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The best MDM software helps you enforce security policies, track and control devices, and protect sensitive data across company-owned and BYOD endpoints. It’s built to handle common challenges like remote device wipe after loss or theft, inconsistent policy enforcement across operating systems, and time-consuming manual setup for new devices.

If you’ve struggled with shadow IT, gaps in compliance reporting, or unreliable remote access control, you’re not alone. Many IT teams adopt MDM solutions after realizing their existing approach can’t scale or protect against growing threats.

I’ve tested MDM platforms across enterprise and mid-market environments, working with teams rolling out device fleets in healthcare, finance, and education. This guide breaks down the tools that actually simplify enrollment, reduce support tickets, and give admins clear visibility into their mobile ecosystem.

Best MDM Software Summary

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top MDM software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.

Best MDM Software Reviews

Here are my top 20 MDM software recommendations, including their features, benefits, and starting price points.

Best for endpoint management and patch compliance

  • Free trial + free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

NinjaOne is a top-rated UEM and IT management software that offers a range of solutions for IT departments and MSPs, including endpoint management, patch management, mobile device management, remote control, and endpoint backup.

Why I picked NinjaOne: I chose NinjaOne for MDM software because it offers an advanced solution for endpoint management and patch compliance. It stands out for its ability to automate and scale, making it ideal for managed service providers. Additionally, NinjaOne's commitment to security and customer success, as well as its leadership in the industry, make it the best choice for IT management.

NinjaOne Standout Features and Integrations:

Features for NinjaOne include an ROI calculator, IT security fundamentals guides, endpoint management, patch management, mobile device management, and remote control.

Integrations include ConnectWise Manage, Autotask PSA, HaloPSA, Accelo, SherpaDesk, RepairShopr, Harmony PSA, and Computicate PSA.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrated patch management
  • Detailed user role management
  • Remote scripting in multiple languages

Cons:

  • Limited customization in alerting mechanisms
  • Steep learning curve

New Product Updates from NinjaOne

NinjaOne Acquires Dropsuite
NinjaOne Acquires SaaS Backup and Data Protection Platform, Dropsuite
June 8 2025
NinjaOne Acquires Dropsuite

NinjaOne has acquired Dropsuite to enhance its backup and data protection services for cloud applications. For more details, visit the source: ninjaone.com/roadmap.

Best for global device management

  • Free trial + demo available
  • From $29/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Deel IT is a platform that helps you manage and automate your global IT operations across more than 130 countries. It streamlines equipment procurement, software deployment, and device security, making it easier to onboard and support your team members worldwide. 

Why I picked Deel: It offers the ability to set up and secure devices efficiently. You can customize device configurations to meet your team's specific needs and secure them using mobile device management and endpoint protection. This approach ensures that all devices comply with your company's security policies, safeguarding sensitive information.

Deel Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include device lifecycle management, global equipment procurement, flexible leasing options, rapid device deployment, customizable device configurations, and application access control.

Integrations include Slack, QuickBooks, Google Workspace, JIRA, NetSuite, Workable, Salesforce, Hubstaff, Gusto, Expensify, Greenhouse, and BambooHR.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Grants comprehensive visibility over IT assets worldwide
  • Ensures device security with MDM and endpoint protection
  • Provides customizable device configurations

Cons:

  • Doesn't offer features beyond device management, like network and server management
  • May not be ideal for teams with very complex IT asset needs

New Product Updates from Deel

Introducing Deel AI Workforce
Dashboard displaying Deel's Hiring Guru performance.
August 24 2025
Introducing Deel AI Workforce

Deel has launched the AI Workforce, a set of specialized agents designed to handle repetitive HR, payroll, and compliance tasks with speed and accuracy. These AI agents don’t just assist—they execute tasks from start to finish. For more information, visit Deel's official site.

Best for employee onboarding and offboarding

  • Free trial available
  • From $8/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 4.8/5

Rippling is an MDM tool that allows you to purchase, warehouse, ship, manage, and return physical devices for employees. Michael Pedrotti, co-founder of Ghostcap, shared: “Ripple IT repaired our largest issues. Last quarter we added three new developers and their accounts were configured automatically on all things—GitHub, Slack, development tools, VPN connections. The entire procedure was perhaps 10 minutes each.”

Why I picked Rippling: I picked Rippling because it's built with one of the most popular use cases for MDM software strongly in mind — onboarding and offboarding employees. In prioritizing this use case, it solves distributing and retrieving corporate hardware, one of the biggest pain points for IT administrators.

Rippling Standout Features and Integrations:

Features that made Rippling stand out to me was its focus on BYOD setups. A common frustration for many IT administrators is managing employee concerns about having corporate information on their personal devices. Rippling made that process easier by integrating the onboarding process with device management and assisted me in managing those concerns.

Rippling has pre-built integrations for a wide variety of other tools, including GitHub, Google Workspace, Greenhouse, Jira, Webhooks, and Zendesk.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Can integrate HR and IT features
  • Create common workflows to deploy easily
  • Reduces on and offboarding friction

Cons:

  • Initial setup can be time-consuming
  • Does more than just MDM, which may be more than you need

New Product Updates from Rippling IT

Assign Identity Providers by Team with Rippling IT
You can configure SAML settings in Rippling for identity providers.
June 29 2025
Assign Identity Providers by Team with Rippling IT

Rippling IT now allows assigning specific identity providers like Okta and Entra ID to different teams, with Rippling’s SSO as a backup for instant rollbacks. More details at Rippling Blog.

Best for multi-OS with built-in compliance

  • 14-day trial available
  • Pricing available upon request

Swif.ai is a Mobile Device Management (MDM) software that prioritizes compliance and security for diverse operating systems. It provides tools for unified device management, ensuring that your organization's devices are secure and compliant with industry standards.

Why I Picked Swif.ai: I picked Swif.ai for its unified device management across iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android, allowing all devices to be monitored from one console. Its remote access and live terminal features make troubleshooting effortless, while smart group management and compliance tools streamline organization, enforce policies, and ensure security standards are met with ease.

Swif.ai Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include a self-service software portal, which empowers users to manage their software needs independently, reducing IT workload. Compliance tools provide a benchmark and dashboard to ensure devices meet necessary security standards. Shadow IT management is another feature, helping you identify and control unauthorized applications that could pose risks to your organization.

Integrations include Slack, Zoom, Google Workspace, Deel, Azure AD, Okta, Workbrew, Vanta, Drata, Thoropass, Sprinto, and Delve.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with major identity providers
  • Provides automated compliance tracking tools
  • Supports multi-OS unified device management

Cons:

  • Incomplete documentation for new users
  • Requires minimum five-seat purchase

Best for remote data wiping

  • Free trial available
  • From $1.30/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Prey is a cross-platform device tracking and security tool designed to help you monitor and protect your laptops, phones, and tablets across multiple operating systems. 

Why I picked Prey: I like that Prey offers advanced tracking capabilities. You can locate your devices in real-time, view location history, and set up geofencing to receive alerts if a device leaves a designated area. This ensures that you always know where your devices are and can act quickly if they go missing. It also offers robust data protection measures. In the event of loss or theft, you can remotely wipe sensitive information, retrieve specific files, and even trigger remote encryption to prevent unauthorized access. 

Prey Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include device enrollment, application management, security management, content and policy management, device monitoring and analytics, scalability, multi-platform support, patch and update management, network management and control, and remote troubleshooting and support.

Integrations include Okta, Shibboleth, Keycloak, OpenAM, SimpleSAMLphp, Apache Syncope, WordPress, Drupal, NetIQ Access Manager, and Gluu Server.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • GPS tracking feature
  • Remote functionalities like lock, messaging, and alarm
  • Compatibility across multiple platforms

Cons:

  • Update process can be cumbersome
  • Variable geolocation accuracy

Best for multi-OS device management

  • 14-day free trial
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

Scalefusion UEM is a unified endpoint management solution (UEM) that helps businesses secure and manage a wide range of endpoints, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, rugged devices, point-of-sale systems, VRs, printers, and digital signages. It offers intuitive cross-platform support that spans across Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, Linux, and ChromeOS, making it ideal for multi-OS device management.

