IT Teams, These 9 Best MDM Solutions Are the Real Deal

My phone and I are inseparable. 

Emails, Slack messages, and random security alerts that I may or may not ignore. But while I'm just trying to keep my screen time under control, IT teams have a much bigger challenge: managing every company device before things spiral into a security nightmare.

According to IDC, the average enterprise now manages over 10,000 endpoint devices, with mobile devices making up 60% of the fleet. Each one can be a potential compliance risk, data breach, or unauthorized TikTok installation away from disaster. Without the best mobile device management (MDM) solution, something will slip through the cracks.

I teamed up with our IT crew and evaluated 20+ MDM solutions, focusing on deploying policies, enforcing security measures, pushing updates, and remotely locking down lost devices. Some tools stood out in G2 reviews as making the process seamless, while others struggled with basic tasks.

If you're tired of sifting through endless feature lists and just want to know which MDM solutions are worth your time, I've got you covered. Here are the best MDM platforms I found.

9 best MDM solutions for 2025: My top picks 

These MDM software solutions are top-rated in their category, according to G2 Grid Reports. I've also added their standout features and monthly pricing for easy comparisons.

9 best MDM solutions I reviewed and recommend 

A 2024 Verizon report found that 45% of organizations experienced a mobile-related security incident in the past year. Mobile device management solutions are how IT teams keep company devices from turning into a security nightmare. I've seen firsthand what happens when businesses don't have a solid MDM system in place—lost laptops with sensitive data, work phones loaded with who-knows-what, and employees who "forget" to update their software for years. It's chaos.

MDM software lets IT teams secure, track, and manage every work device from one dashboard. I'm talking about enforcing security policies without chasing people down, pushing updates without sending 10 reminder emails, and locking or wiping lost devices before they become a liability.

For me, the biggest perk that stood out was that it takes the stress out of device management. No more wondering if company data is floating around on an old phone someone left in an Uber. No more IT horror stories about rogue apps or outdated security policies. Just full control, less hassle, and a much happier IT team.

The result? I have my final list of the best MDM solutions that don't just have great marketing but actually work. 

My criteria for what makes the best MDM solutions worth it 

When I set out to find the best mobile device management solution, I made sure each one met specific, real-world criteria before making the cut. Here's what I focused on:

• Remote management capabilities: An MDM that only works well when the device is in hand isn't useful. The best platforms allow IT admins to remotely lock, wipe, or track devices, whether they're lost, stolen, or just being used in ways they shouldn't be. I prioritized MDMs that offer real-time visibility into device health and activity, plus remote troubleshooting options like screen-sharing or command-line access.
• Device and operating system compatibility: Not every company runs on the same mix of devices. Some use iOS and macOS, others are locked into Windows, and plenty have a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy that throws Android into the mix. A great MDM should support all major operating systems (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Linux in some cases) with full feature parity, not a watered-down version, depending on the OS.
• Automation and policy enforcement: MDM software should reduce manual work, not add to it. I focused on platforms that allow IT teams to preconfigure security policies, automate software updates, enforce app restrictions, and trigger alerts for non-compliant devices. 
• Security and compliance control: If an MDM platform doesn't take security seriously, it's not worth considering. I looked for granular security policies that let IT teams enforce encryption, set up remote wipe capabilities, and control which apps and network devices can access. Bonus points for tools that support zero trust architecture and compliance with frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2.
• Ease of use and admin experience: Some MDM solutions feel like they were designed for security experts with a decade of IT experience—and that's a problem. I evaluated how easy it was to deploy policies, manage devices, and configure settings without getting lost in complicated menus. A clean, intuitive dashboard and clear reporting tools made a big difference in usability.
• Integration with existing IT stack: MDM software doesn't exist in a vacuum. It needs to work alongside other IT tools like identity and access management (IAM) solutions, endpoint security software, and cloud services. I prioritized platforms with built-in integrations for Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD), Google Workspace, Okta, and other major security tools.
• App and content management: Companies don't just manage devices—they also manage the apps and data on them. A good MDM should allow IT to push and remove apps, enforce app usage policies, and prevent users from downloading unauthorized software. I also looked for content filtering and data loss prevention (DLP) features that help businesses keep sensitive information secure.

The list below contains genuine user reviews from the best mobile device management software category page. To be included in this category, a solution must:

• Be compatible with all common or company-issued mobile devices and support necessary operating systems and platforms
• Function through/with multiple service providers
• Customize according to company policy and/or requirements.
• Integrate with the already existing IT, administrative, and application systems
• Enable the remote configuration, locking, wiping, detection, and encryption of devices
• Report on device activity

*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.  

1. Jamf Pro: best for enterprise Apple device management

I went into evaluating Jamf Pro with one major question: is it really the gold standard for managing Apple devices, or is it just hyped up because there aren't many Apple-focused MDMs? After spending time digging reviews on deploying and configuring devices, I can confidently say it's one of the most powerful Apple-focused MDMs out there, but it's not for everyone. 

