---
description: Get a quick and detailed side-by-side comparison for Cisco Meraki vs PDQ Deploy & Inventory. GetApp will help you learn more about each of these software benefits and disadvantages.
image: https://gdm-localsites-assets-gfprod.imgix.net/images/getapp/og_logo-94fd2a03a6c7a0e54fc0c9e21a1c0ce9.png
title: Cisco Meraki vs PDQ Deploy & Inventory Comparison | GetApp Australia 2026
---

Breadcrumb: [Home](/) > [Mobility Software](/directory/290/mobile/software) > [Cisco Meraki \<span\>vs\</span\> PDQ Deploy & Inventory](https://www.getapp.com.au/compare/91641/2045563/meraki-systems-manager/vs/pdq-deploy)

# Compare Cisco Meraki vs PDQ Deploy & Inventory

Canonical: https://www.getapp.com.au/compare/91641/2045563/meraki-systems-manager/vs/pdq-deploy

> Detailed comparison between Cisco Meraki and PDQ Deploy & Inventory. Check ratings, reviews, pricing, and features to make the best decision for your business.

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## At a Glance

| Metric | Cisco Meraki | PDQ Deploy & Inventory |
| **Overall rating** | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 |
| **Total Reviews** | 129 | 341 |
| **Starting Price** | USD 40.00 | USD 1,950.00 |
| **Free Trial** | Yes | Yes |
| **Free Version** | No | Yes |
| **Deployment** | Cloud, SaaS, Web-based, Android (Mobile), iPhone (Mobile), iPad (Mobile) | Cloud, SaaS, Web-based, Windows (Desktop), Windows (On-Premise) |
| **Support** | Email/Help Desk, FAQs/Forum, Knowledge Base, Phone Support, 24/7 (Live rep), Chat | Email/Help Desk, FAQs/Forum, Knowledge Base, Chat |
| **Training** | Videos | Webinars, Documentation, Videos |

## Key features

### Cisco Meraki

- API
- Alerts/Notifications
- Application Management
- Asset Tracking
- Automatic User/Device Recognition
- Compliance Management
- Customizable Reports
- Dashboard
- Data Import/Export
- Deployment Management
- Device Management
- IT Reporting
- Inventory Management
- Monitoring
- Real-Time Monitoring
- Remote Access/Control
- Remote Monitoring & Management
- Reporting/Analytics
- VPN Software

### PDQ Deploy & Inventory

- API
- Alerts/Notifications
- Application Management
- Asset Tracking
- Compliance Management
- Dashboard
- Data Import/Export
- Deployment Management
- Device Management
- Encryption
- IT Reporting
- Inventory Management
- Monitoring
- Real-Time Monitoring
- Remote Access/Control
- Remote Monitoring & Management
- Reporting/Analytics
- VPN Software

## Links

- [View Cisco Meraki Profile](https://www.getapp.com.au/software/91641/meraki-systems-manager)
- [View PDQ Deploy & Inventory Profile](https://www.getapp.com.au/software/2045563/pdq-deploy)
- [View Original Comparison](https://www.getapp.com.au/compare/91641/2045563/meraki-systems-manager/vs/pdq-deploy)

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