Quick Overview
- 1#1: Jamf Pro - Jamf Pro is the leading enterprise mobile device management platform for Apple ecosystems with comprehensive patch management and automated software updates.
- 2#2: Mosyle - Mosyle delivers an Apple-only management platform with unified endpoint management including intelligent patch deployment and compliance.
- 3#3: Kandji - Kandji provides zero-touch Apple device management focused on security and automated patching for macOS applications.
- 4#4: Addigy - Addigy offers real-time Apple MDM with advanced patch management, remote monitoring, and self-service portals for Mac fleets.
- 5#5: Automox - Automox automates patch management for macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints from a cloud-based console with policy-driven updates.
- 6#6: NinjaOne - NinjaOne is a remote monitoring and management platform with automated patch deployment supporting macOS alongside multi-platform endpoints.
- 7#7: JumpCloud - JumpCloud combines cloud directory, MDM, and patch management for secure Mac device management and zero-trust access.
- 8#8: ManageEngine Endpoint Central - Endpoint Central provides unified endpoint management with automated patch deployment for macOS, Windows, and Linux systems.
- 9#9: Atera - Atera offers an all-in-one RMM and PSA platform with integrated patch management for Mac and cross-platform IT operations.
- 10#10: FileWave - FileWave delivers multi-platform device management with flexible inventory, app deployment, and patch management for Apple devices.
We selected and ranked these tools based on key factors including depth of Apple-specific features, automation capabilities, user interface clarity, and overall value, ensuring relevance for modern IT management needs.
Comparison Table
Mac patch management is essential for safeguarding devices and environments, with tools varying in features, scalability, and integration needs. This comparison table explores key options such as Jamf Pro, Mosyle, Kandji, Addigy, Automox, and more, equipping readers to assess which solution aligns with their specific requirements for efficiency and coverage.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jamf Pro Jamf Pro is the leading enterprise mobile device management platform for Apple ecosystems with comprehensive patch management and automated software updates. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Mosyle Mosyle delivers an Apple-only management platform with unified endpoint management including intelligent patch deployment and compliance. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Kandji Kandji provides zero-touch Apple device management focused on security and automated patching for macOS applications. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Addigy Addigy offers real-time Apple MDM with advanced patch management, remote monitoring, and self-service portals for Mac fleets. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Automox Automox automates patch management for macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints from a cloud-based console with policy-driven updates. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | NinjaOne NinjaOne is a remote monitoring and management platform with automated patch deployment supporting macOS alongside multi-platform endpoints. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | JumpCloud JumpCloud combines cloud directory, MDM, and patch management for secure Mac device management and zero-trust access. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | ManageEngine Endpoint Central Endpoint Central provides unified endpoint management with automated patch deployment for macOS, Windows, and Linux systems. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Atera Atera offers an all-in-one RMM and PSA platform with integrated patch management for Mac and cross-platform IT operations. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | FileWave FileWave delivers multi-platform device management with flexible inventory, app deployment, and patch management for Apple devices. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.0/10 |
Jamf Pro is the leading enterprise mobile device management platform for Apple ecosystems with comprehensive patch management and automated software updates.
Mosyle delivers an Apple-only management platform with unified endpoint management including intelligent patch deployment and compliance.
Kandji provides zero-touch Apple device management focused on security and automated patching for macOS applications.
Addigy offers real-time Apple MDM with advanced patch management, remote monitoring, and self-service portals for Mac fleets.
Automox automates patch management for macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints from a cloud-based console with policy-driven updates.
NinjaOne is a remote monitoring and management platform with automated patch deployment supporting macOS alongside multi-platform endpoints.
JumpCloud combines cloud directory, MDM, and patch management for secure Mac device management and zero-trust access.
Endpoint Central provides unified endpoint management with automated patch deployment for macOS, Windows, and Linux systems.
Atera offers an all-in-one RMM and PSA platform with integrated patch management for Mac and cross-platform IT operations.
FileWave delivers multi-platform device management with flexible inventory, app deployment, and patch management for Apple devices.
