RMM Tool Comparison 2025: ConnectWise vs Datto vs N-able
June 2, 2025

RMM Tool Comparison: ConnectWise vs Datto vs N-able
Discover which Remote Monitoring and Management solution delivers the best value, features, and ROI for your MSP or IT department in 2025. Our in-depth analysis covers pricing, capabilities, and real-world performance.
The Ultimate RMM Showdown for 2025
Choosing the right Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) platform can make or break your managed service provider (MSP) business. With 81% of IT leaders struggling to find qualified talent, the right RMM tool becomes your force multiplier—automating routine tasks, preventing downtime, and scaling your operations without adding headcount.
In this comprehensive comparison, we analyze three industry-leading RMM solutions: ConnectWise RMM, Datto RMM, and N-able N-central. Based on extensive research, user reviews, and real-world testing, we'll help you determine which platform aligns best with your business needs, budget, and growth strategy.
Understanding the Platforms
What Is ConnectWise RMM?
ConnectWise RMM represents the latest evolution in the ConnectWise ecosystem, built from the ground up on the modern Asio platform. Launched as a direct response to MSP demands for simpler, more intelligent automation, this cloud-native solution marks a significant departure from the company's legacy LabTech/Automate product.
What sets ConnectWise RMM apart is its integration of AI throughout the platform. The ConnectWise Sidekick™ feature uses artificial intelligence to generate PowerShell, batch, and bash scripts in minutes, dramatically reducing the technical expertise required for automation. The platform's intelligent alerting consolidates related events into single tickets, claiming to eliminate up to 80% of false positives that plague traditional RMM tools.
Built for the modern MSP, ConnectWise RMM emphasizes out-of-the-box functionality over complex customization. This philosophy appeals to MSPs seeking rapid deployment and immediate value, particularly those already invested in the ConnectWise ecosystem including PSA, documentation, and quoting tools.
What Is Datto RMM?
Datto RMM emerged from the 2017 acquisition of Autotask Endpoint Management, transforming it into a cloud-first platform designed specifically for MSPs serving small and medium businesses. The platform gained significant market share by focusing on ease of use and integrated backup capabilities, becoming a favorite among SMB-focused MSPs.
The platform's defining characteristic is its deep integration with Datto's broader ecosystem, particularly its industry-leading backup and disaster recovery solutions. This integration creates a unified experience where MSPs can manage endpoints, backups, and disaster recovery from a single pane of glass. Datto RMM also pioneered native Microsoft 365 management capabilities, allowing MSPs to handle user onboarding, offboarding, and security directly from the RMM console.
However, the 2022 acquisition by Kaseya has created uncertainty in the Datto community. While Kaseya promised continued investment, many users report declining product quality, slower feature development, and concerns about long-term product direction. Despite these challenges, Datto RMM maintains its position through its proven 99.99% uptime, straightforward deployment via Group Policy, and strong partner community.
What Is N-able N-central?
N-able N-central represents one of the most mature and feature-rich RMM platforms in the market, with roots dating back to 2004. Originally developed as part of SolarWinds, N-able spun off as an independent company in 2021, allowing it to focus exclusively on MSP needs. The platform is renowned for its deep customization capabilities and powerful automation engine.
What distinguishes N-central is its "Android-like" flexibility—if you can imagine it, you can probably build it in N-central. The platform offers over 650 pre-built automation scripts and a sophisticated drag-and-drop automation manager that allows even non-programmers to create complex workflows. This flexibility extends to deployment options, with N-central being the only major RMM offering both cloud and on-premise installations.
N-central's architecture reflects its enterprise heritage, with features like granular role-based access control, multi-tenancy, and advanced reporting capabilities powered by Microsoft Power BI integration. The platform excels in complex environments where customization and control are paramount. However, this power comes with complexity—most successful N-central deployments have a dedicated "N-able expert" who masters the platform's extensive capabilities.
