Quick Overview
- 1#1: EFI PrintSmith Vision - Comprehensive MIS/ERP software providing precise job estimating, scheduling, and production management for digital and offset print shops.
- 2#2: Avanti Slingshot - End-to-end print business management platform with advanced estimating tools tailored for digital printing workflows and profitability analysis.
- 3#3: Cyrious Control - Integrated business management and estimating software designed for sign shops and digital printers to calculate costs and quotes accurately.
- 4#4: Tharstern - Web-native MIS system offering real-time job estimating, planning, and execution optimized for digital print production.
- 5#5: ZPI CyberPress - Robust print production suite with detailed estimating capabilities for digital, offset, and large-format printing jobs.
- 6#6: ShopWorks - Print shop management software with QuickBooks integration and customizable estimating for digital print services.
- 7#7: Aleyant Radius - Web-to-print platform with built-in estimating engine supporting variable data digital printing and automated workflows.
- 8#8: Prestos! - Fast print estimating software that handles complex digital print quotes including substrates, inks, and finishing costs.
- 9#9: Logic Print MIS - Cloud-based management information system featuring estimating modules for digital print shops to optimize pricing and margins.
- 10#10: PrintPLANR - Cloud estimating and planning tool simplifying quotes and production schedules for small digital print businesses.
These tools were chosen based on accuracy in cost calculation, adaptability to diverse workflows (including digital, offset, and large-format), user-friendliness, and overall value in optimizing margins and production scheduling.
Comparison Table
Navigating digital print estimating software can be complex; this comparison table breaks down leading tools like EFI PrintSmith Vision, Avanti Slingshot, Cyrious Control, Tharstern, ZPI CyberPress, and more, to highlight their key features, workflows, and strengths. Readers will discover how to choose software that aligns with their project needs, scale, and operational goals, streamlining their estimating process effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EFI PrintSmith Vision Comprehensive MIS/ERP software providing precise job estimating, scheduling, and production management for digital and offset print shops. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Avanti Slingshot End-to-end print business management platform with advanced estimating tools tailored for digital printing workflows and profitability analysis. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | Cyrious Control Integrated business management and estimating software designed for sign shops and digital printers to calculate costs and quotes accurately. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Tharstern Web-native MIS system offering real-time job estimating, planning, and execution optimized for digital print production. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ZPI CyberPress Robust print production suite with detailed estimating capabilities for digital, offset, and large-format printing jobs. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | ShopWorks Print shop management software with QuickBooks integration and customizable estimating for digital print services. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Aleyant Radius Web-to-print platform with built-in estimating engine supporting variable data digital printing and automated workflows. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Prestos! Fast print estimating software that handles complex digital print quotes including substrates, inks, and finishing costs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Logic Print MIS Cloud-based management information system featuring estimating modules for digital print shops to optimize pricing and margins. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | PrintPLANR Cloud estimating and planning tool simplifying quotes and production schedules for small digital print businesses. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
Comprehensive MIS/ERP software providing precise job estimating, scheduling, and production management for digital and offset print shops.
End-to-end print business management platform with advanced estimating tools tailored for digital printing workflows and profitability analysis.
Integrated business management and estimating software designed for sign shops and digital printers to calculate costs and quotes accurately.
Web-native MIS system offering real-time job estimating, planning, and execution optimized for digital print production.
Robust print production suite with detailed estimating capabilities for digital, offset, and large-format printing jobs.
Print shop management software with QuickBooks integration and customizable estimating for digital print services.
Web-to-print platform with built-in estimating engine supporting variable data digital printing and automated workflows.
Fast print estimating software that handles complex digital print quotes including substrates, inks, and finishing costs.
Cloud-based management information system featuring estimating modules for digital print shops to optimize pricing and margins.
Cloud estimating and planning tool simplifying quotes and production schedules for small digital print businesses.
EFI PrintSmith Vision
enterpriseComprehensive MIS/ERP software providing precise job estimating, scheduling, and production management for digital and offset print shops.
Dynamic real-time estimating with AI-driven pricing adjustments based on press availability, materials, and historical data
EFI PrintSmith Vision is a comprehensive web-based MIS/ERP platform from EFI, renowned for its advanced estimating capabilities tailored to digital printing and beyond. It automates accurate quoting, job costing, scheduling, and production tracking, integrating seamlessly with digital presses, RIPs, and other workflows. Designed for print providers, it supports high-volume operations with real-time data insights to maximize profitability and throughput.
Pros
- Exceptionally precise and fast estimating engine for digital, offset, and hybrid workflows
- Robust integrations with EFI Fiery RIPs, JDF/JMF standards, and third-party systems
- Scalable analytics and reporting for profitability optimization and real-time decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive customization options
- Premium pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large shops
- Occasional complexity in setup for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise-level print service providers specializing in high-volume digital printing who require precise estimating and end-to-end production management.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; starts around $1,000/month for core modules, scaling with users, presses, and add-ons like productivity analytics.
