Quick Overview
- 1#1: HiBid - Offers comprehensive live and simulcast online bidding with real-time features for auctioneers worldwide.
- 2#2: AuctionFlex - Provides end-to-end auction management software including live online bidding, clerking, and accounting integration.
- 3#3: Proxibid - Delivers secure real-time bidding for live auctions focused on industrial and commercial assets.
- 4#4: LiveAuctioneers - Enables live webcast auctions with global bidder access and extensive marketplace integration.
- 5#5: Invaluable - Powers premium live bidding for art, antiques, and collectibles auctions with high-end features.
- 6#6: BidSpotter - Facilitates live and timed online bidding across international industrial and equipment auctions.
- 7#7: Gavel.net - Supports live online bidding and auction management for real estate, vehicles, and general merchandise.
- 8#8: AuctionNinja - Modern platform for hosting live and silent auctions with mobile bidding and easy setup.
- 9#9: DV Auction - Specializes in live video auctions with real-time bidding for agriculture and heavy equipment.
- 10#10: Stadium Systems - Offers clerking and live online bidding software tailored for auction houses with robust integration.
We evaluated tools based on robust feature sets (real-time functionality, integration capabilities), user-friendly design, reliability, and value, ensuring they stand out in meeting the diverse demands of modern auctions—from small-scale to enterprise-level.
Comparison Table
Explore a comparison table of leading live auction software tools, including HiBid, AuctionFlex, Proxibid, LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable, and more. Learn about key features, pricing structures, and usability to identify the best fit for your auction requirements, whether focused on art, collectibles, or other categories.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HiBid Offers comprehensive live and simulcast online bidding with real-time features for auctioneers worldwide. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | AuctionFlex Provides end-to-end auction management software including live online bidding, clerking, and accounting integration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Proxibid Delivers secure real-time bidding for live auctions focused on industrial and commercial assets. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | LiveAuctioneers Enables live webcast auctions with global bidder access and extensive marketplace integration. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 5 | Invaluable Powers premium live bidding for art, antiques, and collectibles auctions with high-end features. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | BidSpotter Facilitates live and timed online bidding across international industrial and equipment auctions. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 7 | Gavel.net Supports live online bidding and auction management for real estate, vehicles, and general merchandise. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | AuctionNinja Modern platform for hosting live and silent auctions with mobile bidding and easy setup. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | DV Auction Specializes in live video auctions with real-time bidding for agriculture and heavy equipment. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Stadium Systems Offers clerking and live online bidding software tailored for auction houses with robust integration. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Offers comprehensive live and simulcast online bidding with real-time features for auctioneers worldwide.
Provides end-to-end auction management software including live online bidding, clerking, and accounting integration.
Delivers secure real-time bidding for live auctions focused on industrial and commercial assets.
Enables live webcast auctions with global bidder access and extensive marketplace integration.
Powers premium live bidding for art, antiques, and collectibles auctions with high-end features.
Facilitates live and timed online bidding across international industrial and equipment auctions.
Supports live online bidding and auction management for real estate, vehicles, and general merchandise.
Modern platform for hosting live and silent auctions with mobile bidding and easy setup.
Specializes in live video auctions with real-time bidding for agriculture and heavy equipment.
Offers clerking and live online bidding software tailored for auction houses with robust integration.
HiBid
enterpriseOffers comprehensive live and simulcast online bidding with real-time features for auctioneers worldwide.
Proprietary network of 5+ million pre-qualified bidders for instant audience expansion
HiBid is a comprehensive live auction software platform that empowers auctioneers to host live webcast, simulcast, timed, and online-only auctions with real-time bidding capabilities. It provides end-to-end tools including inventory cataloging, bidder management, absentee bidding, payment processing, and detailed post-auction reporting. With a massive proprietary network of over 5 million registered bidders, HiBid maximizes reach and revenue for users across various auction types from estates to industrial equipment.
Pros
- Vast bidder network driving high attendance and competitive bidding
- Seamless simulcast integration with live floor auctions
- Robust mobile apps and real-time analytics for bidders and sellers
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for low-volume auctioneers
- Initial setup and learning curve for advanced features
- Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors
Best For
Professional auction houses and estate liquidators seeking maximum online bidder reach and scalable live auction tools.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions starting at ~$99/month for basic plans, plus per-auction fees (e.g., $0.50-$1 per bidder) and optional add-ons; enterprise custom pricing available.
AuctionFlex
enterpriseProvides end-to-end auction management software including live online bidding, clerking, and accounting integration.
Simulcast hybrid bidding that synchronizes floor, online, and absentee bids in real-time
AuctionFlex is a robust auction management platform designed specifically for live, online, and hybrid auctions, handling everything from bidder registration and check-in to real-time bidding and post-auction settlements. It features a user-friendly clerking interface, mobile bidding apps for participants, and comprehensive reporting tools. The software supports unlimited catalogs and users, making it scalable for auctioneers of all sizes.
Pros
- Seamless real-time bidding with simulcast support for hybrid auctions
- Intuitive mobile apps for bidders and staff
- Comprehensive post-auction invoicing and reporting
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can add up for high-volume small auctions
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large auction houses running frequent live and hybrid events that need reliable real-time performance.
Pricing
Pay-per-auction from $99/event or subscription plans starting at $495/month for unlimited use.
Proxibid
specializedDelivers secure real-time bidding for live auctions focused on industrial and commercial assets.
Vast pre-qualified buyer database of over 2 million users for instant audience reach
Proxibid is a comprehensive online auction platform designed for live webcast, timed, and hybrid auctions, primarily serving industrial, equipment, and government surplus sectors. It enables auctioneers to stream live events, manage real-time bidding, catalog items, process payments, and access a vast network of pre-qualified buyers. The software integrates with existing auction management systems for seamless operations and provides robust reporting tools.
Pros
- Massive network of over 2 million registered buyers
- Reliable real-time live bidding and streaming
- Integrated cataloging, payments, and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing geared toward larger operations
- Less flexibility for highly customized auction formats
Best For
Mid-to-large auction houses specializing in high-value industrial equipment and assets needing a proven live auction platform with a built-in buyer audience.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically subscription-based or per-auction fees starting at several thousand dollars monthly, with volume discounts.
LiveAuctioneers
enterpriseEnables live webcast auctions with global bidder access and extensive marketplace integration.
Massive pre-existing bidder marketplace providing instant access to millions of active collectors and buyers worldwide
LiveAuctioneers is a comprehensive online auction platform that enables auction houses to host live webcast auctions, accept real-time bids, and manage absentee bidding for a global audience. It serves as a marketplace connecting thousands of auctioneers with millions of registered bidders, supporting simulcasting across multiple platforms. The software includes tools for cataloging, clerking, invoicing, and payment processing to streamline the entire auction workflow.
Pros
- Extensive global bidder network exceeding 5 million users
- Robust live streaming and real-time bidding capabilities
- Integrated cashiering and invoicing for efficient post-auction management
Cons
- High commission fees on online sales (up to 20-25%)
- Limited customization options for branding and workflows
- Occasional technical glitches during peak auction times
Best For
Established auction houses seeking broad online exposure and a ready-made bidder base without heavy upfront development costs.
Pricing
Commission-based model with 10-25% on online hammer prices; free to list with optional premium services starting at $99/month.
Invaluable
enterprisePowers premium live bidding for art, antiques, and collectibles auctions with high-end features.
Hybrid live bidding that synchronizes online participants perfectly with in-room floor action
Invaluable is a leading online auction platform that enables auction houses to host live and timed auctions, particularly for art, antiques, and collectibles. It provides tools for real-time online bidding that integrates seamlessly with in-person floor auctions, allowing global participation. Auctioneers can manage catalogs, bidder registration, and analytics through its marketplace-style interface.
Pros
- Vast global network of buyers and auction houses
- Reliable real-time live bidding synced with floor auctions
- Robust cataloging and post-sale reporting tools
Cons
- Primarily tailored to art/antiques niche, less ideal for general merchandise
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller auctioneers
- Interface has a moderate learning curve for new users
Best For
Established auction houses in art, antiques, and collectibles seeking to attract international online bidders to their live events.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing with listing fees, commissions (around 5-10% of sales), and subscription options; contact for quotes.
BidSpotter
specializedFacilitates live and timed online bidding across international industrial and equipment auctions.
Vast pre-qualified network of industrial and commercial buyers for maximum live bidding participation
BidSpotter is an established online auction marketplace specializing in live webcast auctions, enabling auctioneers to broadcast in-person events to remote bidders worldwide. It supports real-time online bidding integrated with floor clerking systems, focusing on industrial, commercial, government, and specialty auctions. The platform connects auction houses with a large buyer network without requiring auctioneers to manage full online infrastructure.
Pros
- Extensive global bidder network for high attendance
- Seamless integration with popular clerking software for hybrid live auctions
- User-friendly interface for both bidders and auction listers
Cons
- Limited customization options for auction branding and layout
- Relies on auctioneer's own floor software, not a complete standalone solution
- Fees can accumulate for high-volume listers
Best For
Auction houses running traditional in-person live auctions that want to add online bidding without building their own platform.
Pricing
Listing fees per auction or lot (starting around $100-500 depending on size), plus 3-5% buyer premium shared with auctioneer.
Gavel.net
specializedSupports live online bidding and auction management for real estate, vehicles, and general merchandise.
Simulcast bidding that integrates live floor, phone, and online bidders in real-time
Gavel.net is a robust web-based auction management platform tailored for live, online, and hybrid auctions, enabling auctioneers to catalog items, manage bidders, and conduct real-time bidding events. It supports live webcasting with simulcast capabilities, allowing in-person and remote bidders to compete simultaneously. The software also handles clerking, invoicing, and reporting, making it suitable for auction houses and estate sales.
Pros
- Seamless simulcast for live and online bidding
- Strong inventory and cataloging tools
- Reliable real-time bidder management and reporting
Cons
- Higher pricing for smaller operations
- Steep learning curve for advanced live features
- Limited customization without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized auction houses and estate liquidators running frequent live and hybrid auctions.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $99/month for basic features, with pay-per-auction options and custom enterprise pricing up to several thousand annually.
AuctionNinja
specializedModern platform for hosting live and silent auctions with mobile bidding and easy setup.
Live simulcast bidding that combines in-room, online, and mobile bidders in real-time with seamless proxy and absentee options
AuctionNinja is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for live, timed, and hybrid auctions, offering tools for inventory management, bidder registration, real-time bidding, and post-event reporting. It supports webcasting live auctions to a global audience via web and mobile apps, with features like absentee bidding and simulcasting. Primarily targeted at auction houses, nonprofits, and estate sales, it streamlines operations from cataloging to payments.
Pros
- Powerful live webcasting and real-time bidding capabilities
- Integrated CRM, inventory, and payment processing
- Strong mobile app for bidder engagement
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small-scale users
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized auction houses and nonprofits hosting frequent live and hybrid auctions that need robust bidder management and webcasting.
Pricing
Custom subscription plans starting at around $500/month for basic features, with per-event fees from $99; enterprise tiers available.
DV Auction
specializedSpecializes in live video auctions with real-time bidding for agriculture and heavy equipment.
Bidder parity simulcast that synchronizes in-person and online bids in real-time for equitable competition.
DV Auction (dvauction.com) is a specialized live auction software platform designed for simulcasting in-person auctions online, primarily for heavy equipment, trucks, and vehicles. It enables real-time bidding from remote participants with bidder parity between floor and online bidders. The software includes tools for inventory management, bidder registration, high-definition video streaming, and post-auction reporting.
Pros
- Robust simulcast technology ensuring fair bidding across channels
- High-quality HD video streaming and mobile bidding support
- Proven reliability for large-scale heavy equipment auctions
Cons
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for smaller operations
- Steeper learning curve for setup and integration
- Primarily tailored to industrial auctions, less flexible for general use
Best For
Established auction houses specializing in heavy equipment and vehicles that require reliable simulcast for high-volume live events.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on auction volume, features, and support; typically starts in the thousands per event—contact sales for quotes.
Stadium Systems
enterpriseOffers clerking and live online bidding software tailored for auction houses with robust integration.
Multi-clerking stations with simultaneous auction support for handling dozens of rings or high-speed bidding
Stadium Systems offers robust auction management software designed primarily for live auctions, providing tools for bidder registration, real-time bidding displays across multiple screens, clerking, and inventory management. It excels in handling high-volume in-person events with features like absentee bidding, phone clerking, and comprehensive post-auction reporting. While it supports some hybrid capabilities, its core strength lies in traditional live auction workflows for auctioneers in industries like livestock, equipment, and collectibles.
Pros
- Powerful real-time bidding with multi-screen support
- Strong inventory and clerking tools for large events
- Detailed accounting and reporting features
Cons
- Outdated interface with a learning curve
- Limited native online/hybrid auction integration
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
Best For
Live auctioneers running high-volume in-person events like livestock or heavy equipment sales who need reliable on-site management.
Pricing
Custom pricing model starting around $5,000+ for base software with annual support fees; scales with modules and users—contact for quote.
Conclusion
The top 10 live auction software tools showcase diverse strengths, with HiBid emerging as the clear leader for its comprehensive live and simulcast capabilities, real-time features, and global accessibility. AuctionFlex stands out as a close second, offering end-to-end management that integrates clerking and accounting, while Proxibid distinguishes itself with secure real-time bidding tailored for industrial and commercial assets. Each tool caters to unique needs, ensuring there’s a solution for nearly every auction type.
To experience the pinnacle of live auction management, try HiBid—its robust features and user-friendly design are poised to elevate your auctions, engage more bidders, and drive successful outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison