IT Groups, These 9 Greatest MDM Options Are the Actual Deal

My cellphone and I are inseparable. 

Emails, Slack messages, and random safety alerts that I’ll or could not ignore. However whereas I am simply making an attempt to maintain my display screen time underneath management, IT groups have a a lot greater problem: managing each firm system earlier than issues spiral right into a safety nightmare.

They’re juggling tons of—typically 1000’s—of gadgets, each a possible compliance danger, knowledge breach, or unauthorized TikTok set up away from catastrophe. With out the greatest cellular system administration (MDM) resolution, one thing will slip via the cracks.

I teamed up with our IT crew to check 20+ MDM options, deploy insurance policies, implement safety measures, push updates, and remotely lock down misplaced gadgets. Some instruments made the method seamless, whereas others struggled with fundamental duties.

When you’re bored with sifting via infinite function lists and simply wish to know which MDM options are price your time, I’ve bought you coated. Listed below are the perfect MDM platforms I examined—ranked, reviewed, and prepared for real-world use.

9 greatest MDM options I examined and advocate 

Cellular system administration options are how IT groups preserve firm gadgets from turning right into a safety nightmare. I’ve seen firsthand what occurs when companies do not have a stable MDM system in place—misplaced laptops with delicate knowledge, work telephones loaded with who-knows-what, and workers who “overlook” to replace their software program for years. It is chaos.

MDM software program lets IT groups safe, observe, and handle each work system from one dashboard. I am speaking about implementing safety insurance policies with out chasing folks down, pushing updates with out sending 10 reminder emails, and locking or wiping misplaced gadgets earlier than they turn into a legal responsibility.

For me, the largest perk of MDM is that it takes the stress out of system administration. No extra questioning if firm knowledge is floating round on an outdated cellphone somebody left in an Uber. No extra IT horror tales about rogue apps or outdated safety insurance policies. Simply full management, much less problem, and a a lot happier IT workforce.

The outcome? I’ve my ultimate record of the perfect MDM options that do not simply have nice advertising and marketing however truly work. 

My standards for what makes the perfect MDM options price it 

After I got down to discover the perfect cellular system administration resolution, I made certain each met particular, real-world standards earlier than making the lower. Here is what I seemed for:

• Distant administration capabilities: An MDM that solely works nicely when the system is in hand is not helpful. The very best platforms enable IT admins to remotely lock, wipe, or observe gadgets—whether or not they’re misplaced, stolen, or simply being utilized in methods they should not be. I prioritized MDMs that supply real-time visibility into system well being and exercise, plus distant troubleshooting choices like screen-sharing or command-line entry.
• System and working system compatibility: Not each firm runs on the identical mixture of gadgets. Some use iOS and macOS, others are locked into Home windows, and lots have a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) coverage that throws Android into the combination. An ideal MDM ought to assist all main working methods (Home windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Linux in some instances) with full function parity—not a watered-down model, relying on the OS.
• Automation and coverage enforcement: MDM software program ought to scale back handbook work, not add to it. I centered on platforms that enable IT groups to preconfigure safety insurance policies, automate software program updates, implement app restrictions, and set off alerts for non-compliant gadgets. Instruments with dynamic group-based insurance policies (the place new gadgets robotically get the suitable safety settings primarily based on their function) scored larger.
• Safety and compliance management: If an MDM platform does not take safety critically, it is not price contemplating. I seemed for granular safety insurance policies that permit IT groups implement encryption, arrange distant wipe capabilities, and management which apps and community gadgets can entry. Bonus factors for instruments that assist zero belief structure and compliance with frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2.
• Ease of use and admin expertise: Some MDM options really feel like they have been designed for safety consultants with a decade of IT expertise—and that is an issue. I evaluated how straightforward it was to deploy insurance policies, handle gadgets, and configure settings with out getting misplaced in difficult menus. A clear, intuitive dashboard and clear reporting instruments made an enormous distinction in usability.
• Integration with present IT stack: MDM software program does not exist in a vacuum. It must work alongside different IT instruments like id and entry administration (IAM) options, endpoint safety software program, and cloud providers. I prioritized platforms with built-in integrations for Microsoft Entra ID (previously Azure AD), Google Workspace, Okta, and different main safety instruments.
• App and content material administration: Firms do not simply handle gadgets—additionally they handle the apps and knowledge on them. An excellent MDM ought to enable IT to push and take away apps, implement app utilization insurance policies, and forestall customers from downloading unauthorized software program. I additionally seemed for content material filtering and knowledge loss prevention (DLP) options that assist companies preserve delicate info safe.

