Hexnode vs SureMDM: Full Feature Comparison

In today’s hybrid work environment, managing a diverse fleet of devices – ranging from smartphones and laptops to rugged handhelds and IoT endpoints – requires a robust Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) solution.

Two leading contenders in this space are Hexnode and SureMDM, each offering a unique blend of features, integrations, and deployment flexibility.

This blog provides a comprehensive comparison of Hexnode vs SureMDM, helping IT managers in small to medium-sized businesses evaluate which platform best aligns with their operational needs, security requirements, and budget constraints. From platform support and device compatibility to pricing, user experience, and customer support, we break down the key differences to guide your decision-making process.

Overview of the Two Platforms

When evaluating UEM solutions, Hexnode and SureMDM stand out as two robust platforms designed to simplify device management across diverse environments. Both offer cloud-based solutions with extensive OS support, but they differ in approach, integrations, and specialization.

Platform Support & Device Compatibility

When choosing a UEM solution, platform coverage and device compatibility are critical factors. Both Hexnode and SureMDM offer extensive support across operating systems and device types, but they cater to slightly different enterprise needs.

Hexnode: Broad OS Coverage with Deep Enterprise Integration

Hexnode UEM supports a wide range of platforms, making it ideal for organizations with diverse device ecosystems:

Mobile & Desktop OS: Android (5.0+), iOS/iPadOS (11.0+/13.1+), Windows 10/11, macOS (10.7+), Linux (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian), ChromeOS, Fire OS, tvOS, and visionOS.

Enrollment Methods: Automated Device Enrollment (Apple), Android Zero-Touch, Samsung Knox, Windows Autopilot, QR code, and email/SMS-based enrollment.

Device Types: Smartphones, tablets, desktops, laptops, smart TVs, wearables, and even AR/VR devices running visionOS.

Remote Actions: Platform-specific remote actions like device scanning, location tracking, app inventory, and compliance checks are supported across most OSes.

Hexnode’s recent expansion into Linux, ChromeOS, and visionOS further strengthens its position as a versatile UEM solution for modern enterprises.

SureMDM: Rugged, Wearable, and IoT Device Management

42Gears SureMDM is designed with rugged environments and specialized devices in mind:

Supported Platforms: Android, iOS/iPadOS, macOS, Windows 7/8/10/11, Linux, ChromeOS, Wear OS, VR, Windows Mobile/CE, and IoT devices.

Device Types: Smartphones, tablets, desktops, rugged handhelds, smartwatches, VR headsets, printers, RFID readers, and IoT endpoints.

Enrollment Options: Android ZTE, Knox Mobile Enrollment, Apple Business Manager, Windows Autopilot, QR code, and manual app-based enrollment.

Specialized Tools: SureLock (kiosk lockdown), SureFox (secure browser), and SureVideo (digital signage) enhance compatibility with niche devices.

SureMDM excels in industries like logistics, manufacturing, and field services, where rugged and wearable devices are common.

Security and Compliance

Security and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable for IT managers managing sensitive data across endpoints. Both Hexnode and SureMDM offer enterprise-grade security frameworks, but they differ in depth, certifications, and specialized tools.

Hexnode: Enterprise-Grade Security with Granular Controls

Hexnode UEM is built with a strong focus on data protection, compliance, and endpoint security:

Certifications:

• ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified
• SOC 2 Type 2 attested with no exceptions
• Compliant with GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOC 2

Security Features:

• BitLocker and FileVault encryption support
• Web content filtering, USB/Bluetooth restrictions, and copy/paste controls
• Conditional access for Microsoft apps based on device compliance
• Lost mode, device lockdown, and corporate wipe for theft prevention

Compliance Management:

• Platform-specific compliance policies for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, and visionOS
• Dynamic grouping of non-compliant devices for quick remediation
• Geofencing, encryption checks, app compliance, and jailbreak detection

Hexnode’s layered security model and automated compliance enforcement make it ideal for SMBs with strict regulatory requirements.

SureMDM: Zero Trust Security for Rugged and Specialized Devices

42Gears SureMDM emphasizes Zero Trust principles and compliance across rugged, wearable, and IoT devices:

Certifications:

• ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified
• SOC 2 Type II audited for SureMDM, SureLock, SureFox, and SureVideo
• PCI DSS, Cyber Essentials, and ICO registration for UK data protection compliance

Security Features:

• SureIdP for Zero Trust Identity and Access Management with MFA, SSO, and conditional access
• Device authentication, OS login control, and application-level access management
• Indoor location tracking, data encryption, and secure remote access

Compliance Tools:

• CAIQ and HECVAT-Lite self-assessments for cloud security benchmarking
• Custom branding and policy enforcement across platforms
• Security advisories and STAR registry listing for transparency

SureMDM is a strong choice for organizations managing rugged or niche devices in regulated industries like healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing.