Why I picked Scalefusion: Scalefusion offers a one-pane, one-agent solution for endpoint management, zero trust access, and endpoint security. You can centrally manage your endpoints, enforce conditional access and SSO, configure web-content filtering, and much more. Secure access is further strengthened with certificate management and an advanced encrypted VPN tunnel. It also simplifies app management—you can remotely deploy, update, or remove apps across all devices, ensuring compliance while blocking unauthorized software.

Scalefusion Standout Features and Integrations:

Standout features include AI scripting, dynamic groups, and one-click sign-in on SSO apps with a user portal. OS & 3rd party app patch management also helps improve overall device security.

Furthermore, its unattended remote cast and control lets your IT support team troubleshoot device issues without physical access.

Integrations include Azure AD, Google Workspace, Google Maps, Okta, PingOne, Jira, Freshservice, Checkpoint Mobile Threat Defense, IceWarp, Zebra, Samsung Knox, Lenovo, and Office 365. An API is available for building custom integrations as needed.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Effective device management capabilities
  • Complimentary round-the-clock support
  • Combines UEM, ZTA & Endpoint Security in one platform

Cons:

  • Per app VPN is not available
  • Annual billing only

Best with kiosk capabilities

  • Free trial available
  • From $24/device/year
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Rating: 5/5

TinyMDM is a mobile device management (MDM) solution designed specifically for Android devices. It enables organizations to manage and secure their mobile fleets through centralized control. 

Why I picked TinyMDM: I like its robust application management capabilities. Administrators can silently install or uninstall apps, manage private and web app deployments, and oversee updates and permissions. This ensures that only authorized applications are present on devices, maintaining security and compliance across the mobile fleet. TinyMDM also has a kiosk mode, which allows devices to be locked into single or multiple applications. This is particularly useful if you require devices to serve specific purposes, such as point-of-sale systems or information kiosks. 

TinyMDM Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include file sharing, contact sharing, remote wiping, password management, OS update management, Google FRP protection management, Wi-Fi networks management, VPN settings management, blocking of hotspots, Bluetooth, roaming, and NFC.

Integrations include Microsoft Entra ID and a REST API for integration with external applications.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports non-GMS devices, expanding compatibility options
  • Effective remote management capabilities
  • Simple setup process, including QR code enrollment

Cons:

  • Labeling devices after batch setup can be tedious
  • Cannot force-enable location services remotely

Best for security

  • Free plan available (up to 10 devices) + Free demo available
  • From $2/device/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

JumpCloud is an identity and device management solution that allows you to manage Windows, MacOS, and Linux devices easily through one platform.

Why I picked JumpCloud: I picked JumpCloud because I think this solution treats device management as something that cannot be separated from cybersecurity. The integration of its identity management and device management solutions sets JumpCloud apart and is a good choice for security-conscious organizations.

JumpCloud Standout Features and Integrations:

Features that made JumpCloud stand apart for me are directory insights and system insights. Together they essentially work as real-time reporting for events occurring across my connected mobile network. The other thing I think JumpCloud does well is how it treats macOS, Windows, and Linux devices equally, which allows me to manage devices the same, no matter what operating system they use.

Integrations are available natively with popular platforms like ADP, Salesforce, Slack, Box, and Cisco AMP. It can also connect to dozens more applications with its API.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrated security tools like MFA and SSO
  • Convenient administrator portal
  • Security-focused solution

Cons:

  • Lack of customization
  • Can be complicated to use

Best for Android devices

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $12/device/year
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

AirDroid Business is an MDM tool used to manage Android devices exclusively.

