BarTender vs EngView Packaging Suite

BarTender creates, manages, and prints labels, barcodes, RFID tags, and other product identifiers. Its design tools support more than 100 linear and 2D barcode symbologies and standards, RFID encoding, and a library of more than 400 label templates. The on-premises product can print from local workstations, browsers, and mobile devices, with more than 11,000 printer drivers. The Automation edition adds REST APIs, File Drop, no-code builders, and more than 70 trigger actions. Listed connectors include SAP, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, and Workday, alongside REST APIs and custom integrations for more than 20 enterprise platforms. On-premises security features include role-based permissions, document encryption, license server redundancy, and printer failover options. BarTender can operate without an internet connection and supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails and electronic signatures. The on-premises operating-system requirements are 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 and Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022, or 2025. Starter costs $199 a year; a 30-day Enterprise Edition trial supports up to three printers.

EngView Packaging Suite is CAD/CAM software for structural packaging design and production, including boxes and POP/POS displays. Its workflow runs from concept and dieline creation through 3D visualization and production output. The design library contains over 2,500 ready-to-use packaging standards, including the full ECMA and FEFCO codes. Adobe Illustrator integration supports artwork application, 3D viewing, and production-ready file generation. The 3D Presenter creates visualizations with artwork and finishing effects and can output 3D PDF and web3D files. Layout Optimizer arranges designs on sheets to minimize waste and can nest multiple one-ups or artworks. The CAM module supports cutting plotters, lasers, and waterjets, with tool paths intended to minimize cutting time. An API allows the parametric design technology to be integrated into web-to-print platforms, packaging e-shops, and custom applications. The suite includes dieline editing and import, preflight checks, and cloud collaboration. Lite costs €760 a year, Standard €2,080 a year, and Professional €3,620 a year. A 10-day free trial is available after registration and contact with a local representative.