Imagine this scenario: You’re an MSP (Managed Service Provider) or an IT professional managing multiple client networks, and you need a Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tool that delivers powerful features while simplifying daily tasks. Two popular RMM tools on the market, NinjaOne (formerly NinjaRMM) and Datto RMM, both promise to streamline operations, automate routine tasks, and enhance security. But which one is the best fit for your specific needs? Let’s put them side-by-side to explore their features, strengths, and differences.
NinjaOne vs. Datto RMM: A Head-to-Head Comparison
1. User Interface and Experience
NinjaOne
- Modern and Intuitive Interface: NinjaOne is well-regarded for its clean, simple, and modern interface that is easy to navigate. It offers a minimalistic design that reduces the clutter, making it easy for users to find what they need without wading through complex menus.
- Dashboard Overview: The dashboard provides a quick, comprehensive overview of system health, alerts, software updates, and other critical metrics. Users appreciate the streamlined experience, which makes onboarding new team members easier.
Datto RMM
- Feature-Rich but Complex Interface: Datto RMM is known for being feature-rich, but its interface can feel more complex and daunting for new users. The platform offers a wealth of functionality, which can sometimes lead to a steeper learning curve.
- Customizable Dashboards: Datto RMM allows users to customize their dashboards, tailoring views to specific roles or tasks. This flexibility can be powerful for advanced users but may require more setup and time investment to configure optimally.
2. Monitoring and Automation Capabilities
NinjaOne
- Comprehensive Monitoring: Offers robust monitoring for endpoints, servers, and network devices. NinjaOne is particularly strong in endpoint management, providing real-time alerts, software inventory management, and performance monitoring.
- Advanced Automation and Scripting: Allows users to create custom scripts using PowerShell, Batch, or Shell to automate tasks. The automation engine is intuitive and simplifies creating and managing scripts across multiple devices, reducing manual workloads.
Datto RMM
- Deep Monitoring Features: Datto RMM provides in-depth monitoring capabilities, including network monitoring, performance tracking, and detailed hardware and software inventories. It’s built to handle both endpoints and network devices, making it versatile.
- Policy-Based Automation: Offers robust automation and policy-driven management. This allows users to create rules for automated responses to specific events or conditions, enhancing efficiency in larger, more complex environments.
3. Remote Access and Control
NinjaOne
- Built-In Remote Access: Integrates with remote access tools like TeamViewer and Splashtop, providing seamless remote control directly from the dashboard. This makes it easy to troubleshoot issues quickly without needing additional software.
- Session Logging and Security: Sessions are logged for auditing purposes, and the integration is secure, ensuring that remote access adheres to security best practices.
Datto RMM
- Integrated Remote Control: Comes with its own built-in remote access capabilities, offering fast and reliable remote sessions directly from the platform. Features like multi-monitor support, session recording, and file transfer make it robust for remote management.
- Granular Permissions: Allows administrators to set detailed permissions for remote access, ensuring that only authorized users can connect to specific devices or networks.
4. Security Features
NinjaOne
- Endpoint Security Integrations: NinjaOne integrates with major endpoint security providers like Bitdefender, Webroot, and Emsisoft, allowing for centralized management of antivirus and endpoint detection.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Offers strong security measures, including 2FA for all users and role-based access control, ensuring that sensitive operations are restricted to authorized personnel only.
Datto RMM
- Comprehensive Security Suite: Datto RMM includes built-in security features like endpoint detection and response (EDR), antivirus, web protection, and ransomware detection. It provides a more integrated approach to security within the platform.
- Patch Management Focused on Security: Provides robust patch management capabilities that can automatically deploy patches for both operating systems and third-party software, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall security.
5. Integration and Compatibility
NinjaOne
- Extensive Third-Party Integrations: Offers a wide range of integrations with third-party tools, including PSA (Professional Services Automation) systems, documentation tools, backup solutions, and antivirus software. This makes it highly adaptable for various IT environments.
- Regular Updates: NinjaOne is known for its frequent updates and improvements, ensuring compatibility with new software versions and integration needs.
Datto RMM
- Strong Ecosystem Integration: Datto RMM integrates seamlessly with other Datto solutions, such as Datto Continuity, Datto SaaS Protection, and Autotask PSA. This makes it an ideal choice for MSPs already using other Datto products.
- Third-Party Compatibility: Supports integration with various third-party tools for documentation, backup, billing, and more, but it’s most powerful when used within the Datto ecosystem.
6. Pricing and Licensing
NinjaOne
- Device-Based Pricing Model: Pricing is based on the number of devices managed, which can be cost-effective for MSPs handling a large number of endpoints. This model is flexible and scalable, depending on your growth needs.
- Transparent, No Long-Term Contracts: NinjaOne offers transparent pricing with no long-term contracts required, giving businesses the flexibility to scale up or down as needed.
Datto RMM
- Flexible, Subscription-Based Pricing: Datto RMM also uses a subscription-based pricing model, typically charging per device. Costs can vary depending on the number of endpoints, additional features, and bundled services.
- Bundling Discounts: Offers discounts when bundling with other Datto products, which can be advantageous for MSPs already invested in the Datto ecosystem.
7. Customer Support and Community
NinjaOne
- Responsive Support and Onboarding: Known for providing excellent customer support, including onboarding assistance, live chat, and extensive online documentation. The NinjaOne community is active and collaborative, helping users share scripts, tips, and best practices.
- Frequent Feature Releases: Regularly releases new features and updates based on user feedback, ensuring that the platform stays relevant and user-focused.
Datto RMM
- 24/7 Support and Training Resources: Provides 24/7 support through various channels (phone, email, chat), along with extensive online training resources, webinars, and documentation.
- Large User Community: Datto has a large and active user community, which is helpful for getting advice, sharing experiences, and finding creative solutions to common problems.
Summary Table: NinjaOne vs. Datto RMM
| Feature | NinjaOne | Datto RMM |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Modern, intuitive, user-friendly | Feature-rich, customizable but complex |
| Monitoring & Automation | Advanced scripting, easy automation | Deep monitoring, policy-based automation |
| Remote Access | Integrated (TeamViewer, Splashtop) | Built-in, advanced features, session control |
| Security | 2FA, RBAC, antivirus integrations | Built-in EDR, AV, web protection, patching |
| Integrations | Extensive third-party compatibility | Strong Datto ecosystem integration |
| Pricing | Device-based, transparent, no contracts | Subscription-based, bundling discounts |
| Support | Responsive, strong community, frequent updates | 24/7 support, comprehensive training |
Which RMM Should You Choose?
- Choose NinjaOne if you are looking for a user-friendly, modern RMM platform with strong third-party integrations, advanced automation capabilities, and a supportive user community. It’s ideal for MSPs or IT managers who need flexibility and simplicity without sacrificing power.
- Choose Datto RMM if you need a robust, feature-rich platform that offers comprehensive monitoring, automation, and security in one package. It’s best for MSPs already using other Datto products or those who want an all-in-one solution with strong security features built-in.
Conclusion
Both NinjaOne and Datto RMM are top contenders in the RMM market, each offering unique strengths and capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs, existing ecosystem, and preferred user experience. To make the best decision, consider taking advantage of their free trials to test their features and workflows in your own environment. The right RMM can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your IT management, so choose wisely!