When to choose Fergus
Consider Fergus if estimating and understanding job costs are central to the way you run work. Its pricing distinguishes full users from timesheet users, so decide who needs to manage quotes and invoices and who only needs to record time. The advertised full-user prices are “from” figures. Ask for the complete configuration rather than multiplying a headline amount and assuming every role or feature is covered.
When to choose ServiceM8
Consider ServiceM8 if several people need access but your monthly job volume is modest. Paid subscriptions allow unlimited users, so a shared office-and-field workflow does not automatically mean buying a seat for every person. The trade-off is the job allowance: check how your actual monthly workload fits. A solo operator can assess the free plan, but its single-user and job limits matter. Test advanced tasks on the phones your team uses before committing.
Compare the real subscription cost
Fergus Essentials (from) starts at GBP 39 per user per month. VAT treatment is not established in the checked price record. ServiceM8 Free starts at GBP 0 per business per month. The published amount excludes VAT. Compare the plan that covers the work you need, including office and field users, any job allowance and extras. These starting figures do not establish the final bill for the same team or the same scope. Keep currencies and payment commitments separate.
The plan differences that can change the decision
Fergus: Estimates support reusable material and labour combinations. Invoicing and job-cost tracking are documented. Invoices and contacts sync with Xero. ServiceM8: Recurring jobs are listed across the plans. Purchased forms work on all plans; custom form creation requires Growing or higher. Customers can choose a service, receive a quote and reserve a time. These distinctions are reasons to inspect the workflow during a trial or demo. An unverified item in the table means the checked evidence is incomplete, not that the product cannot perform that task. In particular, establish the exact certificate or accounting transaction needed rather than accepting a broad feature name.
Restrictions and buying questions
Fergus: Full users are billed monthly. Timesheet-only users start at GBP 12 per month. Larger teams can request a custom plan. Confirm VAT and the final number of full licences. ServiceM8: The current UK pricing FAQ describes near-identical Android and iOS functionality. UK invoices use reverse-charge VAT treatment; confirm it with your accountant.
What to test before deciding
Use one job with labour and materials, then model your normal monthly volume. Check who can change an estimate, who records time, and whether the completed job contains enough detail to understand its cost. Fergus: No payment card required. ServiceM8: No payment card required; full feature access. Use a representative sample job rather than customer data you do not need for the test. Ask which trial or demonstration features remain in the plan being quoted, and record any manual steps or extras before deciding.