Recent updates in 2025 include enhanced support for Windows Server 2025, improved AlmaLinux-based architecture for better performance, and strengthened API capabilities as the platform transitions from SOAP to REST APIs. These improvements demonstrate N-able's commitment to modernization while maintaining the flexibility that enterprise MSPs demand.
At a Glance: The Contenders
ConnectWise RMM
Built on the Asio platform, ConnectWise RMM offers intuitive automation and AI-powered features for modern MSPs.
- ✓ AI-powered scripting with Sidekick
- ✓ 80% reduction in false alerts
- ✓ Integrated NOC services
- ✓ ScreenConnect included
Datto RMM
Cloud-based RMM designed for SMB-focused MSPs with emphasis on ease of use and integrated backup solutions.
- ✓ Native Microsoft 365 management
- ✓ Built-in ransomware detection
- ✓ 99.99% uptime guarantee
- ✓ 24/7/365 support included
N-able N-central
Powerful, customizable RMM platform with deep automation capabilities for enterprise MSPs and complex environments.
- ✓ 650+ pre-built automation scripts
- ✓ On-premise or cloud deployment
- ✓ Advanced network monitoring
- ✓ Drag-and-drop automation
RMM Cost Calculator
Estimate your monthly costs based on the number of devices you manage
Devices Under Management
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Feature | ConnectWise RMM | Datto RMM | N-able N-central |
---|---|---|---|
Remote Monitoring | ✓ Advanced | ✓ Advanced | ✓ Advanced |
Patch Management | ✓ AI-tested patches | ✓ Automated | ✓ Granular control |
Automation Capabilities | ✓ AI-powered | ◐ Basic | ✓ Extensive |
Remote Access | ✓ ScreenConnect | ✓ Built-in | ✓ Take Control |
Network Monitoring | ✓ Auvik integration | ◐ Limited | ✓ NetPath included |
Ransomware Detection | ✓ AI-powered | ✓ Native | ✓ Via integration |
Endpoint Security | ✓ Integrated EDR | ✓ Add-on | ✓ Bitdefender |
Backup Integration | ✓ Multiple vendors | ✓ Native Datto | ✓ Multiple vendors |
Cloud-based | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes/On-premise |
Mobile App | ✓ iOS/Android | ✗ No | ✓ iOS/Android |
API Access | ✓ REST API | ✓ REST API | ✓ REST API |
24/7 Support | ✓ Included | ✓ Included | ✓ Included |
NOC Services | ✓ Available | ✗ No | ◐ Partner only |
Free Trial | ✓ Available | ✓ Available | ✓ Available |
Detailed Pros and Cons Analysis
ConnectWise RMM - Strengths and Weaknesses
✓ Pros
- AI-powered automation reduces manual work by up to 80%
- Intelligent alerting eliminates false positives
- Seamless integration with ConnectWise ecosystem
- ScreenConnect remote access included
- Fast, modern interface built on Asio platform
- NOC services available for 24/7 monitoring
- Excellent patch management with AI testing
✗ Cons
- Limited customization options currently
- Some legacy features still being migrated
- Higher learning curve for complex setups
- Pricing not transparent (quote required)
- Support response times can be slow
- Some integrations still in development
Datto RMM - Strengths and Weaknesses
✓ Pros
- User-friendly interface ideal for SMB-focused MSPs
- Native Microsoft 365 management capabilities
- Built-in ransomware detection
- 99.99% uptime track record
- Strong partner community and resources
- Integrated backup solutions
- Quick deployment via AD GPO
✗ Cons
- Quality concerns since Kaseya acquisition
- Limited automation compared to competitors
- No mobile app for on-the-go management
- Minimum 40 device commitment
- Basic network monitoring capabilities
- Some features feel outdated post-acquisition
N-able N-central - Strengths and Weaknesses
✓ Pros
- Most customizable platform with deep automation
- 650+ pre-built automation scripts
- Best value pricing at $1.75/device
- On-premise deployment option available
- Advanced network topology mapping
- Powerful drag-and-drop automation builder
- Supports Windows, Linux, and macOS equally
✗ Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to complexity
- Interface can feel overwhelming initially
- Requires dedicated "N-able expert" on team
- Take Control remote access needs improvement
- Limited Apple MDM capabilities
- Support quality can be inconsistent
Which RMM Tool Is Right for You?
Our Recommendations Based on Your Business Type
Choose ConnectWise RMM If:
- You want cutting-edge AI automation features
- You're already using ConnectWise PSA
- You need integrated NOC services
- False alerts are overwhelming your team
- You prefer out-of-the-box functionality
Best for: Growing MSPs seeking modern automation
Choose Datto RMM If:
- You primarily serve SMB clients
- Ease of use is your top priority
- You need integrated backup solutions
- Microsoft 365 management is critical
- You want proven 99.99% uptime
Best for: SMB-focused MSPs prioritizing simplicity
Choose N-able N-central If:
- You need maximum customization flexibility
- Price per device is a key factor
- You manage complex enterprise environments
- On-premise deployment is required
- You have technical staff to leverage automation
Best for: Enterprise MSPs with technical expertise
2025 Market Insights and Trends
Industry Adoption and Market Share
Based on PeerSpot dataMarket share data from PeerSpot user engagement metrics as of March 2025, the RMM market shows interesting dynamics:
Key Considerations for Dallas MSPs
For managed service providers in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, several factors make RMM selection critical:
- Talent Shortage: With 81% of IT leaders struggling to find qualified technicians, automation capabilities become essential
- Cybersecurity Requirements: Texas Data Privacy and Security Act compliance requires robust security features
- Growth Market: Dallas's booming tech sector demands scalable solutions that can grow with your MSP
- Integration Needs: Local businesses often use diverse tech stacks requiring flexible RMM integrations
Integration Ecosystem Comparison
Integration Type | ConnectWise RMM | Datto RMM | N-able N-central |
---|---|---|---|
PSA Integrations | ConnectWise PSA (native), Others via API | Autotask, ConnectWise, HaloPSA, Kaseya BMS | Multiple PSAs including custom |
Documentation | IT Glue, Others | IT Glue (deep integration) | IT Glue, Passportal |
Security Tools | Webroot, SentinelOne, Heimdal | Native security stack | Bitdefender, multiple EDR options |
Backup Solutions | Acronis, Veeam, Others | Datto BCDR (native) | Multiple vendors supported |
Reporting/Analytics | BrightGauge (included) | Built-in dashboards | Power BI integration |
Return on Investment Analysis
Time and Cost Savings Breakdown
💰 ConnectWise RMM ROI
- 80% reduction in false positive alerts
- 150-200 tickets auto-resolved daily
- 90% of routine tasks handled by NOC
- Time saved: 20+ hours/week per technician
💰 Datto RMM ROI
- 95% patch compliance achievement
- 15-minute device onboarding
- 99.99% uptime reduces emergency calls
- Time saved: 15+ hours/week per technician
💰 N-able N-central ROI
The Bottom Line: Our 2025 Recommendation
🏆 Best Overall Value: N-able N-central
With its competitive pricing, extensive automation capabilities, and flexibility for both cloud and on-premise deployment, N-able N-central offers the best overall value for most MSPs. However, ConnectWise RMM's AI innovations make it the best choice for forward-thinking MSPs, while Datto RMM remains ideal for SMB-focused providers prioritizing ease of use.
Remember: The best RMM tool is the one that aligns with your specific business needs, technical expertise, and growth strategy. All three platforms offer free trials—we recommend testing each in your environment before making a final decision.
Need Expert Guidance on RMM Implementation?
As a leading managed service provider in Dallas, ITECS has extensive experience with all major RMM platforms. We can help you choose and implement the right solution for your business.
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