Art Inventory Software
Best Artwork Archive Alternatives for 2026
Whether you're outgrowing a spreadsheet or looking for a more affordable alternative to Artwork Archive, here are the best art inventory tools available today.
What to look for in art inventory software
The best art inventory tool depends on your needs, but most artists and collectors should look for these core capabilities:
- Image management with multiple images per artwork and easy reordering
- Detailed records for dimensions, medium, year, pricing, provenance, and edition info
- Collections and organization by series, exhibition, or theme
- Sharing tools such as viewing rooms or galleries for curated selections
- Documents such as COAs, labels, invoices, and PDF catalogues
- Data portability through CSV import and export
- Affordable pricing, especially for emerging artists and solo collectors
The options, compared
Artwork Codex
Our pickIndividual artists and collectors who want a modern, affordable tool with sharing features
Strengths
- Permanent free tier (5 artworks, no time limit)
- Private viewing rooms with password protection
- Built-in public portfolio with custom branding
- Certificate of Authenticity generation
- Printable exhibition labels with QR codes
- PDF catalogues with saved history
- Edition tracking and consignment management
- CSV import, CSV/JSON/image ZIP export
Limitations
- –No native mobile app (mobile-responsive web app)
- –Newer platform with smaller user base
- –10 images per artwork (vs 15 on Artwork Archive)
Artwork Archive
Artists who want an established platform with a native iOS app
Strengths
- Established platform with large user base
- Native iOS app
- Up to 15 images per artwork
- Reports and insights
- Strong educational content and blog
Limitations
- –No free plan (14-day trial only)
- –No COA or label generation
- –Viewing rooms and portfolio only on paid tiers
- –Unlimited artworks only on $24/mo Master tier
- –Interface feels dated compared to modern tools
ArtBinder
Galleries and art dealers with larger budgets
Strengths
- Powerful presentation tools
- Built for gallery workflows
- iPad app for in-person presentations
Limitations
- –Very expensive for individual artists
- –Gallery-focused and overkill for solo practitioners
- –Must contact sales for pricing
Artlogic
High-end galleries and established artists with complex needs
Strengths
- Comprehensive gallery management
- Website integration
- Art fair and exhibition management
Limitations
- –Expensive, starting at £81/mo for artists
- –Steep learning curve
- –Built primarily for galleries, not individual artists
Spreadsheets (Excel / Google Sheets)
Artists with very small collections who want maximum flexibility
Strengths
- Free and familiar
- Complete control over fields and layout
- Easy to start
Limitations
- –No image management
- –No sharing or presentation features
- –No COAs, labels, or PDFs
- –Breaks down as collection grows
- –No mobile-friendly experience
- –Manual everything, with no automation
Try the workflow before you compare another pricing table
Launch the live demo, then start free if it feels like the right fit for the way you catalog and share work.
Free plan included. No credit card required.
Why artists are looking for Artwork Archive alternatives
Artwork Archive has been the go-to art inventory software for years, and it's a solid tool. But as the art world evolves, artists and collectors are looking for features like certificate of authenticity generation, printable exhibition labels, and more affordable pricing with a genuine free tier.
Many artists also find Artwork Archive's tiered pricing limiting. The entry-level Apprentice plan caps you at 100 pieces, and unlimited artworks require the $24/month Master plan. For emerging artists watching their budgets, that adds up.
The good news is that newer tools like Artwork Codex offer more features at a lower price point, with a genuine free tier that lets you get started without any financial commitment. If you're evaluating your options, the comparison above should help you find the right fit for your practice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch from Artwork Archive to Artwork Codex?
Yes. Export your data as CSV from Artwork Archive, then import it into Artwork Codex using our CSV import tool. The smart field mapping will match your columns automatically.
Do I need to pay to try Artwork Codex?
No. The free plan includes 5 artworks, 50 images, 1 viewing room, and 3 PDF catalogues, with no time limit. You can also start a 14-day Pro trial when you're ready to unlock all features.
What's the best free art inventory software?
Artwork Codex offers the most full-featured free plan among dedicated art inventory tools, including image management, collections, contacts, exhibitions, consignment tracking, and CSV import, all at no cost.
Is a spreadsheet good enough for art inventory?
Spreadsheets work for very small collections, but they can't handle images, generate documents like COAs or labels, or let you share viewing rooms with collectors. Most artists outgrow spreadsheets quickly as their practice develops.