Quick Overview
- 1#1: EFI PrintSmith Vision - Provides comprehensive job estimating, scheduling, and production management for commercial print businesses.
- 2#2: EFI Avanti - Offers integrated MIS/ERP with advanced estimating capabilities for print shops of all sizes.
- 3#3: Tharstern - Delivers intelligent workflow automation and precise estimating for digital and offset printing.
- 4#4: ZPI Dash Pricing - Cloud-based estimating tool that instantly calculates print job costs with customizable pricing rules.
- 5#5: Logic Print - Cloud ERP software specialized in estimating and managing print production workflows globally.
- 6#6: PrestigeDigm - Desktop estimating software for accurate costing of sheetfed, web, and digital print jobs.
- 7#7: PrintPLANR - Web-based platform for quick print estimating, quoting, and order management.
- 8#8: Piranha - Flexible estimating and job management system tailored for label, packaging, and commercial printers.
- 9#9: RAJA - Affordable print MIS with robust estimating features for small to medium print businesses.
- 10#10: ShopWorks - Estimating and production software designed for sign shops and wide-format print operations.
We ranked tools based on feature depth (including customization, integration, and automation), reliability, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring coverage of varied needs—from small shops to large enterprises—and different print types.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right printing estimating software is key to optimizing operations and boosting profitability, as a variety of tools exist to align with different business needs. This comparison table explores options like EFI PrintSmith Vision, EFI Avanti, Tharstern, ZPI Dash Pricing, and Logic Print, helping readers assess features, workflows, and fit for their unique requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EFI PrintSmith Vision Provides comprehensive job estimating, scheduling, and production management for commercial print businesses. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | EFI Avanti Offers integrated MIS/ERP with advanced estimating capabilities for print shops of all sizes. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Tharstern Delivers intelligent workflow automation and precise estimating for digital and offset printing. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | ZPI Dash Pricing Cloud-based estimating tool that instantly calculates print job costs with customizable pricing rules. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Logic Print Cloud ERP software specialized in estimating and managing print production workflows globally. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | PrestigeDigm Desktop estimating software for accurate costing of sheetfed, web, and digital print jobs. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | PrintPLANR Web-based platform for quick print estimating, quoting, and order management. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Piranha Flexible estimating and job management system tailored for label, packaging, and commercial printers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | RAJA Affordable print MIS with robust estimating features for small to medium print businesses. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | ShopWorks Estimating and production software designed for sign shops and wide-format print operations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
Provides comprehensive job estimating, scheduling, and production management for commercial print businesses.
Offers integrated MIS/ERP with advanced estimating capabilities for print shops of all sizes.
Delivers intelligent workflow automation and precise estimating for digital and offset printing.
Cloud-based estimating tool that instantly calculates print job costs with customizable pricing rules.
Cloud ERP software specialized in estimating and managing print production workflows globally.
Desktop estimating software for accurate costing of sheetfed, web, and digital print jobs.
Web-based platform for quick print estimating, quoting, and order management.
Flexible estimating and job management system tailored for label, packaging, and commercial printers.
Affordable print MIS with robust estimating features for small to medium print businesses.
Estimating and production software designed for sign shops and wide-format print operations.
EFI PrintSmith Vision
enterpriseProvides comprehensive job estimating, scheduling, and production management for commercial print businesses.
VisualFront estimator with drag-and-drop interface for instant, accurate quoting of multi-substrate, variable-data jobs
EFI PrintSmith Vision is a comprehensive MIS/ERP platform tailored for the printing industry, offering advanced estimating, job management, production planning, and fulfillment capabilities. It automates workflows from quote to delivery, integrating with RIPs, cutters, and web-to-print systems for seamless operations. With real-time costing, dynamic pricing rules, and extensive customization, it empowers printers to handle complex jobs efficiently and boost profitability.
Pros
- Powerful estimating engine with unlimited substrates, operations, and real-time pricing adjustments
- Deep integrations with EFI Fiery, JDF/JMF workflows, and third-party hardware/software
- Robust analytics, reporting, and automation for end-to-end production visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full utilization
- High initial and ongoing costs, especially for smaller operations
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial printers and in-plants needing scalable, feature-rich estimating and MIS for high-volume, complex jobs.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; core modules start around $1,000-$2,500/month with annual contracts, plus implementation fees.
EFI Avanti
enterpriseOffers integrated MIS/ERP with advanced estimating capabilities for print shops of all sizes.
Rules-based estimating engine that dynamically handles complex pricing variables like substrates, finishes, and volumes
EFI Avanti is a robust Management Information System (MIS) and workflow automation platform tailored for the printing industry, with advanced estimating capabilities for offset, digital, large-format, and packaging production. It automates accurate cost calculations, job quoting, and pricing based on rules-driven configurations, integrating seamlessly with production scheduling, inventory, and accounting. Designed for scalability, it supports complex enterprise workflows while providing real-time data insights to optimize print shop operations.
Pros
- Highly accurate rules-based estimating for diverse print substrates and processes
- Deep integrations with EFI ecosystem and third-party RIPs, ERP systems
- Scalable architecture supporting high-volume enterprise print operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring training
- Premium pricing with custom quotes often exceeding $20K annually
- Overkill for small shops with basic estimating needs
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial print providers needing enterprise-grade estimating integrated with full production workflows.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing; typically $10,000–$50,000+ annually based on modules, users, and production volume.
Tharstern
enterpriseDelivers intelligent workflow automation and precise estimating for digital and offset printing.
Dynamic estimating database with over 10,000 pre-configured substrates, operations, and real-time profitability analysis
Tharstern is a comprehensive cloud-based MIS and estimating software tailored for the printing industry, enabling precise cost calculations for complex print jobs across substrates, formats, and finishing options. It integrates estimating with full workflow management, including CRM, job tracking, scheduling, and production integration. The platform supports real-time collaboration and data-driven decisions to optimize profitability and efficiency in print operations.
Pros
- Highly accurate estimating engine with extensive database of materials, processes, and pricing
- Seamless integration with production workflows, ERP, and third-party tools like EFI and Caldera
- Scalable for growing businesses with real-time dashboards and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for smaller operations
- Limited mobile app functionality compared to desktop experience
Best For
Mid-sized to large print shops seeking an all-in-one MIS solution with advanced estimating for complex, high-volume jobs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $200-500 per user/month depending on modules and scale; annual contracts common.
ZPI Dash Pricing
specializedCloud-based estimating tool that instantly calculates print job costs with customizable pricing rules.
Instant quoting engine with 10,000+ pre-built print products and dynamic pricing rules for unmatched speed in diverse job types
ZPI Dash Pricing is a cloud-based estimating and quoting software tailored for the printing industry, allowing users to generate accurate bids for digital, offset, large-format, and packaging jobs. It features a vast database of pre-configured print products, materials, and processes for rapid pricing calculations. The tool integrates with MIS/ERP systems like EFI Pace and offers real-time updates to reflect market changes in substrates and labor costs.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 10,000 print items and substrates for quick setup
- Seamless integrations with popular print MIS like EFI and Avanti
- Cloud-based access enables remote estimating and team collaboration
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small shops or startups
- Steep learning curve for customizing complex multi-pass jobs
- Relies on manual updates for niche regional material costs
Best For
Mid-sized print shops handling diverse commercial and packaging jobs that need fast, scalable estimating integrated into existing workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $199/month for basic access, scaling to $500+/month for enterprise features and unlimited users.
Logic Print
specializedCloud ERP software specialized in estimating and managing print production workflows globally.
Extensive library of 1,000+ pre-defined printing products with real-time, rule-based cost engines
Logic Print is a cloud-based ERP and estimating software tailored for the printing industry, automating accurate quotes for offset, digital, large format, and packaging jobs. It integrates estimating with production planning, inventory management, CRM, and accounting for seamless workflow control. The platform features over 1,000 pre-configured products and real-time cost calculations based on materials, makeready, and press setups.
Pros
- Precise print-specific estimating with automated calculations
- Full ERP integration for end-to-end shop management
- Cloud accessibility and multi-user collaboration
Cons
- Initial learning curve due to extensive features
- Higher pricing tiers for advanced modules
- Limited native integrations with non-print software
Best For
Mid-sized print shops seeking comprehensive estimating and production management in one platform.
Pricing
Subscription starts at €79/month for basic estimating, scaling to €299+/month for full ERP features.
PrestigeDigm
specializedDesktop estimating software for accurate costing of sheetfed, web, and digital print jobs.
Advanced dynamic pricing engine that automatically factors in substrate costs, run lengths, and market fluctuations for instant accurate quotes
PrestigeDigm is a cloud-based estimating and production management software tailored for the printing industry, enabling users to create precise quotes for offset, digital, and wide-format print jobs. It automates cost calculations for materials, labor, presses, and finishing processes while integrating job tracking and CRM functionalities. The platform supports custom product builders and real-time updates to streamline workflows from estimate to invoicing.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built print templates and calculators
- Strong integration with MIS and accounting systems like QuickBooks
- Real-time collaboration tools for sales and production teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to detailed configuration options
- Higher pricing tier compared to basic estimators
- Limited mobile app functionality for on-the-go access
Best For
Mid-sized commercial print shops needing robust, customizable estimating for complex jobs.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $295/month for core estimating module, scaling to $1,000+/month for full enterprise features with custom quotes available.
PrintPLANR
specializedWeb-based platform for quick print estimating, quoting, and order management.
Instant one-click estimating from an extensive database of 1,000+ industry-standard print products
PrintPLANR is a cloud-based printing estimating software tailored for print shops, offering instant quoting for over 1,000 pre-configured products including business cards, brochures, and large-format prints. It integrates estimating with production planning, scheduling, and job tracking to optimize workflows. The platform emphasizes accuracy through customizable calculators and MIS integrations, helping businesses reduce errors and win more bids.
Pros
- Vast library of 1,000+ products for quick, accurate estimates
- Seamless integration with production scheduling and MIS systems
- Cloud-based access for remote teams and real-time collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited third-party integrations beyond core print MIS
- Higher pricing tiers required for full enterprise features
Best For
Mid-sized print shops needing precise estimating combined with production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for basic plan (up to 5 users), $199/month for pro, custom enterprise pricing.
Piranha
specializedFlexible estimating and job management system tailored for label, packaging, and commercial printers.
Universal Estimator that seamlessly calculates costs across all print disciplines in a single engine
Piranha is a comprehensive MIS/ERP software designed specifically for the printing industry, offering powerful estimating capabilities for offset, digital, wide-format, and packaging jobs. It streamlines the entire workflow from quoting and order entry to production scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing. The platform provides real-time job tracking, cost analysis, and profitability reporting to help print shops optimize operations. Its modular design allows customization to fit various shop sizes and specialties.
Pros
- Highly accurate Universal Estimator supporting over 100 print processes and substrates
- Full workflow integration reducing manual data entry
- Strong analytics and reporting for profitability insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller shops
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized to large print shops handling diverse job types that need a scalable, all-in-one MIS for complex estimating and production management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $500/month for basic modules, scaling up to $2,000+/month for enterprise setups with full features and support.
RAJA
specializedAffordable print MIS with robust estimating features for small to medium print businesses.
Advanced multi-process estimating engine that accurately calculates costs for complex finishing and substrates in one quote
RAJA by RaaSoft is a specialized desktop software designed for printing companies to create accurate estimates across offset, digital, large format, and packaging printing. It includes tools for job costing, production planning, scheduling, and invoicing, helping streamline operations from quote to delivery. With customizable calculators for materials, labor, and substrates, it supports complex print workflows for commercial printers.
Pros
- Comprehensive estimating for multiple print processes including offset and digital
- Detailed job tracking and production scheduling integration
- Highly customizable pricing calculators for substrates and finishes
Cons
- Dated user interface with a steep learning curve
- Windows-only desktop application, no cloud or mobile support
- Complex initial setup and configuration
Best For
Mid-sized commercial print shops needing robust on-premise estimating for diverse printing methods.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting around $5,000-$15,000 depending on modules, plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%.
ShopWorks
specializedEstimating and production software designed for sign shops and wide-format print operations.
Advanced dynamic estimating with real-time cost modeling and 'what-if' scenario planning for complex jobs
ShopWorks is a comprehensive print shop management software with robust estimating capabilities tailored for the printing industry. It enables users to create accurate quotes for offset, digital, wide-format, and packaging jobs by factoring in materials, labor, and overheads. The platform also integrates estimating with job tracking, scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing for end-to-end workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Highly accurate and flexible estimating engine supporting diverse print types and custom calculations
- Seamless integration with production scheduling, inventory, and accounting systems like QuickBooks
- Strong reporting and analytics for cost analysis and profitability tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and somewhat dated interface
- Pricing can be high for smaller shops without modular options
- Limited native mobile app functionality for on-the-go estimating
Best For
Mid-sized print shops needing an all-in-one solution for precise estimating integrated with full shop operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $250-$500 per month depending on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Conclusion
The top three tools—EFI PrintSmith Vision, EFI Avanti, and Tharstern—rise above the rest, with PrintSmith Vision leading for its comprehensive job managing capabilities, Avanti offering integrated MIS/ERP strengths, and Tharstern excelling in intelligent workflow automation. While these three stand out, the broader lineup provides strong options, ensuring there is a fit for various business sizes and printing needs.
Ready to enhance your print operations? Start with the top-ranked tool, EFI PrintSmith Vision, to simplify estimating, scheduling, and production for streamlined success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison