Tungsten Automation (formerly Kofax) is a leader in enterprise software, offering solutions ranging from process automation to analytics. Their document processing tools have been particularly popular, helping organizations capture and process business documents for decades.
It does the basics very well: converting documents from various sources, handling high volumes, and sending information to your business systems like SAP. That’s why many companies, probably including you, have relied on it for years.
But here’s the thing: document processing has come a long way. You can’t rely on products that force you to:
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1. Hire outside experts for ongoing support
2. Months to learn the platform and get up to speed
3. Pay for expensive setup, maintenance, and support
4. Have long wait times and get limited help
This article examines some of the best Tungsten (Kofax) alternatives specifically for document processing, helping you evaluate options that match today’s business needs.
A quick look at Tungsten Automation alternatives
Here’s how the top competitors compare:
| Tool | Main Feature | G2 Rating | Free Trial | Pricing | Total Score* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tungsten (formerly Kofax) | Template-based processing | 4.3/5 | No | Custom | 43.0 |
| Nanonets | AI-powered automation | 4.8/5 | Yes | From $999 | 46.5 |
| ABBYY FlexiCapture | Advanced OCR | 4.1/5 | No | Custom | 44.3 |
| Rossum | Cognitive data capture | 4.4/5 | Yes | Custom | 43.8 |
| Docparser | Rule-based extraction | 4.6/5 | Yes | From $39 | 44.0 |
| Hyperscience | Human-in-loop workflows | 4.6/5 | No | Custom | 46.3 |
| Klippa DocHorizon | No-code automation | 4.7/5 | Yes | Custom | NA |
| DocuWare | Complete document management | 4.4/5 | Yes | From $50/user | 43.9 |
| Laserfiche | Enterprise content management | 4.7/5 | Yes | From $50/user | 43.9 |
| OpenText | SAP integration focused | 4.2/5 | No | Custom | 43.2 |
*Total Score calculated as the sum of G2 ratings for: Ease of Use, Ease of Setup, Quality of Support, Meets Requirements, and Product Direction (% positive). All scores are based on verified G2 ratings as of November 2024.
Let’s look at each alternative in detail to help you find the best fit for your needs.
1. Nanonets
Yes, we put ourselves on this list. But hear us out — Nanonets is an AI document processing platform that helps companies extract and process data from any document type automatically. While Tungsten relies on templates and technical setups, Nanonets uses AI to understand and process documents right away.
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Key features:
1. AI that learns from your documents
2. No templates needed – works with any layout
3. Automatic table detection and extraction
4. Built-in accuracy checks
5. Direct connection to accounting systems
6. Easy approval workflows
7. Works with 40+ languages
8. Real-time processing
9. Simple API access
| Pros of Nanonets | Cons of Nanonets |
|---|---|
| Start processing without IT help | Unaffordable for very low volumes |
| Learns and improves on its own | Setting up complex workflows may take time |
| Works with any document layout | |
| Direct SAP and accounting connections | |
| Connect to other software without coding | |
| Fast, helpful support team |
Pricing: Start free with 500 pages per month. Business plans from $999/month for 10,000 pages.
Best suited for: Mid-sized to large companies processing high volume of documents monthly, especially in finance, healthcare, and logistics. Works particularly well for teams that need to automate AP workflows, process varied vendor documents, or handle documents in multiple languages.
How does Nanonets compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | Nanonets | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 9.3/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 9.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 9.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Pick Nanonets if you want to process documents without the headache of creating and maintaining templates. Our platform works particularly well if you need to process different types of documents, connect directly with your accounting system, get accurate results without constant adjustments, and set up quickly without technical help.
2. ABBYY FlexiCapture
ABBYY FlexiCapture is a document processing platform focused on accuracy and compliance. It helps mid-sized and large companies process complex documents with high precision, offering both cloud and on-premises options. While the set up can be hard like Tungsten Automation, it offers higher for accuracy.
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Key features:
1. Advanced OCR with high precision data capture
2. Flexible deployment – cloud or on-premises
3. Built-in compliance and validation rules
4. High-volume batch processing capabilities
5. Multi-channel document input (email, scan, fax)
6. Enterprise system integration tools
| Pros of FlexiCapture | Cons of FlexiCapture |
|---|---|
| Highly accurate data extraction | Takes longer to set up than Tungsten |
| Strong compliance and audit features | Requires technical expertise |
| Choice of cloud or on-premises | Higher upfront investment |
| Better product development roadmap | Not suitable for small businesses |
| Excellent for complex documents | Steeper learning curve |
Pricing: Custom pricing based on deployment type and document volume. Expect higher upfront costs for on-premises deployment.