Why I picked AirDroid Business: I picked AirDroid because, for businesses that exclusively use Android devices on their network, I think it's best to go with a solution that specializes in managing those devices. This specialization is critical as it allows you to rely on expert customer support from AirDroid Business.

AirDroid Business Standout Features and Integrations:

One top feature of AirDroid Business is its auto-enroll feature, which allows administrators to pre-set configurations and deploy them to new users with just a few clicks. It also has some user-focused privacy features, such as a black-screen display for screen shares that ensure administrators only see what they need to, without compromising employee privacy on BYOD phones.

AirDroid Business only offers a few integrations, such as Windows and Google Android Enterprise. It also offers an API.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy to implement
  • Specialized for Android use cases
  • Security and privacy-focused

Cons:

  • There’s a learning curve for many of the core features
  • Downloading to end users’ devices can be slow

Best freemium software

  • 14-day free trial + Free plan available
  • From $2.30/device/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Miradore is a simple-to-use MDM solution that allows organizations to manage corporate devices quickly. It offers a comprehensive free tier option.

Why I picked Miradore: I chose Miradore because, unlike many of the other tools on this list, it offers a free forever option. This free tier is very helpful for many organizations that will only ever have a small number of users and don’t need to overload on features.

Miradore Standout Features and Integrations:

Features that I found impressive about Miradore is that its customer support goes above and beyond. I think the company’s commitment to responding promptly and thoroughly is undoubtedly its standout feature. When it comes to devices and security, I always look for a solution with people behind it that I can rely on.

Miradore offers around 10 native integrations, including Apple Business/School Manager and an array of Google and Microsoft applications. It also offers a custom API.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Good security tooling options
  • Simple to use
  • Focus on customer service

Cons:

  • No way to set up pre-configurations
  • Limited advanced features

Best for mid-market

  • 14-day free trial + free demo
  • From $2.2/device/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Hexnode is a tool used by IT professionals to manage corporate devices and segment corporate data on personal devices from a unified platform.

Why I picked Hexnode: I picked Hexnode UEM because of its solid compromise between core features and enterprise-level user design. As a strong mid-market option, it delivers on its offering well by providing options for fast scalability while remaining at a very affordable price point.

Hexnode Standout Features and Integrations:

Hexnode’s standout feature is called “kiosk” mode. Kiosk mode allowed me to quickly put a device on standby or lock down part of its operation. This security-focused feature could help prevent cyber attacks from spreading across my network through connected devices, and I think it’s an ingenious functionality.

Hexnode offers around 15 native integrations, including Apple Business Manager, Freshdesk, Okta, Zendesk, Google Suite, and various operating system connections.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Simple inventory view
  • Low starting price
  • Can run custom scripts to deploy updates remotely

Cons:

  • User interface is not always intuitive
  • Administrator portal lacks some top-level information

Best for edge use cases

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $3.99/device/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

SureMDM manages company-owned and employee-owned devices for Android, iOS/iPadOS, Windows, Linux, macOS, Wear OS, VR, and IoT platforms. It can secure, monitor, and manage corporate and BYOD devices.

Why I picked SureMDM: I picked SureMDM from 42Gears because it allowed me to manage a large variety of device types. For organizations that have edge use cases, such as needing to manage a VR device, SureMDM was the only solution I found that was up to the task.

SureMDM Standout Features and Integrations:

Features that impressed me about SureMDM include its fast deployment speeds, the ability to troubleshoot my users’ devices remotely, and an equipment tracking and returning solution that reduces lost devices. The team behind SureMDM also focuses on reducing cost and time spent managing devices, and in using it, I found that the solution was clearly built with cost-saving features in mind.

It has pre-built integrations with Office 365, Splunk, Cisco ISE, and Intel AMT. It has a RESTful API which allows you to perform additional, bulk functions.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Simple user interface
  • Strong history of customer support
  • Flexible and customizable

Cons:

  • Can be slow to install on users’ devices
  • It can be overwhelming to configure

Best for quick device enrollment

  • Pricing available upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

SimpleMDM is a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution designed specifically for managing Apple devices. It provides users with tools for device enrollment, configuration, and management.

