, and monitor IoT applications, ranging from smart home devices to industrial sensors. Engineers, developers, businesses, and municipalities use IoT platforms to harness the power of connected devices, allowing for improved decision-making, automation, and improved user experiences in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, transportation, and urban planning. As startups innovate, these IoT cloud service tools offer scalable solutions, from data-driven insights to the creation of IoT products, redefining your venture's digital footprint.
Best IoT Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Telit | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Ayla Networks | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Particle | From $9/user/month (billed annually) + $30 base fee per month | Website |
| balena | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Losant | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Tuya | Pricing upon request | Website |
| ThingWorx (PTC) | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Siemens | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Bosch IoT Suite | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Salesforce IoT Cloud | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest IoT Platforms Reviews
Telit specializes in offering advanced IoT modules, platforms, and services. Designed for easy integration into various applications, Telit's solutions make it easier for businesses to tap into the power of the Internet of Things. Their expertise in IoT module hardware integration stood out, making them an appropriate choice for the designated 'best for' title.
Why I Picked Telit:
In my exploration of numerous IoT solutions, I selected Telit for its comprehensive approach to hardware module integration. Compared to other tools, Telit's offerings uniquely focus on ensuring that IoT modules integrate effectively with various applications and systems. I'm of the opinion that Telit holds a distinctive edge in this domain, aptly positioning it as the best for IoT module hardware integration.
Standout features and integrations:
Telit's modules boast high-speed connectivity options, including 5G, catering to diverse IoT application needs. Their OneEdge software suite simplifies device management and offers tools for quicker IoT deployments. As for integrations, Telit's modules are compatible with numerous platforms, ensuring that businesses can tie them into their existing infrastructure without significant hurdles.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide compatibility ensures smooth integration with various platforms
- OneEdge software eases device management and accelerates deployments
- High-speed connectivity options, including 5G, cater to varied needs
Cons:
- Custom integrations could present challenges for certain legacy systems
- Initial setup might require a significant technical understanding
- Some modules might be overkill for simpler IoT projects
Ayla Networks offers a platform that focuses on enabling agile IoT device management for businesses. Their solutions aim to simplify the connection and management of devices, ensuring smooth operations and real-time interactions. Given the challenges in the ever-evolving IoT landscape, Ayla Networks positions itself as a tool designed primarily for agility in device management.
Why I Picked Ayla Networks:
In the process of selecting tools, Ayla Networks caught my attention due to its unique approach to IoT device management. Through comparisons and understanding expert opinions, I judged that Ayla offers something distinct in the market. I chose Ayla Networks because it provides businesses with the flexibility they need in a dynamic IoT environment. It is undoubtedly best for those seeking agile IoT device management solutions.
Standout features and integrations:
Ayla Networks comes packed with features such as agile device virtualization, which allows companies to abstract device capabilities. Their data orchestration feature ensures that the right data is available at the right time. In terms of integrations, Ayla provides extensive connectivity options, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and ethernet, and supports integrations with popular cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive connectivity and integration options
- Comprehensive data orchestration capabilities
- Robust device virtualization feature for improved flexibility
Cons:
- Some businesses may seek more transparent pricing models
- Custom integrations may require technical expertise
- New users might find some features complex initially
Particle is a leading force when it comes to connecting devices from the edge to the cloud. Its prowess in maintaining consistent and reliable connections across the entire spectrum of IoT infrastructure gives credence to its standing as the best for end-to-end device connectivity.
