Jamf Alternatives: Shepherd MDM, the Smarter Choice

Quick Summary

Jamf has long been the default choice for Apple device management but rising costs and Apple-only limitations are pushing small and mid-sized businesses to look elsewhere. Shepherd MDM steps in as a genuine alternative – matching Jamf’s core features, undercutting it on price, and extending support across Windows, Android, ChromeOS, and Linux too.

Introduction 

With JamfNow and Jamf for Mac stepping in at a higher cost, small businesses are left searching for affordable, effective Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. Shepherd MDM offers a compelling alternative – more features, lower cost, and tailored support for all OS devices (not just Apple!). This blog compares Jamf and Shepherd, explores why MDMs are essentials, and shows how Shepherd can simplify device management for growing teams. 

What Makes Shepherd MDM Stand Out?

Shepherd is more than just a Jamf alternative. It’s a full-service solution designed for growing businesses that need: 

Lower Cost

With three solutions to choose from, Shepherd gives organisations the flexibility to select a package that suits their needs and budget. Starting from just £1.95 per user per week for Shepherd for Apple, it’s a cost-effective way to manage Apple devices.

Multi-Platform Support

Unlike Apple-only solutions like Jamf, Shepherd supports mixed device estates, helping IT teams manage Apple, Windows, and other endpoint devices from one platform.  

Centralised Management

Shepherd provides a single view across your device estate, making it easier to monitor, manage and secure endpoints without switching between different management consoles. 

UK-Based Support

Access expert support from a UK-based team that understands your business requirements and can provide responsive assistance when you need it. 

Flexibility & Scalability 

Shepherd works seamlessly with Apple Business Manager, simplifying device enrollment and management, while giving organisations the flexibility to easily add or remove devices as their team grows and evolves. 

It’s part of HardSoft’s Devices for Teams programme, which means you also get access to leasing options, tech support, and device upgrades.

Jamf vs Shepherd: How Do They Compare?

Jamf was once the go-to for mobile device management as it offered a simple entry point for Apple device management, but its feature set can be limiting as your business grows. If you’re looking for a solution that combines powerful management tools, expert support, and a seamless user experience, Shepherd provides a smarter alternative for managing your device fleet. 

Our Shepherd solutions aren’t just cheaper – they’re more comprehensive. Designed to help businesses manage their entire “flock”, Shepherd enables you to securely manage Apple, Windows, ChromeOS, Android, and Linux devices from a single platform with ease, flexibility, and control. 

	Shepherd Fusion	Shepherd for Mobile	Shepherd for Apple	Jamf for Mac
Supported Platforms	macOS, iOS, Samsung, ChromeOS, Windows, Android	iOS devices: iPhones & iPads	MacOS and iOS devices	macOS devices
Cost Per Month Per Device	£12.35	£2.99	£8.45	£12.50
AI Scripting	✅
Local Account User Control	✅	✅	✅
Remote Access & Control	✅	✅	✅
Firmware Lock	✅	✅	✅
Local Admin & Standard User Elevation	✅	✅	✅
Compliance (i.e Cyber Essentials)	✅	✅	✅
Track Lost Device	✅	✅	✅	Partial
Application Control & Extra Configuration	✅	✅	✅	✅
Scheduled Reporting	✅	✅	✅	✅
Zero touch deployment	✅	✅	✅	✅
Activation Lock Control	✅	✅	✅	✅
Password Policy	✅	✅	✅	✅
FileVault Enforced	✅	✅	✅	✅
Firewall Enforced	✅	✅	✅	✅
ScreenLock Control	✅	✅	✅	✅
Keep OS up to date	✅	✅	✅	✅
Keep apps up to date with patch management	✅	✅	✅	✅
BYOD Support	✅	✅	✅	✅
Device Diagnostics and information	✅	✅	✅	✅

 Why MDMs Still Matter – Even for Small Teams

Some businesses might be tempted to skip MDMs altogether, seeing it as just another cost they don’t need. But, in today’s environment, that’s a risky move. 

MDMs like Shepherd and Jamf help you:

• Push updates and apps remotely to all devices
• Control data usage and app access
• Wipe lost or stolen devices instantly 
• Maintain cybersecurity across your fleet

With the steady increase of hybrid and remote work environments, MDMs are essential – even for small teams without a full IT department. 

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Key Takeaways

• HardSoft’s Devices for Teams makes it easy to lease, manage, and scale your Apple devices
• Shepherd MDM is a powerful Jamf alternative, offering more features at a lower cost
• MDMs are essential for security, efficiency, and remote management – even for small businesses
• Shepherd includes personalised support, remote deployment, and lifecycle services 

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FAQs

What extra support comes with Shepherd through HardSoft?

Shepherd MDM is supplied and supported by HardSoft. If you’re familiar with our services, you’ll know we’re committed to providing expert support at every stage of your device management journey. Our team has the knowledge and experience to help businesses get the most from their Apple environments. And with a 4.9 Trustpilot rating, you don’t have to take our word for it, our customers speak for us. 

Is Shepherd MDM difficult to set up if we’re switching from Jamf?

No — Shepherd is designed for straightforward migration. It integrates with Apple Business Manager, so existing enrolled devices can transition smoothly, and the HardSoft team provides hands-on support throughout the switch.

Can we manage a mixed fleet of Apple and non-Apple devices in one place?

Yes. Unlike Jamf, which is Apple-only, Shepherd Fusion lets you manage macOS, iOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Android, and Linux devices from a single console — ideal for businesses with mixed device estates. 

Do we need a full IT department to use Shepherd? 

No. Shepherd is built for growing teams without dedicated IT staff. Features like zero-touch deployment, scheduled reporting, and UK-based support mean day-to-day management doesn’t require in-house MDM expertise. 

What happens if we outgrow our current Shepherd plan? 

Shepherd scales with you. You can add or remove devices as your team grows, and move between our different MDM plans as your device mix changes — without long, complex contract renegotiations. 

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Ready to Leave Jamf Behind?

Switch to Shepherd MDM and manage your entire device fleet — Apple, Windows, ChromeOS, Android, and Linux — from one platform, backed by UK-based support that actually knows your business. 

Book a free consultation with HardSoft today and find out which Shepherd plan fits your team, or explore our Devices for Teams programme to combine leasing, support, and MDM in one simple package.