Fergus and Tradify are both New Zealand-built job management apps, which makes them natural rivals for Kiwi trade businesses. They overlap a lot, but they pull in different directions: Fergus is built around job costing and profitability, while Tradify prioritises simplicity and speed. Here's how they compare.
Pricing and features are accurate as of June 2026 but change often - check each vendor's website for current details. TradeFlow isn't affiliated with these products; this is an independent comparison for NZ tradies. One exception: if you sign up to Tradify through our link we may earn a referral commission - it doesn't change where it sits in this guide. (Tradify and Fergus prices are NZD; ServiceM8 is AUD; Simpro is quote-based.)
Pricing
- Tradify - per user per month: $48 NZD (Lite), $52 (Pro), $62 (Plus), plus a Custom tier.
- Fergus - from $53 NZD/month (Basic) and $75 (Professional), with timesheet users at $22/month each, and an Enterprise tier for 10+ staff.
Both are monthly, no lock-in, with free trials. The structures differ, so price it against your actual team.
The core difference: simplicity vs job costing
- Tradify is designed to be picked up fast. If your priority is getting from quote to scheduled job to paid invoice with minimal fuss, it shines - especially for solo operators and small teams.
- Fergus puts job costing and profitability front and centre, with job phases, purchase orders and detailed financial reporting on its Professional plan. If you run bigger or multi-stage jobs (it's popular with plumbers) and want to see the margin on every job, Fergus has the edge.
Features side by side
| Tradify | Fergus | |
|---|---|---|
| Quoting & invoicing | Yes | Yes |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
| Job costing / profitability | Good | Strong focus |
| Health & safety | Yes (Pro+) | Yes (Professional) |
| Accounting sync | Xero, MYOB, QBO | Xero, MYOB, QBO |
| Best for | Simplicity, small teams | Costing, larger/plumbing jobs |
Who should pick which?
Choose Tradify if you want the simplest, fastest path to getting paid and a gentle learning curve. Choose Fergus if margin visibility and job costing on complex jobs matter more than simplicity. Both integrate with Xero, so your accountant is happy either way. Still deciding between the wider field? See our best job management software NZ roundup.
Frequently asked questions
Are Fergus and Tradify both made in New Zealand?
Yes - both are New Zealand-founded job management platforms.
Is Fergus or Tradify better for plumbers?
Fergus is especially popular with plumbing and larger residential operations thanks to its job-costing focus. Tradify still suits plumbers who prioritise simplicity over detailed costing.
Which is easier to use?
Tradify is generally considered the simpler, faster app to learn. Fergus offers more depth (and complexity) around costing and reporting.
Sources
Update log
- 24 June 2026 - Published. Pricing and platform details verified against each vendor's website in June 2026.
Last reviewed: 24 June 2026.