How we test & rank

Every ranking on MSP Compared is computed from real, sourced data — not paid placement and not unverifiable opinion. Here's exactly how.

The data behind every page

• Pricing — published vendor list prices, captured with a date and source link, and re-checked weekly by an automated pricing monitor. Quote-only tools are labeled as such.
• Independent ratings — aggregate review scores and volumes from G2 and Capterra.
• Security posture — live CVE/KEV (CISA) and Microsoft Patch Tuesday feeds, surfaced where relevant.
• Features & fit — capability and deployment data from vendor documentation.

The score (0–10)

Our score weights independent review ratings (by volume), feature breadth, and trial/free-tier availability into a transparent 0–10 number. The formula is the same for every tool and re-runs whenever the underlying data changes. No vendor can buy a higher score.

Hands-on testing

Where we have trialed a tool, we add first-hand setup, UX and support notes and a last_tested date. We're expanding hands-on coverage across the 75 tools and 25 categories we track; data-backed rankings ship first, hands-on notes follow.

Independence & disclosure

We earn affiliate commissions when you sign up through some links. This never affects rankings or scores — see our full affiliate disclosure.