The record under incorporates real consumer evaluations from the perfect cellular system administration software program class web page. To be included on this class, an answer should:

• Be suitable with all frequent or company-issued cellular gadgets and assist crucial working methods and platforms
• Operate via/with a number of service suppliers
• Customise in accordance with firm coverage and/or necessities.
• Combine with the already present IT, administrative, and utility methods
• Allow the distant configuration, locking, wiping, detection, and encryption of gadgets
• Report on system exercise

*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some evaluations could have been edited for readability.  

1. Jamf Professional

I went into testing Jamf Professional with one main query: is it actually the gold commonplace for managing Apple gadgets, or is it simply overrated as a result of there aren’t many Apple-focused MDMs? After spending time deploying and configuring gadgets, I can confidently say it is one of many strongest Apple-focused MDMs on the market—but it surely’s not for everybody. 

If your organization lives and breathes Apple, that is hands-down top-of-the-line instruments for system administration, app distribution, and safety enforcement. 

I began by testing zero-touch deployment, which is the place Jamf Professional actually shines. My IT workforce unboxed a couple of brand-new MacBooks, enrolled them in Apple Enterprise Supervisor (ABM), and identical to that, the gadgets robotically configured themselves, put in safety settings, and deployed the required apps. No handbook setup, no end-user frustration. Your complete course of was seamless, and if I have been an IT admin rolling out dozens (or tons of) of gadgets, I might be very pleased with how straightforward this was.

Subsequent, I moved on to app and content material administration, utilizing Jamf’s App Catalog to push software program updates throughout completely different check gadgets. It made putting in and implementing software program variations extremely easy. I additionally examined customized app deployment, and whereas it labored, it wasn’t as intuitive as I might hoped. I needed to dig into the documentation to get it proper, which felt a bit of irritating in comparison with how easy every thing else was.

Safety insurance policies have been one other space the place Jamf Professional stood out. We arrange restrictions that blocked USB entry, enforced disk encryption, disabled system choice adjustments, and locked down particular apps. The whole lot labored precisely as anticipated. I additionally examined Misplaced Mode on an iPhone, which immediately locked the system and displayed a message on the display screen. Nonetheless, once we tried a distant wipe, there was a slight delay—it will definitely labored, however in a high-stakes scenario, that wait time might be a priority.

However this is the factor—whereas Jamf Professional does a variety of issues exceptionally nicely, it is not the best MDM to work with. I discovered myself clicking via manner too many menus to seek out fundamental options. It is clear this device was designed for knowledgeable IT admins, not informal customers. 

I do love how deeply built-in Jamf Professional is with Apple’s ecosystem, however it may well take a while to get used to. And whereas we anticipated no Home windows or Android assist, it nonetheless felt like a significant draw back when testing in a mixed-device surroundings. 

What I dislike about Jamf Professional:

• No Home windows or Android assist. If even one particular person in your workforce makes use of a non-Apple system, you may want a second MDM resolution. We examined in a mixed-device surroundings, and Jamf Professional utterly ignores non-Apple gadgets.
• Deploying customized enterprise apps is difficult. Whereas App Retailer apps have been straightforward to handle, pushing inner firm apps required extra steps than I anticipated.

What G2 customers dislike about Jamf Professional:

“I want that Jamf Professional would come with a approach to robotically title gadgets from inside Jamf. At the moment, this can be a very handbook course of because of the limitations of choices inside Jamf on this regard. Would like to see extra choices for naming each IOS and OS gadgets. I additionally want that the Choose All and Deselect ALL buttons within the pre-stage scoping space have been both eliminated or ready for use when filtering the record of gadgets with out it nonetheless deciding on or unselecting ALL gadgets. Many customers suppose it should solely choose the objects which were filtered within the record and are seen, but it surely truly nonetheless selects the whole record, disregarding the filter. This causes confusion and errors typically by new customers.”

– Jamf Professional Overview, Denise L.

2. NinjaOne

When my IT workforce and I examined NinjaOne, we anticipated a stable endpoint administration device, however what we discovered was a hybrid MDM-RMM resolution that does lots—however not all the time every thing you want from a standard MDM. If your organization wants one platform to handle laptops, desktops, and cellular gadgets, this might be an awesome match. However should you’re in search of a devoted MDM with deep cellular safety and app controls, NinjaOne would possibly go away you wanting extra.

We began by enrolling a mixture of Home windows laptops, macOS gadgets, iPhones, and Android telephones, and I am going to admit—it was one of many quickest setups we have examined. Not like some MDMs that require handbook configurations and lengthy setup processes, NinjaOne makes use of an agent-based system, that means as soon as the agent is put in, the system robotically enrolls, studies again to the dashboard, and begins being monitored. My IT workforce preferred that it was cloud-based, so we did not must cope with difficult infrastructure.

