Best MDM for Apple: Top 6 mobile device management solutions for 2025

As organizations continue to embrace Apple devices in the workplace, managing and securing them has become a top priority for IT teams. Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions provide a centralized platform for controlling, securing, and monitoring Apple devices. With the growing complexity of modern security threats and the need for compliance with industry regulations, selecting the right MDM solution is crucial.

Apple Business Manager plays a significant role in automating the enrollment of organization-owned devices in MDM solutions. Using Automated Device Enrollment, devices with serial numbers listed in Apple Business Manager can be automatically enrolled, simplifying device management and offering organizations more control over their devices.

This guide compares top MDM solutions regarding features, security, and price. See which solution best meets your needs for managing Apple devices effectively.

What is Mobile Device Management (MDM)?

Mobile Device Management (MDM) enables organizations to manage and secure mobile devices, including Apple, Android, and Windows. MDM solutions provide a centralized platform for IT teams to manage and secure mobile devices, ensuring they are configured correctly, up to date, and compliant with organizational policies. These solutions enable IT teams to remotely wipe or lock devices, install and configure apps, and monitor device usage.

Implementing MDM solutions can streamline the management of mobile devices, enhance security, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. This centralized approach simplifies managing a diverse range of devices, making it easier for IT teams to maintain control and visibility over their mobile device fleet.

Understanding Apple Device Management

Apple Device Management refers to managing and securing Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, and Apple TVs. It involves configuring device settings, installing and managing apps, and ensuring that devices are up to date and compliant with organizational policies.

These solutions ensure that Apple devices are configured correctly and comply with organizational policies, enhancing security and productivity. By leveraging Apple MDM solutions, IT teams can streamline the management of their Apple devices, reduce administrative overhead, and ensure that all devices operate efficiently and securely.

Overview of top Apple Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions

Several MDM solutions stand out in Apple device management due to their unique features and capabilities in managing iPhone and iPad devices.

Here’s a quick overview of the top solutions you’ll learn about in this guide:

• Best for distributed teams: GroWrk

• Best for Budget-Conscious Businesses: Miradore

• Best for Flexible Pricing: ManageEngine

• Best for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises: Addigy

• Best for Advanced Threat Management: IBM Security MaaS360

• Best for Unified Endpoint Management: SureMDM

Each solution is tailored to meet specific organizational needs and budgets.

GroWrk: Best for distributed teams

GroWrk stands out with its robust features, designed to streamline the management of Apple devices. One standout feature is zero-touch device enrollment, simplifying the deployment process by allowing automatic device setup without manual intervention. This is particularly beneficial for large organizations with numerous devices to manage.

Security is another strong point, with features like identity management for secure access and automated patch management to ensure devices remain updated. These measures protect corporate data and user information, minimizing the risk of security breaches.

Price:

Quote-based pricing. Book a demo and find out.

Pros:

• Automated device enrollment

• Zero-touch enrollment and deployment

• Comprehensive security features

Cons:

• It may require a learning curve for new users

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 5/5

• Ease of Use: 5/5

• Features: 5/5

Miradore: Budget-Conscious Businesses

Miradore caters to budget-conscious businesses with a starting price of just $2 per monthly device. This makes it one of the most affordable options for managing Apple devices. It also offers a free plan for managing up to 50 devices, making it ideal for small businesses or startups.

Despite its affordability, Miradore offers robust management capabilities, such as remote monitoring and advanced administration tools, in its premium plans. However, the free version has limited features, which might necessitate an upgrade to access more comprehensive management options.

Price:

$2 per device per month

Pros:

• Affordable pricing

• Free plan for up to 50 devices

• Flexible payment options

Cons:

• Limited features in the free plan

• Premium features can be costly

Rating:

• Price: 5/5

• Design: 3.5/5

• Ease of Use: 4/5

• Features: 3.5/5

ManageEngine: Best for Flexible Pricing

ManageEngine’s flexible pricing structure provides personalized quotes tailored to an organization’s needs, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. Additionally, ManageEngine offers a 30-day free trial and a free edition for managing up to 25 devices, perfect for smaller organizations.

One of the standout features of ManageEngine is its discounts for non-profits and educational institutions, making it an attractive option for these sectors. The platform’s complexity can be challenging for new users, and the quote-based pricing may lack transparency compared to fixed models.

