Your IT team manages 200+ applications across departments. New SaaS tools appear daily as users sign up independently. Shadow IT spreads faster than you can track it, and your CFO demands an explanation for the 40% spike in software spending last quarter. Meanwhile, compliance audits loom, requiring access reviews that would take weeks to complete manually.
This scenario mirrors the reality facing IT professionals worldwide as SaaS adoption accelerates. The solution lies in implementing a robust SaaS Management Platform (SMP) that delivers visibility, control, and optimization across your entire software ecosystem.
This comprehensive analysis compares two leading SaaS management vendors: BetterCloud and Zluri. BetterCloud positions itself as a mature, comprehensive platform with deep automation capabilities for enterprise environments. Zluri takes a Next-Gen Identity Governance & Administration approach, featuring patented discovery technology and extensive compliance capabilities.
Both promise to solve your SaaS sprawl challenges, but which delivers superior value for your organization?
Overview of BetterCloud
BetterCloud has been a leader in SaaS management for almost 15 years. It was named a Leader in several categories in G2’s Summer 2025 Report, including SaaS Operations Management, User Provisioning and Governance Tools, and SaaS Spend Management.
The platform’s main strength is automating complicated IT tasks across different SaaS systems. It helps businesses find unused apps, cut down on extra subscriptions, and make sure software is used consistently across the company. New updates include smart grouping for apps like Adobe and Atlassian in the Spend Optimization module, which makes it easier to collect and analyze data.
BetterCloud’s automation goes beyond simple tasks with a no-code workflow builder that uses drag-and-drop tools. IT teams can automate things like onboarding new employees, offboarding, user provisioning, and managing software licenses. The platform offers over 1,000 workflow actions for 90+ integrations, along with tools for decision-making, scheduling, and templates.
Customers often praise BetterCloud for saving time during audits and helping manage detailed permissions. Its security features, like Zero Trust Networking and Data Loss Prevention, stand out. While users like its easy-to-use interface and ability to handle tough tasks, some mention that advanced features can take time to learn..
Overview of Zluri
Zluri is a Next-Gen Identity Governance & Administration platform that helps organizations manage their SaaS tools effectively. It was recognized as a Leader in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for SaaS Management Platforms and a Strong Performer in SaaS Security Posture Management.
What makes Zluri stand out is its Advanced Discovery Abilities. Using a patented engine with nine detection methods, it provides complete visibility into all apps, including approved software, hidden IT, and new AI tools. This powerful discovery system helps businesses manage and secure their apps better.
Zluri also helps save money by finding unused or underused licenses and identifying apps with similar functions. It tracks SaaS spending, manages contract renewals, and handles internal cost allocation, giving companies a clear understanding of their software costs.
The platform offers strong automation for managing user accounts. With over 1,500 ready-made actions, Zluri automates tasks like setting up accounts, removing access when employees leave, and handling access requests. It ensures secure offboarding and time-bound access controls based on company policies.
Users love Zluri for its easy-to-use interface and excellent customer support. It has high ratings on review sites, with customers praising its clear dashboards and smooth integration with other tools.
Feature Comparison
Here’s a detailed comparison of BetterCloud and Zluri across key SaaS management capabilities:
Feature | BetterCloud | Zluri |
---|---|---|
Pricing | $3-$10 per user/month (annual) | Custom pricing (contact sales) |
Ease of Use | Intuitive interface, 2-month implementation | User-friendly, centralized dashboards |
SaaS Discovery Methods | OAuth, SSO, direct integration | Patented engine with 9 detection methods |
Security Features | Zero Trust, DLP, granular permissions | Strong identity governance, compliance automation |
Cost Management Features | License reclamation, spend analytics, benchmarking | Spend tracking, contract management, cost allocation |
Persona Focus | Large enterprises, complex environments | Mid-market to enterprise, compliance-focused |
Support Options | Responsive account reps, quality support | Excellent, responsive support teams |
G2 Review Score | 4.4/5 (140+ reviews) | 4.6/5 (173 reviews) |
Detailed Feature Analysis
Pricing and Value
BetterCloud has three pricing plans: Discover+Platform at $3 per user per month, Manage+Platform at $6 per user per month, and Secure+Platform at $10 per user per month. All plans require a yearly commitment, with annual costs ranging between $17,000 and $111,111. On average, customers get a 23% discount.
Zluri uses custom pricing based on each company’s needs. Third-party sources estimate prices between $4 and $8 per user per month, with contracts costing around $38,083 annually. Users report getting an average 21% discount.
Winner: BetterCloud – Its clear pricing makes it easier to plan and predict costs.