From there, we explored system monitoring and safety enforcement. On Home windows and macOS, NinjaOne gave us full visibility into system well being, software program variations, and patch standing. We may remotely set up software program, push safety updates, and even entry gadgets for troubleshooting. This was an enormous win for IT assist groups that want distant management capabilities. However as soon as we moved to cellular gadgets, issues felt extra restricted.

One among NinjaOne’s largest strengths is automation. We created a workflow to robotically replace software program on all check gadgets, implement safety patches, and ship alerts for non-compliant gadgets, and all of it labored seamlessly. Plus, IT groups can write customized scripts to automate particular duties, which is one thing most traditional MDMs do not provide.

However once we shifted our focus to cellular system safety, we hit some limits. Whereas coverage enforcement labored nicely for desktops and laptops, cellular gadgets felt like an afterthought. We may implement fundamental safety insurance policies like passcodes and encryption, however there was no in-depth app administration resolution, no conditional entry insurance policies, and no containerization for separating work and private knowledge. That was a letdown.

One other challenge? No distant troubleshooting for cellular gadgets. On desktops, we may remotely entry and management gadgets to repair issues, however for cellular gadgets, our solely choices have been sending instructions or wiping them utterly. That is a reasonably large hole for IT groups who want real-time assist instruments for workers utilizing work telephones.

General, NinjaOne is a superb match for IT groups managing a mixture of desktops and cellular gadgets—but when your organization is mobile-first, you would possibly discover it missing.

What I dislike about NinjaOne:

• I did not discover it ultimate for BYOD situations. In case your workers deliver their very own cellular gadgets, NinjaOne could not provide the extent of separation and safety that you simply want.
• Restricted cellular system safety features. Whereas Home windows and macOS administration was top-tier, iOS and Android safety controls weren’t as deep. We may implement passcode insurance policies and push configurations, however distant wipe and Misplaced Mode weren’t as responsive.

What G2 customers dislike about NinjaOne:

“With the limitless quantity of included customers, we have been trying ahead to implementing distant entry capabilities to a few of our distant customers (entry to PC from a cellular system). Many of those customers could be utilizing their telephones for distant entry. Sadly, cellular assist for finish customers hasn’t been correctly applied but. There are numerous different options that we wished NinjaOne would implement (multi-split window for multi-monitor when isolated into distant PC, for instance), a few of that are on their roadmap, a few of which aren’t.”

– NinjaOne Overview, Adon G.

3. JumpCloud

On testing JumpCloud, I shortly realized that this is not simply an MDM resolution—it is a full id, system, and safety administration platform. When you’re solely in search of fundamental cellular system administration, this would possibly really feel like overkill. However should you want a centralized approach to handle customers, gadgets, and safety insurance policies throughout a number of platforms, JumpCloud is likely one of the strongest instruments I ended up testing.

I began with system onboarding, enrolling a mixture of Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android gadgets. Not like some MDMs that depend on separate configurations for various platforms, JumpCloud lets us handle every thing from a single console. The enrollment course of was easy, and we have been in a position to implement safety insurance policies, deploy functions, and handle customers throughout all gadgets in a single place.

One factor that stood out instantly was JumpCloud’s integration of MDM with id administration. Most MDMs focus solely on system management, however JumpCloud ties in consumer authentication, listing providers, and zero-trust safety fashions. We examined single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) insurance policies, and it was nice to see that the IT people may implement safety guidelines at each the system and consumer ranges.

For cellular gadgets, we have been in a position to push safety settings, implement passcodes, and remotely wipe gadgets if wanted. Nonetheless, once we tried app administration, it wasn’t as granular as we might hoped. We may deploy apps to gadgets, however there was no actual utility sandboxing or containerization for separating work and private knowledge. That is a downside for BYOD (Convey Your Personal System) environments, the place we might wish to guarantee company knowledge is totally remoted.

JumpCloud additionally has built-in endpoint compliance instruments, which we examined by implementing disk encryption, monitoring login exercise, and checking for outdated software program. The zero-trust safety method was top-of-the-line we have seen—each system was constantly verified earlier than being allowed to entry firm assets.

Cellular system administration itself labored nicely for fundamental duties like remotely locking gadgets, monitoring misplaced telephones, and implementing encryption, however I bumped into limitations with deeper cellular controls. I could not do issues like geofencing, distant display screen management, or automated remediation actions primarily based on safety violations. 

Additionally, Android and iOS system enrollments weren’t as easy as I anticipated. The method required additional handbook steps, and a few customers reported needing to re-enroll after an OS replace. 

General, JumpCloud is likely one of the most security-focused MDMs we examined, but it surely’s greatest suited to corporations that want full id and system administration, not simply cellular safety.

