N-able vs Ontinue: MDR Comparison 2026
N-able (MSP-channel) and Ontinue (Microsoft-ecosystem) take different approaches to managed detection and response. N-able works with your existing tools, while Ontinue requires its own security platform. N-able targets SMB and Mid-market organizations; Ontinue focuses on Mid-market and Enterprise.
Key Differences at a Glance
Winner by Category
N-able vs Ontinue: Which Should You Choose?
Choose N-able if:
- •MSPs wanting a unified security platform with built-in SIEM/SOAR/UEBA
- •SMBs and mid-market needing breach warranty protection
- •Organizations wanting vendor-agnostic MDR that works with existing EDR
- •Breach warranty matters to you (N-able offers one, Ontinue does not)
Choose Ontinue if:
- •Organizations heavily invested in Microsoft E5/Defender ecosystem
- •Teams wanting Microsoft Teams as primary SOC communication channel
- •Mid-market and enterprise needing fast onboarding on Microsoft stack
Bottom line: Ontinue is the choice if you want a single-vendor stack with deep integration. N-able is better if you have existing tools and want flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between N-able and Ontinue?
N-able is a MSP-channel that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools). Ontinue is a Microsoft-ecosystem that is platform-native (requires their own security stack).
How do N-able and Ontinue differ in response capabilities?
N-able supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable. Ontinue supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable.
How does N-able pricing compare to Ontinue?
N-able pricing: MSPs typically bundle at $90-$275/user/month for full security programs including MDR. Ontinue pricing: Custom-quoted pricing. Watch for with N-able: Pricing designed for MSP channel; direct pricing may differ; MDR Base is identity-focused only; Complete needed for full coverage. Watch for with Ontinue: Requires Microsoft E5 or Defender licenses as prerequisite; Microsoft Sentinel consumption costs are separate.
Should I choose N-able or Ontinue?
Choose N-able if: mSPs wanting a unified security platform with built-in SIEM/SOAR/UEBA. Choose Ontinue if: organizations heavily invested in Microsoft E5/Defender ecosystem. N-able is not ideal for large enterprises with existing SOC infrastructure. Ontinue is not ideal for organizations using non-Microsoft EDR (CrowdStrike, SentinelOne).