Comparative Review of Leading Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) Solutions
By Jordan Patel | Published: Not Applicable | Category: Remote Monitoring And Management Software
About Remote Monitoring And Management Software
Remote monitoring and management (RMM) software enables IT professionals and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to proactively manage and maintain endpoints, networks, and infrastructure from a centralized console. These platforms automate routine IT tasks, enhance security, and minimize downtime across distributed environments.
Scoring Criteria
- → Feature Completeness
- → Automation & Scripting
- → Monitoring & Alerting
- → Remote Access & Control
- → Patch Management
- → Ease of Use
- → Integration Ecosystem
- → Reporting
- → Pricing/Value
The Best Remote Monitoring And Management Software
#10
Action1
By Action1 Corporation
Cloud-native RMM platform focused on security and patch management, offering a substantial free tier.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows
Best For: Internal IT, MSP
Key Features
- ✓Patch Management: Automated patching for OS and third-party applications.
- ✓Remote Access: Built-in remote desktop functionality.
- ✓Software Deployment & Inventory: Deploy software and manage software/hardware assets.
- ✓Endpoint Security: Visibility into endpoint configurations and vulnerabilities.
- ✓Real-time Monitoring & Alerting: Monitor system status and receive alerts.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Manage up to 100 endpoints
- Full feature set included
Limitations: Limited to 100 endpoints
Paid
$-1.00 / Annual
- For more than 100 endpoints
- Full feature set
- Quote-based pricing per endpoint
Limitations: Requires annual commitment
Pros
- + Completely free for up to 100 endpoints with full features
- + Excellent patch management capabilities
- + Very easy to deploy and use
- + Cloud-native architecture
- + Strong focus on endpoint security
Cons
- - Currently Windows-only
- - Automation and scripting less powerful than some competitors
- - Limited integrations compared to established platforms
- - Younger platform, potentially fewer niche features
Verdict
"Exceptional value, especially with its generous free tier for up to 100 endpoints. A strong choice for organizations primarily focused on Windows patch management and basic RMM tasks, prioritizing ease of use and cost-effectiveness."
#9
Pulseway
By Pulseway
Mobile-first RMM platform emphasizing real-time monitoring and management from any device, with a modular pricing approach.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best For: MSP, Internal IT
Key Features
- ✓Mobile App: Fully functional mobile application for monitoring and management on the go.
- ✓Real-time Monitoring: Instant alerts and status updates.
- ✓Automation Workflows: Automate responses to alerts and routine tasks.
- ✓Patch Management: OS and third-party patching.
- ✓Remote Desktop: Built-in and integrated remote control.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Modular Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly
- Base platform with core monitoring
- Quote-based pricing per endpoint
- Optional add-ons: Patching, AV, Backup, PSA
Limitations: Pricing requires selecting specific add-ons, Can become expensive with multiple add-ons
Pros
- + Excellent mobile application
- + Strong real-time monitoring and alerting
- + Easy to set up and use
- + Flexible modular pricing
Cons
- - Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons
- - Automation capabilities less extensive than some competitors
- - Integration ecosystem smaller than larger players
- - Reporting is basic
Verdict
"Ideal for IT professionals who need robust mobile access to monitor and manage systems from anywhere. Its ease of use and real-time focus are key strengths, though costs can add up."
#8
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
By Zoho Corporation
Comprehensive unified endpoint management (UEM) and security solution, extending beyond traditional RMM with features like MDM and browser security.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, ChromeOS, tvOS
Best For: Internal IT, MSP
Key Features
- ✓Unified Endpoint Management (UEM): Manage desktops, laptops, mobile devices, servers, and browsers.
- ✓Automated Patch Management: OS and extensive third-party application patching.
- ✓Software Deployment: Template-based software distribution.
- ✓Remote Control: Integrated remote access tools.
- ✓Asset Management: Hardware and software inventory, license management.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Manage up to 25 computers & 25 mobile devices
Limitations: Limited feature set
Professional
$795.00 / Annual (starting price for 50 devices)
- Patch Management
- Software Deployment
- Asset Management
- Remote Control
Limitations: Quote-based/Tiered pricing based on device count and features
Enterprise
$945.00 / Annual (starting price for 50 devices)
- Adds Self-service portal
- Power Management
Limitations: Quote-based/Tiered pricing
UEM Edition
$1095.00 / Annual (starting price for 50 devices)
- Adds MDM
- Modern Management
- OS Deployment
Limitations: Quote-based/Tiered pricing
Pros
- + Very broad feature set (UEM capabilities)
- + Strong patch management
- + Competitive pricing, especially for on-premises
- + Free tier available for small environments
- + Available both cloud and on-premises
Cons
- - Interface can be dense and somewhat dated
- - Steeper learning curve than some competitors
- - Cloud version may lag slightly behind on-prem features
- - Primarily focused on endpoint management rather than broader network RMM
Verdict
"Excellent choice for internal IT teams needing comprehensive endpoint management beyond traditional RMM, including mobile devices. Offers great value and a powerful feature set, particularly the on-premises version."