Jamf Pro
enterpriseJamf Pro is the leading enterprise mobile device management platform for Apple ecosystems with comprehensive patch management and automated software updates.
Intelligent Patch Management with automatic third-party patch detection and deployment from a vast catalog
Jamf Pro is a comprehensive Apple Ecosystem Management platform with advanced patch management capabilities tailored for macOS devices. It automates the deployment of macOS updates, third-party software patches, and custom packages through intelligent policies and schedules. Designed for enterprise-scale environments, it ensures compliance, minimizes vulnerabilities, and provides detailed reporting on patch status across fleets.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Apple's native update mechanisms for reliable macOS and app patching
- Advanced automation with patch policies, deferrals, and testing workflows to reduce downtime
- Robust reporting, compliance tracking, and self-service portals for end-users
Cons
- High cost may deter small businesses or those with limited Apple fleets
- Steep learning curve for non-experts due to extensive customization options
- Limited native support for non-Apple platforms, requiring additional tools
Best For
Enterprise IT teams managing large-scale macOS deployments that prioritize security, compliance, and automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based per-device pricing starting at around $100-200/device/year; custom quotes required for enterprises.
Mosyle
specializedMosyle delivers an Apple-only management platform with unified endpoint management including intelligent patch deployment and compliance.
Intelligent Patch Orchestration that automates testing, prioritization, and deployment of both Apple and 500+ third-party app updates in a zero-touch workflow
Mosyle is a cloud-native Apple Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platform with advanced patch management capabilities designed specifically for macOS fleets. It automates the deployment of Apple OS updates, security patches, and third-party software updates through intelligent scheduling, compliance enforcement, and detailed reporting. The solution integrates seamlessly with Apple Business Manager for zero-touch provisioning and ensures devices remain secure and up-to-date without manual intervention.
Pros
- Deep integration with Apple ecosystem for reliable macOS and third-party patching
- Automated scheduling, testing, and rollback capabilities reduce deployment risks
- Comprehensive dashboards and compliance reporting for large-scale management
Cons
- Higher tiers required for full advanced features like custom scripting
- Per-device pricing can become costly for very small deployments
- Limited native support for non-standard or highly custom patches without scripting
Best For
Mid-to-large organizations and educational institutions managing extensive Apple device fleets that require automated, compliant patch management.
Pricing
Starts at $1.50 per device/month (Business plan, annual billing) including basic patch management; scales to $4/device/month for premium Fuse plan with advanced features.
Kandji
specializedKandji provides zero-touch Apple device management focused on security and automated patching for macOS applications.
Patch Rings for automated, phased update deployments with built-in approval gates and rollback capabilities
Kandji is a cloud-based Apple device management platform specializing in MDM for macOS, iOS, and tvOS fleets, with robust patch management features for automating OS and third-party app updates. It uses Patch Rings for staged rollouts and approval workflows to ensure secure, controlled patching without manual intervention. The solution integrates seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem, providing pre-built blueprints for quick deployment and compliance reporting.
Pros
- Intuitive, modern interface with drag-and-drop blueprint system for easy patch policy creation
- Automated Patch Rings enable staged, risk-managed update rollouts across device groups
- Comprehensive Apple-focused patching including OS deferrals, app approvals, and compliance dashboards
Cons
- Limited to Apple devices only, lacking cross-platform support
- Premium pricing may not suit small teams or budgets
- Less granular scripting options compared to more customizable tools like Jamf Pro
Best For
Mid-market IT teams managing Apple-only fleets who prioritize ease of use and automated patching over deep customization.
Pricing
Starts at ~$12/device/month (100+ devices), billed annually with custom enterprise quotes.
Addigy
specializedAddigy offers real-time Apple MDM with advanced patch management, remote monitoring, and self-service portals for Mac fleets.
Automated patching for 300+ third-party apps with built-in approval workflows and rollback capabilities
Addigy is a cloud-based MDM platform tailored for Apple ecosystems, specializing in Mac patch management by automating updates for macOS and over 300 third-party applications with customizable approval workflows. It offers real-time device monitoring, compliance reporting, and automated remediation to maintain security across Mac fleets. Additional features include software deployment, inventory management, and a self-service portal for end-users, making it a full-suite solution for Apple-focused IT teams.