Avanti Slingshot
enterpriseEnd-to-end print business management platform with advanced estimating tools tailored for digital printing workflows and profitability analysis.
Dynamic gang run optimizer that automatically nests jobs for maximum digital press utilization and minimal waste
Avanti Slingshot by Dalton Software is a powerful print MIS and estimating platform optimized for digital printing operations, automating accurate cost calculations for jobs including substrates, inks, finishing, and variable data printing. It supports real-time quoting, gang run optimization, and integration with digital presses for streamlined production planning. The software also provides end-to-end workflow management, from estimating to invoicing, helping shops improve profitability and efficiency.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital estimating with support for gang runs and versioning
- Deep integration with digital presses, RIPs, and ERP systems
- Robust analytics for job costing and profitability tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Requires professional implementation for optimal setup
- Premium pricing may deter smaller shops
Best For
Mid-to-large digital print shops needing comprehensive MIS with advanced estimating and workflow automation.
Pricing
Quote-based; annual SaaS subscriptions typically start at $10,000+ based on modules, users, and shop size.
Cyrious Control
specializedIntegrated business management and estimating software designed for sign shops and digital printers to calculate costs and quotes accurately.
Dynamic Visual Estimator with drag-and-drop product configurator for precise, visual digital print quoting
Cyrious Control is a robust business management platform tailored for sign shops, print shops, and graphics companies, with powerful estimating capabilities for digital printing projects. It offers customizable calculators for digital print costs, including substrates, inks, and finishing, integrated seamlessly with CRM, scheduling, inventory, and accounting modules. This all-in-one solution enables accurate quoting, job tracking, and profitability analysis for wide-format and digital production workflows.
Pros
- Highly customizable estimating calculators tailored for digital print jobs including finishing and substrates
- Full integration with production scheduling, CRM, and accounting for end-to-end workflow
- Advanced reporting and profitability tracking to optimize digital print operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Higher pricing may not suit very small shops focused solely on estimating
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized digital print and sign shops needing integrated estimating, production management, and business automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically starts at $295/month for core modules, scaling with users and add-ons.
Tharstern
enterpriseWeb-native MIS system offering real-time job estimating, planning, and execution optimized for digital print production.
Dynamic 'Estimate in Seconds' engine that generates precise quotes for bespoke digital print products instantly
Tharstern is a cloud-based MIS/ERP platform designed specifically for print businesses, with a powerful estimating module optimized for digital printing workflows. It enables rapid, accurate quoting for complex jobs involving various substrates, finishes, and quantities, while integrating seamlessly with production planning and CRM tools. The software streamlines operations from estimate to delivery, providing real-time visibility and automation to boost efficiency in digital print environments.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimating engine handles complex digital jobs with high accuracy
- Strong integration with production workflows and third-party tools
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for informed business decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface
- Pricing can be premium for small print shops
- Some advanced customizations require additional modules
Best For
Mid-sized digital print providers needing robust, scalable estimating for diverse job types and high-volume quoting.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing, typically starting at $200-$400/month based on users, modules, and business size (quote required).
ZPI CyberPress
enterpriseRobust print production suite with detailed estimating capabilities for digital, offset, and large-format printing jobs.
ZPI Pricing Database with thousands of updated digital print costs and configurations for rapid, accurate quoting.
ZPI CyberPress is a comprehensive MIS/ERP software suite from ZPI Software, specializing in estimating, job planning, and production management for print shops, with robust support for digital printing workflows. It enables precise quoting for digital jobs by accounting for variables like substrates, quantities, finishing, and press configurations, while integrating with production tracking and CRM features. Ideal for multi-process environments, it streamlines operations from quote to delivery, backed by an extensive pricing database.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built pricing database for accurate digital estimates
- Seamless integration of estimating with production and shipping modules
- Handles complex digital jobs including variable data printing
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels less intuitive
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- Higher cost structure not ideal for very small shops
Best For
Mid-sized print shops managing a mix of digital and traditional printing who need an all-in-one estimating and workflow solution.
Pricing
Modular subscription starting at ~$300/month per user, plus one-time setup fees of $5,000+; custom quotes for full ERP implementation.
ShopWorks
specializedPrint shop management software with QuickBooks integration and customizable estimating for digital print services.
Advanced nesting and waste optimization in digital estimating for precise material cost calculations
ShopWorks is a comprehensive print shop management software with robust estimating capabilities tailored for digital printing, offset, and wide-format production. It enables quick and accurate job quoting by factoring in materials, labor, substrates, and equipment efficiencies. Beyond estimating, it offers integrated workflow automation, scheduling, inventory management, and accounting integrations to streamline entire shop operations.
