10 Best IoT Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
IoT software helps you connect and manage devices so you can collect data, automate processes, and improve how your business runs.
Many teams look for these tools when they’re frustrated by patchy data, insecure devices, or the challenge of keeping firmware up to date. Without a clear IoT platform, it’s easy for connected systems to become chaotic and costly to maintain.
I’ve worked with startups to build IoT systems that handle device management, data pipelines, and security in real-world production. This guide is based on that experience to help you choose software that fits your goals and makes connected devices work for you.
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Best IoT Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top IoT software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for secure IoT device communication | 5000 free active hours | $1/user/hour or $150/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for mobile app integration with IoT | Free plan available | From $99/user/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for real-time data visualization | Not available | From $10/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website | |
| 4 | Best for industrial IoT solutions | Not available | From $15/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for cloud-native IoT connectivity | Free trial + demo available | From $99/month | Website | |
| 6 | Best for IoT management with cloud support | Not available | Starting price is $0.008 per million messages sent | Website | |
| 7 | Best for complete IoT platform management | Not available | From $15/user/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for scalable IoT networking | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for IoT hardware development | Not available | From $9/user/month (billed annually) + $30 base fee per month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for IoT solution development in Microsoft's ecosystem | Not available | Starting price for the standard tier is $0.50 per device per month (billed annually) | Website |
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Best IoT Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best IoT software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Twilio provides an IoT platform focusing on secure, reliable communication between devices. A comprehensive set of APIs and a scalable infrastructure enables businesses to build and manage connected devices in a safe environment, making it best suited for secure IoT device communication.
Why I Picked Twilio: I picked Twilio for its commitment to security and reliability in IoT device communication. Twilio stands out because of its global reach, versatile APIs, and robust security features that ensure safe data transmission. I determined that these qualities make Twilio best for those prioritizing secure communication between IoT devices, whether on a small or large scale.
Standout features & integrations:
Twilio’s most essential features include end-to-end encryption, robust device authentication, and a flexible set of communication APIs allowing messaging, voice, and video interactions. It integrates with various programming languages and frameworks, such as Python, Java, and Node.js, and offers compatibility with many popular cloud platforms, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with popular programming languages and cloud platforms offers flexibility
- Versatile APIs enable a wide range of communication options
- Strong security features ensure safe data transmission
Cons:
- May offer more features than needed for very basic IoT communication tasks
- Costs can add up with extensive usage
- Might be more complex for those without development experience
Blynk connects IoT devices and mobile apps for easy integration, making it a popular choice for enhancing IoT projects with mobile app interaction.
Why I Picked Blynk: I chose Blynk because it focuses on mobile app integration with IoT devices. I compared several platforms during my selection process, but Blynk's dedicated mobile app libraries and templates distinguished it from others. The ability to create custom mobile applications that interact directly with IoT devices without extensive programming is why I judged Blynk to be the best for mobile app integration with IoT.
Standout features & integrations:
Blynk offers a drag-and-drop interface for creating mobile apps tailored to IoT devices. This feature enables developers to design custom interfaces that communicate with their hardware without writing extensive code. Key integrations include support for a wide range of hardware platforms, such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP8266, and compatibility with Android and iOS for app deployment.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers both cloud and on-premises deployment options
- Extensive support for popular hardware platforms
- User-friendly interface for creating mobile apps tailored to IoT devices
Cons:
- Limited functionalities beyond mobile app integration, might require additional tools for comprehensive IoT development
- Minimum of 5 seats might be prohibitive for smaller teams or individual users
- Might be limiting for developers seeking more complex, code-intensive solutions
ThingsBoard is an open-source platform that focuses on managing devices, assets, and the complex processing of real-time data visualization. It offers dashboards, analytics, and features geared explicitly toward data visualization as it happens, making it the go-to tool for those who require immediate insights from their IoT data.
Why I Picked ThingsBoard: I selected ThingsBoard for this list because of its unique emphasis on real-time data visualization. After comparing several tools, I determined that its capabilities in visually processing data on the fly set it apart from the competition. The focus on providing immediate visual insights makes ThingsBoard best for those needing real-time data visualization, especially in sectors where instant decision-making is crucial.
Standout features & integrations:
ThingsBoard's standout features include a wide array of widgets for creating customizable dashboards, real-time analytics capabilities, and a rule engine for automation. Integrations extend to various data transport protocols like MQTT, HTTP, CoAP, and popular databases, ensuring compatibility with different data sources and formats.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with popular databases and protocols
- Real-time analytics provide immediate insights
- Customizable widgets allow tailored visualization
Cons:
- Some users may find the cost prohibitive, particularly for larger teams
- May present a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with data visualization
- Requires a minimum of five seats, making it less suitable for smaller operations
Fogwing is an Industrial IoT platform that provides end-to-end solutions for managing, monitoring, and analyzing industrial data. Designed with the manufacturing, energy, and similar sectors in mind, its tailored features and robust architecture make it suitable for handling complex industrial requirements, justifying its stance as the best industrial IoT solutions.
Why I Picked Fogwing: I chose Fogwing as the ideal solution for industrial sectors after comparing various options. It offers essential features like device management and process analytics, necessary for handling sensitive data in specialized applications. Fogwing's unique focus on providing industrial solutions sets it apart from other options, making it the top choice for industrial IoT solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Fogwing's essential features include real-time data monitoring, comprehensive device management, process analytics, and industrial-grade security protocols. It integrates with various industrial communication protocols such as OPC UA, Modbus, and others, facilitating easy connection to machinery, devices, and sensors standard in the industrial setting.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive monitoring and analytics allow deep insight into industrial processes
- Integration with common industrial protocols enhances usability
- Specialized focus on industrial applications ensures tailored solutions
Cons:
- Focus on industrial applications may limit its applicability in non-industrial settings
- Pricing may be on the higher side for smaller organizations
- Minimum of five seats required, may not be suitable for smaller industrial setups
Boomi is a leading Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS) specializing in cloud-native integrations, including connecting IoT devices with cloud environments. Its emphasis on delivering reliable, scalable cloud-based connections for IoT ecosystems makes it best for cloud-native IoT connectivity.
Why I Picked Boomi: I chose Boomi for its dedicated focus on providing cloud-native integrations, which is pivotal in today’s data-driven world. When comparing and judging various tools, Boomi's specialization in integrating cloud and on-premises applications caught my attention. Its ability to bridge the gap between IoT devices and cloud platforms makes it stand out, which is why I think it's best for cloud-native IoT connectivity.
Standout features & integrations:
Boomi offers an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that simplifies the development of integration flows between cloud and on-premises endpoints. The AtomSphere platform within Boomi enables data movement between different environments, ensuring that IoT data is accessible where needed. Its integrations with major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud allow for smooth connectivity between IoT devices and cloud services.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad compatibility with major cloud providers
- User-friendly interface that lowers the learning curve for new users
- Strong emphasis on cloud-native integrations allows for flexibility in connecting IoT devices
Cons:
- Limited documentation and community support compared to some other platforms
- Some complex integrations may require technical expertise
- Pricing details are not transparent, which can complicate budget planning
AWS IoT Core is a managed cloud service offered by Amazon Web Services that lets connected devices interact with cloud applications and other devices easily. It provides a comprehensive solution for collecting, processing, analyzing, and acting on data generated by connected devices. It is particularly beneficial for those needing robust cloud support for IoT management.
Why I Picked AWS IoT Core: I chose AWS IoT Core after carefully comparing and judging various IoT management platforms, specifically focusing on their cloud support capabilities. AWS IoT Core stood out because of its deep integration with other AWS services and powerful tools for managing, analyzing, and acting on-device data. Its combination of scalability, reliability, and feature-rich cloud support makes it best for IoT management with cloud support.
