Planning Center vs DonorPerfect: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Planning Center and DonorPerfect 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
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.
DonorPerfect
Comprehensive donor management and fundraising software for nonprofits to raise more funds and streamline operations.
Best for you if:
- • You need fundraising features specifically
- • All-in-one donor management and fundraising platform for nonprofits.
- • Automates tasks like gift processing, communications, and reporting to save time.
| At a Glance |  DonorPerfect | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | CRM | Fundraising |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Planning Center | DonorPerfect |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CRMVolunteer Management | FundraisingNonprofit Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Planning Center and DonorPerfect solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Planning Center positions itself as "integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement." while DonorPerfectfocuses on "comprehensive donor management and fundraising software for nonprofits to raise more funds and streamline operations.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Planning Center
Planning Center makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose DonorPerfect
DonorPerfect is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Planning Center lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Planning Center
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. DonorPerfect is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: DonorPerfect
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. DonorPerfect takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: DonorPerfect
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Planning Center, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Planning Center higher (/100). But the community has upvoted DonorPerfect more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Planning Center Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider DonorPerfect If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Planning Center. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Planning Center scores higher in our analysis, but DonorPerfect might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Planning Center or DonorPerfect better?
Based on our analysis, Planning Center scores higher with high/100. Planning Center isfreemium while DonorPerfect is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Planning Center to DonorPerfect easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Planning Center and DonorPerfect offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Planning Center is freemium with a free tier.DonorPerfect is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.