Why I picked SimpleMDM: One reason I picked SimpleMDM is its ability to handle device enrollment through Apple Business Manager. This feature allows you to quickly enroll devices, saving time and reducing hassle. Additionally, its configuration profiles offer a way to manage device settings consistently across your entire fleet, ensuring all devices meet your organization's requirements.

Another feature that stands out is SimpleMDM's support for Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies. This capability allows you to manage both personal and corporate devices under one system, providing flexibility while maintaining security. The ability to update operating systems remotely ensures that your devices are always running the latest software, minimizing security risks.

SimpleMDM's Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include automated device enrollment through Apple Business Manager, which simplifies the setup process. The platform also provides flexible app deployment options, allowing you to install and manage apps efficiently. Additionally, SimpleMDM's advanced configuration options enable you to tailor device settings to meet specific organizational needs, enhancing control and compliance.

Integrations include Munki, JumpCloud, SAML Single Sign-On (SSO), REST API, Workbrew, Deskpro, Zendesk, Slack, Jira, Salesforce, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Quick to integrate and allows for rapid device enrollment
  • Provides great visibility and control over devices
  • Easy to deploy apps and manage devices remotely

Cons:

  • Some users find the interface less intuitive compared to competitors
  • Does not support Android devices, limiting its use for mixed device environments

Best for zero-touch deployment

  • Pricing available upon equest

Appaloosa.io is a Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution that helps businesses manage their mobile devices and applications. It offers a simple yet effective way to keep your organization's devices secure and compliant.

Why I picked Appaloosa.io: One reason I chose Appaloosa.io as a top MDM software is its zero-touch deployment feature, which automates device setup. This means you can ship devices directly to your team with all the necessary settings pre-configured, saving time and reducing the hassle of manual setups. Additionally, Appaloosa.io's mobile application management ensures that business apps are deployed and configured securely, especially useful for those supporting bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies.

Appaloosa.io Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include automated device configuration, which allows for one-click setup, significantly cutting down on deployment time. The mobile fleet tracking feature offers real-time tracking and inventory management of devices, ensuring you always know the status of your assets. Additionally, enterprise app management enables centralized app deployment without needing individual store accounts, simplifying the process of getting tools into the hands of your team.

Integrations include Android Enterprise, Apple Business Manager, Teamviewer, Microsoft Entra, Office 365, Google Workspace, Okta, SAML v2, Apple Contacts, Android Contacts, Fastlane, and Bitrise.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports zero-touch enrollment for quick deployment and configuration without manual intervention
  • Allows deploying and configuring apps without individual store accounts, simplifying application management across devices
  • Offers centralized management for mobile devices

Cons:

  • Set up can be complex
  • The interface isn't as intuitive as some competitors

Best for fast deployment and bulk management

  • From $2/user/month

Moki Total Control is a Mobile Device Management (MDM) software that helps you manage and secure mobile devices across various industries, including retail, education, and healthcare. It provides a platform to control and customize devices, ensuring they are used effectively in your business operations.

Why I picked Moki: I chose Moki Total Control because of its ability to manage devices across multiple platforms like Android, iOS, and BrightSign. This flexibility means you can handle different types of devices within your organization without switching between different management tools. Another feature is its fast device deployment and bulk management capabilities. These functionalities allow your team to set up and control numerous devices simultaneously, saving time and reducing complexity.

Moki Standout Features and Integrations:

Features include managed services that can alleviate the need for in-house MDM staff, which is great if you're looking to cut down on internal resources. Another feature is centralized management for digital kiosks and point-of-sale systems, allowing you to control these devices from a single platform. Additionally, Moki provides robust customer support to help you troubleshoot and optimize your device management strategies.

