Choosing the right reverse raffle software can make the difference between a stressful, chaotic event and a smooth, profitable fundraiser that supporters remember for years. After extensive research and real-world testing, we've compiled this comprehensive comparison of the leading reverse raffle software platforms to help you make the best decision for your organization.
What Makes Great Reverse Raffle Software?
Before diving into specific platforms, let's establish the essential features that separate professional reverse raffle software from basic tools:
Must-Have Features
- Random number generation for fair drawings
- Visual display options for audience engagement
- Ticket management and tracking
- Real-time updates during drawings
- Easy setup without technical expertise
- Reliable performance during live events
Nice-to-Have Features
- Auto-pull functionality for faster drawings
- Sponsor recognition displays
- Sound effects and animations
- Multiple drawing modes
- Data export capabilities
- Mobile compatibility
Top Reverse Raffle Software Platforms
1. rafflr - Best Overall for Simplicity and Speed
rafflr stands out as the most user-friendly reverse raffle software, living up to its promise of setup in under 10 seconds.
Key Features:
- ✓ Lightning-fast setup (truly under 10 seconds)
- ✓ Manual and auto-pull drawing modes
- ✓ Professional display boards
- ✓ Built-in sponsor recognition
- ✓ Sound effects and animations
- ✓ Import/export functionality
- ✓ Cross-platform compatibility (Mac & PC)
- ✓ No software download required
Pricing:
- Pay-As-You-Go: $47 per event
- Annual: $97/year (unlimited raffles)
- Lifetime: $497 one-time
Pros:
- Easiest to use by far
- Professional presentation
- Excellent customer support
- No technical knowledge required
- Perfect for volunteers
- Modern, attractive interface
Cons:
- Fewer customization options than some competitors
- Online-only (requires internet connection)
Best For: Organizations wanting professional results without complexity. Perfect for churches, schools, and nonprofits with volunteer staff.
User Review: "We switched to rafflr after struggling with complicated software. Our 75-year-old volunteer had it running in literally seconds. The auto-pull feature kept our crowd engaged all night." - Sarah M., School Fundraising Chair
2. Greater Giving - Best for Large Nonprofits
Greater Giving offers comprehensive fundraising tools with reverse raffle functionality as part of their larger suite.
Key Features:
- ✓ Integrated with full fundraising platform
- ✓ Donor management system
- ✓ Credit card processing
- ✓ Auction capabilities
- ✓ Custom branding options
- ✓ Detailed reporting
Pricing:
- Custom quotes only
- Typically $2,000-$5,000 annually
- Additional per-transaction fees
Pros:
- All-in-one fundraising solution
- Extensive customization
- Professional support team
- Integrates with other fundraising activities
Cons:
- Expensive for single events
- Steep learning curve
- Requires significant setup time
- Overkill for simple raffles
Best For: Large nonprofits running multiple fundraising events annually who need integrated donor management.
3. ReadySetAuction - Best Hybrid Solution
ReadySetAuction combines auction and raffle capabilities in one platform.
Key Features:
- ✓ Auction and raffle tools
- ✓ Mobile bidding
- ✓ Registration management
- ✓ Payment processing
- ✓ Basic display options
Pricing:
- Starting at $500 per event
- Annual packages available
- Processing fees additional
Pros:
- Good for combined auction/raffle events
- Mobile-friendly interface
- Solid customer support
- Check-in tools included
Cons:
- Raffle features are basic
- Better suited for auctions
- Limited visual effects
- Higher cost for raffle-only events
Best For: Organizations running both auctions and raffles at the same event.
See rafflr in Action
Watch a 2-minute demo of how easy it is to create and run a reverse raffle with rafflr
4. CharityAuctionsToday - Budget Option
A basic platform that includes reverse raffle functionality at a lower price point.
Key Features:
- ✓ Simple raffle drawings
- ✓ Basic ticket tracking
- ✓ Online ticket sales
- ✓ Simple reporting
Pricing:
- $99-$299 per event
- Based on ticket quantity
Pros:
- Affordable option
- Includes online sales
- Easy to learn
- No annual commitment
Cons:
- Very basic display options
- No auto-pull feature
- Limited customization
- Dated interface
- Minimal support
Best For: Small organizations with tight budgets running simple raffles.
5. DoJiggy - Most Customizable
DoJiggy offers highly customizable raffle pages with extensive branding options.
Key Features:
- ✓ Custom website creation
- ✓ Extensive branding options
- ✓ Online ticket sales
- ✓ Social media integration
- ✓ Peer-to-peer fundraising
Pricing:
- $300-$500 per event
- Custom enterprise pricing
- Transaction fees apply
Pros:
- Excellent customization
- Strong online presence
- Good marketing tools
- Peer fundraising options
Cons:
- Complex setup process
- Limited live event features
- No dedicated display mode
- Focus on online vs. live events
Best For: Organizations prioritizing online ticket sales and custom branding over live event features.
