When it comes to managing company-issued phones in 2025, IT teams face more pressure than ever. Between rising security demands, a hybrid workforce, and the need to deploy fast, the right phone can make or break your entire mobile strategy.
So what are the best phones to manage when giving devices to employees?
This guide breaks down your top options from an IT perspective: focusing on compatibility with MDM, ease of enrollment, platform stability, and total cost of ownership.
Why This Matters More in 2025
Companies are moving away from inconsistent BYOD environments and toward standardized device fleets. From MDM software like Microsoft Intune and Jamf to secure enrollment tools like Samsung Knox Mobile Enrollment, having phones that just work with your IT stack matters.
But not all devices are created equal. Some will leave your team stuck managing OS fragmentation, inconsistent patching, or complex provisioning processes.
Let’s avoid that.
Key Features to Look For
- Native MDM Support: Device must work with Intune, Jamf, Knox, or equivalent.
- Zero-Touch or Auto-Enrollment: Apple Business Manager (ABM), Knox KME, or Android Enterprise Recommended.
- Long OS Support: At least 3 years of guaranteed updates.
- Device Variety: Ability to scale from low-cost employee devices to executive flagships.
- Remote Lock/Wipe: Non-negotiable for lost or offboarded devices.
Top Picks: Phones IT Loves to Manage
🌟 Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen or 4th Gen)
- Best for: Standardized enterprise deployments
- Why IT loves it: Seamless with ABM + Intune or Jamf, fewer user errors, rock-solid updates
- Bonus: Great resale value; extremely low help desk volume
- Where we discuss it: Company Phones vs BYOD with MDM
💜 Samsung Galaxy A15 / A35
- Best for: Budget-conscious deployments that still require enterprise-grade tools
- Why IT loves it: Works with Knox Mobile Enrollment, remote management with Knox Manage, widely compatible with Android Enterprise
- Featured in: Samsung Galaxy Wholesale
💚 Google Pixel 7a
- Best for: Teams running on Android Enterprise/Intune stack
- Why IT loves it: No bloatware, fast updates, Android Enterprise Recommended, works perfectly with Intune
- Compare with: Phones That Work with Teams
Specialized Use Cases
- Construction/Field Work: Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro – rugged, waterproof, Knox supported
- MFA-only or ultra-light use: iPhone SE or even Yubikey issuance when phones aren’t required
Tips for Smooth Deployment
- Standardize where you can: It’s easier to secure and support 3 models than 12
- Use KME or ABM: Save time and ensure devices ship fully pre-enrolled
- Enforce security with MDM: Enforce OS updates, app installs, wipe capabilities, and conditional access
Final Recommendation Table
| Device | MDM Compatibility | Cost | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE 3/4 | ABM + Jamf/Intune | $$ | General employee use |
| Galaxy A15/A35 | Knox + Intune | $ | Budget/staff fleet |
| Pixel 7a | Android Enterprise + Intune | $$ | Clean, fast Android deployments |
| Galaxy XCover Pro | Knox + Rugged | $$ | Field services / industrial |
Want Help Choosing?
Looking to deploy phones to staff and want help figuring out which model best fits your MDM environment and budget? Contact us for a personalized quote or explore bulk procurement options.
Related Posts:
- Best Budget Smartphones for Employees
- Ideal Smartphone for Business App Integration
- Pre-Install MDM Software Before Deployment
- Company Phones vs BYOD: What IT Leaders Should Know
Need to bulk order employee-ready smartphones that are easy to manage? Let Nobility Wireless help you deploy the right tech, the right way.