Why I Picked Particle:
In my journey of selecting the optimal IoT platforms, Particle emerged as a unique entity. My determination was based on its unmatched capability to ensure consistent device connectivity, from the smallest sensor to the vast realms of the cloud. Comparing it with peers, Particle's concentration on delivering uninterrupted connections made it a standout. It's this commitment to connectivity that solidified my opinion that Particle is genuinely best for end-to-end device connectivity.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Particle showcases a Device Cloud feature, which manages the health of devices, ensuring they remain connected. Its Edge Operations feature facilitates smooth firmware updates. As for integrations, Particle aligns well with popular platforms such as Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and IFTTT, ensuring devices can interact with a multitude of services easily.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Streamlined firmware update process
- Integrates with major cloud platforms
- Strong emphasis on continuous device connectivity
Cons:
- Costs can accumulate with the addition of more devices
- Initial learning curve for new users
- Limited to its ecosystem for some features
Balena provides a platform tailored for developers to deploy, manage, and scale IoT fleets. Its tools cater to the entire device lifecycle, from development to deployment and monitoring. The platform's primary strength lies in efficient fleet management, making it an apt choice for the 'best for' claim.
Why I Picked Balena:
In my journey of examining various IoT tools, I determined that Balena had distinct advantages in managing multiple devices. Its focus on fleet management set it apart from many other solutions I reviewed. I believe that for organizations looking to oversee extensive IoT deployments and simplify device maintenance, Balena is the front-runner, earning its title as best for IoT fleet management.
Standout features and integrations:
One of Balena's key features is its BalenaCloud, which allows for easy deployment and updates to IoT devices. The platform also supports a container-based approach, ensuring consistent environments across all devices. In terms of integrations, Balena can work with popular cloud providers, such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, facilitating better data management and analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive integrations with major cloud providers
- Container-based system ensures consistency across devices
- BalenaCloud simplifies device deployment and updates
Cons:
- Limited to its own operating system, balenaOS, for some functionalities
- Certain advanced features may require a deeper technical understanding
- Might be complex for users unfamiliar with containerization
Losant is a comprehensive IoT platform geared towards visualizing and analyzing IoT data in real time. It empowers enterprises to connect their devices, collect data, and generate instant visual insights to make informed decisions. Its proficiency in presenting real-time IoT data visually is what aligns it with the 'best for' claim.
Why I Picked Losant:
In my process of selecting platforms, I judged Losant based on its robust visualization capabilities and versatility. It caught my attention due to its distinct emphasis on real-time data representation, making it unique compared to other platforms. My opinion is that for businesses prioritizing immediate insights from their IoT data, Losant stands out as the ideal choice, making it best for real-time data visualization.
Standout features and integrations:
Losant offers powerful features like its Visual Workflow Engine, allowing users to build and customize their IoT solutions without intensive coding. Additionally, its End-User Experiences tool enables businesses to create custom branded interfaces for their users. Integrations-wise, Losant supports a variety of third-party systems, including MQTT, RESTful APIs, and Webhooks, making it compatible with a broad spectrum of devices and applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad integration capabilities with third-party systems
- End-User Experiences tool for custom-branded user interfaces
- Advanced Visual Workflow Engine for tailored IoT solutions
Cons:
- Potential costs associated with scaling large deployments
- Limited built-in tools for non-visualization aspects of IoT
- Might require a steep learning curve for non-technical users
Tuya provides an all-inclusive IoT platform that aids manufacturers, brands, OEMs, and retail chains in developing smart home devices. By offering a unified suite of tools and solutions, Tuya empowers businesses to bring smart devices to consumers globally. Its emphasis on the smart home ecosystem naturally positions it as a preferred choice for those prioritizing this niche.
Why I Picked Tuya:
I chose Tuya after determining its leadership in the realm of smart home platforms. In my judgment, and after comparing several platforms, Tuya stood out for its expansive ecosystem and ability to cater to multiple stakeholders in the smart device manufacturing process. This has led me to believe that Tuya is best suited for smart home device platforms.
Standout features and integrations:
Tuya offers a robust AI+IoT platform, which facilitates rapid development and launch of smart devices. Its capabilities span from voice and video services to data analytics, helping businesses glean actionable insights. Integration-wise, Tuya’s platform meshes well with major voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, thus enhancing user experience.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Ready compatibility with leading voice assistants
- Extensive support for voice and video services
- Comprehensive AI+IoT platform suitable for diverse smart device creation
Cons:
- Some advanced features might have steeper learning curves
- Customizing for very specific niches might present challenges
- Might be overwhelming for newcomers due to its vast array of features
ThingWorx, a product by PTC, is designed to empower businesses with swift IoT application development capabilities. Recognized for its intuitive interface and tools, it is ideally positioned for organizations that want to quickly prototype, develop, and deploy IoT solutions.
Why I Picked ThingWorx (PTC):
When searching for platforms that allow accelerated IoT application development, ThingWorx constantly emerged as a top choice. I chose it due to its unique blend of user-friendly design tools and powerful backend capabilities. My judgment, after comparing various platforms, was that ThingWorx provides the right balance of simplicity and functionality, making it best for rapid IoT application development.
Standout features and integrations:
ThingWorx shines with its drag-and-drop interface, enabling non-developers to visualize and create IoT applications. Its robust analytics tools provide actionable insights derived from data streams. As for integrations, ThingWorx collaborates effectively with popular cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, allowing for data synchronization and management across systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient integration with major cloud platforms
- Comprehensive analytics tools for real-time insights
- Drag-and-drop interface simplifies application creation
Cons:
- Some users might prefer code-heavy environments for deeper customization
- Licensing costs can be high for larger enterprises
- Might have a steeper learning curve for complete novices
Siemens is a global powerhouse focusing on the areas of electrification, automation, and digitalization. As one of the world's largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies, Siemens is a leading supplier of systems for power generation and transmission. Its commitment to industrial automation and digitalization makes it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to streamline their industrial processes.
Why I Picked Siemens:
I determined Siemens to be a prominent contender when selecting tools for this list, mainly due to its significant contributions in the domain of industrial automation. Having opinions and comparisons from industry experts further reinforced my judgment. Siemens stands apart, particularly because of its unparalleled expertise and vast experience in the industry. For organizations emphasizing industrial automation and digital transformation, Siemens naturally presents itself as the optimal choice.
Standout features and integrations:
Siemens boasts a comprehensive range of software for automation, including SIMATIC SCADA, TIA Portal, and SINAMICS Drive Technology. These tools offer advanced functionalities that can integrate easily with various industrial hardware and software. Furthermore, Siemens integrates effortlessly with many IoT platforms, ensuring real-time data exchange and rapid insights.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integrations with various industrial IoT platforms
- Renowned for its reliability and efficiency in the industry
- Comprehensive range of automation software solutions
Cons:
- Licensing structure may be complex for some businesses
- While robust, some tools have a steep learning curve
- The vast array of solutions can be overwhelming for newcomers
The Bosch IoT Suite is a comprehensive software platform designed to offer tools and services for IoT solution development and operation. Its adaptability and broad compatibility set it apart, catering to a diverse range of IoT ecosystems and making it particularly favorable for those seeking extensive ecosystem support.
Why I Picked Bosch IoT Suite:
In selecting tools for this list, the Bosch IoT Suite quickly drew my attention. Its reputation for versatility and extensive ecosystem support differentiated it from other platforms. In my judgment, after assessing various IoT solutions, Bosch IoT Suite truly stands as the top choice for organizations requiring support across diverse IoT ecosystems.
Standout features and integrations:
One of the main features of the Bosch IoT Suite is its modular approach, which allows businesses to customize their IoT solution based on specific needs. The platform also boasts an impressive remote device management capability, ensuring devices remain updated and operational. When it comes to integrations, Bosch IoT Suite partners with a myriad of device manufacturers, ensuring compatibility and data exchange.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad integration with numerous device manufacturers
- Extensive remote device management capabilities
- Modular design allows for tailored IoT solutions
Cons:
- Some advanced features may have a steeper learning curve
- While versatile, the suite might be overwhelming for smaller projects
- Initial setup might require more technical expertise
Salesforce IoT Cloud is a platform that bridges the gap between customer relationship management (CRM) and IoT. By connecting devices to Salesforce's vast CRM ecosystem, the tool provides real-time data insights and fosters improved customer experiences. The tool's strength lies in its CRM-integrated IoT solutions, allowing businesses to capitalize on their IoT data within the context of customer management.
Why I Picked Salesforce IoT Cloud:
While choosing the right platforms for IoT, the Salesforce IoT Cloud struck me as a distinctive tool, given its deep integration with a world-class CRM system. I determined that its tight-knit combination of IoT and CRM functions made it stand apart from other contenders. I chose this tool because it uniquely addresses the need for businesses to directly relate IoT data with customer behaviors and trends. It is undoubtedly best suited for organizations looking for CRM-integrated IoT solutions.
Standout features and integrations:
The Salesforce IoT Cloud boasts features like proactive device monitoring, which can trigger CRM workflows based on device data. Additionally, with the Event Processing Engine, businesses can process billions of events daily, analyzing data and taking necessary actions. Integrations are at the heart of Salesforce, and the IoT Cloud integrates effortlessly with other Salesforce products, ensuring a unified experience and leveraging existing CRM data.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Proactive device monitoring that can drive CRM actions
- Ability to process billions of events daily
- Deep integration with Salesforce CRM for cohesive data handling
Cons:
- Some users may desire more out-of-the-box integrations with non-Salesforce products
- Can be on the pricier side compared to other IoT platforms
- Might have a learning curve for those unfamiliar with Salesforce
Other IoT Platforms
Below is a list of additional IoT platforms that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) IoT
Best for scalable cloud integration
- Cisco IoT
Best for large-scale enterprise solutions
- Blynk
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- Ubidots
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- NimbeLink
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- SiteWhere
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- IBM Watson IoT
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- Oracle IoT Cloud
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- Kaa IoT Platform
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- Cisco IoT Cloud Connect
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- myDevices
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- DeviceHive
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- ClearBlade
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- Microsoft Azure IoT
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Selection Criteria for Choosing IoT Platforms
Certain criteria rise to the forefront when choosing an IoT software platform, acting as guiding pillars in the decision-making process. Over time, I've tested and compared a multitude of IoT software tools. I tried out more than 30 tools and boiled down my favorites to the ones that matched the criteria I deemed paramount for IoT software selection. Let's delve deeper into those critical criteria.
Core Functionality
- Device Management: The ability to register, organize, monitor, and remotely manage IoT devices.
- Data Collection: Efficiently collecting data from various devices, often in real-time.
- Data Processing & Analysis: Transforming raw data into meaningful insights through analytics and machine learning.
- Security & Privacy: Robust mechanisms to ensure data protection, secure device connection, and user privacy.
Key Features
- Real-time Monitoring: Monitor devices and get real-time feedback, which is essential for immediate responses or adjustments.
- Integration Capabilities: Easy integration with other enterprise systems, like ERP or CRM.
- Over-the-Air Updates: Ensuring devices are always up-to-date with the latest software or firmware without manual intervention.
- Scalability: The platform can handle growth from a few devices to millions without performance issues.
- Advanced Analytics: Beyond just data collection, the tool should offer in-depth analytics, prediction, and machine learning capabilities.
Usability
- Intuitive Dashboard: A centralized dashboard that displays device status, notifications, and key metrics, presented in an easily digestible format.
- Configuration Simplicity: The ease with which a user can set up and configure devices without needing extensive technical know-how.
- Role-Based Access: Different access levels are based on user roles, ensuring only authorized personnel can make changes or view sensitive data.
- Comprehensive Onboarding Resources: Availability of learning resources, guides, or tutorials to help new users get acquainted with the tool's functionalities and features.
- Prompt Customer Support: Quick response times and knowledgeable support staff, are crucial for troubleshooting or when dealing with time-sensitive issues.
Most Common Questions Regarding IoT Platforms (FAQs)
What benefits can I expect from using the best IoT platforms?
Utilizing top-tier IoT platforms offers a multitude of advantages:
- Scalability: They can efficiently handle a few to millions of devices, adjusting to the growth of your IoT network.
- Advanced Analytics: Beyond simple data collection, these platforms enable deep analysis, forecasting, and machine learning capabilities.
- Security: With the rise of cyber threats, these platforms emphasize robust security protocols to protect data and ensure safe device connections.
- Integration Capabilities: They often integrate with other enterprise systems, facilitating data sharing and operational efficiency.
- Real-time Monitoring: They offer immediate feedback on device status, which is crucial for quick responses and adjustments.
How much do the best IoT platforms typically cost?
The pricing for IoT platforms can vary widely based on their offered features, the number of devices managed, and other factors. Most operate on a subscription-based model, charging either per device or based on data usage.
Can you elaborate on the different pricing models?
Certainly! Most IoT platforms use one or a combination of the following pricing strategies:
- Per Device: Charging is based on the number of devices connected to the platform.
- Data Usage: Fees are based on the amount of data processed or stored.
- Feature-Based: Different tiers depending on the functionalities you want access to.
What's the typical range of pricing for these platforms?
While it’s hard to pinpoint an exact range without specifying the platform, prices can start as low as $1 per device per month and can go up to hundreds of dollars monthly for enterprise-level solutions with advanced features.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive IoT platforms?
Among the list provided earlier, Ubidots and Blynk are on the more affordable end. In contrast, platforms like ClearBlade tend to cater more to enterprise-level needs and can be on the pricier side.
Are there any free IoT platform options available?
Yes, some platforms offer free tiers or community editions with limited functionalities. Blynk, for instance, has a free tier for enthusiasts and small projects. However, for extensive commercial use or advanced features, upgrading to a paid plan is usually required.
Other IoT Platform-Related Reviews
Microservices Architecture
Microservices architecture is a powerful approach for constructing scalable and fault-tolerant IoT systems. By breaking down applications into independent services, this architecture offers the flexibility needed for both cloud and on-premises deployments. It supports horizontal scaling seamlessly, allowing each component to be updated or expanded without affecting the entire system. This flexibility is crucial for IoT, where demands for scalability and reliability are ever-growing.
Rule Engine: Automating IoT Data Processing
A rule engine is central to automating the processing of IoT data and responding to real-time events. By creating configurable rule chains, organizations can transform incoming data, generate alerts, and trigger integrations with external systems. This capability empowers businesses to apply sophisticated logic without the need for custom code, enabling faster response times and a more dynamic IoT environment, which is key for handling diverse and evolving use cases.
IoT Market Growth: Expanding Opportunities and Adoption
The IoT market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing adoption across industries and technological advancements. Projections indicate substantial market expansion over the coming years as businesses leverage IoT to enhance efficiency, automate processes, and gather valuable insights. This upward trend highlights the potential of IoT solutions to transform sectors ranging from healthcare to manufacturing, illustrating the broad impact and opportunities IoT creates for innovation and connectivity.
Takeaways
Choosing the right IoT platform is crucial to the success of any connected device project. These platforms are the backbone, ensuring data collection, analysis, and security. They offer varying functionalities tailored to different needs, from hobbyist projects to large-scale enterprise integrations.
- Prioritize Your Needs: Whether it's scalability, specific features, or budget constraints, having a clear idea of what you need will streamline your selection process.
- Security is Paramount: With the increasing threats in the digital realm, ensure that the platform has robust security protocols to safeguard both device connections and data.
- Consider Future Growth: Opt for platforms that not only serve your immediate requirements but can also accommodate your future expansion, be it in device numbers or advanced functionalities.
What's Next
Choosing the right IoT platform is essential to unlocking the full potential of your connected devices and driving your digital transformation journey. With the platforms we’ve explored, there’s a solution for every type of business—whether you need robust data analytics, seamless device integration, or scalable connectivity. Align your IoT strategy and confidently move towards a smarter, more connected future.
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