What I dislike about JumpCloud:

• System enrollment had points on Android and iOS. A few of us wanted to re-enroll gadgets after OS updates, and the preliminary setup wasn’t as easy as I anticipated. 
• Linux system administration was a bit of inconsistent. Fundamental insurance policies like implementing display screen locks labored on some distributions however did not apply correctly on others, which made issues unreliable.

What G2 customers dislike about JumpCloud:

“Cellular administration options for iOS and Android are extra fundamental and do not provide as a lot management because the instruments out there for managing desktop gadgets.”

– JumpCloud Overview, Md. S.

4. Kandji

Just like Jamf Professional, Kandji can be constructed particularly for Apple gadgets. As a substitute of juggling a number of OS environments, I examined it completely with macOS, iOS, and iPadOS gadgets to see how nicely it handles Apple’s ecosystem. Spoiler: It does this very well, however that focus comes with some trade-offs.

One of many standout options was Kandji’s Automation Engine, significantly the pre-built safety and compliance templates. Whereas different MDMs make you configure safety insurance policies from scratch, Kandji offers over 150 pre-configured safety controls that robotically implement compliance with frameworks like CIS benchmarks, SOC 2, ISO 27001, and NIST. 

We enrolled a fleet of macOS gadgets and making use of a CIS benchmark template—it robotically enabled FileVault encryption, enforced password insurance policies, blocked USB storage, and even set login window configurations with out having to tweak particular person settings.

One other spectacular function was Auto Apps, which permits IT groups to deploy and replace third-party apps with out handbook intervention. I examined this with Zoom, Slack, and Chrome. The software program up to date silently within the background, and I may even set compliance guidelines in order that if a consumer deleted or downgraded an app, it could robotically reinstall the newest model. This was nice for sustaining app consistency throughout a number of gadgets.

Blueprints have been one other distinctive side. As a substitute of making use of insurance policies one after the other, I may create customized configurations for various groups or departments, grouping settings, apps, and compliance guidelines collectively. We created separate Blueprints for advertising and marketing, engineering, and HR, every with its personal particular software program and safety settings, and deploying them was seamless.

On the cellular aspect, iOS and iPadOS system administration felt sturdy however not as feature-packed because the Mac aspect. I may implement Wi-Fi and VPN configurations, block particular apps, and allow Misplaced Mode, however there was no geofencing or granular per-app VPN like some mobile-first MDMs provide. That stated, ABM integration was seamless, and I may enroll new gadgets through zero-touch deployment with out customers needing to do something manually.

Furthermore, since Kandji is an Apple-only MDM, you may want one other resolution for non-Apple gadgets. so When you’ve got a blended system surroundings, this can be a large limitation.

What I dislike about Kandji:

• Lack of deep real-time monitoring. I may see compliance standing and safety settings, however real-time system diagnostics have been restricted. Not like some MDMs that present detailed reside system well being studies, I needed to depend on periodic standing updates as a substitute.
• The auto apps function labored nicely for main functions like Zoom and Chrome, however not each third-party app is supported. For area of interest or customized software program, I nonetheless needed to deal with deployment manually.

What G2 customers dislike about Kandji:

“I might recognize extra complete patch administration for third-party functions. Moreover, the passport sync function with Google might be considerably enhanced by incorporating the flexibility to make use of MFA with safety keys. Improved alerting capabilities primarily based on exercise would even be useful.”

– Kandji Overview, Danny H.

5. TeamViewer

TeamViewer is not your typical MDM—it is higher identified for distant entry and troubleshooting, however its TeamViewer Distant Administration suite additionally consists of cellular system administration capabilities. 

To check how nicely it stacks up in opposition to devoted MDM options, I centered on its distant management options, cellular safety instruments, and real-time monitoring, utilizing a mixture of Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android gadgets.

Instantly, the distant assist instruments stood out. Most MDMs allow you to push configurations and insurance policies, however TeamViewer takes it a step additional by permitting real-time distant entry to gadgets, even for cell phones. I examined this by remotely controlling an Android system and troubleshooting a VPN configuration challenge on an iPhone. 

Not like most MDMs that require end-user interplay, TeamViewer lets me see the display screen, navigate settings, and even make real-time adjustments with out counting on customers to comply with step-by-step directions. That is ultimate for IT groups coping with much less tech-savvy customers.

One other distinctive function was efficiency monitoring and patch administration. I may see CPU utilization, RAM consumption, disk well being, and community exercise throughout all enrolled gadgets in actual time. If a tool was working out of storage or exhibiting indicators of overheating, we bought an alert instantly. The patch administration system allowed me to put in lacking updates remotely, which I examined by rolling out Home windows safety patches to a check group of laptops. This labored nicely on Home windows and macOS, however cellular patch administration was restricted—I could not push OS updates to iPhones or Android gadgets like I may with desktops.

For safety, TeamViewer consists of cellular endpoint safety with malware detection, which is one thing most MDMs do not provide. I put in the safety agent on a number of gadgets, and it efficiently flagged outdated software program and blocked an unauthorized app set up try. Nonetheless, I discovered that malware detection felt extra like a secondary function in comparison with standalone endpoint safety instruments. It is useful however not as in-depth as devoted safety options.

On the draw back, TeamViewer’s MDM capabilities really feel secondary to its distant entry options. I may push insurance policies like Wi-Fi configurations, display screen lock settings, and distant wipe instructions, however I seen a scarcity of superior app administration, geofencing, or Zero Belief safety insurance policies which might be commonplace in additional enterprise-focused MDMs. 

System enrollment additionally felt clunky—for cellular gadgets, I needed to manually set up the TeamViewer app and grant extra permissions, making it much less seamless in comparison with zero-touch deployment choices in different MDMs.

What I dislike about TeamViewer:

• Restricted role-based entry controls for IT groups. Most enterprise MDMs enable detailed role-based permissions, however TeamViewer’saccess settings have been less complicated, making it tougher to section IT obligations for various departments.
• Cellular system enrollment was extra handbook than anticipated. As a substitute of a streamlined zero-touch deployment, I needed to manually set up the TeamViewer app on every cellular system and regulate settings, which slowed issues down.

What G2 customers dislike about TeamViewer:

“We have tried to look into their MDM resolution but it surely appears very pricy and does not provide as many options in comparison with different devoted MDM options.”

– TeamViewer Overview, Katherine J.

6. ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central provides a full-fledged endpoint administration resolution that covers cellular gadgets, desktops, servers, and IoT endpoints. Whereas this broad performance is spectacular, it additionally makes the platform extra complicated to navigate than devoted MDMs. To maintain issues centered, I primarily examined its MDM capabilities alongside its desktop and patch administration options, utilizing a mixture of Home windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux gadgets.

One of many first issues I examined was zero-touch deployment for cellular gadgets, and this labored surprisingly nicely. Utilizing ABM, Android Zero-Contact, and Samsung Knox Cellular Enrollment, we enrolled company-owned gadgets seamlessly. Nonetheless, BYOD enrollment wasn’t as easy—I bumped into some inconsistencies the place work profile insurance policies did not apply appropriately on sure Android fashions, requiring handbook fixes.

Geofencing and site monitoring have been sturdy options on paper, permitting me to limit company knowledge entry primarily based on location. However after I examined this throughout a number of gadgets, I discovered that some telephones incorrectly triggered safety alerts regardless of being in an accepted location. That meant IT needed to manually override geofence restrictions, making it extra of a problem than a real safety measure.

One other space the place Endpoint Central did not fairly ship was distant troubleshooting on cellular gadgets. Whereas I may push instructions, lock/wipe gadgets, and deploy apps remotely, I could not absolutely management iOS gadgets—I used to be restricted to display screen viewing. On Android, distant management was potential however required additional consumer permissions, which slowed down assist instances the place instant motion was wanted.

From a safety standpoint, the platform permits for stable enforcement of encryption, passcode insurance policies, and app administration, however compliance automation was missing. If a tool grew to become non-compliant (for instance, if encryption was disabled), Endpoint Central solely despatched an alert—it did not robotically take motion to implement insurance policies. This meant that IT needed to manually remediate safety violations as a substitute of letting the system deal with them.

The system well being monitoring instruments have been additionally a pleasant contact. I may observe CPU utilization, reminiscence consumption, disk area, and community exercise throughout all enrolled endpoints. This was particularly helpful for troubleshooting efficiency points earlier than they escalated. That stated, Linux monitoring felt extra restricted than Home windows and macOS—there have been fewer built-in analytics choices, making it tougher to get a real-time view of system well being.

In case your group wants MDM plus full desktop and server administration, it is an awesome all-in-one device. Nonetheless, should you’re trying strictly for cellular system administration, the platform would possibly really feel too complicated.

What I dislike about ManageEngine Endpoint Central:

• Compliance enforcement required an excessive amount of handbook work. As a substitute of robotically remediating safety violations, Endpoint Central solely despatched alerts, that means IT needed to step in to repair points manually.
• Cellular troubleshooting instruments have been weaker than desktop assist. For iOS, I may solely view the display screen, not management it, and for Android, I wanted additional consumer permissions to take management, which slowed down IT assist.

What G2 customers dislike about ManageEngine Endpoint Central:

“The preliminary setup generally is a bit overwhelming because of the variety of configurations out there, and I really feel like typically the answer is over-engineered with a couple of pointless options like having an MDM and a UEM in a single device but additionally form of separate in a manner that typically the UEM enrollment works however you continue to must do a separate MDM enrollment to make use of the total capabilities of ManageEngine. A extra guided onboarding course of or built-in tutorials would assist customers get began sooner. Additionally, whereas the interface is useful, it might be extra fashionable and visually refined.”