If your company lives and breathes Apple, this is hands-down one of the best tools for device management, app distribution, and security enforcement. 

While exploring user sentiments around the product, I found out that zero-touch deployment is where Jamf Pro truly shines. Users can easily unbox a brand-new MacBook and enroll it in Apple Business Manager (ABM), and just like that, the device automatically configures, installs security settings, and deploys the required apps. No manual setup, no end-user frustration. The entire process is described as seamless, and if I were an IT admin rolling out dozens (or hundreds) of devices, I'd be very happy with how easy this was.

When it comes to app and content management, Jamf’s App Catalog is something reviewers regularly highlight. According to G2 feedback, it makes pushing software updates across multiple devices feel pretty seamless. Users appreciated how easy it was to install and enforce specific software versions across teams without needing manual intervention.

Custom app deployment, on the other hand, came with a bit more friction. I read reviews that said the setup isn’t as intuitive as the rest of the platform. Many had to rely on documentation to get it working properly, which slowed things down compared to their smoother experience with other features.

Security policies were another area where Jamf Pro stood out. One thing reviewers appreciated about Jamf was how reliably it enforced security policies. Users could block USB access, enforce disk encryption, disable system preference changes, and lock down specific apps. Lost Mode on iPhones earned positive feedback as well. It triggered instantly, locking the device and displaying a custom message right away. Remote wipe, however, wasn’t quite as snappy for a few users. It did eventually work in the end, but in more time-sensitive situations, that lag might cause concern.

I did, however, pick up some hesitation around getting up to speed with Jamf Pro. Users mentioned having to navigate through multiple layers of menus to access relatively basic functions. It became clear that this tool is optimized for experienced IT administrators already familiar with Apple device management.

Initially, the interface also comes off as a bit overwhelming. G2 reviewers pointed out the usability challenges, particularly for teams new to Jamf or those managing fewer devices.

I also read reviews where users ran into limitations during testing when working in a mixed-device environment. Although it is a known fact that Jamf Pro focuses solely on Apple platforms, not having any support for Windows or Android can feel restrictive when trying to maintain consistency across the entire device fleet. 

Still, I can see why Jamf Pro is considered a top-tier choice for organizations fully committed to Apple. Its depth of control, scripting capabilities, and compliance features are hard to match.

What I dislike about Jamf Pro:

• No Windows or Android support. If even one person on your team uses a non-Apple device, you'll need a second MDM solution. Users who tested a mixed-device environment said that Jamf Pro completely ignores non-Apple devices. I can see how that is a big challenge.
• Reviewers often noted that deploying custom enterprise apps is complicated. While App Store apps are said to be easy to manage, pushing internal company apps require some effort.

What G2 users dislike about Jamf Pro:

"I wish that Jamf Pro would include a way to automatically name devices from within Jamf. Currently, this is a very manual process due to the limitations of options within Jamf in this regard. Would love to see more options for naming both IOS and OS devices. I also wish that the Select All and Deselect ALL buttons in the pre-stage scoping area were either removed or able to be used when filtering the list of devices without it still selecting or unselecting ALL devices. Many users think it will only select the items that have been filtered in the list and are visible, but it actually still selects the entire list, disregarding the filter. This causes confusion and mistakes often by new users."

- Jamf Pro Review, Denise L.

2. NinjaOne: best for remote endpoint management for MSPs

When evaluating NinjaOne, I expected a solid endpoint management tool, but what I found was a hybrid MDM-RMM solution that does a lot—but not always everything you need from a traditional MDM.

If your company needs one platform to manage laptops, desktops, and mobile devices, this could be a great fit. But if you're looking for a dedicated MDM with deep mobile security and app controls, NinjaOne might leave you wanting more.

Users frequently mentioned that NinjaOne has one of the fastest setups. Unlike some MDMs that require manual configurations and long setup processes, NinjaOne uses an agent-based system, meaning once the agent is installed, the device automatically enrolls, reports back to the dashboard, and starts being monitored. I came across numerous reviews that appreciated the cloud-based functionality. No need to deal with complicated infrastructure.

From what I have seen in G2 reviews, the tool delivers strong device monitoring and security enforcement. On Windows and macOS, NinjaOne gave users full visibility into system health, software versions, and patch status. Reviewers expressed that they could remotely install software, push security updates, and even access devices for troubleshooting. This is a huge win for IT support teams that need remote control capabilities. Mobile devices, however, have a different story.

Another strength that many people commented on is automation. Do you need to create a workflow to automatically update the software on all test devices, enforce security patches, and send alerts for non-compliant devices? It all seems to work seamlessly for several users. Plus, IT teams can write custom scripts to automate specific tasks, which most standard MDMs don't offer.

