EDR & MDR Platform Comparison Guide
Find Your Perfect Security Solution: Compare Leading Endpoint and Managed Detection Platforms
Choosing the right endpoint security solution—whether Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) or Managed Detection and Response (MDR)—can make the difference between proactive threat prevention and costly security breaches. With 73% of small businesses experiencing cyberattacks and limited internal security resources, selecting the right security platform is one of the most critical technology decisions you’ll make.
This comprehensive comparison guide analyzes leading EDR and MDR platforms across key factors that matter most to small and medium businesses: detection capabilities, deployment models, pricing structures, and management requirements. Whether you need a self-managed EDR platform, a fully managed MDR service, or something in between, our detailed comparisons help you make an informed decision.
EDR vs MDR: Understanding the Difference
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
EDR platforms provide the technology and tools to detect, investigate, and respond to threats on endpoints. They require internal expertise to operate effectively.
- Self-managed security platform
- Real-time threat detection and response tools
- Requires internal security expertise
- Direct control over security operations
- Technology-focused solution
Best For: Organizations with dedicated security teams who want control over their security operations
Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
MDR services combine EDR technology with human expertise, providing 24/7 monitoring and response as a managed service.
- Fully managed security service
- 24/7 expert monitoring and response
- No internal expertise required
- Outsourced security operations
- Service-wrapped technology
Best For: Organizations lacking security staff who need comprehensive managed security
Quick Comparison Matrix
| Platform | Type | Service Model | Pricing | Detection Speed | Management Required | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CrowdStrike Falcon | EDR Platform | Self-managed or MDR | $8.99-25+/endpoint | 4 minutes | Optional | Platform completeness |
| Microsoft Defender | EDR Platform | Self-managed | Included with E5 | Variable | High | Microsoft integration |
| Huntress | MDR Service | Managed enhancement | $99/month (10 endpoints) | Real-time | None | Budget-friendly MDR |
| eSentire | MDR Service | Fully managed | Custom quotes | 15-min guarantee | None | Human-led SOC |
| Cylance | EDR Platform | Self-managed | Per-endpoint | Real-time | Medium | Lightweight AI |
| Arctic Wolf | MDR Service | Fully managed | All-inclusive | Variable | None | Dedicated CST |
Comprehensive Platform Comparisons
Explore our detailed comparison guides to find the perfect security solution for your business needs.
CrowdStrike vs Microsoft Defender
EDR Platform Comparison
Best for organizations in Microsoft ecosystems weighing integrated vs. best-of-breed solutions.
- CrowdStrike: 4-minute detection, optional MDR
- Defender: E5 integration, requires expertise
Winner for SMBs: CrowdStrike for turnkey solution
CrowdStrike vs Huntress
Platform vs Enhancement Layer MDR
Businesses evaluating complete platform replacement vs. affordable MDR enhancement.
- CrowdStrike: Complete EDR/MDR platform
- Huntress: $99/month for 10 endpoints
Winner for SMBs: Huntress for budget-conscious MDR
CrowdStrike vs eSentire
Hybrid Platform vs Pure MDR Service
Comparing platform with optional MDR vs. dedicated MDR service.
- CrowdStrike: 4-minute detection, flexibility
- eSentire: 15-minute guarantee, human SOC
Winner for SMBs: eSentire for dedicated service
CrowdStrike vs Cylance
Comprehensive EDR vs Lightweight EDR
Evaluating full-featured EDR platform vs. lightweight AI-based protection.
- CrowdStrike: Full EDR, optional MDR
- Cylance: Lightweight AI, Arctic Wolf acquisition
Winner for SMBs: CrowdStrike for stability
CrowdStrike vs Arctic Wolf
EDR Platform with Optional MDR vs Pure MDR Service
Choosing between flexible platform approach vs. dedicated MDR partnership.
- CrowdStrike: Best-of-breed technology, platform flexibility
- Arctic Wolf: Human-led CST model, all-inclusive pricing
Winner for SMBs: Arctic Wolf for complete outsourcing
Decision Framework: EDR vs MDR
When to Choose EDR (Self-Managed)
Ideal Scenarios:
- You have 24/7 security staff or can hire them
- Your team has security expertise and certifications
- You need deep customization and control
- Budget is limited but expertise is available
- You want to build internal security capabilities
Hidden Costs:
- Staff salaries: $150K-250K per analyst
- 24/7 coverage requires 4-5 staff minimum
- Training and certifications: $10K+/person/year
When to Choose MDR (Managed Service)
Ideal Scenarios:
- You lack dedicated security staff
- 24/7 coverage is required but not feasible internally
- You need immediate security expertise
- Predictable costs are important for budgeting
- You want to focus on core business, not security
Value Proposition:
- Eliminates $2.5M+ annual SOC costs
- Immediate access to security expertise
- Guaranteed response times with SLAs
Need Expert Guidance?
Choosing between EDR and MDR—and selecting the right platform—is one of the most important security decisions you’ll make. InventiveHQ specializes in helping small and medium businesses navigate this complex landscape.
- ✓ Unbiased EDR/MDR platform assessments
- ✓ Gap analysis of your current security posture
- ✓ Implementation planning and migration support
- ✓ Fully managed MDR services with 24/7 monitoring
- ✓ Compliance guidance for regulated industries
- ✓ Hybrid solutions combining your tools with our expertise