– ManageEngine Endpoint Central Overview, Abdul-Gafar A.

7. AirDroid Enterprise

AirDroid Enterprise is constructed particularly for managing massive fleets of Android gadgets, making it ultimate for industries that depend on kiosks, level of sale (POS) methods, digital signage, and distant workforces. Not like most MDMs that target compliance enforcement and safety insurance policies, AirDroid excels at bulk deployment, distant file administration, and job automation. 

I examined it on a mixture of Android tablets, rugged gadgets, and company-owned smartphones to see how nicely it dealt with mass provisioning and operational administration.

One of many first issues I seen was how nicely bulk enrollment labored on Samsung gadgets utilizing Knox Cellular Enrollment. It utilized settings immediately, making setup extremely quick. Nonetheless, non-Samsung Android gadgets required extra handbook steps, similar to putting in the AirDroid Enterprise app earlier than enrollment, which slowed issues down. 

The shortage of a common zero-touch deployment methodology meant that for corporations managing a various Android fleet, the onboarding course of wasn’t as easy as it’s with some enterprise-grade MDMs.

A standout function was the distant file administration system, which let me push, retrieve, and sync recordsdata throughout a number of gadgets in actual time. This was particularly helpful for companies needing to replace digital signage, distribute paperwork to subject groups, or sync coaching supplies throughout a number of places. Whereas sending recordsdata labored flawlessly, retrieving recordsdata from distant gadgets typically required consumer approval, limiting its automation potential.

The majority operations device was one other spotlight. I may remotely clear cache, uninstall apps, reboot gadgets, and even schedule system updates throughout all managed gadgets. This function was particularly helpful for IT groups overseeing self-service kiosks or customer-facing Android gadgets, decreasing the necessity for on-site upkeep. 

Nonetheless, whereas I may schedule fundamental duties, the workflow automation system lacked superior conditional logic. For instance, I could not arrange a rule that robotically disabled background apps when battery life dropped under 20%.

Safety and compliance instruments have been current however not as deep as these present in enterprise-focused MDMs. The system allowed for app whitelisting, system encryption enforcement, and distant lock/wipe capabilities, however there have been no automated remediation instruments for non-compliant gadgets. If a tool failed to fulfill safety insurance policies, I solely obtained an alert, that means handbook intervention was required.

I believe AirDroid Enterprise is a superb choice for Android-heavy companies that prioritize system upkeep, content material administration, and distant management over strict safety insurance policies. When you want a device to mass deploy, replace, and preserve Android gadgets effectively, it delivers. But when safety, compliance enforcement, and deep analytics are your priorities, you could want a extra enterprise-focused MDM resolution.

What I dislike about AirDroid Enterprise:

• No assist for iOS, Home windows, or macOS. It is strictly Android-only, which implies it is not match for corporations with mixed-device environments.
• File retrieval from distant gadgets wasn’t all the time dependable. Whereas pushing recordsdata labored nicely for me, pulling recordsdata required extra permissions, making automated file sync much less sensible.

What G2 customers dislike about AirDroid Enterprise:

“AirDroid Enterprise is primarily tailor-made for dealing with Android gadgets, which suggests that it might not be essentially the most appropriate selection for companies using completely different working methods. Though the platform proposes a number of pricing schemes, the bills could also be comparatively costly for small-scale corporations or these with a restricted funds. Regardless of having a user-friendly interface, the platform nonetheless requires some quantity of studying and coaching to make the perfect use of all its options.”

– AirDroid Enterprise Overview, Carl T.

8. Admin

Admin by Google is designed to be a light-weight, easy-to-use MDM resolution, making it an awesome choice for small and mid-sized companies (SMBs) that want system administration with out enterprise complexity. 

Not like many MDMs that attempt to pack in patch administration, id controls, and deep compliance automation, Admin focuses on easy system provisioning, app administration, and safety enforcement. I examined it with Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android gadgets to see if it actually delivered a hassle-free expertise.

The very first thing I seen was how fast and easy the enrollment course of was. I may onboard gadgets utilizing QR codes, e mail invites, or bulk CSV uploads, and ABM and Android Zero-Contact have been supported. The method was easy, but it surely lacked deep customization choices—for instance, some MDMs let you preconfigure gadgets with precise settings earlier than they even boot up, however with Admin, a couple of handbook steps have been nonetheless required after enrollment.

One limitation I discovered was the shortage of multi-tiered function assignments for IT admins. Most enterprise MDMs enable granular entry controls, that means IT groups can set permissions for various directors, like proscribing junior IT workers to system monitoring solely. Admin did not have that degree of depth—I may create admin and consumer roles, however there wasn’t a approach to fine-tune entry for various groups.