Pros
- Extensive patch library covering macOS and 300+ third-party apps with automated testing
- Intuitive dashboard for real-time monitoring and detailed reporting
- Powerful scripting (Robot) for custom automation and self-healing
Cons
- Limited to Apple devices, no cross-platform support
- Pricing scales better for larger fleets, less ideal for small teams
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Mid-sized organizations with primarily Mac and iOS fleets needing robust, automated patch management.
Pricing
Starts at $6 per device/month (billed annually), with tiered discounts for 100+ devices; custom enterprise plans available.
Automox
enterpriseAutomox automates patch management for macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints from a cloud-based console with policy-driven updates.
Worklets: Custom, no-code/low-code scripts for tailored Mac remediation and policy enforcement
Automox is a cloud-based patch management platform designed to automate OS and third-party application updates across macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints. For Mac patch management, it deploys Apple security updates, software patches, and custom scripts via a lightweight agent, with features like scheduling, compliance reporting, and integration with Apple Business Manager. It eliminates the need for on-premises servers, enabling rapid deployment and maintenance from anywhere.
Pros
- Cloud-native architecture requires no on-prem infrastructure
- Strong automation for macOS patches including third-party apps
- Intuitive dashboard and quick agent deployment
Cons
- Pricing scales higher for smaller teams
- Fewer Mac-specific integrations compared to dedicated tools like Jamf
- Advanced customization relies on learning Worklets scripting
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams managing mixed macOS and multi-OS fleets who prioritize simplicity and cross-platform consistency.
Pricing
Starts at ~$6 per device/month (billed annually) for basic patching, up to $12+ for advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
NinjaOne
enterpriseNinjaOne is a remote monitoring and management platform with automated patch deployment supporting macOS alongside multi-platform endpoints.
Unified RMM console with automated, multi-OS patch management including rollback and testing groups
NinjaOne is a comprehensive remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform that includes robust patch management capabilities for macOS devices, automating the scanning, approval, deployment, and reporting of OS and third-party patches. It supports scheduling, testing in staging groups, and rollback options to minimize disruptions. The solution integrates seamlessly into a unified console for managing mixed Windows, Mac, and Linux fleets.
Pros
- Cross-platform patch management in a single intuitive console
- Automated workflows with scheduling, approvals, and compliance reporting
- Strong scripting and integration for custom Mac patching needs
Cons
- Per-device pricing can be expensive for small Mac-only fleets
- Less depth in native Mac-specific third-party app catalogs than dedicated tools
- Initial agent deployment and policy setup requires some configuration
Best For
MSPs and IT teams managing diverse device fleets including Macs who need an all-in-one RMM with solid patch automation.
Pricing
Per-device pricing starting at ~$4/device/month (billed annually), scales with features and volume; custom quotes for enterprises.
JumpCloud
enterpriseJumpCloud combines cloud directory, MDM, and patch management for secure Mac device management and zero-trust access.
Seamless integration of patch management with cloud directory for zero-trust access and automated user-device workflows
JumpCloud is a cloud-based directory and device management platform that extends to robust Mac patch management through its MDM capabilities. It automates the deployment of macOS updates, third-party application patches, and security configurations across Apple fleets. As part of a unified IT management suite, it supports cross-platform operations, making it suitable for mixed environments beyond just Macs.
Pros
- Unified cross-platform management including macOS patching
- Automated OS and third-party app updates with scheduling
- Strong integration with identity management and SSO
Cons
- Pricing scales with users, potentially high for patch-only needs
- Overkill for teams solely focused on Mac patching
- Some advanced customization lags behind Mac-specific tools like Jamf
Best For
IT admins managing hybrid Mac, Windows, and Linux fleets who need integrated directory services alongside patch management.
Pricing
Starts at $11/user/month (billed annually) for Device Management with MDM and patching; free tier limited to 10 users/150 devices.