Taking my attention to mobile device management, I noticed some limitations. G2 reviewers shared that for desktops, policy enforcement is robust and granular, but the mobile side felt less developed. They could apply basic security policies like encryption and passcode enforcement, but more advanced features, such as app management, conditional access, or containerization to separate work and personal data, weren’t available. This aligns with the feedback I got from my IT team who says NinjaOne excels with traditional endpoints but offers limited depth for mobile-specific use cases.

Another challenge came up around remote support. While users could remotely access and troubleshoot desktop devices directly, when it comes to mobile devices, the only options available were sending commands or performing a full wipe. There's no way to offer real-time support or diagnose issues on the fly. 

Overall, NinjaOne is a great fit for IT teams managing a mix of desktops and mobile devices—but if your company is mobile-first, you might find it lacking.

What I dislike about NinjaOne:

• From what I’ve seen in G2 reviews, NinjaOne may not be the best fit for BYOD environments.
• Mobile security features also seem more limited compared to its desktop capabilities. While Windows and macOS management gets high marks, iOS and Android controls come up short. 

What G2 users dislike about NinjaOne:

"With the unlimited amount of included users, we were looking forward to implementing remote access capabilities to some of our remote users (access to PC from a mobile device). Many of these users would be using their phones for remote access. Unfortunately, mobile support for end users hasn't been properly implemented yet. There are various other features that we wished NinjaOne would implement (multi-split window for multi-monitor when remoted into remote PC, for example), some of which are on their roadmap, some of which are not."

- NinjaOne Review, Adon G.

3. JumpCloud: best for cloud-native identity and device control

Upon evaluating JumpCloud, I quickly realized that this isn't just an MDM solution—it's a full identity, device, and security management platform. If you're only looking for basic mobile device management, this might feel like overkill. But if you need a centralized way to manage users, devices, and security policies across multiple platforms, JumpCloud is one of the most powerful tools I found.

According to G2 data, JumpCloud consistently earns high marks for 'Ease of Admin' and 'Meets Requirements,' with over 90% of reviewers saying they’d recommend it to another IT team.

The platform gets consistent praise for device onboarding. Unlike some MDMs that rely on separate configurations for different platforms, JumpCloud lets users manage everything from a single console. G2 reviewers defined the enrollment process as smooth, and said they were able to enforce security policies, deploy applications, and manage users across all devices in one place.

One thing that stood out immediately to me was the good reviews for JumpCloud's integration of MDM with identity management. Most MDMs focus only on device control, but JumpCloud ties in user authentication, directory services, and zero-trust security models. My research suggested that the IT folks could enforce security rules and single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) policies at both the device and user levels.

For mobile devices, users find it easy to push security settings, enforce passcodes, and remotely wipe devices if needed. However, app management isn't as granular. Reviews suggested that even though teams were able to deploy apps to devices, there was no real application sandboxing or containerization for separating work and personal data. That's a drawback for BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) environments, where I'd want to ensure corporate data is completely isolated.

JumpCloud includes endpoint compliance tools that allow IT teams to enforce key security practices like disk encryption, monitor login activity, and flag outdated software. Several reviews point to its zero-trust security approach, where every device is continuously verified before it’s allowed access to company resources.

On the mobile management side, the basics appear to be covered. I’ve seen users mention that tasks like remotely locking devices, enforcing encryption, and locating lost phones generally work as expected. That said, there are some limitations when it comes to more advanced use cases. Features like geofencing, remote screen sharing, and automated responses to policy violations aren’t available, and that gap has been noted by reviewers managing more mobile-heavy environments.

I also noticed another theme in reviews: enrolling iOS and Android devices wasn’t as smooth as expected. The setup process included a few extra manual steps, and some users needed to re-enroll their devices after operating system updates. It’s not a big concern among G2 reviewers, but it requires extra coordination to keep everything running consistently. 

I see JumpCloud as a strong fit for companies looking for an all-in-one approach to device, identity, and access management. Its strengths go beyond MDM alone, and for teams that want centralized visibility across their security stack, it delivers real value.

What I dislike about JumpCloud:

• Device enrollment had issues on Android and iOS. Some of the teams needed to re-enroll devices after OS updates, and the initial setup wasn't as smooth. 
• Linux device management was a little inconsistent. Basic policies like enforcing screen locks worked on some distributions but didn't apply properly to others, making things unreliable.

What G2 users dislike about JumpCloud:

"Mobile management features for iOS and Android are more basic and don't offer as much control as the tools available for managing desktop devices."

- JumpCloud Review, Md. S.

4. Kandji: best for automated Apple MDM with compliance

Similar to Jamf Pro, Kandji is also built specifically for Apple devices. I looked for reviews exclusive to macOS, iOS, and iPadOS devices to see how well it handles Apple's ecosystem. Spoiler: It does this really well, but that focus comes with some trade-offs.

