PowerCalc is an electrical engineering design software platform for power system analysis, load flow, short-circuit, and arc flash studies, targeting electrical engineers and consultants.
| Feature | PowerCalc | SparkShift |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Varies — see their site | Free |
| Platform | Web / desktop (engineering) | Browser + iOS + Android |
| Target user | Electrical engineers | Field electricians and ECs |
| Arc flash analysis | Full IEEE 1584 study | NFPA 70E field estimates |
| NEC field calculations | Varies — see their site | 40+ NEC calculators |
| 3D conduit bending | No | Yes |
PowerCalc information is based on publicly available sources as of 2026. For the most current pricing and features, visit https://www.powercalc.com.
The calculators most relevant to what PowerCalc users typically need. All free, no sign-up.
SparkShift and PowerCalc serve different primary audiences. If you need field NEC calculations (wire sizing, conduit fill, voltage drop, dwelling loads), SparkShift is a free and immediate alternative. For formal power system studies and IEEE 1584 arc flash reports required by engineering deliverables, PowerCalc's full study capabilities are more appropriate.
SparkShift provides NFPA 70E-based incident energy estimates for common scenarios — suitable for field awareness and PPE selection on smaller systems. A formal IEEE 1584 arc flash study for industrial or utility systems requires software like PowerCalc with complete system modeling.
SparkShift does not perform full power system load flow analysis. It covers NEC-based field calculations: wire sizing, voltage drop, conduit fill, motor circuits, service sizing, and more.
Yes. SparkShift Pro subscribers can export calculation results as PDF reports.
40+ NEC calculators in your browser. Wire sizing, conduit fill, voltage drop, dwelling loads, conduit bending with live 3D, arc flash, EV chargers, solar PV, and more.