So, you’re stuck deciding between ConnectWise Automate and ConnectWise RMM? Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not an easy call. Both tools come from the same family and are built to streamline IT management, but they target different types of users and needs. Let’s dive deep into the comparison to see which one aligns better with what you’re looking for.
ConnectWise Automate vs. ConnectWise RMM: What’s the Difference?
At a glance, ConnectWise Automate (formerly known as LabTech) and ConnectWise RMM (formerly Continuum RMM) serve similar functions—they help managed service providers (MSPs) and IT departments monitor, manage, and maintain IT infrastructures. However, they have different focuses and strengths:
- ConnectWise Automate is more powerful, highly customizable, and ideal for complex environments. It offers extensive scripting, automation, and a wide array of plugins.
- ConnectWise RMM is designed for simplicity and scalability. It is more streamlined and integrates deeply with the ConnectWise suite, especially for users already in the ConnectWise ecosystem.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | ConnectWise Automate | ConnectWise RMM |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Powerful but has a steep learning curve; better suited for experienced IT pros. | Intuitive and easier to use; great for teams looking for quick deployment. |
| Automation | Advanced automation capabilities; supports deep scripting and complex automation workflows. | Good automation with pre-built scripts; less flexibility compared to Automate. |
| Patch Management | Highly customizable patch management; requires manual setup and fine-tuning. | Simplified patch management with automated scheduling and deployment. |
| Remote Access | Offers native remote control; integrates with ScreenConnect (now ConnectWise Control). | Seamless remote access integrated directly with ConnectWise Control. |
| Monitoring and Alerts | Comprehensive monitoring with granular alert settings and conditions; highly customizable. | Effective monitoring with less complexity; more “out of the box” ready. |
| Integration | Deep integration within the ConnectWise ecosystem and supports third-party tools. | Fully integrates with ConnectWise Manage and other tools within the suite. |
| Reporting | Detailed and customizable reporting, but setup can be challenging. | Easy-to-generate reports with basic customization options. |
| Pricing | Usually priced per device; costs can add up with advanced features and add-ons. | Typically more cost-effective with a focus on SMBs; transparent and simpler pricing. |
| Support and Training | Strong support but may require dedicated training; best for teams familiar with ConnectWise. | Robust support with easier onboarding and more accessible training resources. |
In-Depth Analysis of Features
1. Ease of Use and Interface
- ConnectWise Automate: This is a tool built for those who love depth and complexity. It’s incredibly powerful but can be overwhelming. The interface is dense, and if you’re new to the game, expect a learning curve. You’ll find it rewarding once you master it, but it’s not for the faint-hearted.
- ConnectWise RMM: Far more approachable, ConnectWise RMM is built for speed and efficiency. It has a clean, modern interface that’s more user-friendly. If you need to get up and running quickly, RMM makes it easy.
2. Automation Capabilities
- ConnectWise Automate: If you’re all about automation, Automate is your beast. It allows for deep scripting in PowerShell, VBScript, and more, with endless automation possibilities. I’ve been able to create very specific, condition-based workflows that you just can’t replicate in simpler RMM tools.
- ConnectWise RMM: While RMM also offers automation capabilities, it’s not as extensive. It comes with pre-built scripts and workflows that work for most common tasks, which makes it perfect for teams that want reliable automation without having to build everything from scratch.
3. Patch Management
- ConnectWise Automate: Offers detailed patch management settings, but it’s a manual process to set up properly. The level of control is fantastic—you can decide exactly when and how patches are applied—but you need to invest time to set it up correctly.
- ConnectWise RMM: Focuses on simplicity, offering a more automated patch management process that works well out of the box. You get what you need without jumping through too many hoops, making it a great choice for environments that need straightforward patching.
4. Monitoring and Alerts
- ConnectWise Automate: The customization here is deep—almost too deep for some. You can set up highly granular alerts that cover just about every scenario. But with great power comes great complexity.
- ConnectWise RMM: Provides effective monitoring and alerting without the over-complication. It’s more “plug and play,” giving you a good range of preset alerts that you can customize, but it doesn’t require you to know the system inside and out.
5. Integrations and Ecosystem
- ConnectWise Automate: Integrates well within the ConnectWise ecosystem, especially with ConnectWise Manage. You can also integrate a variety of third-party tools, but it takes time to configure.
- ConnectWise RMM: Seamlessly integrates with the ConnectWise suite, particularly ConnectWise Manage, making it a solid choice if you’re already embedded in their ecosystem and want smooth workflows.
Pros and Cons
ConnectWise Automate Pros:
- Highly customizable and powerful for complex IT environments.
- Extensive automation capabilities and scripting support.
- Deep integration within the ConnectWise ecosystem.
ConnectWise Automate Cons:
- Steep learning curve; not beginner-friendly.
- Can become costly with additional plugins and advanced features.
- Requires significant time investment to set up properly.
ConnectWise RMM Pros:
- User-friendly interface; easier to learn and use.
- Cost-effective with straightforward pricing.
- Strong integration with ConnectWise Manage for streamlined processes.
ConnectWise RMM Cons:
- Less flexible for complex automation needs.
- Fewer customization options compared to Automate.
- Limited advanced scripting compared to Automate.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between ConnectWise Automate and ConnectWise RMM comes down to the complexity of your needs and your team’s familiarity with these tools:
- Choose ConnectWise Automate if you need a highly customizable tool with powerful automation capabilities, and your team is ready to invest the time in learning it. It’s ideal for large environments with specific needs.
- Choose ConnectWise RMM if you’re looking for something more intuitive and easier to deploy. It’s perfect for small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs) that want robust monitoring and management without the steep learning curve.
Both tools are fantastic, but they serve different kinds of users. Think about what level of customization, control, and complexity you really need, and you’ll be able to pick the right tool for the job.