Integrations are not available at this time.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The customer support is frequently highlighted as responsive and helpful, ensuring users can resolve issues quickly
  • The software's ability to support both Android and iOS platforms is highly valued, providing versatility in device management
  • Users find the remote management capabilities particularly strong, allowing for efficient control of devices from different locations

Cons:

  • The analytics and reporting features, while useful, are noted to be somewhat limited in customization
  • Some users report that the user interface could be more intuitive, as it can be difficult to navigate at times

Best for multi-platform device management

  • Free trial available
  • Pricing upon request

SOTI MobiControl is designed to manage and secure a wide array of mobile devices, ensuring that your team can work effectively without disruptions. It's tailored to handle various devices across different platforms, providing a centralized solution for mobile device management.

Why I picked SOTI: One reason I chose SOTI MobiControl is its ability to enhance data delivery. With SOTI XTreme Technology, it optimizes data transmission, ensuring that your team can access necessary information quickly. This feature is crucial for maintaining productivity, especially in environments where data speed is paramount. Moreover, SOTI MobiControl addresses device downtime with its incident management capabilities. It enables you to troubleshoot devices remotely, reducing the time your team spends on technical issues and keeping them focused on their tasks.

Standout Features

Features include geofencing, which allows you to set virtual boundaries and receive alerts if a device crosses them, ensuring sensitive data remains secure. SOTI MobiControl's lockdown mode restricts device functionality to essential apps and features, protecting against unauthorized use. Additionally, the system health dashboard provides real-time visibility into device performance, helping you make informed, data-driven decisions.

Integrations include SOTI Xsight, SOTI Assist, Juniper Mist Access Assurance, Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Entra ID, Okta, Google Workspace, Bitdefender GravityZone Mobile Threat Defense, ClearPass Policy Manager, Microsoft 365 Services, Microsoft Graph, and Apple VPP.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Effective remote troubleshooting capabilities
  • Strong support for a wide range of devices and operating systems
  • User-friendly interface that simplifies device management

Cons:

  • Some users find the setup process complex
  • Occasional performance issues reported by users

Best for Apple devices

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $5.75/device/month (billed annually)

Jamf Pro software is an MDM solution that provides various management and customization options to help IT professionals manage multiple Apple devices through one portal.

Why I picked Jamf Pro: Jamf Pro stood out to me as a solution tailor-made for organizations that primarily use Apple devices. The solution's focus on customization and flexibility helps to balance the otherwise strict nature of iOS devices. Plus, I liked that it offered lower pricing options for educational institutions, which often use Apple devices but don’t have the same budget as private organizations.

Jamf Pro Standout Features and Integrations:

Features I liked are that Jamf Pro works closely with Apple to make its integration as simple as possible. Another feature I liked is that my IT department didn’t have to handle the physical devices; they were shipped directly from Apple. Also, Jamf Pro has built-in automation that lets me know when updates are needed or when something has changed on a particular device.

Integrations are available natively with applications and services like AWS, Microsoft applications, Google, and Okta. Jamf Pro also integrates well with Apple applications such as Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Simple user design
  • Flexible deployments
  • Comprehensive documentation

Cons:

  • No out-of-the-box configurations
  • Complicated setup

Best for administrator support

  • 14-day free trial + free demo
  • From $8/user/month

Kandji is an MDM solution that manages Apple devices through an administrator portal. It is focused on automations that help IT administrators streamline device management.

Why I picked Kandji: I picked Kandji because of its strong focus on administrator support. Too often, software solutions prioritize end users regarding usability, but administrators are equally, if not more, affected by poor user design.

Kandji Standout Features and Integrations:

One of Kandji’s top features is “Liftoff,” which allows for personalized device onboarding for new employees. It also allows me to migrate my existing devices and data from other MDM solutions. Finally, the program prompted me to set up my solution policies with configurations to ensure compliance with specific regulations.

Integrations are available natively to over 20 platforms including Active Directory, Okta, Google Workspace, Apple Business Manager, Microsoft Teams, Azure AD, and Slack. Kandji also offers an API.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Customizable and flexible
  • Good customer experience
  • Administrator support

Cons:

  • Pricing is not transparent
  • Only available for Apple products

Best for Microsoft integrations

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $6/user/month (billed annually)

Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based device management software that integrates directly with the Microsoft Security suite of tools.

Why I picked Microsoft Intune: I picked Microsoft Intune for its ability to integrate directly with the most common type of corporate device — Windows machines. The ability to integrate it with all of Microsoft’s security solutions is a substantial benefit, and the consolidation of tools could be a cost-saver for many companies.

Microsoft Intune Standout Features and Integrations:

One of the best features of Microsoft Intune is how easily it handles remote access applications, including legacy software. It also allowed me to connect my end users’ apps directly to Azure AD and Office 365, which improved insights and monitoring into usage and possible security threats.

Pre-built integrations include Microsoft’s Configuration Manager, Windows Autopilot, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, and Managed Google Play, among others.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supportive training and documentation
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Zero-touch deployment

Cons:

  • Can require a more complicated setup
  • Only one Intune account per device

Best for on-premises

  • 30-day free trial + Free plan available (up to 25 devices)
  • $495/50 devices (billed annually)

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Plus is a software program that provides various tools for managing mobile devices. It’s compatible with smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, TVs, and other devices.

Why I picked ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager: I picked ManageEngine MDM because of its focus on easy-to-use features and intuitive user design, even in more complex use cases, such as on-premises deployment. I found that ManageEngine’s on-premises version was able to balance control and usability, which is often hard to find.

ManageEngine Mobile Device Manager Standout Features and Integrations:

Features I want to highlight here is that ManageEngine MDM effectively keeps personal and corporate information separate on BYOD devices. It also includes whitelist and blacklist policies that allowed me to control what information comes through and stays out. ManageEngine MDM also offers standard security controls such as update alerts and malware protection.

Integrations are available natively with platforms like ServiceNow, Zendesk, and Zoho CRM. It also offers custom API integrations.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Administrator portal that is simple to use
  • Customer support focused
  • Comprehensive features for a variety of use-cases

Cons:

  • Limited customization features
  • Pricing is an annual commitment

Other MDM Software Options

Though these didn’t make my top 12 list, they are still worthwhile solutions to check out.

  1. IBM MaaS360

    For fast deployments

  2. FileWave Unified Endpoint Management Software

    For multi-platform device management

  3. Cortado MDM

    For remote device management

  4. Kitewire Mobility

    For proactive security monitoring

  5. Citrix XENMobile

    For Android device management

  6. Amtel MDM Solution

    For mobile lifecycle management

  7. Datajar.mobi

    For easy Apple device management

Selection Criteria for MDM Software

When selecting the best MDM software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like device compatibility and security 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 enrollment and management
  • Security policy enforcement
  • Application distribution and management
  • Remote wipe and lock
  • Inventory and reporting

Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:

  • Geofencing capabilities
  • Advanced analytics and reporting
  • Customizable user roles and permissions
  • Integration with third-party applications
  • Multi-platform support

Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:

  • Intuitive user interface
  • Ease of navigation
  • Customization options
  • Learning curve
  • Mobile app availability

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
  • Chatbot assistance

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:

  • Availability of 24/7 support
  • Response time to inquiries
  • Access to live chat
  • Quality of documentation
  • Availability of community forums

Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:

  • Pricing transparency
  • Competitive pricing compared to features
  • Availability of free trials
  • Flexible subscription plans
  • Discounts for long-term commitments

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Overall satisfaction ratings
  • Feedback on reliability and performance
  • Positive testimonials
  • Critiques on limitations
  • Frequency of updates and improvements

How to Choose MDM 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:

