CPQ vs Product Configurator
A product configurator builds a valid product from options. CPQ adds automated pricing and quoting on top. Every CPQ system includes a configurator, but a standalone configurator is not full CPQ. Here's how to tell which one you need.
Side-by-Side Comparison
What each tool covers
Which One Do You Need?
Choose a configurator if…
- You mainly need customers to build a valid product
- Pricing is simple or handled elsewhere
- You want visual self-service on a website
- Quotes are produced by another system
Choose CPQ if…
- Pricing involves discounts, tiers, or margins
- You need approval workflows for large deals
- Reps must generate professional quotes fast
- Quotes should sync to your CRM and ERP
Most industrial manufacturers need both, which is why Ignitionary delivers a configurator and CPQ in one platform.
Frequently asked questions
A product configurator handles the 'Configure' step, it lets users build a valid, manufacturable product by selecting from rule-governed options. CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) is broader: it includes the configurator and adds automated pricing and quote/proposal generation. In short, every CPQ system contains a configurator, but a standalone configurator is not full CPQ.
If your only goal is to let customers or reps build a valid product and see specs or visuals, a product configurator may be enough. If you also need accurate pricing, discount rules, approvals, and professional quotes generated automatically, you need CPQ. Manufacturers with complex pricing almost always need full CPQ.
Many configurators show a simple running price, but they typically lack the discount logic, margin rules, approval workflows, and proposal generation that CPQ provides. Complex B2B and industrial pricing usually requires the pricing engine that comes with CPQ.
Not Sure Which Fits?
We'll map your quoting process and recommend the right approach