Best suited for: Mid-sized companies (especially in software, accounting, and consulting) that need precise document processing with strong compliance controls. Particularly valuable for organizations handling complex documents or requiring specific deployment options.
How does ABBYY compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | ABBYY | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 8.8/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meeting needs | 8.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Future direction | 10.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Choose ABBYY FlexiCapture if accuracy and compliance are your top priorities, and you have the technical resources for implementation. Go with Tungsten if you need something simpler to use or don’t require advanced compliance features.
3. Rossum
Rossum is an intelligent document processing platform that uses AI to extract data from business documents. The platform processes documents from multiple channels (email, scan, API), automatically validates the extracted data, and integrates with enterprise systems. It is used primarily for invoice processing and financial document automation.
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Key features:
1. AI-powered document understanding
2. Built-in validation rules engine
3. Multi-channel document receiving
4. Two-way communication for issues
5. Enterprise system integrations
6. ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certified
| Pros of Rossum | Cons of Rossum |
|---|---|
| No templates needed for new documents | System updates can cause disruptions |
| Strong enterprise-grade support | Slower with large PDF files |
| Built-in exception handling | Higher cost than basic solutions |
| Good at complex documents | Initial learning curve for teams |
| Regular AI improvements | Limited Excel file support |
Pricing: Enterprise-focused pricing with custom quotes based on volume. Includes SLA guarantees and dedicated support.
Best suited for: Mid-sized to large organizations in accounting, financial services, and manufacturing that process varied vendor documents. Works especially well for AP departments and shared service centers handling diverse document types.
How does Rossum compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | Rossum | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 8.3/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 9.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Choose Rossum if you process lots of different document types and want to avoid template maintenance. Pick Tungsten if you mainly handle standardized documents and prefer a more conventional interface.
4. Docparser
Docparser is a document extraction tool that uses zonal OCR technology to pull data from specific areas in your documents. Unlike Tungsten’s enterprise approach, Docparser offers a simpler, more affordable solution focused on specific data extraction needs. The platform specializes in processing structured documents like invoices, purchase orders, and bank statements,
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Key features:
1. Zonal OCR for precise data capture
2. Custom parsing rule creation
3. Multiple document format support
4. Direct integration with business tools
5. Automated document routing
6. Table data extraction
7. Multi-channel document intake (email, API, upload)
| Pros of Docparser | Cons of Docparser |
|---|---|
| Affordable starting price | Learning curve for complex rules |
| Quick setup for basic needs | Limited support for varied layouts |
| Strong table extraction | Needs good document quality |
| Easy integration options | Not ideal for unstructured docs |
| Clear pricing structure | Limited language support |
Pricing: Starts at $39/month for 100 documents. Business plan at $159/month for 1,000 documents.
Best suited for: Small businesses processing consistent document formats, especially in retail and accounting. Ideal for companies handling 1,000-3,500 documents monthly that need to automate manual data entry from structured documents like purchase orders and invoices.
How does Docparser compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | Docparser | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 8.6/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: If you need affordable, straightforward data extraction for consistent document formats, then Docparser is a good choice. Tungsten may suit you better if you need enterprise-grade features or process varied document types.
5. Hyperscience
Hyperscience is an AI-powered document processing platform that specializes in handling both structured and unstructured documents. The platform stands out for its ability to process handwritten text and complex documents with a high-level of accuracy. Businesses and banks, use it to process documents like forms, contracts, and claims.
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Key features:
1. Advanced handwriting recognition
2. Human-in-loop verification
3. Structured and unstructured document support
4. Multi-language processing
5. Custom processing blocks
6. Automated quality control
7. Enterprise system integration
| Pros of Hyperscience | Cons of Hyperscience |
|---|---|
| Gets handwritten text right most times | Takes time to set up properly |
| Catches errors automatically | Needs lots of examples for training |
| Works with many document types | Complex documents need more checking |
| Keeps improving as you use it | Costs more than basic solutions |
| Good technical support | Not for small document volumes |
Pricing: Custom enterprise pricing based on volume and use case. Contact Hyperscience for details.
Best suited for: Mid to large enterprises in financial services, insurance, and healthcare that need to process varied document types, especially those with handwritten components.
How does Hyperscience compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | Hyperscience | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 9.3/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 9.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 9.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: If your teams process thousands of handwritten forms or complex documents monthly, and accuracy matters more than initial cost, you’ll find value in Hyperscience. Stay with Tungsten if you mainly handle standard documents or need a simpler, more affordable solution.
6. Klippa DocHorizon
Klippa DocHorizon is a no-code document processing platform that combines AI with traditional OCR. The platform stands out for its quick setup and API-first approach, making it particularly appealing if you want to start processing documents without extensive technical work.
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Key features:
1. No-code document processing
2. Smart fraud detection that spots altered documents
3. Visual workflow designer for automation
4. Multi-channel document intake
5. Checks data accuracy in real-time
6. Two-way system integration
7. Human verification option
| Pros of Klippa | Cons of Klippa |
|---|---|
| Get started in hours, not weeks | May not meet every custom need |
| Developers love the clean API | Takes time to learn your documents |
| Support team jumps on problems | Complex documents need more work |
| Nails the basics right away | Not cheap for small volumes |
| Platform keeps getting better |
Pricing: Custom pricing based on volume and features needed. Contact Klippa for details.
Best suited for: Small to mid-sized companies in finance, accounting, and retail that need quick implementation of document processing. Works well for organizations wanting to automate standard document workflows without heavy technical investment.
How does Klippa compare to Tungsten Automation?
Not enough data to do a direcct comparison. Based on available user reviews, Klippa stands out for faster setup and simpler integration. However, it’s customization options may be limited compared to Tungsten.
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Our take: Pick Klippa when you need to hit the ground running with document automation. Their no-code approach means you’ll see results in days, not months. But look elsewhere if you need deep customization or handle lots of unusual document types — that’s where Tungsten still shines.
7. DocuWare
DocuWare is an enterprise document management platform that combines document processing with workflow automation. It helps organizations digitize, automate, and manage document-intensive processes. The platform offers both cloud and on-premises deployment options.
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Key features:
1. Smart document capture and indexing
2. Custom electronic forms builder
3. Visual workflow designer
4. Multi-language support (24 languages)
5. Built-in compliance tools
6. Mobile document access
7. Business system connections
| Pros of DocuWare | Cons of DocuWare |
|---|---|
| Find documents quickly across locations | Needs experts for setup |
| Automates entire document workflows | Complex permission management |
| Strong security for regulated industries | Takes time to learn advanced features |
| Works in many languages | Limited offline access |
| Keeps improving with regular updates | Some basic features cost extra |
Pricing: Contact DocuWare for custom pricing. Free trial available to test the system.
Best suited for: Mid-sized to large organizations handling lots of documents across multiple locations. Works particularly well for companies in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and insurance that need strong compliance features.
How does DocuWare compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | DocuWare | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 7.7/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 8.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 9.0/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 9.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Pick DocuWare when you need more than just document capture — it shines at automating entire document workflows across departments. But if you want something simpler focused just on processing documents, Tungsten might be a better fit.
8. Laserfiche
Laserfiche is an enterprise content management platform that includes document processing capabilities. It combines document capture with records management and workflow automation. The platform supports multiple languages and offers both cloud and on-premises deployment options.
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Key features:
1. Document capture and classification
2. Built-in workflow automation
3. Electronic forms creation
4. Records management system
5. Security and audit controls
6. Mobile document access
7. Wide range of integrations available
8. Department-specific workflows
| Pros of Laserfiche | Cons of Laserfiche |
|---|---|
| Quick document search across locations | Complex to set up properly |
| Strong security for regulated industries | Needs technical expertise |
| Good at automating workflows | Steep learning curve |
| Works in multiple languages | Limited offline access |
| Regular platform updates | Some features cost extra |
Pricing: Starts at $50/user/year for cloud starter package. Contact Laserfiche for enterprise pricing.
Best suited for: Mid-sized organizations, especially in government and education that need both document processing and records management. Works particularly well for organizations with strict compliance requirements.
How does Laserfiche compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | Laserfiche | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 8.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 9.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Consider Laserfiche when you need more than just document processing. If you value the ability to handle complex document workflows while meeting compliance requirements, then it might be a good choice. But if you just need straightforward document capture, Tungsten offers a simpler path.
9. OpenText Intelligent Capture
OpenText Intelligent Capture (formerly Captiva) combines machine learning with traditional OCR to automate document processing. The platform shines at processing structured documents like invoices, particularly when connected to SAP and other backend systems.
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Key features:
1. Smart document classification
2. Advanced data extraction
3. Automated content routing
4. Machine learning capabilities
5. Built-in validation tools
6. Links directly with SAP systems
7. Process automation options
| Pros of OpenText | Cons of OpenText |
|---|---|
| Good at structured documents | Windows-only client |
| Reduces manual data entry | Complex to deploy |
| Strong validation tools | Limited documentation |
| Helpful support team | Performance issues with volume |
| Regular updates | Needs technical expertise |
Pricing: Contact OpenText for custom pricing based on your needs.
Best suited for: Small companies processing lots of structured documents like invoices and forms, especially those using SAP.
How does OpenText compare to Tungsten Automation?
| Parameter | OpenText | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Setup experience | 8.3/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Support quality | 7.8/10 | 7.7/10 |
| Meets needs | 8.5/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Product direction | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 |
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Our take: Consider OpenText when you need strong data extraction for structured documents and have technical resources for implementation. However, Tungsten might be better if you want something easier to use or need to process varied document types.
How to choose the best Tungsten Automation alternative?
At Nanonets, we process millions of documents monthly for over 500 enterprises, including 35% of Fortune 500 companies. We’ve helped hundreds of organizations transition from legacy document capture systems to modern automation solutions. This analysis draws from our experience implementing document processing solutions across industries and processing millions of documents monthly.
We’ve analyzed the top alternatives based on:
- Real performance data from processing millions of documents
- Feedback from companies that switched from Tungsten
- Independent reviews from G2, Capterra, and Gartner
- Hands-on testing by document processing experts
Scoring methodology*
We evaluated each alternative across five key parameters that matter most to organizations switching from Tungsten:
- Ease of use: How quickly teams can start using the tool without extensive technical training
- Ease of setup: Implementation effort compared to Tungsten’s template-based approach
- Quality of support: Availability and responsiveness of direct support
- Meets requirements: Ability to handle document processing needs effectively
- Product direction: Pace of improvements and feature development
Detailed scoring breakdown
| Tool | Ease of Use | Setup | Support | Meets Needs | Direction | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tungsten (formerly Kofax) | 9.0 | 8.3 | 7.7 | 8.9 | 7.5 | 43.0 |
| Nanonets | 9.3 | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.1 | 9.4 | 46.5 |
| ABBYY FlexiCapture | 8.8 | 8.0 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 10.0 | 44.3 |
| Rossum | 8.6 | 8.1 | 9.2 | 8.3 | 9.8 | 43.8 |
| Docparser | 9.2 | 8.5 | 9.1 | 8.7 | 8.6 | 44.0 |
| Hyperscience | 9.3 | 9.0 | 9.1 | 9.1 | 9.8 | 46.3 |
| Klippa DocHorizon | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| DocuWare | 8.8 | 8.1 | 8.9 | 9.0 | 9.2 | 43.9 |
| Laserfiche | 8.8 | 8.1 | 8.9 | 9.0 | 9.2 | 43.9 |
| OpenText | 8.2 | 8.3 | 7.8 | 8.5 | 7.6 | 43.2 |
Key decision factors
Based on common challenges organizations face with Tungsten Automation, consider these aspects:
Document processing needs
First, evaluate your document requirements:
- Are you mainly processing standard invoices and forms?
- Do you need to handle handwritten text?
- How important is table extraction accuracy?
- Do you process documents in multiple languages?
Technical resources
Consider your implementation capabilities:
- Do you have IT teams for setup and maintenance?
- What systems need integration with document processing?
- Do you prefer cloud or on-premises deployment?
- How important is API accessibility?
Volume and scale
Think about your processing requirements:
- How many documents do you process monthly?
- Do you need batch processing capabilities?
- Are your volumes steady or seasonal?
- How quickly do you need to scale?
Support and maintenance
Evaluate your support needs:
- How much vendor support will you need?
- Can you handle template maintenance?
- What level of automation do you require?
- How important is local support?t
*Disclaimer: This analysis uses data from independent user reviews, technical documentation, and implementation case studies available as of November 2024. Since document processing technologies evolve rapidly:
- Feature sets and capabilities may have changed
- Pricing models might differ from what’s listed
- Performance metrics could vary based on your specific use case
- Integration options may have expanded
- New features may have been added
We recommend reaching out to vendors directly for the most current information and testing any solution thoroughly with your actual documents before making a decision.