MDM provider comparison: Which solution is right for your company?
The workload is increasing. Your company is growing, new employees are starting, the number of mobile devices is exploding. And you ask yourself: How do I keep track of everything? How do I protect sensitive data on iPhones, Androids and laptops without you as the IT manager having to constantly play firefighter?
The answer is: Mobile Device Management. But which MDM software is right for you? What do you need to look out for when choosing a provider? And which MDM solution stands out in comparison. Read on and find out.
TL;DR - What you should take with you
- MDM is essential for security, data protection and efficiency in mobile working environments.
- Good MDM software manages devices centrally, controls apps and protects data in the event of loss or theft.
- The most important selection criteria are: Platform compatibility, automation, integration, data protection & support.
- Providers such as Microsoft Intune, Jamf, Kandji, NinjaOne or Cortado offer different strengths - depending on the IT structure.
- A structured selection process with a pilot phase helps to find the right solution for companies of all sizes.
Why MDM is indispensable today
Today, mobile device management (MDM) is more than just an IT add-on for large corporations. Whether you are a medium-sized company or a start-up, anyone using mobile devices needs control, security and efficiency.
Hybrid working has changed the rules of the game. Employees work on the move, from home or on the road. Company data travels across a wide variety of networks. Without MDM, this is a slow-motion data protection disaster.
MDM means:
- Manage end devices without touching each one individually
- Enforce security guidelines centrally
- Delete remotely in an emergency
- Maintain compliance without having to tinker with new tools every time
In short: MDM is the silent infrastructure that prevents chaos.
What must an MDM system be able to do?
Before we take a closer look at individual providers, let's take a look at the basic functions that a solid MDM system needs to offer. Because only if you understand what is technically possible can you decide what is really relevant for your IT structure and which provider is the right one.
A good MDM system provides these functions:
- Device registration & inventory: Enables the automatic registration and management of all mobile devices in the company. This allows you to keep track of the hardware used, its status and assignment to employees at all times.
- Security guidelines & access controls: This is where you define which users are allowed to do what with their devices. For example: Only certain apps, blocked camera access, or mandatory encryption. These rules can be enforced centrally - and adjusted immediately if necessary.
- App management: You can install, block or update applications centrally. Ideal for providing productive tools quickly and keeping unwanted apps out at the same time. Particularly helpful for new employees or in the event of support.
- Remote lock/wipe in case of loss: If a device is lost or stolen, you can lock it remotely or wipe it completely. This protects sensitive company data from misuse - a must for any compliance-compliant setup.
- Monitoring & reporting: You gain insight into which devices were last online and when, whether guidelines were violated or which app versions are installed. This helps with troubleshooting and providing evidence for internal or external audits.
This turns a tool into a mobile device management platform that relieves IT and increases security.
When is which solution sufficient?
- SMEs with a focus on employee smartphones: MDM is usually enough
- Companies with BYOD or MacBooks: Enterprise Mobility Management EMM or Unified Endpoint Management UEM makes sense
Comparison criteria: How to find the right provider
Not every company needs the same MDM functions. And not every MDM provider is suitable for every IT structure. So before you dive into features and price comparisons, it's worth taking a systematic look at the most important evaluation criteria. They will help you to filter the right tool for your environment from the multitude available.Technical criteria
- Platform compatibility: Make sure that all device platforms used (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS) are supported. This is the only way you can manage all end devices centrally.
- Deployment: Do you want to host the system yourself (on-premise) or would you prefer to use a cloud-based solution? Cloud is low-maintenance and fast, on-premise offers more control.
- Automation: Functions such as Apple DEP, Android Zero Touch or Android Enterprise make setup easier and save admin time. Be sure to check what is supported.
- Integrations: Can the MDM solution communicate with your existing tools such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace or Okta? This saves effort and increases security.
Organizational
- Usability: How intuitive is the admin portal? Are there self-service options for users, e.g. password reset or app installation?
- Scalability: Can the system grow with your company? Important for future locations, new teams or device types.
- Support: Are there real contacts or just automated FAQs? Good support saves time and nerves in the event of a malfunction.
Commercial
- Pricing model: Billed per user or per device? Pay attention to included services such as support or updates.
- Contract conditions: Are there flexible terms or do you have to make a long-term commitment? What about test phases or minimum purchases?
- Data protection: Where are the servers located? Is there an AV contract? GDPR compliance is mandatory, especially for sensitive company data.
Mini-Guide: SME vs. Enterprise
- SMEs: The focus is often on low entry costs, simple operation and German support. Cloud-based systems with a plug-and-play character are ideal.
- Enterprise: Place value on automation, in-depth integrations, more granular rights management and strong APIs. Topics such as SSO or IDP connection are also crucial.
Market overview: A comparison of well-known MDM providers
A quick overview is good. But an overview with substance is even better. In the following, we compare eight providers, including international players and MDM providers from Germany. We not only show you which providers are well-known, but also how they are rated on the leading comparison platform G2. So you don't just get features, but real MDM tool experiences from the field.
Microsoft Intune
Intune is Microsoft's own MDM solution and is closely integrated into the Microsoft 365 environment. It is primarily aimed at medium-sized to large companies that operate Windows-heavy infrastructures and want to efficiently enforce central IT policies.