App deployment was easy and dependable. I may set up, replace, or take away private and non-private apps throughout gadgets remotely, and Admin supported silent app installations on Android Enterprise and supervised iOS gadgets, that means customers did not must approve installations.

One standout function was app grouping, which allowed me to assign completely different app collections primarily based on consumer roles. I arrange customized app bundles for various groups, like advertising and marketing, gross sales, and finance, and deploying them was seamless. Nonetheless, Admin lacked an built-in enterprise app retailer, so if what you are promoting depends on customized, in-house functions, you may must deal with distribution manually or depend on exterior app internet hosting.

Admin provides system compliance insurance policies, permitting IT groups to implement safety settings like password complexity, encryption, and distant wipe capabilities. I may additionally block unauthorized apps and implement VPN configurations, which labored nicely throughout testing. Nonetheless, the shortage of automated compliance remediation meant that if a tool grew to become non-compliant, it solely generated an alert as a substitute of auto-fixing the difficulty.

A novel function I appreciated was system utilization analytics. Not like some MDMs that focus purely on safety, Admin offers insights into how gadgets are used, monitoring app utilization, display screen time, and community exercise. That is useful for companies that want visibility into system productiveness and potential safety dangers.

That stated, real-time monitoring was restricted. Whereas I may view compliance standing and historic utilization tendencies, there have been no deep forensic instruments for investigating safety incidents intimately. For instance, if a tool confirmed suspicious exercise, I may lock or wipe it, however I could not drill down into reside system logs or see behavioral anomalies like some superior MDMs enable.

What I dislike about Admin:

• Not as scalable for big enterprises. Admin is well-suited for small to mid-sized companies, however lacks the depth of role-based entry controls and compliance automation that bigger organizations want.
• No multi-tiered function assignments for IT admins. I may create fundamental admin and consumer roles, however there was no approach to fine-tune permissions for various IT workforce members.

What G2 customers dislike about Admin:

“There are some options that may be a bit of bit hidden, however as soon as you start to make use of it, you’ll be taught shortly. Probably the most tough job as admin is to maintain up with what’s new and coming to the suite on each replace. There are some blogs, however they aren’t all the time straightforward to seek out. I might advise you to first attempt to run all around the options and be aware of what you are able to do with GSuite after which examine what could be helpful in your group so you possibly can in a while simply deploy these options.”

– Admin Overview, David R.

9. Trio

Trio is a cloud-first MDM designed for companies that want cellular, desktop, and IoT system administration in a single platform. Whereas some MDMs focus primarily on cellular system safety, Trio positions itself as a full unified endpoint administration (UEM) resolution, that means it covers Home windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and even IoT gadgets. I examined it throughout all these platforms, specializing in its cross-device coverage enforcement, automation instruments, and distant troubleshooting capabilities.

One of many largest promoting factors of Trio is its skill to handle a number of system varieties from a single dashboard. I enrolled Home windows laptops, MacBooks, Linux workstations, iPhones, Android gadgets, and even an IoT-connected scanner. Not like some MDMs that require separate insurance policies for cellular and desktop gadgets, Trio permits unified coverage enforcement, that means I may set one safety commonplace throughout all endpoints.

This labored nicely for fundamental insurance policies like password enforcement, encryption, and VPN configurations, however sure superior settings weren’t out there throughout all platforms. For instance, I may absolutely configure Home windows and macOS safety insurance policies, however on Linux, some safety settings—like disabling USB ports—weren’t supported out of the field. Equally, IoT system administration was restricted, with fewer management choices in comparison with conventional computer systems and telephones.

Trio’s coverage automation was one other spotlight. As a substitute of manually pushing safety updates or implementing compliance, I may arrange automated workflows that may set off sure actions primarily based on system standing. For instance, I created a rule that robotically locked a tool if it was inactive for 30 days. This labored nicely, however the setup course of was not beginner-friendly—I needed to manually outline workflow steps utilizing a script-like logic, which took some trial and error.

The compliance monitoring dashboard was helpful, because it allowed me to see which gadgets have been falling out of compliance in actual time. Nonetheless, automated remediation was inconsistent—some insurance policies, like re-enabling encryption if it was disabled, labored as anticipated, however others, like forcing a lacking safety patch to put in, typically failed on account of device-specific points. Not like extra mature MDMs, Trio did not all the time present detailed logs explaining why a coverage failed, which made troubleshooting tougher.

One of many distinctive options of Trio is its built-in distant troubleshooting instruments. I may provoke distant classes for desktops and cellular gadgets instantly from the admin panel, which was helpful for IT assist. Nonetheless, the extent of management assorted by system sort—for Home windows and macOS, I may absolutely management the system, however on iOS, I used to be restricted to display screen viewing, and on Android, I wanted consumer permission for full management.

One other function I examined was real-time efficiency monitoring, which confirmed CPU utilization, reminiscence consumption, and community exercise throughout gadgets. This was helpful for diagnosing points earlier than they grew to become main issues, however I seen that updates weren’t actually in actual time—there was a 2-3 minute delay within the knowledge refresh price, which is not ultimate for quick troubleshooting.

What I dislike about Trio:

• The automation setup wasn’t beginner-friendly. I needed to manually outline workflow guidelines utilizing script-like logic, which required trial and error to get proper.
• Some safety settings weren’t absolutely supported throughout platforms. For instance, USB port restrictions labored on Home windows however weren’t absolutely enforceable on Linux, and IoT system administration lacked deep configuration choices.

What G2 customers dislike about Trio:

“Whereas Trio provides so many helpful options, it may be a bit overwhelming and complicated to work with as nicely. That is particularly important with regards to setting insurance policies and configurations.”

– Trio Overview, Mahsa M.

Steadily requested questions on the perfect MDM options 

Have extra questions? Discover extra solutions under.

Which MDM resolution is greatest?

The very best MDM resolution relies on what you are promoting wants. When you’re managing a mixture of cellular and desktop gadgets, a UEM resolution like ManageEngine Endpoint Central or Trio is right. For Apple-only environments, Kandji offers deep macOS and iOS administration. If distant troubleshooting is a precedence, TeamViewer or AirDroid Enterprise provides real-time system management. Companies needing sturdy safety and id administration ought to take into account JumpCloud.

How do I select the suitable MDM resolution?

Begin by assessing your system panorama: are you managing Home windows, macOS, Linux, or cellular gadgets? If safety and compliance are priorities, search for MDMs with automated enforcement and remediation. For distant troubleshooting, select an MDM with real-time management capabilities. Think about how straightforward it’s to deploy and scale and all the time check an MMDM’sinterface and assist earlier than committing.

Does Microsoft have an MDM resolution?

Sure, Microsoft Intune, a part of Microsoft Endpoint Supervisor (MEM), is MMicrosoft’sMDM resolution. It permits companies to handle Home windows, macOS, iOS, and Android gadgets, implement safety insurance policies, and deploy functions remotely. Intune integrates nicely with Microsoft 365 and Azure Energetic Listing, making it an awesome choice for corporations already utilizing MMicrosoft’secosystem. Nonetheless, it lacks some deep mobile-specific administration options present in standalone MDMs.

Can MDM observe looking historical past?

Most MDM options do not observe full looking historical past by default however can implement internet filtering, block sure websites, and monitor safety violations. On company-owned gadgets, IT groups can use MDMs with safe internet gateways or DNS filtering to observe on-line exercise. Nonetheless, on BYOD setups, MDMs can solely handle company apps and profiles, that means private looking historical past stays non-public. 

What occurs if an MDM-managed system goes offline?

If a tool loses web entry, MDM insurance policies already utilized stay energetic, however real-time updates and distant instructions will not take impact till the system reconnects. Some MDMs enable restricted offline enforcement, similar to blocking sure apps or proscribing entry to encrypted knowledge. Nonetheless, safety actions like distant wipe or geofencing alerts solely set off as soon as the system is again on-line.

Can an worker take away MDM from their system?

On company-owned gadgets, IT directors can stop customers from eradicating MDM, guaranteeing that insurance policies keep enforced. Nonetheless, on personally owned gadgets in a BYOD setup, customers can usually unenroll from MDM except strict restrictions are in place. Some options, like AApple’sSupervised Mode or Android Enterprise, present stronger controls to forestall unauthorized removing.

MDM or mayhem? The selection is yours

Managing a fleet of cellular gadgets is not nearly safety—it is about effectivity, management, and maintaining IT complications to a minimal. Whether or not you are rolling out a cellular workforce, securing company knowledge, or maintaining distant troubleshooting seamless, the perfect MDM resolution can save time, scale back dangers, and streamline system administration.

With so many choices out there, your best option relies on your priorities. Some MDMs excel at cross-platform administration, others shine in distant entry and troubleshooting, and a few focus totally on compliance automation and safety enforcement. The bottom line is to determine what options matter most to what you are promoting, whether or not it is zero-touch deployment, detailed monitoring, or full id integration.

Irrespective of your selection, one factor is obvious—fashionable companies cannot afford to depart system administration to probability. With the suitable MDM, you are not simply maintaining gadgets in examine—you are constructing a wiser, safer, and extra manageable IT ecosystem.

If what you are promoting wants tighter management over company apps, get cellular utility administration (MAM) options to guard firm knowledge, implement entry insurance policies, and keep safe with out invading privateness.