When it comes to managing IT infrastructure, choosing the right Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tool can make all the difference. Two popular choices in the RMM space are Datto RMM and Ninja RMM. If you’re an IT professional or a Managed Service Provider (MSP), you’ve probably heard of both. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you understand which RMM platform might be the best fit for your needs.
Datto RMM vs. Ninja RMM: Overview
Datto RMM
Datto RMM is a cloud-based platform designed to offer comprehensive monitoring and management of IT environments. Known for its robust backup and disaster recovery solutions, Datto brings those strengths into its RMM tool, providing a seamless experience for MSPs who need both endpoint management and reliable backup systems.
Key Features of Datto RMM:
- Automated Monitoring: Real-time monitoring of devices with customizable alerts.
- Patch Management: Automated patch management for operating systems and third-party applications.
- Network Monitoring: Integrated network management tools to monitor and manage network devices.
- Reporting and Analytics: Detailed reports and analytics for performance and compliance.
- Integrations: Strong integration with Datto’s other products like Datto Backup and SaaS Protection.
- Security Features: Endpoint security integrations with antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
Ninja RMM
Ninja RMM, on the other hand, focuses on delivering a user-friendly, streamlined experience with a powerful yet intuitive platform. It’s known for its ease of use, fast onboarding, and strong customer support, making it a popular choice among small to mid-sized MSPs.
Key Features of Ninja RMM:
- Remote Access and Control: Built-in TeamViewer and Splashtop integrations for remote support.
- Patch Management: Advanced patch management capabilities for Windows and macOS.
- Automation and Scripting: Customizable automation workflows and scripting to enhance efficiency.
- Device Monitoring: Real-time device monitoring and alerting.
- Integrations: Integrates well with various third-party tools like documentation software, antivirus, and backup solutions.
- User-Friendly Interface: Clean, modern interface with an easy learning curve.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Datto RMM | Ninja RMM |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Moderate learning curve, comprehensive features. | Extremely user-friendly, fast to deploy. |
| Remote Access | Integrated remote control, but less seamless. | Built-in TeamViewer and Splashtop integrations. |
| Patch Management | Robust patching for OS and third-party apps. | Strong patch management with advanced options. |
| Automation | Powerful automation with scripting and templates. | Highly customizable automation workflows. |
| Reporting | Detailed, customizable reports. | Simple, actionable reports, and dashboards. |
| Integrations | Strong integration with Datto’s ecosystem. | Wide range of third-party integrations. |
| Pricing | Flexible pricing based on features. | Competitive, transparent pricing models. |
| Customer Support | Solid support, especially for existing Datto users. | Highly praised customer support. |
Key Differences Between Datto RMM and Ninja RMM
1. User Experience and Interface
- Datto RMM: Known for its depth and comprehensive feature set, but it might take some time to get accustomed to the interface. It is powerful but could be overwhelming for new users.
- Ninja RMM: Built for simplicity and ease of use. Its intuitive interface ensures that even those new to RMMs can get up to speed quickly. The onboarding process is often highlighted as one of its strengths.
2. Remote Access Capabilities
- Datto RMM: While Datto RMM provides remote access, it is often reported as less seamless compared to competitors like Ninja RMM. The integrations might require some additional setup and configuration.
- Ninja RMM: Provides built-in support for TeamViewer and Splashtop, which allows quick, secure, and efficient remote access to devices. This can be a deciding factor for MSPs that prioritize fast remote support.
3. Automation and Scripting
- Datto RMM: Offers advanced automation capabilities with a focus on customized scripting. This is beneficial for MSPs that require granular control over their automation tasks.
- Ninja RMM: Also provides strong automation features but emphasizes user-friendliness, allowing even non-experts to create automation workflows with minimal scripting knowledge.
4. Integrations and Ecosystem
- Datto RMM: Strongly integrated within the Datto ecosystem, making it a compelling choice if you are already invested in Datto’s other products.
- Ninja RMM: Known for its flexibility and a broad range of integrations with third-party tools like EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response), PSA (Professional Services Automation), and backup solutions.
5. Pricing and Scalability
- Datto RMM: Pricing can vary depending on the bundle and features you choose. While competitive, it might become costly if additional Datto products are needed.
- Ninja RMM: Generally offers transparent and competitive pricing, with straightforward plans that are easy to understand and scale.
Choosing the Right RMM for Your Needs
Consider Datto RMM if:
- You already use other Datto products and want a fully integrated ecosystem.
- You need strong network monitoring and backup integration.
- You are looking for advanced automation and patch management features.
Consider Ninja RMM if:
- You prioritize ease of use, fast deployment, and intuitive interfaces.
- You need robust remote access capabilities out of the box.
- You are a small to mid-sized MSP looking for flexible pricing and strong customer support.
Conclusion
Both Datto RMM and Ninja RMM offer strong capabilities in the RMM space. The right choice depends on your specific needs—whether it’s a deep, integrated ecosystem like Datto or a simpler, more flexible platform like Ninja. Think about your current tools, the scale of your operations, and your team’s comfort level with learning new systems before making a decision.