Advantages:
- Seamless integration with Azure AD and Microsoft 365
- Powerful policy management and device protection
- Good options for compliance and reporting
Disadvantages:
- Complex user interface
- Limited support outside the Microsoft world
G2 user rating: 4.5/5
Learn more: Microsoft Intune on G2
Jamf Pro
Jamf Pro is the gold standard for organizations that rely exclusively or primarily on Apple. Built from the ground up for macOS and iOS, it provides deep system access that other tools cannot.
Advantages:
- Specially developed for Apple
- Deep system integration and high reliability
- Intuitive user interface for admins
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for mixed environments
- In the upper price segment
G2 user rating: 4.8/5
Learn more: Jamf Pro on G2
Kandji
Kandji combines Apple focus with a high degree of automation. It is aimed at companies that manage a large number of MacBooks or iPads - and do so as efficiently as possible.
Advantages:
- Modern interface and high user-friendliness
- Automated setup and device configuration
- Preconfigured security policies
Disadvantages:
- Only suitable for Apple devices
- Higher entry price
G2 user rating: 4.7/5
Learn more: Kandji on G2
Scalefusion
Scalefusion is a flexible and cost-effective MDM solution for companies of all sizes. SMEs with an Android focus in particular appreciate its ease of use and strong support.
Advantages:
- Supports Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
- Intuitive operation and fast rollout
- Very good price-performance ratio
Disadvantages:
- Partially limited integrations
- Limited functions for very large IT setups
G2 user rating: 4.7/5
Learn more: Scalefusion on G2
Cortado
Cortado is a German MDM solution with a clear GDPR focus. The focus is on data protection, local data storage and simple administration via German servers.
Advantages:
- Hosting in Germany and GDPR-compliant
- Clear user interface
- German-speaking support
Disadvantages:
- Limited automation functions
- Less suitable for international setups
G2 user rating: 4.6/5
Learn more: Cortado on G2
NinjaOne
NinjaOne offers a modern, user-friendly platform for managing end devices and is particularly appreciated for its ease of use and integration into RMM processes.
Advantages:
- Simple, streamlined user interface
- Good integration with Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM)
- Very fast support according to user reviews
Disadvantages:
- Less suitable for BYOD models
- Focus is more on endpoint management than mobile
G2 user rating: 4.7/5
Learn more: NinjaOne on G2
IBM MaaS360
IBM MaaS360 is aimed at larger organizations with comprehensive requirements. The solution offers strong security functions, comprehensive reporting and good scalability.
Advantages:
- Strong security and compliance functions
- Comprehensive reporting tools
- Suitable for large, heterogeneous IT landscapes
Disadvantages:
- Complex setup and high learning curve
- UI not quite up to date
G2 user rating: 4.2/5
Learn more: IBM MaaS360 on G2
Hexnode
Hexnode is a versatile MDM platform that is used in both SMEs and larger IT environments. It impresses with its good price-performance ratio and flexible platform support.
Advantages:
- Supports all common operating systems
- Good combination of functionality and price
- Clear dashboard and quick setup
Disadvantages:
- Partially limited depth for integrations
- Support quality varies by region
G2 user rating: 4.5/5
Learn more: Hexnode on G2
Practical tips: How to make the right choice
Now you've got to know the most important tools. But how do you decide which one really suits your company? With this checklist, concrete decision-making aids and a look at typical pitfalls, you will have a clear orientation for your tool selection.
Checklist for your MDM selection
- Collect requirements: What types of devices do you use (e.g. smartphones, tablets, laptops)? How many users need to be managed? Do you work with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) or exclusively with company-owned devices? Clear answers to these questions form the basis for all further steps.
- Define use cases: What exactly should the MDM do? Do you need a solution that can remotely wipe devices immediately if they are lost? Or is the focus on app management because many business-critical tools need to be distributed? Topics such as data separation (private/business) or location monitoring can also be decisive.
- Obtain provider shortlist & demos: Select 2 - 3 tools that fit your requirements. Get demos, have admins test them and gather impressions of usability, interface and depth of functionality. Pay attention to the response time of the support. It reveals a lot about the subsequent cooperation.
- Check data protection: The GDPR is particularly important in the German and European context. Check whether an AV contract is offered, where the servers are located and exactly what data is processed. A technical solution can be introduced quickly, but a breach of data protection guidelines can have long-term consequences.
- Start the pilot phase: Choose a pilot team or a department with a typical usage scenario. Introduce the solution there under real conditions, document feedback and pay particular attention to friction losses in everyday life. Only then do you decide whether to roll out or readjust.
Avoid mistakes
- Oversizing: Many companies resort to enterprise tools with hundreds of features, of which only ten are used in the end. Initial joy often leads to frustration, additional work and unnecessary costs.
- Underestimate data protection: Without a legally compliant contract and clear data transparency, it can be expensive. This becomes apparent at the latest during external audits or customer inquiries.
- Do not involve admins: Anyone who has to manage the tool later should be involved right from the start. Admins know the weak points of the current setup and often have the best view of practicable solutions.
Conclusion: MDM is more than just an IT tool
Choosing the right MDM software is a strategic decision. No one system fits all. It is important that the solution fits your IT structure, your growth and your support needs. So take this tip to heart: it's better to start flexibly and then scale up than to get stuck early on.Ensure efficient IT equipment for your employees, including efficient MDM management.
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