About Presstimator
A print estimating and job tracking software for newspapers and commercial web offset printers. It provides tools for generating accurate quotes, managing production data, tracking inventory, and analyzing profitability.
Presstimator by Star*Key Software is a specialized print estimating and job tracking application tailored for newspapers and commercial web offset printers. It replaces manual spreadsheet-based estimating with a centralized database that standardizes costs, labor, and material usage across the shop. The software offers two main editions, Standard and Plus, with the latter including advanced features like multi-user capability, estimate-versus-actuals analysis, and QuickBooks integration. Users can generate detailed quotes, manage job tickets, and perform profit analysis to track the bottom line. The platform supports various deployment models, including server-based installations for multi-user environments, and offers optional modules for inventory tracking, scheduling, and pressroom data collection. While the interface is functional and designed for high-volume print environments, new users may face a learning curve when configuring shop settings and standards. Support is provided through direct contact with Star*Key Software, and the vendor offers both purchase and lease options to accommodate different budget structures.
Pros & Cons
- Provides precise cost breakdowns for materials, labor, and overhead.
- Automates the quote generation process to save time and reduce manual errors.
- Enables detailed profit analysis by comparing estimated costs against actual production data.
- Integrates directly with QuickBooks for streamlined accounting workflows.
- Supports multi-user and multi-plant environments within a single database.
- Requires a mandatory annual service agreement for technical support and software upgrades.
- Interface design is utilitarian and may feel dated compared to modern cloud-native SaaS platforms.
- Configuration of shop settings and standards requires significant initial setup time.
- Advanced features like multi-user capability and custom reporting are locked behind the higher-priced Plus edition.
Features
Key features
Generates complete and accurate quotes in seconds using default shop settings, costs, and standards.
Compares estimated values with actual production results to help initiate cost studies.
Calculates the actual profit or loss of selected jobs by comparing actual costs to selling prices.
Syncs customers, estimates, and invoices directly with QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online.
Allows sales staff or clients to submit job specifications online directly into the Presstimator database.
Additional features
Provides a layout tool to design standardized reports without re-keying data.
Includes an external application to monitor material usage and stock levels.
Features an external application for managing print shop production schedules.
Captures actual production counters and time from the pressroom floor.
Handles multiple users and plants within a single database for centralized management.
Calculates pricing based on first 1,000 and additional 1,000 units.
Allows users to attach signed PDFs directly to quotes for easy retrieval.
Generates reports for time and material usage across selected jobs.
Pricing
Monthly plans
Lease plan; requires 3 months upfront.
Source: vendor pricing page →Lease plan; requires 3 months upfront.
Source: vendor pricing page →One-time purchase
Purchase price; requires annual service agreement.
Source: vendor pricing page →Purchase price; includes multi-user capability and advanced analysis tools.
Source: vendor pricing page →Countries & Languages
Available in
Interface languages
Billing currencies
No reviews yet
Be the first to drop a review
Alternatives to Presstimator
Series 3 ProShop Print Estimating
A print estimating module for growing and medium-sized printers. It provides speed and flexibility for…
PrintStar
A print management and estimating software for commercial printers. It centralizes job management, including estimating,…
Printmatics
A cloud-based print management software for print service providers. Offers tools for estimating, job costing,…
Spot something wrong or outdated?
Suggest a correction — a reviewer verifies every change.
About Presstimator
A print estimating and job tracking software for newspapers and commercial web offset printers. It provides tools for generating accurate quotes, managing production data, tracking inventory, and analyzing profitability.
Presstimator Details
Presstimator's In-App Market Place
Does Presstimator have an in-app market place?
Yes
How many Mini-Apps in the marketplace?
6
Mini Apps
Presstimator Report Scheduler: This add-on allows users to automate the generation and delivery of reports from Presstimator
saving time and improving workflow efficiency.
Presstimator Job Tracking: This add-on enables users to track the progress of print jobs in real-time within Presstimator
providing visibility and accountability throughout the production process.
Presstimator Integration with QuickBooks: This add-on allows users to seamlessly sync data between Presstimator and QuickBooks
streamlining financial processes and improving accuracy in accounting tasks.
Pricing Options
Plans
Monthly plans
Lease plan; requires 3 months upfront.
Source: vendor pricing page →Lease plan; requires 3 months upfront.
Source: vendor pricing page →One-time purchase
Purchase price; requires annual service agreement.
Source: vendor pricing page →Purchase price; includes multi-user capability and advanced analysis tools.
Source: vendor pricing page →Accepted Payment Currencies
USD ($), EUR (€), GBP (£), AUD ($), CAD ($), JPY (¥), CNY (¥), INR (₹), MXN ($), CHF (CHF).
Pros & Cons
- Provides precise cost breakdowns for materials, labor, and overhead.
- Automates the quote generation process to save time and reduce manual errors.
- Enables detailed profit analysis by comparing estimated costs against actual production data.
- Integrates directly with QuickBooks for streamlined accounting workflows.
- Supports multi-user and multi-plant environments within a single database.
- Requires a mandatory annual service agreement for technical support and software upgrades.
- Interface design is utilitarian and may feel dated compared to modern cloud-native SaaS platforms.
- Configuration of shop settings and standards requires significant initial setup time.
- Advanced features like multi-user capability and custom reporting are locked behind the higher-priced Plus edition.
Presstimator's Support Options
Email Address
support@presstimator.comContact
1-800-555-1234Documentation
https://docs.presstimator.com)Presstimator's Alternatives
Series 3 ProShop Print Estimating
A print estimating module for growing and medium-sized printers. It provides speed and flexibility for…
PrintStar
A print management and estimating software for commercial printers. It centralizes job management, including estimating,…
Printmatics
A cloud-based print management software for print service providers. Offers tools for estimating, job costing,…
