Metro2 by Switch Labs vs DataLinx
DataLinx LLC is a managed credit reporting service, not self-service software. They convert your data and submit it for you — which is convenient but means you have no direct control over your Metro 2 files, no dashboard, no API, and no visibility into the process. Metro2 by Switch Labs gives you full control with a modern web interface, REST API, real-time validation, and automated bureau delivery — all starting at $19/month with transparent pricing published on the website.
Metro2 by Switch Labs
Modern, cloud-based Metro 2 credit reporting software
DataLinx
DataLinx LLC, founded in 2001 in Bothell, Washington, is a full-service outsourced credit reporting provider that conver...
Pricing Comparison
Flat-rate pricing. No per-account fees. Month-to-month billing with no long-term contracts.
DataLinx does not publish pricing anywhere on their website. All pricing requires contacting sales at (800) 697-6221 or support@array.com. Given their managed-service model with custom integrations, pricing is likely per-account or volume-based.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
See how Metro2 by Switch Labs stacks up against DataLinx across key capabilities.
| Feature | Metro2 by Switch Labs | DataLinx |
|---|---|---|
Metro 2 Format Generation Generate compliant Metro 2 format files for credit bureau submission | Handled on your behalf — you send raw data, they convert it | |
All Three Bureaus Submit to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion | Plus Innovis (4 total) | |
Real-time Validation Instant validation of data before submission | CRRG-aligned validation engine | Validation done by their team during conversion — not self-service |
API Access REST API for programmatic integration | Full REST API from $29/mo | No API — data submitted via templates and manual processes |
Bulk Upload Upload multiple accounts via CSV or Excel | Drag-and-drop field mapping | You send Excel/text files to their team — not a self-service upload |
Error Correction Built-in tools to fix rejected records | Live editor with bulk updates | Handled by their team — you cannot fix errors yourself |
Audit Trail Complete history of all submissions and changes | No self-service audit trail or submission history dashboard | |
Modern UI Clean, intuitive user interface | No user-facing application or dashboard | |
No Long-term Contract Month-to-month billing without commitment | Cancel anytime | Contract terms not disclosed — requires sales contact |
Transparent Pricing Clear pricing without hidden fees | Published on website | No pricing published anywhere on website |
Automated Bureau Delivery Automated SFTP delivery to credit bureaus on a schedule | Included from SMB plan ($29/mo) | They handle submission on your behalf monthly |
Dedicated Support Direct access to support team | Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM Pacific; unlimited consulting included |
Try Metro2 by Switch Labs today
Generate your first Metro 2 file in minutes. Plans start at $19/month.
DataLinx: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fully managed service — they handle Metro 2 conversion and bureau submission so you don't have to
- Credit stacking lets small furnishers below bureau minimums start reporting immediately
- Reports to 4 bureaus: Equifax, Experian, TransUnion, and Innovis
- 20+ years of experience (founded 2001) with hundreds of clients across diverse industries
- Integrates with existing systems including DealerCenter, Buildium, Frazer, Collections MAX, and others
- Free, unlimited credit data consulting and support included
Cons
- No self-service access — you cannot generate, view, or control your own Metro 2 files
- Pricing is completely opaque — must contact sales for any quote
- Acquired by Array — datalinxllc.com now redirects to array.com, creating uncertainty about the standalone service
- No API, no web dashboard, no modern UI — everything is handled by their team on your behalf
- You are dependent on a third party for your monthly bureau submissions — no direct control
When to Choose DataLinx
- 1Very small furnishers below bureau account minimums who need credit stacking
- 2Businesses that want zero involvement in Metro 2 formatting and prefer a fully outsourced approach
- 3Auto dealers and property managers using DealerCenter, Buildium, or other supported integrations
Why Choose Metro2 by Switch Labs Over DataLinx
- Full self-service control — generate, validate, and submit your own Metro 2 files instead of relying on a third party
- Transparent pricing from $19/month vs. opaque, contact-sales-only pricing
- Modern web dashboard and REST API vs. no user-facing application at all
- Real-time validation catches errors before submission — no waiting for a team to review
- Direct visibility into your data, submission history, and audit trail
- No vendor lock-in — if DataLinx's parent (Array) changes direction, you lose your reporting capability
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Metro2 by Switch Labs and credit reporting
Ready to switch from DataLinx?
See why businesses are choosing Metro2 by Switch Labs for their credit reporting needs. Plans start at $19/month.