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KidCheck vs Planning Center: Which Should You Choose in 2026?

Choosing between KidCheck 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:

KidCheck

Secure and efficient children's check-in system for organizations.

Best for you if:

  • • You need volunteer management features specifically
  • Enhances child safety with secure check-in and communication tools.
  • Streamlines check-in processes with mobile and express options.

Planning Center

Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.

Best for you if:

  • • You want to try before committing
  • • 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
KidCheckKidCheck
Planning CenterPlanning Center
Price
PaidFree + Paid
Best For
Volunteer ManagementCRM
Rating
/100/100
FeatureKidCheckPlanning Center
Pricing ModelPaidFreemium
Editorial Score
Community RatingNo ratings yetNo ratings yet
Total Reviews00
Community Upvotes
0
0
Categories
Volunteer ManagementNonprofit Tools
CRMVolunteer Management

How KidCheck and Planning Center Compare

KidCheck

Secure and efficient children's check-in system for organizations.

Paid

Planning Center

Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.

Free tier available

KidCheck is a volunteer management tool. Planning Center is in crm.

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

Planning Center has a free tier. KidCheck is paid only.

Go with: Planning Center

Want the highest-rated option?

Neither has been rated yet.

Go with: KidCheck

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: KidCheck

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

KidCheck is paid. Planning Center is freemium. Planning Center lets you start free.

2

What's your use case?

KidCheck is a volunteer management tool. Planning Center is in crm. Pick the category that matches your needs.

3

How important are ratings?

Not all tools have been rated yet.

Key Takeaways

KidCheck

  • Our pick for this comparison

Planning Center

  • Has a free tier
  • Better fit for crm

The Bottom Line

KidCheck is our pick. Planning Center has a free tier if you want to test without paying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is KidCheck or Planning Center better?

KidCheck scores high/100 in our evaluation. KidCheck is paid and Planning Center is freemium.

What are KidCheck and Planning Center used for?

KidCheck: Secure and efficient children's check-in system for organizations.. Planning Center: Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement..

What does KidCheck cost vs Planning Center?

KidCheck is a paid tool. Planning Center is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

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