Pros
- Highly accurate estimating engine with digital-specific calculators for run sizes, substrates, and finishing
- Full ERP integration for end-to-end shop management including production tracking
- Customizable templates and real-time pricing adjustments for competitive quoting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Pricing is custom and can be expensive for smaller shops
- Limited native mobile app functionality compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized print shops handling high-volume digital printing that need integrated estimating and production management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $400-$600/month depending on modules and shop size, with annual contracts.
Aleyant Radius
specializedWeb-to-print platform with built-in estimating engine supporting variable data digital printing and automated workflows.
Intelligent Helium estimating module that delivers instant, accurate quotes for digital print jobs including VDP and custom configurations
Aleyant Radius is a comprehensive web-based Print MIS/ERP solution designed for print businesses, with strong digital print estimating capabilities that accurately calculate costs for digital presses, variable data, substrates, and finishing. It integrates quoting, job ticketing, production scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing into a unified platform. Ideal for streamlining operations from estimate to delivery, it supports digital, offset, and wide-format printing workflows.
Pros
- Robust estimating engine handles complex digital print jobs with variable costs and substrates
- Seamless integration with RIP software, workflows, and e-commerce portals
- Scalable web-based platform accessible from anywhere with real-time dashboards
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full customization and setup
- Pricing can be high for small shops without scaling benefits
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized print shops specializing in digital and hybrid printing that need an integrated MIS for estimating, production, and customer management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $400-$1,000+ per month depending on modules, users, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Prestos!
specializedFast print estimating software that handles complex digital print quotes including substrates, inks, and finishing costs.
Ultra-fast automated estimating engine that delivers precise quotes in seconds using intelligent databases
Prestos! is a cloud-based estimating software from VTXino designed specifically for digital print shops, allowing users to generate accurate job quotes in seconds using a vast pre-built database of substrates, presses, and materials. It automates complex calculations for run times, costs, and profitability, supporting digital, offset, large format, and packaging estimates. The intuitive interface and MIS integrations make it efficient for streamlining workflows in busy print environments.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimating (under 5 seconds per quote)
- Extensive customizable database for materials and equipment
- Cloud-based with mobile access and MIS/ERP integrations
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Occasional setup time for custom press configurations
- Fewer third-party integrations than top competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized digital print shops needing quick, accurate estimates without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/month per user, with annual plans and tiered options based on volume.
Logic Print MIS
enterpriseCloud-based management information system featuring estimating modules for digital print shops to optimize pricing and margins.
Lightning Quotes engine for instant, dynamic digital print estimates with real-time material and labor costing
Logic Print MIS is a cloud-based management information system tailored for print shops, offering robust estimating tools specifically for digital printing alongside offset and large format. It streamlines the entire workflow from instant quoting and job approval to production scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing. Designed for UK and European print businesses, it provides real-time data insights to optimize operations and profitability.
Pros
- Highly accurate and rapid estimating for digital prints with automatic markups and waste calculations
- Seamless integration of estimating with full production workflow and CRM
- Cloud deployment enables remote access and scalability for growing shops
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS competitors
- Pricing lacks transparency and requires custom quotes
- Initial setup and customization can demand significant training
Best For
Mid-sized digital print shops in the UK/Europe needing an integrated MIS beyond just estimating.
Pricing
Modular subscription pricing starting around £150/user/month; custom quotes based on features and scale.
PrintPLANR
specializedCloud estimating and planning tool simplifying quotes and production schedules for small digital print businesses.
Dynamic pricing engine that auto-adjusts for substrates, quantities, and finishes in real-time
PrintPLANR is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for digital print shops, automating accurate cost calculations for jobs like flyers, brochures, and large-format prints. It streamlines quoting, job tracking, scheduling, and invoicing within a single platform, helping users generate professional proposals instantly. The tool integrates inventory management and supports real-time collaboration, making it suitable for small to mid-sized operations focused on digital production.
Pros
- Precise digital print cost estimating with customizable templates
- Cloud accessibility for remote team collaboration
- Integrated job scheduling and inventory tracking
Cons
- Limited support for offset or hybrid printing workflows
- Occasional learning curve for advanced customizations
- Basic reporting compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to medium digital print shops seeking affordable, straightforward estimating without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for basic plan (up to 5 users), with Pro at $199/month and custom enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
The best digital print estimating software is defined by diverse strengths, with three tools leading the pack. EFI PrintSmith Vision claims the top spot, excelling in its comprehensive MIS/ERP system that unifies estimating, scheduling, and production management for seamless operations. Avanti Slingshot follows, offering end-to-end management and advanced profitability analysis to optimize digital workflows, while Cyrious Control stands out for its precise cost calculation, tailored for sign shops and digital printers. Each of these tools proves invaluable in streamlining print operations and boosting efficiency.
To unlock streamlined estimating and production, start with EFI PrintSmith Vision—its holistic features make it a standout choice for print shops seeking to enhance accuracy and profitability. For those with specific needs in sign printing or workflow automation, Avanti Slingshot and Cyrious Control offer robust alternatives, ensuring there’s a top-tier solution for every operation.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison