Compare dealer software

DMS Apex vs DealerSocket

Looking for a DealerSocket alternative? See what DMS Apex does, what it costs, and the questions to ask before choosing dealer software.

Last checked November 14, 2026

DealerSocket sells dealer software that includes customer management and dealer management tools. If you are comparing it with other dealer software, this page shows what DMS Apex offers and a checklist of what to ask any vendor, including DealerSocket.

What DMS Apex is

DMS Apex is web-based dealer management software for independent used-car dealers. It keeps inventory, deals, trade-ins, wholesale sales, repairs, deposits and reports in one place, works out sales tax for all 50 states and DC from each state's published rules, and prints the Buyer's Order and each state's official forms.

DMS Apex and DealerSocket: what to compare

QuestionDMS ApexDealerSocket
Price$28 a month, flat, everything includedAsk DealerSocket for current pricing and what is extra
Free trial15 days. A card is needed to open the account and is charged on day 15 unless you cancelAsk DealerSocket
Contract and setup feeNo contract, no setup fee, cancel any time from BillingAsk DealerSocket
State taxWorked out for all 50 states and DC from each state's published rulesAsk DealerSocket which states and which tax rules are built in
State formsThe Buyer's Order with each state's required wording, plus official state title forms where the state publishes oneAsk DealerSocket which forms print for your state
Team accessInvite salespeople and hide costs and profit from themAsk DealerSocket
Where it runsIn your web browser on any deviceAsk DealerSocket

Questions to ask any dealer software vendor

  1. What is the total monthly cost, and what costs extra?
  2. Is there a contract, and what does it cost to cancel?
  3. Does it work out my state's tax correctly, including trade-ins, dealer fees and service contracts?
  4. Does it print my state's required wording and official forms?
  5. Who can see my cars, costs and customers?
  6. Can I export my data when I leave?

Who DMS Apex is for

DMS Apex is built for independent used-car dealers who want one simple system for inventory, deals and paperwork at a flat price. It tracks buy-here-pay-here accounts for dealers who finance their own cars, and it is not built for franchised new-car dealerships.

DealerSocket is a trademark of its owner. DMS Apex is not affiliated with DealerSocket. This page does not describe DealerSocket's pricing or features: check with DealerSocket for current details.

Common questions

Is DMS Apex a good DealerSocket alternative?

It is a good fit if you are an independent used-car dealer who wants a flat $28 a month plan, tax and forms for your state, and no contract. Compare the checklist above with DealerSocket's current offer.

Can I try DMS Apex before leaving DealerSocket?

Yes. There is a 15-day free trial. Add a few cars and make a test deal to see whether it fits your dealership.

How much does DMS Apex cost?

$28 a month, flat. No contract and no setup fee.

Run your lot, deals and paperwork in one place

DMS Apex is $28 a month with a 15-day free trial. It prints your state's forms and works out your state's tax.

Start your 15-day free trial

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