Comparison
Metro2 vs DataX: Full Comparison
DataX is a credit bureau that receives furnished data — it is not software for generating Metro 2 files. They sit on opposite sides of the data pipeline: Metro2 helps you create and submit Metro 2 files, while DataX/Equifax is one of the bureaus you can submit those files to. You would use Metro2 to generate your files and potentially submit them to DataX as an additional bureau alongside Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Metro2
Modern, cloud-based Metro 2 reporting
Transparent pricing
No long-term contracts
Modern REST API
Free trial available
DataX
DataX is a specialty consumer reporting agency (CRA) — essentially an alternative credit bureau — th...
Pricing:Enterprise pricing (contact Equifax)
Target:Specialty finance lenders, rent-to-own businesses, and subprime lenders who want to pull alternative credit data
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Metro2 | DataX |
|---|---|---|
Metro 2 Format Generation Generate compliant Metro 2 format files for credit bureau submission | Receives Metro 2 files — does not generate them | |
All Three Bureaus Submit to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion | DataX IS a bureau — it does not submit to others | |
Real-time Validation Instant validation of data before submission | CRRG-aligned validation engine | |
API Access REST API for programmatic integration | Full REST API from $29/mo | For pulling credit data, not furnishing |
Bulk Upload Upload multiple accounts via CSV or Excel | Drag-and-drop field mapping | |
Error Correction Built-in tools to fix rejected records | Live editor with bulk updates | |
Audit Trail Complete history of all submissions and changes | ||
Modern UI Clean, intuitive user interface | ||
No Long-term Contract Month-to-month billing without commitment | Cancel anytime | |
Transparent Pricing Clear pricing without hidden fees | Published on website | |
Automated Bureau Delivery Automated SFTP delivery to credit bureaus on a schedule | Included from SMB plan ($29/mo) | |
Dedicated Support Direct access to support team | Via Equifax |
DataX Pros
- Largest alternative/specialty credit database — 300M+ consumers, 2B+ transactions
- Now backed by Equifax infrastructure and reach
- Fraud prevention and identity verification tools included
- Covers non-traditional credit data not found in major bureau reports
- Real-time API delivery and batch processing available
DataX Cons
- NOT a Metro 2 file generation tool — it is a credit bureau that receives data
- Enterprise pricing only — not accessible for small businesses
- You still need separate Metro 2 software to generate the files you submit to DataX
- Now fully integrated into Equifax — losing independent identity
- Limited to specialty/alternative credit segment
When to Choose DataX
- 1Lenders who want to pull alternative credit reports for subprime or thin-file consumers
- 2Businesses that furnish data and want to expand reporting to specialty bureaus beyond the Big Three
Why Choose Metro2 Over DataX
- Metro2 generates Metro 2 files; DataX receives them — different tools entirely
- You may need both: Metro2 to create files, and DataX as a destination bureau
- Metro2 is self-service from $19/month; DataX requires enterprise Equifax contracts
- Metro2 provides the complete furnishing workflow; DataX is just one possible destination
Other Comparisons
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