One of the standout features in quite a few reviews was Kandji's Automation Engine, particularly the pre-built security and compliance templates. While other MDMs make you configure security policies from scratch, Kandji provides over 150 pre-configured security controls that automatically enforce compliance with frameworks like CIS benchmarks, SOC 2, ISO 27001, and NIST. 

As I mentioned earlier, Mac device management is a strong area for JumpCloud. Reviewers note being able to apply CIS benchmark templates across fleets of macOS devices, which takes care of things like enabling FileVault, enforcing password complexity, blocking USB storage, and configuring login windows—all without needing to manually adjust each setting.

Another capability that gets a lot of positive attention is Auto Apps. IT teams can push and update third-party applications like Zoom, Slack, or Chrome without lifting a finger. Updates happen quietly in the background, and several users highlight the ability to set compliance rules. If someone deletes or downgrades an app, the system reinstalls the approved version automatically.

Blueprints were another unique aspect. Instead of applying policies one by one, IT teams can create custom configurations for different teams or departments, grouping settings, apps, and compliance rules together. Reviews highlighted users creating separate Blueprints for marketing, engineering, and HR, each with its own specific software and security settings, and seamlessly deploying them.

When I focused on feedback around mobile devices like iPhones and iPads, I found the core capabilities solid. It's possible to push VPN and Wi-Fi settings, block apps, and activate Lost Mode when needed. However, compared to some mobile-first MDM platforms, I noticed reviewers wishing for deeper controls. For instance, the platform doesn't let you set up geofencing or apply per-app VPN configurations, which can be useful for more advanced use cases. 

It’s also important to note that Kandji is designed exclusively for Apple devices. Users that operate in a mixed environment with macOS and Windows endpoints, needed to look into a secondary solution to cover the rest of their fleet. This wasn’t unexpected, but it’s worth remembering if you manage a broader hardware range. G2 users suggest that Kandji is ideal for Apple-only environments but not a one-stop shop for mixed ecosystems.

Overall, Kandji delivers a premium experience for Apple management. The platform was built with Mac and iOS in mind, from compliance templates to automation workflows.

What I dislike about Kandji:

• Lack of deep real-time monitoring. Even though users could see compliance status and security settings, real-time device diagnostics were limited, as suggested by the feedback. Unlike some MDMs that provide detailed live system health reports, they had to rely on periodic status updates instead.
• The auto apps feature worked well for major applications like Zoom and Chrome, but not every third-party app is supported. 

What G2 users dislike about Kandji:

“I would appreciate more comprehensive patch management for third-party applications. Additionally, the passport sync feature with Google could be significantly enhanced by incorporating the ability to use MFA with security keys. Improved alerting capabilities based on activity would also be beneficial.”

- Kandji Review, Danny H.

5. TeamViewer: best for remote access for mobile and desktop

TeamViewer isn't your typical MDM—it's better known for remote access and troubleshooting, but its TeamViewer Remote Management suite also includes mobile device management capabilities. 

To understand how well it stacks up against dedicated MDM solutions, I focused on reviews that spoke about its remote control features, mobile security tools, and real-time monitoring, in a mix of Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.

Right away, the remote support tools stood out. Most MDMs let users push configurations and policies, but TeamViewer takes it a step further by allowing real-time remote access to devices, even for mobile phones.

Several G2 reviews suggested that, unlike most MDMs that require end-user interaction, TeamViewer lets users see the screen, navigate settings, and even make real-time changes without relying on users to follow step-by-step instructions. This is ideal for IT teams dealing with less tech-savvy users.

Another unique feature was performance monitoring and patch management. The platform gives IT teams real-time visibility into system metrics like CPU usage, memory consumption, disk health, and network activity across all enrolled devices. Several reviews mention that alerts kick in automatically if a machine starts overheating or runs low on storage, which helps with proactive issue resolution. In terms of patch management, admins were able to deploy missing updates remotely, with many users noting smooth rollouts for Windows and macOS security patches. However, support for mobile patching appears to be more limited.

For security, TeamViewer includes mobile endpoint protection with malware detection, which is something most MDMs don't offer. Users can easily install the security agent on multiple devices, and it successfully flags outdated software and blocks unauthorized app installation attempts. However, I read about malware detection feeling more like a secondary feature compared to standalone endpoint protection tools. It's helpful but not as in-depth as dedicated security solutions.

While evaluating the MDM functionality, I came across several reviews highlighting support for core mobile policies like Wi-Fi configuration, screen lock enforcement, and remote wipe. These features seem to provide a baseline level of mobile security and generally perform as expected.

That said, more advanced controls appear to be missing. App-level restrictions, geofencing rules, and Zero Trust enforcement aren’t currently supported, something a few users have flagged when comparing TeamViewer to more enterprise-grade MDM solutions. 

