Shelby Systems vs Planning Center: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shelby Systems 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 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Shelby Systems
Comprehensive ministry management software for churches and non-profit organizations.
Best for you if:
- • Integrated church management and financial software.
- • Cloud-based platform with mobile app, online giving, and website tools.
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Modular church management system with a free core database.
- • Integrates various church functions like people management, giving, and events.
| At a Glance |  Shelby Systems |  Planning Center |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CRM | CRM |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Shelby Systems | Planning Center |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CRMAccounting | CRMVolunteer Management |
How Shelby Systems and Planning Center Compare
Shelby Systems
Comprehensive ministry management software for churches and non-profit organizations.
Paid
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Planning Center has a free tier. Shelby Systems is paid only.
Go with: Planning Center
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Shelby Systems
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Shelby Systems
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Shelby Systems is paid. Planning Center is freemium. Planning Center lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are crm tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Shelby Systems
- Our pick for this comparison
Planning Center
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Shelby Systems is our pick. Planning Center has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shelby Systems or Planning Center better?
Shelby Systems scores high/100 in our evaluation. Shelby Systems is paid and Planning Center is freemium.
What are Shelby Systems and Planning Center used for?
Shelby Systems: Comprehensive ministry management software for churches and non-profit organizations.. Planning Center: Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement..
What does Shelby Systems cost vs Planning Center?
Shelby Systems is a paid tool. Planning Center is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.