Setup and User Experience
BetterCloud takes about 2 months to fully set up. Users like its simple interface and tools that make difficult tasks easier. Its no-code workflow builder is helpful for IT teams without programming experience.
Zluri has an easy-to-use interface and helpful dashboards. However, some users say the setup process takes a while, and certain features feel awkward to use. Also, its browser agent requires a separate Chrome profile, which can be inconvenient.
Winner: BetterCloud – While setup takes longer, users find it easier to use overall.
App Discovery and Visibility
BetterCloud focuses on finding apps that aren’t used much or that duplicate others. It groups related apps together and shows detailed usage patterns.
Zluri uses patented technology with nine detection methods to find all apps, including hidden ones (shadow IT). This ensures you can see everything in your SaaS environment, even newer tools like AI-powered apps.
Winner: Zluri – Its advanced technology offers better visibility into hidden and emerging apps.
Security and Compliance
BetterCloud includes strong security features like Zero Trust Networking and Data Loss Prevention. It helps manage apps, data, and user roles to meet compliance standards while saving audit time and allowing detailed permissions.
Zluri stands out in identity governance, offering automated user access checks and compliance reports. It supports key compliance standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, SOX ITGC, and PCI DSS. Features include automated certifications, delegation options, and reminders.
Winner: Zluri – Its identity governance tools and automated compliance features provide stronger security.
Cost Management
BetterCloud helps reclaim unused licenses, stops overlapping subscriptions, and compares costs to industry standards. Customers like Global Payments have saved $3 million a year with BetterCloud.
Zluri tracks spending, manages contract renewals, and allocates costs internally. It identifies underused licenses and overlapping tools while offering detailed financial insights.
Winner: BetterCloud – Its proven ability to save money and provide benchmarks sets it apart.
Automation Features
BetterCloud has a no-code drag-and-drop workflow builder with over 1,000 actions and 90+ integrations. It’s great for automating complex processes like employee lifecycle management.
Zluri’s workflow engine also delivers strong automation with over 1,500 pre-made actions. It automates tasks like user provisioning, deprovisioning, and access reviews with approval processes.
Winner: BetterCloud – Its larger workflow library and strong automation are ideal for complex needs.
Best Fit for Your Organization
BetterCloud is best for large companies with many apps and a need for advanced automation. Its pricing and features work well for organizations managing big software portfolios.
Zluri is a great choice for mid-size to large companies that need strong compliance tools. Its identity governance features make it ideal for companies focused on security and meeting regulations.
Winner: It depends – Choose BetterCloud for automation and large enterprises. Choose Zluri for compliance and security-focused organizations.
G2 Reviews Analysis
BetterCloud Reviews:
- “BetterCloud has transformed our IT operations by automating user lifecycle management across our entire SaaS stack. The time savings alone justify the investment.” – IT Director Review
- “The workflow builder is intuitive and powerful. We’ve automated processes that previously took hours of manual work.” – System Administrator Review
- “Great platform for large organizations, but the pricing can be steep for smaller companies.” – IT Manager Review
Zluri Reviews:
- “Zluri’s discovery capabilities are exceptional. We found shadow IT applications we didn’t know existed.” – Security Manager Review
- “The identity governance features have streamlined our compliance processes significantly.” – IT Operations Manager Review
- “Excellent customer support, though the initial setup took longer than expected.” – IT Administrator Review
Winner: Zluri – Higher overall rating and more positive sentiment regarding core capabilities.
JumpCloud as an Alternative to BetterCloud and Zluri
JumpCloud provides a unified open directory platform that combines SaaS management with comprehensive identity and access management capabilities. Unlike traditional SaaS management tools, JumpCloud delivers complete visibility and control over sanctioned and unsanctioned applications while providing centralized user lifecycle management across all IT resources.
Feature | BetterCloud | Zluri | JumpCloud |
---|---|---|---|
Pricing | $3-$10 per user/month (annual) | Custom pricing (contact sales) | Package and a la carte pricing options |
Ease of Use | Intuitive interface, 2-month implementation | User-friendly, centralized dashboards | Admin-friendly UI, templated policies |
SaaS Discovery Methods | App grouping, underutilized app identification | Patented engine with 9 detection methods | Browser extension discovery, SSO, native connectors |
Security Features | Zero Trust, DLP, granular permissions | Strong identity governance, compliance automation | Conditional access, MFA, device trust |
Cost Management Features | License reclamation, spend analytics, benchmarking | Spend tracking, contract management, cost allocation | License tracking, cost optimization insights |
Persona Focus | Large enterprises, complex environments | Mid-market to enterprise, compliance-focused | SMBs to enterprise, IT teams |
Support Options | Responsive account reps, quality support | Excellent, responsive support teams | Comprehensive support, extensive documentation |
G2 Review Score | 4.4/5 (140+ reviews) | 4.6/5 (173 reviews) | 4.6/5 (1,000+ reviews) |
Common Concerns and Issues
BetterCloud and Zluri Challenges
Both BetterCloud and Zluri face certain limitations that organizations should consider when evaluating their suitability. BetterCloud, while recognized for its robust automation and integration capabilities, can present a steep learning curve for new users, particularly in highly customized setups. Additionally, its pricing model may prove restrictive for smaller businesses or those with budget constraints.
Zluri, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for mid-market to enterprise organizations; however, it may not be as feature-rich in automation and detailed customization as some enterprises may require. Despite its strengths in compliance monitoring and SaaS application management, users often note the necessity for ongoing updates to broaden its integration options and features.
How JumpCloud Solves These Problems
JumpCloud addresses these challenges with an all-in-one platform:
- Simplified Integrations: Instead of managing separate connections for every app, JumpCloud uses an open directory platform for managing all user identities and access. This reduces complexity and makes maintenance easier.
- All-in-One Platform: JumpCloud combines SaaS management, identity and access controls, device management, and security tools. This means you don’t need to juggle multiple tools from different vendors.
- Helpful Support: JumpCloud offers clear documentation, community forums, and responsive support for all users. Their platform includes unlimited remote help and self-service resources to solve issues quickly.
Tips for Choosing the Right Solution
When choosing between these platforms, follow these steps:
- Identify Your Needs: Think about what matters most—cost, security, automation, or ease of use—and use that to guide your decision.
- Review Integration Options: Check how well each platform works with your current tools like HR systems, identity providers, and key business apps.
- Test Usability: Try out the platforms to see how easy they are to use, how hard they are to set up, and how well your team adapts to them.
- Consider Total Costs: Look beyond subscription costs and think about implementation, training, and maintenance expenses.
- Evaluate Support: Test each vendor’s support during your review to see how responsive and helpful they are.
Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business
To find the best platform, start by understanding your organization’s unique needs, goals, and challenges. This will help you align your choice with what your business actually requires to grow and improve. Talk to key stakeholders to identify pain points, must-have features, and desired outcomes, ensuring the solution you pick delivers real value.
Scalability is another major factor. Look for a solution that can grow with your organization, whether that means more users, expanded features, or compatibility with new technologies. Choosing a scalable option now can save time and money later.
Finally, create a clear implementation plan with specific goals and timelines. Include all relevant teams early on to ensure everyone is aligned and adoption goes smoothly. A well-planned approach will help your organization confidently choose a platform that drives better results and keeps you competitive.
The Clear Path Forward: JumpCloud for Comprehensive SaaS Management
BetterCloud and Zluri both have strengths—BetterCloud focuses on automation for big companies, while Zluri specializes in app discovery and compliance. But with modern IT challenges like too many SaaS tools, hidden apps, rising costs, and tricky compliance rules, what organizations really need is a single, all-in-one solution.
That’s where JumpCloud shines.
JumpCloud goes beyond regular SaaS management tools by bringing everything together in one platform. It combines SaaS management with identity and access management (IAM), making IT simpler, more secure, and cost-effective. Plus, JumpCloud offers clear pricing that works for businesses of all sizes.
With advanced tools like browser extensions and SSO integration, JumpCloud gives you full visibility into every app your team is using—even the ones you didn’t know about. It also includes powerful security features like multi-factor authentication (MFA), conditional access, and device trust to protect your data and meet compliance needs.
JumpCloud’s all-in-one platform means you don’t need to manage multiple tools or vendors. Everything—SaaS management, security, device management, and access controls—works together, saving time and reducing complexity. Their strong support team and helpful guides make it easy for IT teams to manage their systems confidently.
If you’re looking for a SaaS management solution, JumpCloud not only solves today’s problems but also helps prepare your IT for the future. It’s the smart choice for managing apps, boosting security, and staying ahead in a SaaS-driven world.
Ready to simplify and secure your IT environment with JumpCloud?
The best way to truly understand how JumpCloud can transform your SaaS management and overall IT operations is to see it in action. We encourage you to:
- Start a free trial today. Explore JumpCloud’s full functionality with zero restrictions and discover how easily you can gain control over your SaaS environment.
- Schedule a personalized demo with a JumpCloud expert. Get a tailored walkthrough of the platform and see how JumpCloud can specifically address your organization’s unique needs and challenges.
Don’t let SaaS sprawl and fragmented IT continue to hinder your organization’s efficiency and security. Take the definitive step towards unified IT management. JumpCloud is ready to help you gain control.