vFound vs Shelf
Shelf describes itself as an open source asset management platform for tracking equipment, bookings and inventory, free for individuals.
vFound Equipment puts a QR label on everything a desk hands out, records who has it and when it is due, and sends reminders, for one yearly price per venue.
Shelf facts checked against its public website on 27 September 2026.
Side by side
| Feature | vFound | Shelf |
|---|---|---|
| Price | US$199 per venue a year, unlimited items and team members | Personal free for 1 user; Plus $190 a year for 1 user; Team $370 a year; add-ons for audits, other barcode formats and single sign-onSource |
| Reservations | Specific-item or category reservations, optional approval, availability checks, email reminders, calendar entry and pickup into one checkout | Bookings with a calendar and availability view on the Team plan and aboveSource |
| Users and items | Unlimited items and team members | Unlimited assets on every plan; 1 user on Personal and Plus, unlimited team members on TeamSource |
| Labels | A printable QR label for every item; vFound AI names new items from a photo | QR codes and bulk label export; other barcode formats are a paid add-onSource |
| Reminders | Email receipt, a reminder before longer due times, then up to three overdue reminders | Check-out, check-in and overdue booking emails, plus reminders for dates such as inspectionsSource |
| Returns | Condition and photo on return; damaged items set aside for repair | Items are checked in one by one or together, and the booking completes when everything is backSource |
| App to install | None: vFound runs in the browser and scans labels with the device camera | Not required; Shelf runs in a phone browser, with an optional free companion appSource |
Choose Shelf if
- You are one person tracking your own equipment and want a free plan.
- You want open source software.
- You want to keep existing barcode formats through the Alternative Barcodes add-on.
Choose vFound if
- You want one yearly price with unlimited items and team members.
- You want nothing to install: labels scan with any phone camera in the browser.
- You also run lost and found, parcels, coat check or visitors at the same desk.
Frequently asked questions
How does vFound Equipment compare with Shelf on price?+
Shelf publishes a free Personal plan for one user, Plus at $190 a year and Team at $370 a year. vFound Equipment costs US$199 per venue a year with unlimited items and team members, and includes reservations, labels and reminders.
Do either need an app?+
Neither requires one. Shelf runs in a phone browser with an optional companion app, and vFound runs in the browser on any device with nothing to install.
Try vFound Equipment with your own desk.
Start a 14-day free trial of vFound Equipment. A valid card is required; cancel before day 14 to avoid the yearly charge.
Start your 14-day free trial