Standout features & integrations:
AWS IoT Core offers features such as Device Shadow that allows for the persistent representation of devices in the cloud and MQTT protocol support for efficient communication. The integration with other AWS services, such as AWS Lambda, Amazon Kinesis, Amazon S3, and Amazon SageMaker, allows users to build highly scalable and tailored IoT applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong security features, including end-to-end encryption
- Deep integration with the broader AWS ecosystem
- Robust scalability supporting a large number of devices
Cons:
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with AWS services and architecture
- Might be overkill for simple or small-scale IoT projects
- Pricing model based on message count can become complex and expensive for heavy users
IoTConnect offers a comprehensive solution covering the entire IoT platform management scopeclarified. Whether it's device control, data analytics, or security management, it provides all the essential tools in one platform, making it optimal for complete IoT platform management.
Why I Picked IoTConnect: I chose IoTConnect after thoroughly comparing different platforms, focusing on the capability to provide a full suite of management tools. Its all-in-one approach makes it stand out, offering a unified solution that handles diverse IoT management tasks. This comprehensive functionality made it clear that IoTConnect is best for complete IoT platform management, as it encapsulates everything from device connection to data interpretation.
Standout features & integrations:
IoTConnect's features include device monitoring, data analytics, workflow automation, and robust security controls. It integrates with popular platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, enabling businesses to align their IoT management with existing cloud infrastructure. These integrations are key to its ability to provide a cohesive management experience across various IoT aspects.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Includes features for device monitoring, analytics, and security
- Robust integrations with major cloud providers
- Comprehensive platform management from a single dashboard
Cons:
- Pricing may be prohibitive for very small businesses or individual users
- The extensive feature set could be overwhelming for small-scale applications
- May require a learning curve for new users
Coreflux is known for offering a flexible platform that caters to diverse IoT networking needs. Its scalable nature ensures that it can handle anything from small to large-scale networks without a hitch, making it an ideal choice for businesses needing scalable solutions.
Why I Picked Coreflux: I selected Coreflux after carefully comparing various options, and judging it based on its impressive scalability features. It stood out in the crowd due to its flexible architecture and ability to grow with the needs of a business, whether they are expanding from a few devices to thousands. This adaptability and scalability is why I determined Coreflux is best for scalable IoT networking.
Standout features & integrations:
Coreflux offers a set of features that allow users to manage their network easily, providing real-time monitoring and robust security measures to keep data safe. Its integrations are a key aspect, supporting various protocols like MQTT, CoAP, and WebSockets, thus ensuring a wide range of device connectivity.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time monitoring enhances network oversight
- Comprehensive support for multiple connectivity protocols
- Scalability supports various business sizes and needs
Cons:
- Limited documentation may pose challenges for intricate configurations
- Some technical know-how may be required for initial setup
- Absence of transparent pricing online may hinder decision-making
Particle is a comprehensive platform designed to support the complete lifecycle of IoT hardware development, from prototyping to production. It offers hardware modules and software tools aimed explicitly at IoT hardware developers, making it the best for IoT hardware development.
Why I Picked Particle: I chose Particle after carefully comparing various platforms that support IoT hardware development. Its dual focus on both the hardware and software aspects of IoT development makes it stand out, offering a cohesive environment for developers. Its integration of various hardware components, tools, and support for cloud connectivity makes it particularly suited for IoT hardware development, the area where I determined it to be best for.
Standout features & integrations:
Particle offers a range of microcontroller models for IoT applications and IoT applications, along with a cloud platform to manage devices. The hardware is supported by Particle's Device OS, a robust operating system for IoT devices. Necessary integrations include compatibility with everyday development environments, IoT protocols, and third-party cloud services such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- A broad ecosystem of tools, including a rich development environment for coding and debugging
- Support for popular cloud platforms enhances connectivity options
- Comprehensive platform that covers both hardware and software aspects of IoT development
Cons:
- Annual billing may not suit those seeking more flexible payment options
- Limited support for non-Particle hardware may hinder some projects
- The platform might be too complex for hobbyists or beginners
Azure IoT Central is a managed platform that simplifies connecting and managing IoT assets. It's integrated with Microsoft and ideal for companies looking to complement existing technologies.
