Managing Zebra mobile computers, scanners and printers in logistics requires an MDM that understands rugged devices, OEM features such as OEMConfig/StageNow, LifeGuard firmware management, and the operational realities of frontline work. The list below prioritizes vendor support for Zebra-specific capabilities, proven real-world deployments in supply-chain environments, and clarity for procurement decisions. Scalefusion is presented as No. 1 and its Zebra focus and validation are documented.
This article identifies five enterprise-capable MDM / UEM solutions that are commonly chosen to manage Zebra devices in warehouses, distribution centers and last-mile fleets.
1. Scalefusion — Purpose-built Zebra MDM and a Zebra Validated Solution
Scalefusion stands out as an operationally focused Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platform engineered for managing Zebra devices in logistics. It supports Zebra TC, MC, and EC series handhelds, scanners, RFID units, and Zebra printers with dedicated MQTT-based telemetry for proactive maintenance.
Scalefusion is an officially Zebra Validated solution, which reduces deployment friction and integration effort in rugged workflows.
Key Features
- Zebra-validated device support (TC series, MC series, and others).
- Kiosk / single-app and multi-app modes for fixed workflow enforcement.
- Remote cast and control (screen mirroring + full control) for real-time troubleshooting.
- Centralized Zebra printer management (health, configuration, updates, MQTT telemetry).
- OEMConfig / StageNow compatibility for applying vendor configurations and firmware at scale.
- DeepDive analytics for automated maintenance and scheduled task workflows.
Pros
- Purpose-built UI and workflows for Zebra fleets, minimizing discovery and integration effort.
- Integrated printer and device management reduces tool sprawl.
- Remote control and ITSM integrations improve mean-time-to-repair for frontline teams.
- ISO/IEC 27001 and SOC-2 compliant, useful for audit readiness.
Cons / Considerations
- Advanced enterprise features (OneIdP, patching, enterprise store) may require higher plan tiers.
- Existing legacy MDM setups may need API or process mapping for migration.
G2 Rating: 4.7/5
Pricing
Scalefusion UEM offers four pricing plans:
- Essential: $2 per device per month
- Growth: $3.5 per device per month
- Business: $5 per device per month
- Enterprise: $6 per device per month
- A 14-day free trial with access to all features is also available.
2. SOTI MobiControl
Overview
SOTI MobiControl is a good mobility management solution with explicit Zebra validation announcements for specific device series. SOTI emphasizes remote support, broad OEM integrations and lifecycle management for rugged devices.
Key features
- Zebra validated releases and model-specific support.
- Extensive remote support and diagnostics tailored to enterprise mobile workflows.
- OS update management and LifeGuard/OEMConfig workflows (varies by version).
Pros
- Broad ecosystem (analytics, remote access, peripherals) useful for complex logistics deployments.
Cons
- It can be complex to deploy and configure for non-specialist IT teams.
- MobiControl’s depth can produce long and complex deployments, which can delay rollouts in time-sensitive logistics projects and require specialized staff or professional services.
- Some advanced agent features can increase CPU/memory usage on lower-spec Zebra devices, affecting scanning/TE app performance during peak operations.
Pricing
SOTI typically requires contacting sales for enterprise pricing. Trial options or evaluation licenses are regularly offered.
3. Ivanti
Overview
Ivanti documents explicit Zebra device management capabilities, including OTA firmware via Zebra Cloud OTA and StageNow integration. Ivanti’s portfolio supports automation and endpoint management across devices, including Zebra.
Key features
- Support for Zebra OTA firmware updating using Zebra Cloud OTA
- StageNow and OEMConfig compatibility for device configuration and provisioning.
- Terminal emulation and migration tools useful for legacy TE workloads.
Pros
- Strength in terminal emulation and migration for warehouses with legacy TE apps.
- Enterprise automation and bot capability for self-healing endpoints.
Cons
- Product set and naming (Avalanche, Velocity, Neurons, Secure UEM) can be confusing; ensure the correct SKU is evaluated.
- Implementation may require professional services for complex warehouses.
- Organizations with legacy TE apps may face substantial migration effort; if TE migration fails, workflows can be disrupted.
- Operations teams unfamiliar with Ivanti’s console may require extended training, slowing adoption and increasing human error risk during cutover
Pricing
Ivanti follows an enterprise quoting model; contact Ivanti sales for negotiated enterprise bundles and to confirm Zebra OTA support availability for specific product versions.
4. 42Gears (SureMDM)
Overview
42Gears SureMDM is marketed for rugged and frontline devices. 42Gears emphasizes firmware orchestration, LifeGuard integration and printer management in some of its Zebra partner content.
Key features
- Zebra device support and lifecycle management, including firmware updates and endpoint control.
- Kiosk and advanced restrictions, remote view and control tools.
Pros
- Cost-effective for medium deployments and strong support for field devices.
- Practical for mixed fleets and distributed edge deployments.
Cons
- Feature depth for large, highly integrated logistics ecosystems may require additional customization.
- SureMDM can be cost-effective at smaller scales, but scaling to hundreds or thousands of devices may reveal performance, reporting, or API rate-limit issues that impede real-time operational decisioning.
Pricing
42Gears generally publishes tiered plans but expects enterprise enquiries for exact pricing; consult 42Gears sales for Zebra-specific bundles.
5. ManageEngine
Overview
ManageEngine’s MDM product supports OEMConfig and has documentation showing how to configure Zebra OEMConfig apps from the ManageEngine console.
Key features
- OEMConfig support for Zebra devices via the Zebra OEMConfig app.
- Cross-platform MDM with both cloud and on-premises deployment choices.
Pros
- Good fit if the organization requires broad device management plus Zebra support.
- ManageEngine often provides straightforward pricing tiers for SMB to mid-market buyers.
Cons
- May require custom scripting for advanced Zebra firmware or printer workflows; not marketed as Zebra-centric.
- OEMConfig support exists, but the product is designed as a broad MDM; deep Zebra operational features (printer telemetry, StageNow automation, LifeGuard orchestration) may be less mature.
Pricing
ManageEngine has published plans and on-premise/cloud options; enterprise quotes are available from ManageEngine sales.
How to choose the best MDM solution: A practical procurement checklist
- Confirm device compatibility list — Request the vendor’s Zebra device compatibility matrix for the exact TC/MC/printer models in use. Vendors publish validated device lists (ask for the latest).
- OEMConfig / StageNow / LifeGuard support — verify whether the vendor supports Zebra OEMConfig, StageNow XML push, and LifeGuard firmware workflows for automated OTA patching. Document exact versions supported.
- Printer management needs — if printing devices are in scope, validate printer telemetry, protocols (MQTT) and centralized configuration options. Scalefusion explicitly advertises printer management.
- Remote debugging & SLA — test remote cast/control and determine realistic MTTR under your network conditions.
- Security & compliance — check ISO/SOC certifications and data residency options if required for audit.
- Total cost of ownership — includes training, professional services, and integration costs for WMS/TMS/ITSM systems.
Final recommendation
For most supply-chain, distribution, and last-mile logistics operations dependent on rugged Zebra handhelds and printers, Scalefusion provides the strongest, most Zebra-centric MDM approach.
It offers built-in Zebra printer management, deep OEM integrations, rapid remote troubleshooting, and frontline-focused workflows that minimize downtime without extensive professional services.
Scalefusion is the top recommendation for organizations that need one unified platform to manage Zebra devices efficiently, securely, and at scale.