Device enrollment also involves a few manual steps. Users report having to install the TeamViewer app on each device and grant multiple permissions before management kicks in. Compared to platforms that support zero-touch setup or integration with Apple Business Manager and Android Enterprise, the provisioning process here comes across as more time-consuming.

All things considered, TeamViewer is still a dependable choice if remote support is your primary objective. Its ability to troubleshoot devices quickly sets it apart.

What I dislike about TeamViewer:

• Limited role-based access controls for IT teams. Most enterprise MDMs allow detailed role-based permissions, but TeamViewer's access settings are said to be simpler, making it harder to segment IT responsibilities for different departments.
• Mobile device enrollment is also more manual than users expected. Instead of a streamlined zero-touch deployment, they have to manually install the TeamViewer app on each mobile device and adjust settings.

What G2 users dislike about TeamViewer:

“We've tried to look into their MDM solution but it seems very pricy and doesn't offer as many features compared to other dedicated MDM solutions.”

- TeamViewer Review, Katherine J.

6. ManageEngine Endpoint Central: best for unified endpoint management at scale

ManageEngine Endpoint Central offers a full-fledged endpoint management solution that covers mobile devices, desktops, servers, and IoT endpoints. While this broad functionality is impressive, it also makes the platform more complex to navigate than dedicated MDMs. To keep things focused, I primarily focused on its MDM capabilities alongside its desktop and patch management features, for a mix of Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux devices.

One of the first things I read about was zero-touch deployment for mobile devices, and this worked surprisingly well. Company-owned device enrollment seems to work well through platforms like Apple Business Manager, Android Zero-Touch, and Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment. However, the experience changes a bit in BYOD scenarios. There are mentions of inconsistent behavior with work profile policies, particularly on some Android models, where settings didn’t apply correctly and had to be fixed manually. This is a pain point for teams managing a mix of personal and corporate devices.

Geofencing and location tracking sound great on paper, and many users note that the platform allows them to control corporate data access based on device location. In practice, though, the execution isn’t always seamless. I came across feedback describing how some devices triggered false security alerts despite being in approved zones, forcing IT teams to manually override geofence settings.

Remote troubleshooting for mobile devices is another area where Endpoint Central shows some limitations. While pushing commands, locking or wiping devices, and deploying apps is supported, iOS control is restricted to screen viewing only. Android remote control is possible, but several reviewers mention that extra user permissions are needed, which can slow things down in time-sensitive support situations.

On the security front, policy enforcement around encryption, passcodes, and app management is generally solid. What’s missing is automation. If a device becomes non-compliant—for instance, if encryption is turned off—the platform sends an alert but doesn’t auto-remediate the issue. This leaves IT teams responsible for manual follow-ups, which some say undercuts the platform’s value in high-compliance environments.

Device health monitoring earns more positive feedback. IT admins seem to rely on it to track CPU load, memory usage, storage capacity, and network performance across enrolled devices. It’s a helpful way to catch potential issues early, especially for performance tuning and diagnostics.

That said, the experience feels a bit lighter when it comes to Linux endpoints. Built-in monitoring for Linux doesn’t go as deep as what’s available for Windows or macOS, and a few users mention needing third-party tools to fill in the visibility gaps. This seems to be a recurring theme among teams managing a more diverse device ecosystem.

As for MDM specifically, the platform covers the essentials—policy enforcement, location tracking, remote wipe—but it’s packaged within a much broader IT management suite, which adds a layer of complexity. I’ve seen reviewers mention that navigating the interface can feel heavy if you're only focused on mobile since a lot of the UI is tailored toward managing desktops, servers, and network devices. The learning curve seems noticeably steeper for teams with mobile-only needs.

If your organization manages everything from servers to smartphones, Endpoint Central offers a lot of value in a single solution. With continued improvements around Linux visibility and more streamlined access to mobile-specific features, it could appeal even more to general IT teams and mobility-focused admins.

What I dislike about ManageEngine Endpoint Central:

• Compliance enforcement requires too much manual work. Instead of automatically remediating security violations, Endpoint Central only sends alerts, meaning IT has to step in to fix issues manually.
• Reviews suggest that mobile troubleshooting tools are weaker than desktop support. For iOS, users can only view the screen, not control it, and for Android, they needed extra user permissions to take control, which slowed down IT support.

What G2 users dislike about ManageEngine Endpoint Central:

“The initial setup can be a bit overwhelming due to the number of configurations available, and I feel like sometimes the solution is over-engineered with a few unnecessary features like having an MDM and a UEM in one tool but also kind of separate in a way that sometimes the UEM enrollment works but you still need to do a separate MDM enrollment to use the full capabilities of ManageEngine. A more guided onboarding process or built-in tutorials would help users get started faster. Also, while the interface is functional, it could be more modern and visually refined.”

- ManageEngine Endpoint Central Review, Abdul-Gafar A.

7. AirDroid Business: best for android MDM for field operations

AirDroid Business is built specifically for managing large fleets of Android devices, making it ideal for industries that rely on kiosks, point of sale (POS) systems, digital signage, and remote workforces. Unlike most MDMs that focus on compliance enforcement and security policies, AirDroid excels at bulk deployment, remote file management, and task automation. 

I did its evaluation based on reviews for a mix of Android tablets, rugged devices, and company-owned smartphones to see how well it handled mass provisioning and operational management.

Bulk enrollment on Samsung devices using Knox Mobile Enrollment stands out as one of the more efficient features. Settings are applied immediately, and setup tends to move quickly, something reviewers consistently praise. The experience isn’t quite as seamless on non-Samsung Android devices, where teams must manually install the AirDroid Business app before enrollment begins.

Because there’s no universal zero-touch deployment method, companies with diverse Android devices may find onboarding more hands-on than they’d like.

Remote file management is another highlight. The platform lets admins push, retrieve, and sync files across devices in real time. It is particularly useful for teams handling digital signage, field documentation, or remote training content. Sending files typically works without a hitch, but retrieving them sometimes requires user confirmation, which can limit automation in more tightly controlled environments.

I noticed the bulk operations tool also received positive feedback. IT teams can remotely clear cache, reboot devices, uninstall apps, or schedule updates. This feature is practical for managing large fleets of customer-facing or self-service Android devices where physical access is limited.

That said, workflow automation seems fairly basic, based on G2 reviews. Routine actions like restarts and app updates are supported, but the lack of conditional logic, such as disabling apps when battery life drops, limits more advanced use cases. Several G2 reviewers point out that while the tool covers day-to-day needs, there’s room for deeper customization to support dynamic rules and triggers.

Security features like encryption enforcement, app whitelisting, and remote lock/wipe are all built in. But enforcement tends to stop at alerts. A complaint I picked up from reviews was that admins get notified if a device becomes non-compliant, but follow-up actions need to be handled manually.

AirDroid's strengths lie in device maintenance, remote access, and app deployment. If your top priority is keeping devices updated, functional, and easy to support remotely, it performs well.

What I dislike about AirDroid Business:

• No support for iOS, Windows, or macOS. It's strictly Android-only, which means it's not a good fit for companies with mixed-device environments.
• File retrieval from remote devices isn't always reliable. While pushing files worked well for users, pulling files required additional permissions, making automated file sync less practical.

What G2 users dislike about AirDroid Business:

“AirDroid Business is primarily tailored for handling Android devices, which implies that it may not be the most suitable choice for businesses employing different operating systems. Although the platform proposes several pricing schemes, the expenses may be relatively expensive for small-scale companies or those with a restricted budget. Despite having a user-friendly interface, the platform still requires some amount of learning and training to make the best use of all its features.”

- AirDroid Business Review, Carl T.

8. Admin: best for cross-platform mobile device control

Admin by Google is designed to be a lightweight, easy-to-use MDM solution, making it a great option for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) that need device management without enterprise complexity. 

Unlike many MDMs that try to pack in patch management, identity controls, and deep compliance automation, Admin focuses on straightforward device provisioning, app management, and security enforcement. 

The first thing I noticed in reviews was how quick and simple the enrollment process was. Users could onboard devices using QR codes, email invitations, or bulk CSV uploads, and ABM and Android Zero-Touch were supported. The process was smooth, but it lacked deep customization options—for example, some MDMs allow you to preconfigure devices with exact settings before they even boot up, but with Admin, a few manual steps were still required after enrollment.

One limitation I found early on was the lack of multi-tiered role assignments for IT admins. Most enterprise MDMs allow granular access controls, meaning IT teams can set permissions for different administrators, like restricting junior IT staff to device monitoring only. Admin didn't have that level of depth—Reviewers said that they could create admin and user roles, but there wasn't a way to fine-tune access for different teams.

App deployment seems straightforward and reliable. I read several reviews that stated it was easy to install, update, or remove public and private apps across devices remotely. Admin supported silent app installations on Android Enterprise and supervised iOS devices, meaning users didn't need to approve installations.

App grouping is a feature that gets a lot of positive attention. It lets teams assign different app collections based on department or role. It's something that’s especially useful for segmenting tools between marketing, sales, and finance teams. Reviewers describe the deployment process as smooth, though there’s a notable gap in custom app distribution. Since there’s no built-in enterprise app store, companies relying on in-house software must manage installation manually or host apps externally.

Device compliance policies are also part of the platform’s security toolkit. Admins can enforce password complexity, encryption, VPN use, and even block unauthorized apps. These controls seem to hold up well for most use cases, but there’s no automation when it comes to remediation. If a device falls out of compliance, it triggers an alert, action still needs to be taken manually. This has been mentioned in reviews as a drawback for teams trying to scale security operations.

Its focus on device usage analytics sets Admin apart from other MDMs. Instead of only surfacing security metrics, the platform provides visibility into how devices are used: tracking app activity, screen time, and network behavior. It’s a useful layer for teams that want both productivity insights and threat awareness.

That said, the depth of real-time monitoring is somewhat limited. While admins can review compliance summaries and historical trends, more detailed device-level diagnostics aren’t readily available. If a device raises a red flag, remote actions like lock or wipe are supported, but live access to system logs or behavioral data isn’t part of the toolset.  

I still think the platform strikes a good balance between usability and control for Apple-centric environments. It delivers for organizations that need efficient policy enforcement, remote remediation, and patch management in one place.

What I dislike about Admin:

• Not as scalable for large enterprises. Admin is well-suited for small to mid-sized businesses, but lacks the depth of role-based access controls and compliance automation that larger organizations need.
• No multi-tiered role assignments for IT admins. People could create basic admin and user roles, but there was no way to fine-tune permissions for different IT team members.

What G2 users dislike about Admin:

“There are some features that can be a little bit hidden, but once you begin to use it, you will learn quickly. The most difficult task as admin is to keep up with what's new and coming to the suite on every update. There are some blogs, but they are not always easy to find. I would advise you to first try to run all over the features and take note of what you can do with GSuite and then check what can be useful for your organization so you can later on just deploy those features.”

- Admin Review, David R.

9. Trio: best for simple MDM for small businesses

Trio is a cloud-first MDM designed for businesses that need mobile, desktop, and IoT device management in one platform. While some MDMs focus mainly on mobile device security, Trio positions itself as a full unified endpoint management (UEM) solution, meaning it covers Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and even IoT devices. While going through the reviews, I focused on its cross-device policy enforcement, automation tools, and remote troubleshooting capabilities.

One of the biggest selling points of Trio is its ability to manage multiple device types from a single dashboard. Users can enroll Windows laptops, MacBooks, Linux workstations, iPhones, Android devices, and even an IoT-connected scanner. Unlike some MDMs that require separate policies for mobile and desktop devices, Trio allows unified policy enforcement, meaning teams can set one security standard across all endpoints.

According to G2 reviews, this works well for basic policies like password enforcement, encryption, and VPN configurations, but certain advanced settings weren't available across all platforms. Some users reported that they could fully configure Windows and macOS security policies, but on Linux, some security settings—like disabling USB ports—weren't supported out of the box. Similarly, IoT device management was limited, with fewer control options compared to traditional computers and phones.

Trio's policy automation was another highlight. Instead of manually pushing security updates or enforcing compliance, G2 reviewers stated setting up automated workflows that would trigger certain actions based on device status. For example, you can create a rule that automatically locks a device if it was inactive for 30 days. This worked well, but the setup process was not described as beginner-friendly—users had to manually define workflow steps using a script-like logic, which took some trial and error.

The compliance monitoring dashboard seems to be a helpful tool for tracking device status in real time. It shows which endpoints are drifting out of compliance and allows IT teams to respond quickly. That said, automated remediation appears to be hit or miss. While some actions like re-enabling encryption tend to execute reliably, others, such as pushing missing security patches, can fail due to device-specific quirks. What makes this more challenging is the lack of detailed logs; unlike more mature MDM platforms, Trio doesn’t always explain why a remediation step failed, which complicates troubleshooting.

Trio’s built-in remote troubleshooting tools also get positive feedback. IT teams can initiate support sessions for both desktop and mobile devices directly from the admin console, which streamlines response times and reduces the need for third-party tools.

Control levels, however, seem to vary depending on the platform. Windows and macOS devices offer full system access, including remote control and scripting. On iOS, control is limited to screen viewing, while Android devices require end-user approval before granting full access. This setup is workable but adds an extra step when supporting mobile users, a detail that’s been echoed in G2 reviews, especially by teams managing hybrid fleets.

Performance monitoring is another useful feature. Admins can track CPU usage, memory consumption, and network activity across all connected devices, which helps with proactive issue detection. However, the refresh rate isn’t truly real-time. Data updates every few minutes. While that’s still helpful for general oversight, several users point out that it falls short during time-sensitive troubleshooting sessions, where more immediate feedback would make a difference.

Overall, I see Trio as a dependable option for IT teams that need strong visibility and remote capabilities across device types. 

What I dislike about Trio:

• The automation setup doesn’t seem very beginner-friendly. G2 reviewers often mention needing to write script-like rules and go through trial and error, which can be a hurdle for teams without a technical background.
• I’ve also seen feedback about inconsistent security settings across platforms. USB restrictions appear to work well on Windows, but not on Linux. And when it comes to IoT device management, users say the configuration options are fairly limited, especially for more complex environments.

What G2 users dislike about Trio:

“While Trio offers so many useful features, it can be a bit overwhelming and complex to work with as well. This is especially significant when it comes to setting policies and configurations.”

