HandsOn Connect vs Planning Center: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between HandsOn Connect and Planning Center comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
HandsOn Connect
HandsOn Connect
Best for you if:
- • You need volunteer management features specifically
- • You need handson connect
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Best for you if:
- • You need crm features specifically
- • Modular church management system with a free core database.
- • Integrates various church functions like people management, giving, and events.
| At a Glance |  HandsOn Connect | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Volunteer Management | CRM |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | HandsOn Connect | Planning Center |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Volunteer ManagementNonprofit Tools | CRMVolunteer Management |
How HandsOn Connect and Planning Center Compare
HandsOn Connect
HandsOn Connect
Free tier available
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Free tier available
HandsOn Connect is a volunteer management tool. Planning Center is in crm.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: HandsOn Connect
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: HandsOn Connect
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: HandsOn Connect
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
HandsOn Connect is a volunteer management tool. Planning Center is in crm. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
HandsOn Connect
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Planning Center
- Better fit for crm
The Bottom Line
HandsOn Connect is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HandsOn Connect or Planning Center better?
HandsOn Connect scores high/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are HandsOn Connect and Planning Center used for?
HandsOn Connect: HandsOn Connect. Planning Center: Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement..
What does HandsOn Connect cost vs Planning Center?
HandsOn Connect is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Planning Center is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.