Compare / CadVex vs Uptool
CadVex vs Uptool: the estimate, not just the inbox
Uptool helps you organise RFQs: it catches them from email and tracks them in a built-in CRM. But a tidy inbox doesn't tell you how long a part takes to machine. CadVex does: it plans the setups on your machines, shows the machining time of every feature, flags costly features before you quote, and runs offline on your own computer for ITAR and NDA work.
| CadVex | Uptool | |
|---|---|---|
| Quote ITAR and NDA parts without uploading them | Yes. CadVex Desktop runs on your own computer, even offline | No. Cloud only; files are uploaded to its cloud (AWS GovCloud, states ITAR handling) |
| Machining time for every feature | Yes, in the feature tree | Not stated publicly |
| Your own machines | Yes, pick the machine per part or per setup, with a speed factor | Not stated publicly |
| How time is estimated | Setups and operations planned on your machines | Material and operations calculators, customizable workflows |
| DFM feedback | Yes | Not stated publicly |
| Reads the PDF drawing | Yes: material, finish, threads, tolerances, notes | Yes; fields read not stated publicly |
| Processes | Milling and turning | "Machine and fab shops"; specific processes not stated publicly |
| RFQ inbox and CRM | No | Yes, built in, with QuickBooks sync |
| Pricing | Pay per analysis, or Desktop licence | Monthly plans by company size, with a free tier |
Where Uptool is strong
Uptool pulls RFQs straight from your inbox, tracks them in a built-in CRM, syncs with QuickBooks and runs month to month. It also states ITAR handling with a US-person workforce. If your bottleneck is organising RFQs rather than estimating them, it fits well.
Why shops pick CadVex over Uptool
- Machining time from the part itself, not a calculator. CadVex plans setups and operations on your machines and shows the time for every feature in the feature tree.
- Your machines, your choice. Pick which machine runs the whole part or each setup, and the estimate follows that machine's speed.
- Catch problems before you quote. DFM feedback flags features that are hard or costly to machine.
- Your files never leave your building. CadVex Desktop runs fully offline, drawing reading included, so ITAR and NDA parts are never uploaded.