When it comes to Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools, ConnectWise Automate (formerly LabTech) and SolarWinds RMM are two heavyweights in the IT management arena. Both are powerful solutions that can help Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT departments streamline operations, enhance endpoint management, and improve overall service delivery. But the choice between them isn’t always clear-cut—each has its strengths and potential pitfalls.
Let’s break down the key differences between Automate and SolarWinds RMM so you can determine which tool aligns best with your needs.
Automate vs. SolarWinds RMM: Quick Comparison
| Feature | ConnectWise Automate | SolarWinds RMM |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Per Technician/Per Device | Per Device |
| Ease of Use | Steeper learning curve, highly customizable | User-friendly, designed for quick setup |
| Automation | Highly advanced, extensive scripting | Powerful automation, intuitive workflows |
| Patch Management | Robust, deep configuration options | Effective, easy to manage patching |
| Integrations | Strong ConnectWise ecosystem integrations | Extensive third-party integrations |
| Monitoring and Alerts | Advanced, customizable alerting and reporting | Comprehensive, easy-to-configure alerts |
| Unique Features | Deep customization, extensive automation | Cloud-first approach, rapid deployment |
| Best For | Large MSPs, those needing deep customization | SMBs and mid-sized MSPs seeking quick, powerful solutions |
1. Pricing Models: Balancing Costs with Capabilities
The pricing model can significantly impact your choice between these two RMM tools:
- ConnectWise Automate: Pricing can be a bit complicated. It generally operates on a per technician or per device model. The cost structure can be highly customizable, which makes it suitable for larger MSPs that want to scale their use with the number of devices or technicians. However, the initial setup and implementation can be costly, considering the time and resources required to get it up and running optimally.
- SolarWinds RMM: Offers a per-device pricing model, making it easier to predict and budget costs as you scale. The straightforward, tiered pricing structure is more transparent, which is appealing for small to mid-sized MSPs. SolarWinds is also known for competitive pricing that aligns well with its ease of use and rapid deployment capabilities.
Key Takeaway:
- Automate offers more flexibility but at potentially higher upfront costs.
- SolarWinds RMM provides predictable, straightforward pricing suitable for SMBs and growing MSPs.
2. Ease of Use: The Learning Curve Factor
Ease of use is a critical factor, especially if you’re planning to onboard technicians quickly or if you don’t have time for a steep learning curve:
- ConnectWise Automate: Known for its powerful capabilities but comes with a steep learning curve. The platform is incredibly customizable, which is a double-edged sword—it offers deep configuration options, but getting up to speed can be time-consuming. This tool requires a more substantial commitment to learning and optimizing before you can fully leverage its power.
- SolarWinds RMM: Designed to be user-friendly and easy to deploy. You can get up and running quickly with its cloud-based architecture and intuitive interface. This makes it a great choice for MSPs that want a solid RMM tool without the need for extensive training or setup time.
Key Takeaway:
- Automate is best for MSPs that can invest time in learning and want deep customization.
- SolarWinds RMM is ideal for those who prioritize ease of use and quick setup.
3. Automation: Keeping Your Operations Smooth and Efficient
Automation is where both tools shine, but their approaches differ:
- ConnectWise Automate: This is where Automate stands out—it offers extremely advanced automation capabilities. You can automate virtually every aspect of IT management, from patch management and script execution to detailed workflows for incident response. The platform’s scripting capabilities are particularly powerful, allowing for complex automation setups that can significantly reduce manual workloads.
- SolarWinds RMM: Provides robust automation features with a more accessible approach. It supports automated patch management, script execution, and maintenance tasks, but without the deep scripting complexity that Automate offers. This makes SolarWinds a great option for those who want powerful automation without the complexity of coding or scripting.
Key Takeaway:
- For highly customizable automation and deep scripting, go with ConnectWise Automate.
- For intuitive and powerful automation that’s easier to manage, SolarWinds RMM is a strong contender.
4. Patch Management: Keep Systems Secure and Up-to-Date
Both tools offer robust patch management features, but with different approaches:
- ConnectWise Automate: Offers extensive patch management capabilities with highly configurable options. You can define patch schedules, approval processes, and even automate complex patching workflows across different client environments. This level of control is perfect for larger MSPs or those managing complex IT infrastructures.
- SolarWinds RMM: Focuses on simplicity and effectiveness. It offers a straightforward patch management module that allows you to automate and control patch deployment easily. For MSPs that want a balance between control and simplicity, SolarWinds RMM provides a less complicated approach.
Key Takeaway:
- Automate is great for MSPs needing deep control and customization in patch management.
- SolarWinds RMM provides effective patch management with an easier learning curve.
5. Integrations: Expanding Your Ecosystem
Integrations can be crucial depending on the tools your MSP already relies on:
- ConnectWise Automate: Offers strong integrations within the ConnectWise ecosystem (like ConnectWise Manage, Control, etc.) and supports various third-party integrations. If you’re already using other ConnectWise products, Automate will integrate seamlessly into your existing workflows.
- SolarWinds RMM: Has a broad range of third-party integrations, including PSA tools like Autotask, customer management tools, antivirus, backup solutions, and more. This allows for a more flexible approach if you’re not locked into a specific ecosystem.
Key Takeaway:
- If you are already in the ConnectWise ecosystem, Automate is a natural fit.
- For a broader range of integrations, especially with non-ConnectWise tools, SolarWinds RMM offers flexibility.
6. Monitoring and Alerts: Stay Proactive
Monitoring and alerting are foundational for any RMM tool. Here’s how these two stack up:
- ConnectWise Automate: Provides advanced monitoring and alerting capabilities. You can create highly customized alerts, generate detailed reports, and set up automated remediation tasks. This is a robust solution for those who want granular control over their monitoring environment.
- SolarWinds RMM: Offers comprehensive and easy-to-configure monitoring and alerting. Its approach is more intuitive, allowing for faster deployment and adjustment of monitoring policies. This makes it well-suited for MSPs looking for an effective, less complex monitoring solution.
Key Takeaway:
- For advanced, customizable monitoring, Automate is the choice.
- For easier, effective monitoring that gets you up and running quickly, SolarWinds RMM is ideal.
7. Unique Features and Scalability: Power vs. Simplicity
- ConnectWise Automate: Known for its deep customization and advanced automation. It’s highly scalable and can be adapted to fit complex environments. However, it requires more investment in terms of time and training to fully utilize its capabilities.
- SolarWinds RMM: Takes a cloud-first approach, focusing on rapid deployment and ease of use. It’s scalable for mid-sized MSPs and those growing their client base but looking for something manageable and effective without the steep learning curve.
Key Takeaway:
- Automate is best for MSPs that need a powerful, scalable tool with deep customization.
- SolarWinds RMM is perfect for SMBs and mid-sized MSPs looking for a solution that balances power and simplicity.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between ConnectWise Automate and SolarWinds RMM boils down to your business needs, size, and how much customization and complexity you’re prepared to handle:
- Choose ConnectWise Automate if you’re a larger MSP or IT department looking for deep customization, advanced automation, and a tool that can handle complex, highly configurable environments.
- Opt for SolarWinds RMM if you’re an SMB or a mid-sized MSP looking for a cloud-based, easy-to-use RMM solution that offers strong automation and monitoring without the steep learning curve.
Both are excellent tools in their own right—evaluating your specific needs, existing tools, and long-term growth plans will help you make the right choice.