Head-to-head · Auto Repair Software
Shopmonkey vs ARI
Shopmonkey leads on 0 checks, ARI on 1, and 4 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 5 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreShopmonkey · 8.7/10
- Lowest starting priceARI · $33.33/mo
Shopmonkey scores higher on our rubric for auto repair software: 8.7 against 7.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #3 and #6.
ARI is cheaper to start at $33.33/mo against $215/mo.
Shopmonkey is the better fit for shops seeking polished all-in-one operations. ARI is the better fit for budget-conscious shops needing broad workflows.
- Shopmonkey fits best
Shops seeking polished all-in-one operations
- ARI fits best
Budget-conscious shops needing broad workflows
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Side by side
| Feature | Shopmonkey 8.7/10 Visit ↗ | ARI 7.9/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.7 | 7.9 |
| Ranking | #3 in Auto Repair Software | #6 in Auto Repair Software |
| Best for | Shops seeking polished all-in-one operations | Budget-conscious shops needing broad workflows |
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | $215/mo | $33.33/mo (best) |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web, Windows, iOS, Android |
| Support | Email, Live chat, Phone, Docs · 24/7 | Email · 24/7 |
| Integrations | 8 integrations | 11 integrations |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business, Mid-market |
| Features Shopmonkey 3/6 · ARI 3/6 | ||
| Work orders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Digital inspections | ✓ | ✓ |
| Appointment scheduling | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Parts inventory | ✓ | ✓ |
| Customer messaging | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Mobile app | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Location support | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Shopmonkey brings shop operations into a cloud-based system for automotive repair, tire, quick-lube, heavy-duty and multi-location businesses. It is aimed at shops that want repair orders, estimates, inspections, customer communication,… Read the review → |
ARI brings customer and vehicle records, work orders, estimates, digital inspections and invoicing into one system for mobile mechanics, independent technicians, repair shops, dealers and other auto-care businesses. Its scope extends to… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Shopmonkey — where it wins
- Connects repair orders, estimates, inspections, inventory and payments
- Supports parts ordering through PartsTech, Nexpart and RepairLink
- Offers web and mobile access with multi-shop operations options
Where it doesn't
- Basic starts at $239/month monthly or $215/month with annual billing
- Clever and Genius tiers cost more for growing-shop and full-management packages
- The published feature set spans many workflows, which may exceed a shop's needs
ARI — where it wins
- Connects work orders, estimates, approvals, inspections and invoicing
- Tracks inventory, technician time, appointments and vehicle service history
- Supports web, Windows, iOS and Android, plus payment and shop integrations
Where it doesn't
- Free access is a trial capped at five items in several categories
- ARI Pro Plus costs more, while listed highlights match ARI Pro
- Support is listed through email, which may not suit shops needing phone help
- Shopmonkey8.7/10 · Paid
A broad repair-shop system for work orders, inspections, parts, customer communication and payments.
Visit ShopmonkeyFull verdict → - ARI7.9/10 · Paid
ARI connects repair workflows, though ongoing use starts at $33.33/month billed annually.
Visit ARIFull verdict →
Shopmonkey vs ARI: questions
Which is better for auto repair software, Shopmonkey or ARI?
Shopmonkey scores higher on our rubric for auto repair software: 8.7 against 7.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #3 and #6.
How do Shopmonkey and ARI compare?
Of the 5 checks we put side by side, Shopmonkey leads on none, ARI on 1, and 4 are level. ARI costs less: $33.33/mo vs $215/mo.
Which costs less, Shopmonkey or ARI?
ARI costs less: $33.33/mo vs $215/mo.
Do Shopmonkey and ARI have a free plan?
Shopmonkey: No. ARI: No.
More comparisons
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- Shop-Ware vs ARI
- Fullbay vs ARI
- ARI vs Auto Repair Cloud
- ARI vs NAPA TRACS
All auto repair software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
Last updated · How we research and update