User Experience & Interface

A well-designed user interface (UI) and intuitive user experience (UX) are essential for IT teams to manage endpoints efficiently and for end-users to interact with minimal friction.

Hexnode: Clean, Customizable, and Role-Based UI

Hexnode UEM emphasizes a clean, modern interface with extensive customization options for both IT admins and end-users:

Admin Dashboard:

• Centralized control panel with intuitive navigation for device, policy, and user management.
• Role-based access control ensures that admins only see relevant modules.
• Real-time device status, alerts, and compliance summaries.

End-User Experience:

• Enable/disable tabs like Enrollment Summary, Device Overview, App Catalog, Messages, and Logs.
• Set display language and notification preferences.

Desktop Customization:

• IT admins can brand Windows/macOS desktops with company themes, taskbar layouts, and system tray configurations to enhance productivity and reinforce identity.

Hexnode’s UI is ideal for SMBs that value branding, user control, and a streamlined experience across platforms.

SureMDM: Functional, Centralized, and Purpose-Built Interfaces

42Gears SureMDM offers a unified interface designed for managing diverse device types, including rugged, wearable, and VR endpoints:

Admin Console:

• Single-pane-of-glass dashboard for managing Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, Wear OS, and VR devices.
• Real-time device monitoring, remote troubleshooting, and policy enforcement from one screen.
• Role-based access and device grouping for efficient management.

End-User Experience:

• Interfaces for SureLock, SureFox, and SureVideo are designed for kiosk, secure browsing, and signage use cases.
• Minimalist, tamper-proof UIs that restrict user actions to approved apps or websites.
• AstroContacts and CamLock offer simple, intuitive interfaces for contact management and camera control.

SureMDM prioritizes functionality and control, making it ideal for environments where simplicity and restriction are key – like retail, logistics, and field operations.

Success Story: Canvas Construction – Securing Industrial Tablets with Hexnode

Industry: Construction
Location: San Francisco, USA
Devices Managed: Android tablets
Use Case: Kiosk lockdown, remote site device control

Challenges:

• Ensuring tablets were used strictly for work-related tasks.
• Preventing unauthorized app usage and data access.
• Managing devices remotely across multiple job sites.

Hexnode’s Solution:

• Kiosk lockdown mode to restrict tablets to specific apps.
• Remote device management for real-time monitoring and control.
• Policy enforcement to ensure consistent configurations across all devices.

Impact:

• Canvas transformed standard tablets into tamper-proof work devices.
• IT managers gained full visibility and control over field devices.
• The company improved operational efficiency and reduced security risks.

“Hexnode helped us lock down our tablets and ensure they’re used only for work. It’s a game-changer for managing devices in the field.” – Lupe Elisea, IT Manager at Canvas Construction

🔗 Read the full case study

Integration Options

Integration capabilities are essential for UEM platforms to fit seamlessly into existing IT ecosystems.

Hexnode: Deep Directory and Security Integrations

Hexnode UEM provides a wide range of integrations across identity management, security, productivity, and OEM platforms:

Identity & Directory Services:

• Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD): Conditional Access, compliance-based access control
• Google Workspace: Sync users/groups, Android Enterprise enrollment
• Okta: SSO, MFA, and user sync for streamlined onboarding
• Microsoft Active Directory: AD-based device management and policy assignment

Security & Compliance Tools:

• Check Point Harmony Mobile, Drata, Vanta for endpoint security and compliance automation

ITSM & Support:

• Freshservice, Zendesk for ticketing and support workflows

OEM & Device-Specific Integrations:

• Samsung Knox, Zebra, LG GATE, Kyocera, Motorola, Honeywell, and more for rugged and enterprise-grade device support

Hexnode’s integrations are ideal for SMBs using cloud identity platforms and seeking compliance automation and device-specific controls.

SureMDM: Security, Network, and Rugged Device Ecosystem

42Gears SureMDM focuses on integrations that enhance security, network access, and rugged device management:

Security & Network Integrations:

• Microsoft 365: Email profile configuration, app deployment, DLP features
• SIEM Tools: Integration with Splunk for real-time threat detection
• Cisco ISE and Aruba ClearPass: Network Access Control (NAC) and intelligent access decisions

Remote Management:

• Intel AMT: BIOS-level control, remote power management, and KVM access

OEM Integrations:

• Zebra LifeGuard OTA: Over-the-air updates and security patching for Zebra devices

Ecosystem Support:

• Validated integrations with rugged devices like Zebra TC26, TC21, MC9300, and more

SureMDM is ideal for SMBs in logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare that require rugged device support and advanced network security integrations.

Pricing & Licensing: Hexnode vs SureMDM

Cost-effectiveness and licensing flexibility are key considerations for SMBs when choosing a UEM solution.

Hexnode: Per-Device Pricing with Scalable Plans

Hexnode UEM offers four subscription tiers, all billed per device per month, with discounts for annual billing:

• Free Trial: 14-day trial with full Ultra plan access.
• Licensing: Based on device count, not platform type.
• Technician Access: Varies by plan (2 to 5 default users).
• Payment Options: Credit/debit cards, wire transfers, and bank transfers.

Hexnode’s pricing is transparent and ideal for SMBs looking for predictable costs and flexible scaling.

SureMDM: Tiered Pricing with SaaS and On-Premise Options

42Gears SureMDM offers three main pricing tiers, with both SaaS and perpetual licensing models:

Licensing Models:

• SaaS: Monthly or annual subscription.
• On-Premise: Available as a subscription or perpetual license.
• Free Trial: 30-day trial available.
• Add-ons: SureAccess (ZTNA), AstroFarm, SureLock, SureFox, and SureVideo available separately or bundled.
• Payment Options: Credit cards, bank transfers, purchase orders, and multi-currency support.

SureMDM offers more deployment flexibility, making it suitable for SMBs with specific infrastructure or compliance needs.

Customer Support & Community

Responsive customer support and a vibrant user community are essential for IT teams managing complex endpoint environments.

Hexnode: Global Support with a Growing Community Hub

Hexnode UEM provides multi-channel support and a dynamic community platform:

Support Availability:

• 24×5 support via phone, email, and live chat
• Global toll-free numbers for US, UK, AU, NZ, and direct lines for EU and APAC regions
• Dedicated support email: support@hexnode.com

Resources:

• Hexnode Help Center: Extensive documentation, how-to guides, and platform-specific tutorials
• Hexnode Academy: Training videos and certification programs for admins and partners
• Webinars and whitepapers for product updates and best practices

Community Engagement:

• Hexnode Connect: A revamped community platform with: Customized feeds based on tags like kiosk management, app deployment, etc.

Hexnode’s support ecosystem is ideal for SMBs seeking structured learning, peer engagement, and responsive assistance.

Featured resource

Understanding Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)

Get a clear overview of UEM architecture, platform coverage, and strategic benefits. Ideal for IT managers evaluating Hexnode against other solutions.

Download White paper

SureMDM: 24×7 Support with Enterprise-Focused Resources

42Gears SureMDM offers round-the-clock support and a resource-rich community:

Support Availability:

• 24×7 support via phone, email, and live chat for mission-critical environments
• Fast response times – average first reply within 30 minutes
• Support portal for ticket tracking and contributor role management

Resources:

• Knowledge Base and Developer Portal for technical documentation and API usage
• Webinars, case studies, and whitepapers for product education and deployment strategies

SureMDM is well-suited for SMBs operating in high-availability environments that require immediate support and technical depth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Hexnode or SureMDM be deployed on-premise?

SureMDM offers both cloud and on-premise deployment options. Hexnode is primarily cloud-based and does not currently support on-premise deployment.

Which solution is more suitable for BYOD environments?

Both platforms support BYOD, but Hexnode offers more granular control over work profiles and app-level restrictions, making it slightly more flexible for mixed-use devices.

Do I need to factory reset devices to enroll them in Hexnode or SureMDM?

No, factory reset is not required for most enrollment methods. However, Android Enterprise Device Owner mode and Apple Configurator enrollment may require a reset in Hexnode.

Which platform has better integration with identity providers like Azure AD and Okta?

Hexnode offers deep integrations with Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD), Okta, Google Workspace, and Active Directory. SureMDM also supports Azure AD and Okta but focuses more on network and security integrations.

How do the pricing models differ between Hexnode and SureMDM?

Hexnode uses a per-device monthly pricing model with four tiers. SureMDM offers both subscription and perpetual licensing, with add-ons like SureLock and AstroFarm available separately.

Can I manage macOS and Windows devices equally well with both platforms?

Hexnode offers strong cross-platform support with advanced macOS and Windows policy management. SureMDM supports both but is more optimized for Android and rugged devices.

Conclusion

Choosing between Hexnode and SureMDM ultimately depends on your organization’s device landscape, industry focus, and IT priorities.

Hexnode shines with its clean UI, broad OS support, deep directory integrations, and strong compliance features – making it ideal for SMBs with mixed device environments and regulatory obligations.

SureMDM, on the other hand, excels in managing rugged, wearable, and IoT devices, offering advanced remote support, Zero Trust security, and flexible deployment models – perfect for industries like logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Both platforms offer scalable pricing, responsive support, and rich integration ecosystems. By understanding their strengths and limitations, IT managers can confidently choose the UEM solution that delivers the best value and control for their organization.