- Trio Review, Mahsa M.

Frequently asked questions about the best MDM solutions 

Have more questions? Find more answers below.

Which MDM solution is best?

The best MDM solution depends on your business needs. If you're managing a mix of mobile and desktop devices, a UEM solution like ManageEngine Endpoint Central or Trio is ideal. For Apple-only environments, Kandji provides deep macOS and iOS management. If remote troubleshooting is a priority, TeamViewer or AirDroid Business offers real-time device control. Businesses needing strong security and identity management should consider JumpCloud.

What is the best MDM software for small businesses?

For small businesses, ease of use and affordability are key. NinjaOne is a strong option thanks to its straightforward setup and lightweight management tools. It combines remote monitoring with essential MDM features, which helps smaller IT teams stay in control without needing a complex deployment. AirDroid Business is also a solid choice for Android-centric small teams needing quick device setup, remote access, and app deployment.

How do I choose the right MDM solution?

Start by assessing your device landscape: are you managing Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile devices? If security and compliance are priorities, look for MDMs with automated enforcement and remediation. For remote troubleshooting, choose an MDM with real-time control capabilities. Consider how easy it is to deploy and scale and always test an MMDM'sinterface and support before committing.

Which MDM tools are most recommended for enterprises?

Enterprises often require scalability, granular policy control, and identity integration. JumpCloud is highly recommended due to its unified identity and device management features, ideal for large distributed environments. ManageEngine Endpoint Central also stands out with its broad OS support, automation, and compliance tools that work well across enterprise networks.

Does Microsoft have an MDM solution?

Yes, Microsoft Intune, part of Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM), is MMicrosoft'sMDM solution. It allows businesses to manage Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices, enforce security policies, and deploy applications remotely. Intune integrates well with Microsoft 365 and Azure Active Directory, making it a great option for companies already using MMicrosoft'secosystem. However, it lacks some deep mobile-specific management features found in standalone MDMs.

Which MDM app is top rated for office use?

For traditional office settings with a mix of endpoints, ManageEngine Endpoint Central is consistently rated highly for its centralized dashboard, patch management, and device control. G2 reviews also highlight Jamf Pro as a top-rated app in Apple-exclusive offices, offering seamless integration with macOS and iOS.

What is the best MDM platform for BYOD policies?

For BYOD (bring your own device) environments, a balance between privacy and control is essential. JumpCloud provides strong identity and access management while respecting personal data boundaries. Admin is also designed with flexible user roles and compliance-aware tools that help enforce policies without overreaching into personal apps or content.

Can MDM track browsing history?

Most MDM solutions don't track full browsing history by default but can enforce web filtering, block certain sites, and monitor security violations. On company-owned devices, IT teams can use MDMs with secure web gateways or DNS filtering to monitor online activity. However, on BYOD setups, MDMs can only manage corporate apps and profiles, meaning personal browsing history remains private. 

What are the top MDM services for remote work teams?

TeamViewer offers dependable remote access with basic MDM features for distributed workforces, making it easy to troubleshoot and support endpoints from anywhere. JumpCloud is also a strong choice, offering cloud-native identity and device access that scales well across remote teams. AirDroid Business is ideal for remote control of Android devices in field operations or logistics roles.

What happens if an MDM-managed device goes offline?

If a device loses internet access, MDM policies already applied remain active, but real-time updates and remote commands won't take effect until the device reconnects. Some MDMs allow limited offline enforcement, such as blocking certain apps or restricting access to encrypted data. However, security actions like remote wipes or geofencing alerts only trigger once the device is back online.

Can an employee remove MDM from their device?

IT administrators can prevent users from removing MDM on company-owned devices, ensuring that policies stay enforced. However, users can typically unenroll from MDM on personally owned devices in a BYOD setup unless strict restrictions are in place. Some solutions, like AApple'sSupervised Mode or Android Enterprise, provide stronger controls to prevent unauthorized removal.

MDM or mayhem? The choice is yours

Managing a fleet of mobile devices isn't just about security—it's about efficiency, control, and keeping IT headaches to a minimum. Whether you're rolling out a mobile workforce, securing corporate data, or keeping remote troubleshooting seamless, the best MDM solution can save time, reduce risks, and streamline device management.

With so many options available, the best choice depends on your priorities. Some MDMs excel at cross-platform management, others shine in remote access and troubleshooting, and some focus entirely on compliance automation and security enforcement. The key is to identify what features matter most to your business, whether it's zero-touch deployment, detailed monitoring, or full identity integration.

No matter your choice, one thing is clear—modern businesses can't afford to leave device management to chance. With the right MDM, you're not just keeping devices in check—you're building a smarter, more secure, and more manageable IT ecosystem.

If your business needs tighter control over corporate apps, get mobile application management (MAM) solutions to protect company data, enforce access policies, and stay secure without invading privacy.