ManageEngine Endpoint Central
enterpriseEndpoint Central provides unified endpoint management with automated patch deployment for macOS, Windows, and Linux systems.
Automated third-party patch management for over 850 Mac applications with risk-based prioritization and success rate analytics
ManageEngine Endpoint Central is a unified endpoint management platform with strong Mac patch management capabilities, automating the deployment of macOS updates, third-party application patches, and security fixes across Apple devices. It includes features like patch scanning, automated testing, approval workflows, and compliance reporting to maintain secure and updated Mac fleets. The solution integrates seamlessly with broader IT management tasks such as software distribution and remote troubleshooting in mixed-OS environments.
Pros
- Comprehensive cross-platform support including robust Mac patching for Apple and third-party apps
- Advanced automation with scheduling, testing, and deployment workflows
- Detailed reporting, compliance tracking, and vulnerability assessment tools
Cons
- User interface can feel overwhelming for Mac-only admins due to enterprise focus
- Mac agent installation and stability issues reported in some deployments
- Pricing scales better for larger fleets, less ideal for small teams
Best For
Medium to large IT teams managing hybrid Mac and Windows environments who need integrated patch management within a full UEM suite.
Pricing
Free for up to 25 endpoints; Professional edition starts at ~$1 per device/month (billed annually), with Enterprise tiers adding advanced features.
Atera
enterpriseAtera offers an all-in-one RMM and PSA platform with integrated patch management for Mac and cross-platform IT operations.
Technician-based pricing with unlimited endpoints, enabling cost-effective scaling for Mac patch management in growing MSPs
Atera is an all-in-one RMM platform that includes patch management capabilities for macOS, Windows, and Linux endpoints. It automates the discovery, deployment, and reporting of OS updates and third-party application patches on Macs. Designed for MSPs, it offers scheduling, approvals, and compliance tracking within a unified dashboard.
Pros
- Automated patch deployment with scheduling and approval workflows for macOS
- Unlimited endpoints per technician for scalable Mac management
- Integrated alerting and compliance reporting across mixed environments
Cons
- Limited depth for advanced Apple-specific configurations compared to dedicated Mac tools
- Patch library misses some niche third-party Mac apps
- macOS Big Sur+ updates occasionally require manual intervention
Best For
MSPs managing mixed Windows/Mac fleets who need an affordable, integrated RMM with solid patch automation.
Pricing
Per-technician pricing starting at $99/month (billed annually) for Pro plan; patch management included in Growth ($129/tech/mo) and above; unlimited devices.
FileWave
enterpriseFileWave delivers multi-platform device management with flexible inventory, app deployment, and patch management for Apple devices.
Patch Management Reporter for inventory-driven vulnerability scanning and automated patch deployment workflows
FileWave is a unified endpoint management platform with robust Mac patch management capabilities, automating the detection, testing, and deployment of macOS updates and third-party patches like Adobe and Java. Its Patch Management Reporter integrates with inventory data to scan devices for vulnerabilities and facilitate approval workflows for safe rollouts. The solution supports scripted deployments and integrates seamlessly with FileWave's MDM and imaging features for holistic device management.
Pros
- Strong integration of patching with MDM and inventory for unified workflows
- Supports both Apple OS updates and extensive third-party patches
- Scalable for enterprise environments with booster appliances for large fleets
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and model-based configuration
- Pricing is premium and quote-based, less ideal for small teams
- Limited out-of-box automation for highly customized patch policies
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises managing mixed macOS and cross-platform fleets needing integrated patch management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based per-device subscription, typically $4-8 per device/year depending on volume and features.
Conclusion
The reviewed Mac patch management tools showcase diverse strengths, with Jamf Pro emerging as the top choice, boasting enterprise-grade capabilities and seamless integration with Apple ecosystems. Mosyle and Kandji stand out as strong alternatives, offering unified platforms and zero-touch security respectively, catering to varied organizational needs. Together, they highlight the importance of robust patch management in maintaining efficient, secure Mac environments.
For a reliable, automated solution that elevates Mac management, Jamf Pro is the ideal starting point—explore its features and experience the difference it brings to securing and optimizing your devices.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison