If updating software, settings configuration, monitoring compliance with organizational policies, and remotely wiping or locking devices what's the need for a third-party management software rather than Apple's own MDM along with Apple Configurator? The main issue is cost with a third party MDM. I was looking for a no cost solution.
Actually, Apple does offer an MDM platform. Apple Business Essentials is a full MDM platform, though not as extensible or scalable as offerings from Jamf, Kandji, or Mosyle.
You don't want to be cheap with MDM. The cheaper you are, the more technical knowledge of the inner workings of MDM you must have. MicroMDM is an example of a free MDM that is capable of the full feature set at scale, but it requires vast amounts of technical expertise. Only some of the largest and most advanced tech companies will do something like this. Most orgs are purchasing an off the shelf MDM.
Considering your requirements for no-cost mobile device management for iPads, I suggest exploring Scalefusion MDM. It offers advanced features beyond Apple's own solutions and provides a affordable pricing tiers, making it a valuable option despite budget constraints.
Apple doesn’t market or offer an MDM platform. Most Enterprise and Educational organisations will already have a commercial (third-party) Management Platform of choice - that will be used to provide mobile device management.
For a cost-effective solution, consider using iOS MDM solution like Scalefusion. It offer additional features and flexibility beyond Apple's native tools
Mobile Device Management for iPads