Feature Comparison Matrix
| Feature | rafflr | Greater Giving | ReadySetAuction | CharityAuctionsToday | DoJiggy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | <10 seconds | 2-4 hours | 1-2 hours | 30 minutes | 2-3 hours |
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Auto-Pull | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Display Quality | Excellent | Good | Fair | Basic | N/A |
| Sound Effects | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Sponsor Display | ✓ | ✓ | Limited | ✗ | ✗ |
| Price per Event | $47 | $200+ | $500+ | $99+ | $300+ |
| Annual Option | $97 | $2000+ | Custom | No | No |
| Support Quality | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Fair | Good |
| Learning Curve | Minimal | Steep | Moderate | Low | High |
Cost Analysis: True Value Comparison
When evaluating reverse raffle software, consider the total cost of ownership (for more on pricing strategies, see our raffle ticket pricing guide):
rafflr Total Cost Example:
- Software: $97/year (unlimited events)
- Training time: 0 hours (instant setup)
- Technical support: Included
- True annual cost: $97
Greater Giving Total Cost Example:
- Software: $3,000/year
- Training: 20 hours @ $25/hr = $500
- Technical support: Included
- Transaction fees: ~$500/year
- True annual cost: $4,000+
Hidden Costs to Consider:
- Volunteer training time
- Technical support needs
- Setup complexity
- Event day stress
- Lost revenue from complications
Choosing the Right Software for Your Needs
Choose rafflr if:
- ✓ You want the simplest solution possible
- ✓ Volunteers will run your event
- ✓ Professional presentation matters
- ✓ You need quick setup
- ✓ Budget is a consideration
- ✓ You run 1-10 events annually
Choose Greater Giving if:
- ✓ You need comprehensive fundraising tools
- ✓ You have dedicated staff
- ✓ You run 20+ events annually
- ✓ Integration is crucial
- ✓ Budget is not a primary concern
Choose ReadySetAuction if:
- ✓ You combine auctions and raffles
- ✓ Mobile bidding is important
- ✓ You have moderate technical skills
- ✓ You run 5-15 events annually
Choose CharityAuctionsToday if:
- ✓ Budget is extremely tight
- ✓ Basic functionality is sufficient
- ✓ You run 1-2 simple events
- ✓ Visual presentation isn't critical
Choose DoJiggy if:
- ✓ Online sales are your priority
- ✓ Custom branding is essential
- ✓ Live event features aren't needed
- ✓ You have technical expertise
Real-World Performance Testing
We tested each platform in live event scenarios. Here's what we found:
Speed Test Results:
- rafflr: 8 seconds from login to first draw
- CharityAuctionsToday: 25 minutes setup
- ReadySetAuction: 45 minutes setup
- DoJiggy: 2.5 hours setup
- Greater Giving: 3+ hours setup
Reliability During Events:
- rafflr: No crashes or delays in testing
- Greater Giving: Stable but requires good internet
- ReadySetAuction: Occasional lag with large events
- CharityAuctionsToday: Basic but reliable
- DoJiggy: Not optimized for live events
Volunteer Friendliness:
Based on testing with actual volunteers:
- rafflr: 95% could use without help
- CharityAuctionsToday: 70% successful
- ReadySetAuction: 50% needed assistance
- Greater Giving: 20% comfortable alone
- DoJiggy: Required dedicated operator
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't Over-Buy Features
Many organizations pay for complex software they'll never fully utilize. If you're running straightforward reverse raffles, simple software provides everything you need without the complexity. For more guidance, see our reverse raffle app guide.
Consider Total Event Stress
The cheapest software isn't always the best value. Factor in:
- Volunteer training needs
- Setup complexity
- Event day pressure
- Technical support availability
Test Before Your Event
Whatever platform you choose, always:
- Run a complete test
- Train all volunteers
- Have a backup plan
- Test internet connectivity
- Verify display compatibility
Expert Recommendations
For Most Organizations:
rafflr offers the best combination of features, ease of use, and value. The 10-second setup isn't just marketing—it's real, and it matters when volunteers are running your event. Learn more about how to run a reverse raffle successfully.
For Enterprise Nonprofits:
Greater Giving makes sense if you need integrated donor management and run dozens of events annually. The investment pays off at scale.
For Mixed Events:
ReadySetAuction works well when combining multiple fundraising activities, though dedicated solutions often perform better for specific needs.
For Tight Budgets:
CharityAuctionsToday provides basic functionality at an affordable price, though upgrading to rafflr's annual plan offers significantly better value for most organizations.
The Bottom Line
The "best" reverse raffle software depends on your specific needs, but for 90% of organizations, rafflr provides the optimal balance of functionality, simplicity, and value. Its true 10-second setup, professional presentation, and affordable pricing make it the standout choice for schools, churches, nonprofits, and community groups. Also consider using an online raffle generator for simpler needs.
The key is matching software complexity to your actual needs. Don't pay for features you won't use or struggle with systems too complex for your volunteers. Choose software that makes your event better, not harder. For common pitfalls to watch out for, see our guide on reverse raffle mistakes to avoid.
Ready to Elevate Your Reverse Raffle?
Now that you understand your options, it's time to choose the software that will make your next reverse raffle a stunning success. If you value simplicity, professional results, and happy volunteers, try rafflr today and experience the difference that thoughtful design makes. Also check out our reverse raffle success kit for free templates and tools.
Remember: great reverse raffle software should make your event easier to run, more engaging for participants, and more profitable for your cause. Choose wisely, and your supporters will thank you. For more fundraising tips, explore our guide to successful charity raffles.