Shop software comparison
Lugbird, the reliable step up from ARI
ARI is the budget favourite, especially for mobile mechanics: real features (VIN scan, DVI, invoicing) at the lowest price in the category.
Side by side
Lugbird vs ARI
Swipe the table sideways for the full comparison.
| Feature | Lugbird | ARI |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free, or $49 a month flat | Pro is $39.99 a month ($33.33 billed annually). |
| Users | Unlimited users on every plan | Unlimited users and devices on paid plans. |
| Contract | Month-to-month. Cancel self-serve in two clicks. | No contracts. |
| Data export | Full CSV export, free, any time | Not publicly documented |
| Signup | Self-serve. No demo call. | Not publicly documented |
| Digital inspections | Photo inspections on every plan | Not publicly documented |
| Online approval | Online estimate approval + live repair tracker on every plan | Not publicly documented |
| Public repair tracker | Public repair-status tracker for every RO | Not publicly documented |
ARIfigures are public pricing and terms, verified July 2026. Rows marked "not publicly documented" are not claims either way, check ARI's site or ask for a demo. Always check the vendor's site for current pricing.
Where ARI is the better pick
A one-person mobile operation that needs the absolute lowest price and can live with the rough edges.
Documented in reviews and pricing pages
- Reviewers report randomly duplicated invoice items and numbers
- Labor-time suggestions reviewers describe as inconsistent
- QuickBooks bulk invoice sync reported broken as of 2026
- Stability complaints: slow loads, logouts, glitchy pages
Questions
ARI vs Lugbird: FAQ
Pro is $39.99 a month ($33.33 billed annually). Always verify current pricing on ARI's site before you buy.
Ready to move off ARI?
Free to start, no card. Import your customers and vehicles and write your first estimate today.