Selecting the right Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution for your business is a smart move that can greatly increase productivity. Not only does it secure the mobile devices your employees use every day, but it also protects the business data they access.
As more companies embrace enterprise mobility and hybrid work environments, IT teams are facing new challenges: Managing a variety of devices in different locations while maintaining compliance with security standards. These new work models require flexibility, but they also demand robust security to mitigate risks.
There are plenty of MDM options available, each with its own strengths, so it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we've created this guide—to help you make an informed decision and choose the best solution for your business needs.
Understanding SMB’s device management needs
SMBs face unique device management challenges: they need practical, affordable solutions. After all, they typically have limited IT resources and budgets. An MDM solution that is affordable, easy to use, and scalable is ideal to ensure devices are secured and operations run smoothly.
Key issues to consider:
- Device management headaches: SMBs struggle to manage multiple devices, maintain security, and monitor lost or stolen assets without the right tools in place.
- Limited budgets: SMBs operate on tighter budgets, so they need solutions that provide value without breaking the bank.
- Lack of IT resources: Many SMBs don't have internal IT teams, which means MDM solutions need to be easy to set up, manage, and monitor.
- Growing pains: SMBs often experience periods of growth, which means their MDM solution should scale easily to support new devices without requiring expensive upgrades.
- Feature sets: SMBs typically require basic features like security, tracking, and remote monitoring, rather than complex tools typically used in enterprise environments.
What to look for in an MDM
A good MDM solution is one that is simple, affordable, and effective. SMBs don't need (or want) complex, feature-laden solutions that require a team of IT experts to manage. They need devices managed, and data protected, without breaking the bank or diverting resources away from the core business.
A clear set of evaluation criteria will help you find a solution that addresses your basic needs, increases productivity, and protects your business with robust security – all at a budget-friendly price point. Choosing the right MDM solution also depends on your previously planned MDM strategy, as it guides the selection process and ensures the solution aligns with your business goals.
Key considerations when choosing an MDM:
- Security Capabilities: Basic security features like remote wipe, locking, encryption, and the ability to enforce security policies are must-haves to protect data and minimize risk in the event a device is lost or stolen.
- Device Tracking: The ability to track device locations in real time is essential for SMBs managing mobile or remote workforces. This feature helps recover lost or stolen devices and ensures compliance with company policies.
- Deployment Method (Cloud, On-Premise, or Hybrid): Cloud-based MDM solutions are easy to deploy and require less maintenance than on-premise options. However, some organizations require more control, so on-premise options are still relevant.
- Platform Support: SMBs typically have a mix of devices and platforms, so the MDM solution should support Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and other operating systems.
- App Integration: A good MDM solution complements existing productivity software, email, and security systems by integrating with them.
- Licensing Options (Per User or Per Device): Per device licensing is ideal for fleets of devices, while per user licensing is better suited for employees with multiple devices.
- Support and Training: Quality customer support is critical for SMBs, many of which don't have internal IT teams. A user-friendly interface and minimal training needs are also important.
- ROI: When evaluating ROI, consider the cost of the MDM solution versus the potential savings from minimizing the risks of lost or stolen devices and reducing work hours spent on onboarding, offboarding, and device management tasks. Automation of these processes can significantly reduce labor costs and improve efficiency.
Best MDM solution for SMB’s
The right MDM solution can have a big impact on SMBs, providing device security, streamlined management, and resource optimization. With so many options available, it's important to choose a solution that meets your specific needs. Do you prioritize security? Automation? Affordability? Below, we evaluate top MDM solutions to help you make an informed decision.
Prey
Let’s start with us, Prey. We are a simple, user-friendly MDM solution that offers cross-platform support, excellent data security actions, and reliable location tracking features. It's an ideal choice for SMBs that need to manage devices for purposes like fleet tracking, anti-theft protection, and device lending to remote workforces. Prey's ease of use and affordability make it a great option for those who want to avoid complicated setups and expensive solutions.
If you're an SMB prioritizing device security, reliable location tracking, and easy deployment, Prey is a great value. It's particularly well-suited for its affordability, cross-platform support, and flexibility to meet client needs. However, it falls short of certain advanced remote features, making it best for businesses that don't require complex management.
Some verified reviews from from G2:
Chloe W.- Content Producer
Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)
"Gives me peace of mind at an affordable price"
Brian L.- I.T.
ManagerMid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"Prey works for my company!"
Tim P.- Owner
Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)
"Set it and forget it device security"
Ninja One
Ninja One combines robust MDM with comprehensive IT management tools. Advanced features like patch management, automation, and integrated backups make it a good fit for businesses with complex IT environments or Managed Service Providers (MSPs).
Ninja One is a great solution for SMBs and MSPs that require advanced IT management features, including patch management, automation, and endpoint security. However, it's steeply priced and complex, making it unsuitable for those with basic needs. It's best for businesses with complex IT environments or those that manage multiple clients.
Some verified reviews from from G2:
Victor K.Owner
Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)
"A great platform that is getting stronger in capability, and does the basics well"
Adam L. - IT Support Specialist
Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"Transforming, Time Saving, & Thorough!"
Greg M. - Director of Information Technology
Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"A simplified RMM platform with the tools to make managing hundreds of machines easy."
Kandji
Kandji is a great choice for Apple-only businesses that prioritize zero-touch deployment, compliance automation, and advanced security features. However, it's expensive and offers no support for non-Apple devices, making it best for organizations that are 100% Apple.
Some verified reviews from from G2:
Ron L.- Systems Administrator
Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"Kandji has been easy to use to maintain all our Apple devices"
Felix T. - Senior IT Support Specialist II
Enterprise(> 1000 emp.)
"Kandji is the most valuable MDM I've used so far"
Andy K. - Senior Director, Infrastructure
Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"Best Mac MDM solution"
Miradore
Miradore is a simple, affordable MDM solution that's a great fit for SMBs with basic management needs. Its user-friendly interface, strong mobile device management features, and flexible deployment options make it a good choice for businesses with limited IT staff.
Miradore is a versatile, budget-friendly solution that offers decent basic MDM features. It's a good choice for resource-constrained SMBs that need simple device management. However, it falls short with limited advanced features and customization options. It's best for budget-minded SMBs with mixed device environments and basic management needs.
Some verified reviews from from G2:
James T. Developer
Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)
"Simple to understand MDM solution"
Hexnode
Hexnode is a robust, feature-rich MDM solution offering strong security, compliance management, and kiosk capabilities. It’s well-suited for businesses that prioritize advanced security controls and need versatile features to manage devices across different environments, including retail and compliance-heavy industries.
With its robust security controls, compliance tools, and kiosk management, this MDM is a great choice for businesses in regulated industries or retail operations. However, its complexity and higher cost for full features may deter smaller organizations. Best suited for businesses needing advanced security across mixed-device environments.
Some verified reviews from from G2:
Serhii R. - CTO
Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)
"Very good product for all companies size"
Chris G. - Buyer / Plant & Transport Manager
Mid-Market(51-1000 emp.)
"Excellent control and easy to use"
Michael K. IT Admin
Small-Business(50 or fewer emp.)
"A straightforward mdm solution."
Comparison matrix
When it comes to price and features, Prey and Miradore offer the best value for your money. While they are not the most feature-rich options, they still provide an impressive array of essential tools. NinjaOne, Kandji, and Hexnode are the most expensive options, but their high price tags are warranted due to their specialized feature sets. If core features are your top priority, Prey is a great choice. Its interface is incredibly intuitive, and it's one of the few options that offers full cross-platform support. Its device location tracking is incredibly accurate (see our reviews). If you're looking for a solution that checks all the essential boxes, Prey is a great choice.
If automation and remote management are more your speed, NinjaOne and Kandji are great options. Both offer excellent workflow automation tools that allow you to streamline many IT tasks. This is especially helpful if you have a large team and want to give them more freedom to focus on other tasks. Hexnode is also a great choice if you're looking for a solution that can be managed entirely in the cloud. Its web app is incredibly intuitive and easy to navigate.
Final recommendations
MDMs allows you to manage devices in a way that complements your business operations while also meeting your security and compliance needs, but choosing the right solution depends on your unique needs and limitations. As we've discussed, SMBs struggle with limited resources, scalability, and technical expertise. When evaluating solutions, consider deployment ease, security features, and affordable licensing to ensure the solution meets your business needs.
If you have fewer than 100 devices, simplicity and affordability are top priorities. Prey and Miradore offer excellent basic features at a low cost, making them a great fit for resource-constrained businesses. If your organization is Apple-only and you prioritize automation, Kandji is a perfect choice. For businesses with complex IT environments, NinjaOne offers advanced features, but at a higher price.
Medium-sized businesses with 100 devices or more typically need scalability and additional features. In mixed-device environments, Prey is a great choice with its strong cross-platform support and customization options that can work in tandem with a more enterprise device management tool. Businesses with complex IT environments will appreciate NinjaOne, while Apple-only organizations can't go wrong with Kandji.
Every business is different, and your needs may vary—curious about how Prey can meet your needs? Get a 14-day test run or book a guided demo with one of our team - we'll be happy to help!.