Price:

Quote-based pricing

Pros:

• Flexible pricing model

• Free trial for 30 days

• Discounts for non-profits and educational institutions

Cons:

• Pricing may not be transparent

• Can be complex for new users

Rating:

• Price: 4/5

• Design: 3.5/5

• Ease of Use: 3/5

• Features: 4/5

Addigy: Best for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Addigy accommodates businesses of various sizes, starting at $6 per device per month. Its zero-touch device setup feature ensures a streamlined deployment process, reducing IT teams' workload. Addigy also supports many Apple operating systems, including macOS, iOS, iPadOS, iPad devices, and TVOS.

Its app management capabilities cover App Store and third-party applications, adding versatility for different business needs. However, larger deployments can add up, and some premium features might incur additional expenses.

Price:

$6 per device per month

Pros:

• Zero-touch device setup

• Supports a range of Apple operating systems

• App management for both App Store and third-party applications

Cons:

• It can be expensive for larger deployments

• Some features may require additional costs

Rating:

• Price: 3.5/5

• Design: 4/5

• Ease of Use: 4/5

• Features: 4/5

IBM Security MaaS360: Advanced Threat Management

IBM Security MaaS360 distinguishes itself with advanced threat management features that enhance security for Apple devices. Rapid deployment capabilities enable quick setup and management, minimizing downtime. The platform offers comprehensive visibility and device control, including location tracking and geofencing features.

However, implementing MaaS360 can be complex, and certain advanced features require an active subscription. Despite these challenges, its robust security features make it a top choice for organizations prioritizing device security.

Price:

Quote-based pricing

Pros:

• Advanced threat management features

• Rapid deployment capabilities

• Location tracking and geofencing

Cons:

• Requires an active subscription for advanced features

• Can be complex to implement

Rating:

• Price: 3.5/5

• Design: 4/5

• Ease of Use: 3.5/5

• Features: 4.5/5

SureMDM: Best for Unified Endpoint Management

SureMDM supports multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and Windows, making it ideal for organizations with diverse device ecosystems. Specialized solutions like SureLock (kiosk mode) and SureFox (secure browser) enhance its functionality.

The platform is flexible enough to manage company-owned and personal mobile devices in a BYOD environment, providing a comprehensive mobile device management experience. However, the quote-based pricing model can be less transparent, and IT teams might need additional training to leverage its capabilities thoroughly.

Price:

Quote-based pricing

Pros:

• Supports multiple platforms

• Includes specialized solutions like SureLock and SureFox

• Flexible for both company-owned and BYOD environments

Cons:

• Quote-based pricing can be less transparent

• May require additional training for IT teams

Rating:

• Price: 3.5/5

• Design: 4/5

• Ease of Use: 3.5/5

• Features: 4.5/5

How to choose the best MDM solution for Apple devices?

Selecting the right MDM solution for Apple devices involves several key factors.

• Scalability is crucial to manage thousands of devices as the organization grows.

• Ease of use is also important, particularly for IT teams with varying expertise.

• A user-friendly graphical interface can simplify device management.

• Security features are another critical consideration. An effective Apple MDM solution should provide strong security enforcement, application management, and device tracking to safeguard corporate data.

• Additionally, consider the solution's cost-effectiveness. MDM software is often more cost-effective than developing a custom device management system.

The Apple Push Notification Service (APN) is essential for maintaining secure communication between MDM servers and devices. Lastly, if your organization is in the education sector, look for solutions that integrate well with Apple School Manager and offer privacy controls to protect students’ personal information.

Wrapping up

Selecting the right MDM solution for your Apple devices is a critical decision that can significantly impact your organization’s efficiency and security. From comprehensive management and secure enrollment to budget-friendly options and advanced threat management, an MDM solution suits every organization. The key is to assess your specific requirements, consider scalability, ease of use, security features, and cost-effectiveness, and choose a solution that aligns with your goals.

By making an informed decision, you can ensure that your Apple devices are well-managed, secure, and optimized for productivity, ultimately contributing to your organization's success.

Frequently asked questions

How does GroWrk ensure the security of corporate data?

GroWrk ensures the security of corporate data through comprehensive security features like identity management and automated patch management. This robust approach effectively safeguards both corporate data and user information.

What is the best MDM solution for iOS?

The best MDM solution for iOS depends on your specific needs and budget. GroWrk is often praised for its comprehensive management capabilities, while Miradore offers budget-friendly options.

Does Apple have an MDM solution?

Yes, Apple offers its own MDM framework that integrates with Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager to streamline device management.

What happens when you use an MDM solution to wipe an iPhone?

When an MDM solution wipes an iPhone, all data and settings are erased, and the device is restored to its factory settings. This is often used as a security measure for lost or stolen devices.

Is MDM suitable for small businesses?

Yes, many MDM solutions offer scalable options suitable for small businesses. These solutions provide essential management and security features without requiring a large financial investment.