Looking for a better alternative to ShowSubmit?
EntryThingy offers simpler pricing, a modern interface, and direct PayPal payments. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.
Free migration from ShowSubmit • No credit card required
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | EntryThingy | ShowSubmit |
|---|---|---|
| Per-submission pricing | ✓ $3 per submission | ~ $6 for first 100 |
| Per-call fee | ✓ $0 | ✗ $125 per call |
| Annual subscription fee | ✓ $0 | ✓ $0 |
| Onboarding fee | ✓ $0 | ✓ $0 |
| Direct PayPal payments | ✓ Direct to your account | ~ Varies |
| Modern, intuitive interface | ✓ Built in 2024 | ~ Basic design |
| Artist discovery platform | ✓ 166K+ artists | ~ Limited network |
| Blind jurying | ✓ | ✓ |
| Custom submission forms | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile-friendly | ✓ Fully responsive | ~ Some pages |
| Customer support response | ✓ <24 hours | ~ Varies |
| Free data migration | ✓ We do it for you | - N/A |
Pricing: The Real Cost
EntryThingy
Pay only when you receive submissions. No per-call fees.
ShowSubmit
Per-call fee charged even before you get submissions.
💰 Save $425 with EntryThingy vs ShowSubmit (100 submissions, 1 call)
EntryThingy: $300 | ShowSubmit: $725 ($125 call fee + $600 submissions)
User Experience
EntryThingy
- Modern interface built with current web standards
- Fully mobile-responsive on all devices
- Clean dashboard with intuitive navigation
- Fast page loads and smooth interactions
- Direct PayPal payments - money goes straight to you
ShowSubmit
- Basic interface - functional but dated
- Limited mobile optimization
- Simple setup for one-off shows
- Focused on art shows - purpose-built for exhibitions
- Payment options vary - not always direct
Artist Discovery Matters
EntryThingy gives your calls exposure to a network of over 166,000 artists:
EntryThingy: Active Discovery Network
Your calls are automatically promoted to 166,000+ artists through our platform, email newsletters, and social media. Artists browse aggregated calls from all galleries in one place.
ShowSubmit: Limited Reach
ShowSubmit has a smaller artist network. Galleries may need to do more external marketing to reach potential applicants.
What galleries switching from ShowSubmit say
“We were paying $125 per call with ShowSubmit before we even got a single submission. EntryThingy’s pay-as-you-go model is so much better for our budget.”
“The per-submission cost with ShowSubmit was double what we pay with EntryThingy. For our annual show with 150 entries, that’s a huge savings.”
When ShowSubmit Might Still Make Sense
We believe in honest comparisons. Here are scenarios where ShowSubmit could be a better fit:
- Very small shows: If you run a single small show with very few submissions, ShowSubmit's flat $125 per-call fee might be more predictable than per-submission pricing
- Familiarity with the platform: If your team is already comfortable with ShowSubmit and you rarely run calls, staying might be simpler
- Simple one-off needs: For a single, straightforward show without complex requirements
That said, most galleries running recurring shows find EntryThingy's lower per-submission cost and modern features worth the switch.
Switching is Easy
Worried about migrating from ShowSubmit? We make it painless.
Contact Us
Let us know you're migrating from ShowSubmit
We Do The Heavy Lifting
We'll help transfer your artist data and setup your account
Launch Your First Call
Set up your call for entry in minutes, not hours
Free migration assistance for all galleries switching from ShowSubmit
Common Questions
How does EntryThingy pricing compare to ShowSubmit?
EntryThingy charges $3 per submission with no per-call fees. ShowSubmit charges $125 per call plus $6 per submission for the first 100 entries. For a typical show with 100 submissions, EntryThingy costs $300 vs ShowSubmit's $725.
Can I migrate my ShowSubmit data to EntryThingy?
Yes. We offer free data migration from ShowSubmit. We can help transfer your artist contacts and historical data to get you up and running quickly.
Which platform has better jury tools?
Both platforms offer blind jurying, scoring, and comment features. EntryThingy's interface is more modern and easier to navigate, especially for jurors who may not be tech-savvy.
Do both platforms handle payments?
Yes, but EntryThingy sends payments directly to your PayPal account with no holds or delays. ShowSubmit's payment processing varies and may involve platform holds.
What if I only run one show per year?
Even for single annual shows, EntryThingy is typically more cost-effective unless you receive very few submissions (under 20). Our per-submission model means you only pay for what you use.
Ready to try EntryThingy?
Join 2,500+ galleries who chose a modern, more affordable alternative to ShowSubmit.
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* This comparison is based on publicly available information and feedback from galleries who have used both platforms. ShowSubmit is a trademark of its respective owner. EntryThingy is an independent platform not affiliated with ShowSubmit. Pricing and features subject to change. Last updated January 2026.