Why I Picked Azure IoT Central: I chose Azure IoT Central for its strength in enabling streamlined IoT solution development within the Microsoft ecosystem. After determining the needs and comparing various platforms, it became clear that Azure IoT Central offers an edge in integrating with Microsoft's wide range of tools and services. Its tight integration with other Microsoft products makes it best for IoT solution development in Microsoft's ecosystem.
Standout features & integrations:
Azure IoT Central provides features such as real-time analytics, device templates, and creating rules and actions based on device data. Its integrations are extensive within the Microsoft environment, including key Microsoft services like Azure Active Directory, Power BI, Dynamics 365, and more. These integrations enable a cohesive workflow across various stages of IoT development.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of IoT devices and protocols
- Offers pre-built templates to quickly create IoT applications
- Streamlined development within Microsoft's ecosystem
Cons:
- Some users may face a learning curve with more advanced features
- Less suited for non-Microsoft technology stacks
- Pricing can become complex with increased data consumption
Other IoT Software
Below is a list of additional IoT software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- KaaIoT Platform
For customizable IoT applications
- MuleSoft
For IoT API integration
- IFTTT
Good for personal IoT task automation
- EMQX
Good for scalable and open-source MQTT broker services
- Zoho IoT
Good for building and managing IoT applications in the Zoho ecosystem
- SAP Leonardo IoT
Good for integrating IoT into SAP's digital core
- Exosense
Good for industrial IoT with a scalable architecture
- Ubidots IoT Application Enablement Platform
Good for developers needing a flexible and user-friendly platform
- Altair SmartWorks IoT Platform
Good for custom IoT analytics and visualization tools
- Hologram
Good for cellular IoT connectivity across global networks
- Ayla Networks IoT Platform
Good for OEMs needing IoT product lifecycle management
- IBM Watson IoT Platform
Good for utilizing AI with IoT data analysis
- Bosch IoT Suite
Good for connecting and managing IoT devices on a large scale
- Wolfram Mathematica
Good for IoT data analytics and computational tasks
- Losant Enterprise IoT Platform
Good for creating enterprise-level IoT applications
IoT Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best IoT software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like scalability and device management. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Device connectivity
- Data collection
- Real-time monitoring
- Data analytics
- Remote device management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Predictive maintenance
- Multi-protocol support
- Edge computing capabilities
- Customizable dashboards
- Advanced security measures
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Low learning curve
- Customization options
- Aesthetic design
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Onboarding templates
- Access to webinars
- Responsive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 availability
- Multi-channel support
- Knowledgeable staff
- Fast response times
- Comprehensive help center
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Feature set versus cost
- Flexible pricing plans
- Discounts for annual billing
- Free trial availability
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- User satisfaction ratings
- Commonly reported issues
- Praise for specific features
- Feedback on customer service
- Comparison with competitors
How to Choose IoT 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 software grow with your business? Consider if it can handle an increase in devices and data as your operations expand. |
| Integrations | Does it integrate with your existing systems? Check for compatibility with your current software stack to avoid disruptions in workflow. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor the software to your specific needs? Look for options to customize dashboards, reports, and alerts to fit your business processes. |
| Ease of use | Is the interface intuitive for your team? Ensure that your team can navigate and use the software without extensive training or frustration. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get up and running? Evaluate the time and resources needed for setup, including the availability of support materials like tutorials and guides. |
| Cost | Does the pricing align with your budget? Consider both upfront costs and long-term expenses, including hidden fees or charges for additional features. |
| Security safeguards | Are your data and devices protected? Ensure the software offers encryption, access control, and regular updates to safeguard against threats. |
| Support availability | Can you access help when needed? Check the availability of customer support channels and response times to ensure assistance is readily available. |
What Is IoT Software?
IoT software is a set of tools that help connect, manage, and analyze data from internet-connected devices. These tools are generally used by IT professionals, developers, and businesses looking to optimize operations and gather valuable insights from their IoT networks. Device connectivity, data analytics, and remote management features support efficient device operations and data-driven decision-making. Overall, these tools enhance the ability to monitor and control IoT devices effectively.
Features
When selecting IoT software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Device connectivity: Allows devices to connect and communicate within the IoT network, facilitating smooth data exchange and control.
- Real-time monitoring: Provides up-to-date insights into device performance and status, enabling quick responses to changes or issues.
- Data analytics: Analyzes collected data to produce actionable insights, helping businesses make informed decisions.
- Remote management: Enables users to control and configure devices from afar, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance.
- Security safeguards: Protects data and devices with encryption and access controls, ensuring privacy and security.
- Customizable dashboards: Allows users to tailor data visualization and reporting to meet specific needs, improving clarity and focus.
- Predictive maintenance: Uses data patterns to predict equipment failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Multi-protocol support: Accommodates various communication protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.
- Edge computing capabilities: Processes data near the source of generation to reduce latency and improve efficiency.
- Scalability: Supports growth in device numbers and data volume, allowing the network to expand as needed.
Benefits
Implementing IoT software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved efficiency: Automates processes and provides real-time data, helping your team work smarter and respond faster.
- Cost savings: Predictive maintenance and data analytics help reduce operational costs by minimizing downtime and optimizing resources.
- Enhanced decision-making: Provides insights through data analytics, enabling informed decisions that drive business success.
- Scalability: Supports growth in your IoT network, allowing you to add more devices and handle increased data as your business expands.
- Better security: Offers security safeguards like encryption and access controls, protecting your data and devices from potential threats.
- Remote access: Enables remote management of devices, allowing your team to monitor and control operations from anywhere.
- Customization: Customizable dashboards and reports let you tailor the software to your specific needs, enhancing usability and relevance.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting IoT 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 IoT software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for IoT Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic device connectivity, limited data analytics, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Enhanced device management, real-time monitoring, customizable dashboards, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $30-$75/user/month | Advanced data analytics, multi-protocol support, security safeguards, and priority customer support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $100+/user/month | Full scalability, predictive maintenance, dedicated account manager, and 24/7 premium support. |
IoT Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about IoT software:
How does IoT software integrate with existing systems?
IoT software typically offers APIs and integration tools that allow you to connect with existing systems like ERP or CRM. It’s crucial to assess compatibility with your current tech stack to ensure a smooth transition and avoid disruptions. Look for software that supports the protocols and standards your systems use.
What are the security concerns with IoT software?
Security is a major concern with IoT software as it involves data transmission across networks. Ensure the software provides encryption, secure access controls, and regular updates to protect sensitive information. Verify if it complies with industry standards like GDPR or HIPAA, if applicable to your business.
How scalable is IoT software?
Scalability varies by provider, so consider your growth plans. Check if the software can handle an increase in devices and data volume without compromising performance. Look for cloud-based solutions that offer flexible resources and can scale with your business needs.
Can IoT software be customized?
Customization options are vital for tailoring the software to your business processes. Assess the level of customization available in dashboards, reports, and alerts. It’s beneficial if the software allows you to create custom workflows or integrate with unique business applications.
What kind of support can I expect?
Support varies, so evaluate the availability and quality of customer service. Check if the provider offers 24/7 support, dedicated account managers, or community forums. Reliable support can significantly ease the implementation and ongoing management of your IoT software.
How does IoT software handle data analytics?
IoT software should offer data analytics tools to help you gain insights from collected data. Look for features like real-time processing, predictive analytics, and customizable reports. These tools can assist in decision-making and improve operational efficiency by highlighting trends and anomalies.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching IoT software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