#7
Kaseya VSA
By Kaseya
A long-standing and feature-rich RMM platform known for its extensive automation framework and integrations within the Kaseya IT Complete portfolio.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best For: MSP, Large Internal IT
Key Features
- ✓Agent Procedures: Powerful scripting and automation engine.
- ✓Policy Management: Centralized configuration and management.
- ✓Discovery and Asset Management: Network scanning and detailed inventory.
- ✓Fluid UI: Modernized user interface for improved usability.
- ✓IT Complete Integration: Seamless workflows with other Kaseya products (BMS, IT Glue, Datto BCDR).
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per-Endpoint Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly/Annual
- Comprehensive RMM capabilities
- Automation
- Patch Management
- Discovery
- Remote Control options
- Quote-based pricing
Limitations: Can be complex to configure, Aggressive sales tactics often cited
Pros
- + Very powerful automation engine (Agent Procedures)
- + Broad feature set covering most IT management needs
- + Extensive integration options within Kaseya's ecosystem
- + Mature and scalable platform
Cons
- - Can have a steep learning curve
- - Interface, while improved, can still be complex
- - History of security concerns
- - Sales process and contract terms often criticized
Verdict
"A robust and highly capable RMM suited for larger MSPs or IT departments needing deep automation and integration with the Kaseya suite. Complexity and vendor reputation are key considerations."
#6
Syncro
By Syncro
Combined RMM and PSA platform with a per-technician pricing model, similar to Atera, focusing on MSP efficiency.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Best For: MSP
Key Features
- ✓Combined RMM/PSA: Unified platform for ticketing, billing, RMM, scripting.
- ✓Per-Technician Pricing: Unlimited endpoints for a flat rate per user.
- ✓Scripting Engine: Supports various scripting languages for automation.
- ✓Customizable Dashboard: Tailor the main interface to technician needs.
- ✓Integrated Invoicing & Billing: Connects with payment processors like Stripe, Worldpay.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Syncro Core
$139.00 / Monthly per user (annual billing)
- Unlimited Endpoints
- RMM Features
- PSA Features
- Scripting
- Remote Access
- Patching
- Basic Reporting
Limitations: Some features might be less robust than competitors
Syncro Team
$169.00 / Monthly per user (annual billing)
- Everything in Core
- Advanced Reporting
- Additional Integrations
Pros
- + Transparent per-technician pricing
- + Integrated PSA streamlines MSP operations
- + Active development and feature releases
- + Good scripting capabilities
Cons
- - User interface can feel busy
- - Patch management reliability sometimes questioned by users
- - Mac agent less mature than Windows
- - Reporting could be more flexible
Verdict
"A strong competitor to Atera, offering a combined RMM/PSA platform with predictable pricing. Well-suited for MSPs prioritizing a unified toolset and straightforward billing."
#5
Atera
By Atera
All-in-one RMM, PSA, and remote access platform priced per technician, making it attractive for smaller MSPs or those seeking predictable pricing.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Best For: MSP, Internal IT
Key Features
- ✓Per-Technician Pricing: Unlimited devices under a fixed price per technician.
- ✓Integrated PSA: Includes ticketing, billing, and reporting.
- ✓Remote Monitoring & Management: Core RMM functionalities like alerting, scripting, patching.
- ✓Network Discovery: Add-on feature for network scanning and management.
- ✓Third-Party Integrations: Connects with various security, backup, and accounting tools.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Pro
$99.00 / Monthly per technician (annual billing)
- Core RMM
- Basic PSA
- Remote Access
- Scripting
- Patching
Limitations: Limited devices per month for discovery add-on
Growth
$129.00 / Monthly per technician (annual billing)
- More integrations
- Chat support
- API access
Limitations: Some advanced features require higher tiers
Power
$169.00 / Monthly per technician (annual billing)
- Database snapshots
- Geo-redundant database
Limitations: Highest cost tier
Pros
- + Predictable per-technician pricing model
- + Integrated PSA simplifies workflow
- + Generally easy to use interface
- + Good range of integrations
Cons
- - RMM features might be less mature/deep than dedicated RMMs
- - Limited Linux support
- - Performance can sometimes be sluggish
- - Network Discovery is an extra cost
Verdict
"Excellent value proposition, particularly for smaller MSPs or internal IT departments needing combined RMM and PSA functionality with predictable costs. May lack the depth of features found in top-tier RMMs."
#4
ConnectWise Automate
By ConnectWise
Highly powerful and customizable RMM platform, known for its deep scripting and automation capabilities, favored by technical MSPs.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best For: MSP
Key Features
- ✓Advanced Scripting Engine: Extensive capabilities for custom automation and task execution.
- ✓Patch Management: Robust OS and third-party patching.
- ✓Remote Monitoring: Deep system monitoring with customizable alerts.
- ✓Integration: Tight integration with ConnectWise PSA and other ConnectWise products.
- ✓Remote Control: Includes ConnectWise Control (ScreenConnect).
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per-Agent Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly/Annual
- Extensive RMM capabilities
- Powerful scripting
- Remote Control
- Patch Management
- Quote-based pricing
Limitations: Steep learning curve, Requires significant configuration
Pros
- + Extremely powerful automation and scripting
- + Highly customizable
- + Excellent remote control (ConnectWise Control)
- + Deep integration with ConnectWise PSA
Cons
- - Very steep learning curve
- - Complex interface, can feel overwhelming
- - Requires significant time investment for setup and maintenance
- - Can be resource-intensive
Verdict
"The go-to RMM for technically proficient MSPs who need unparalleled automation power and customization, especially those already using ConnectWise PSA. Not ideal for smaller teams or those seeking simplicity."
#3
N-able N-sight RMM
By N-able
Comprehensive RMM platform designed for MSPs, offering robust monitoring, patch management, and security integrations.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Network Devices
Best For: MSP
Key Features
- ✓Patch Management: Automated patching for OS and numerous third-party applications.
- ✓Take Control Remote Support: Fast and secure remote access.
- ✓Automation Manager: Drag-and-drop interface for building complex automation scripts.
- ✓Risk Intelligence: Data discovery and vulnerability scanning (add-on).
- ✓Managed Antivirus: Integrated Bitdefender engine.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per-Device Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly
- Core RMM features
- Patch Management
- Remote Control
- Basic Automation
- Quote-based pricing
Limitations: Advanced features like Risk Intelligence and Backup are add-ons
Pros
- + Strong patch management capabilities
- + Reliable remote access
- + Good automation features
- + Mature platform with extensive features
- + Integrates well with other N-able products (Cove Data Protection, EDR)
Cons
- - Interface can feel dated compared to newer platforms
- - Reporting could be improved
- - Add-on costs can increase TCO
Verdict
"A mature and feature-rich RMM primarily targeting MSPs, known for its excellent patching and remote control. Solid choice for MSPs looking for an established vendor."
#2
Datto RMM
By Kaseya
Cloud-based RMM solution focusing on security, automation, and integration within the Datto/Kaseya ecosystem.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, SNMP
Best For: MSP
Key Features
- ✓Policy-Based Automation: Configure monitoring, patching, and management through reusable policies.
- ✓Ransomware Detection: Built-in engine to detect potential ransomware activity.
- ✓Network Topology Mapping: Visual representation of network devices and connections.
- ✓Component Store: Library of pre-built scripts and components for automation.
- ✓Remote Access: Integrated Web Remote and Splashtop support.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per-Device Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly/Annual
- Core RMM features
- Automation
- Ransomware Detection
- Network Mapping
- Quote-based pricing
Limitations: Requires commitment often tied to Kaseya/Datto ecosystem
Pros
- + Strong automation capabilities
- + Good security features including ransomware detection
- + Tight integration with Datto BCDR and Kaseya suite
- + Active component store community
Cons
- - Interface can be complex for new users
- - Recent acquisition by Kaseya raises concerns for some users
- - Pricing often requires negotiation and bundling
Verdict
"A powerful and security-focused RMM, especially compelling for MSPs already invested in the Datto or Kaseya ecosystem."
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#1
NinjaOne
By NinjaOne
Unified IT operations platform known for its intuitive interface and comprehensive feature set.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, SNMP, Network Devices
Best For: MSP, Internal IT
Key Features
- ✓Endpoint Management: Monitoring, alerting, patching, and management for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- ✓Remote Access: Integrated remote control tools (Splashtop, TeamViewer, RDP).
- ✓Patch Management: Automated OS and third-party application patching.
- ✓Automation Engine: Policy-based automation and scripting.
- ✓Backup: Integrated cloud-based backup solution.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per-Device Pricing
$-1.00 / Monthly/Annual
- All core RMM features
- Remote Access
- Patch Management
- Automation
- Support
- Quote-based pricing
Limitations: Backup and other add-ons cost extra
Pros
- + Highly intuitive user interface
- + Fast and reliable agent
- + Excellent patch management
- + Good customer support
- + Integrated backup option
Cons
- - Pricing can be higher than some competitors
- - Reporting could be more customizable
- - Limited Linux agent capabilities compared to Windows
Verdict
"Top choice for organizations prioritizing ease of use and a clean UI without sacrificing core RMM power. Strong contender for both MSPs and internal IT."
Final Thoughts
The RMM market offers diverse solutions catering to different needs, from powerful, complex platforms like ConnectWise Automate and Kaseya VSA favored by large MSPs, to user-friendly options like NinjaOne, and value-driven integrated platforms like Atera and Syncro. ManageEngine Endpoint Central stands out for its UEM capabilities, Pulseway for its mobile-first approach, and Action1 for its exceptional free tier and patching focus. Selection depends heavily on organizational size, technical expertise, budget, platform requirements, and whether an integrated PSA is desired.