FactorWhat to Consider
ScalabilityCan the software grow with your business? Consider future needs and whether additional devices can be easily managed as your team expands.
IntegrationsDoes it connect with your existing tools? Ensure compatibility with current systems like CRM, email, and productivity apps to maintain workflow efficiency.
CustomizabilityCan you tailor the software to your processes? Look for options that allow adjustments in settings, dashboards, and reports to fit your specific needs.
Ease of useHow intuitive is the interface? Ensure your team can navigate it without extensive training, which saves time and reduces frustration.
Implementation and onboardingHow fast can you get started? Evaluate the setup time and resources needed, including training materials and support for a smooth transition.
CostWhat’s the total expense? Consider the software's price against your budget, including hidden fees, maintenance, and potential cost savings.
Security safeguardsDoes it protect your data? Look for features like encryption, access controls, and compliance with data protection standards to safeguard sensitive information.

What Is MDM Software?

Mobile device management (MDM) software is a tool that allows IT administrators to manage all devices connected to the corporate network centrally. The software connects to your company’s devices, which you can use to control access, install software, and enforce security policies.

MDM software can be used for phones, tablets, computers, and other IoT devices running operating systems like iOS, Android, Windows, and more. It gives IT administrators enterprise-level control and allows them to protect and monitor devices for security threats.

Features

When selecting MDM software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Device enrollment: Automates the process of adding new devices to the management system, saving time and ensuring consistency.
  • Security policy enforcement: Applies company security policies across all devices to protect sensitive data and maintain compliance.
  • Remote wipe: Allows administrators to erase data on lost or stolen devices to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Application distribution: Facilitates the deployment and management of apps across multiple devices, ensuring users have the tools they need.
  • Inventory and reporting: Provides detailed insights into device usage and compliance, helping with informed decision-making.
  • Geofencing capabilities: Set virtual boundaries to control device access based on location, enhancing security.
  • Advanced analytics: Offers in-depth analysis of device performance and user behavior, aiding in optimizing operations.
  • Customizable user roles: Enable tailoring of access permissions to fit different organizational roles, ensuring appropriate access levels.
  • Multi-platform support: Manages various device operating systems from a single platform, simplifying administration tasks.
  • Integration with third-party apps: Connects with existing tools and systems to enhance productivity and maintain workflow efficiency.

Benefits

Implementing MDM software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Enhanced security: By enforcing security policies and enabling remote wipe, MDM software protects sensitive data from unauthorized access.
  • Improved efficiency: Automating device enrollment and app distribution saves time and ensures consistency across devices.
  • Better compliance: Regular inventory and reporting help maintain compliance with industry standards and regulations.
  • Increased productivity: Ensuring users have the necessary apps and tools boosts overall team productivity.
  • Cost savings: Preventing data breaches and optimizing device usage can lead to significant cost reductions for the business.
  • Flexibility in management: Multi-platform support allows for the management of different devices from a single interface, simplifying administrative tasks.
  • Location-based control: Geofencing capabilities provide security by controlling device access based on location.

Costs and Pricing

Selecting MDM 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 MDM software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for MDM Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic device management, app distribution, and limited reporting.
Personal Plan$5-$15/user/monthDevice management, app distribution, security policies, and basic analytics.
Business Plan$20-$40/user/monthAdvanced security features, custom reports, integrations, and user roles.
Enterprise Plan$50-$100/user/monthFull feature set, advanced analytics, multi-platform support, and 24/7 support.

MDM software FAQs

Here are some answers to common questions about MDM software:

What’s Next:

If you're in the process of researching MDM 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.

Paulo Gardini Miguel
By Paulo Gardini Miguel

Paulo is the Director of Technology at the rapidly growing media tech company BWZ. Prior to that, he worked as a Software Engineering Manager and then Head Of Technology at Navegg, Latin America’s largest data marketplace, and as Full Stack Engineer at MapLink, which provides geolocation APIs as a service. Paulo draws insight from years of experience serving as an infrastructure architect, team leader, and product developer in rapidly scaling web environments. He’s driven to share his expertise with other technology leaders to help them build great teams, improve performance, optimize resources, and create foundations for scalability.