Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock, orders, and sales across multiple channels for small to medium businesses.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and warehousing operations.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory management platform that connects e-commerce, POS, and wholesale for retailers.
- 4#4: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly cloud inventory software for small businesses to manage stock, orders, and customers.
- 5#5: Katana MRP - Cloud manufacturing resource planning tool for real-time inventory tracking and production planning.
- 6#6: Odoo - Open-source ERP with comprehensive inventory management modules for businesses of all sizes.
- 7#7: Unleashed - Cloud inventory software designed for distributors and wholesalers with multi-location support.
- 8#8: NetSuite - Enterprise cloud ERP offering robust inventory management, forecasting, and supply chain tools.
- 9#9: Linnworks - Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel e-commerce sellers.
- 10#10: Brightpearl - Retail-focused ERP with unified inventory, order, and financial management for scaling brands.
These tools were carefully selected based on comprehensive evaluation of key attributes: robust feature sets (including multi-channel support and forecasting), user-friendly interfaces, seamless integration with existing systems, and overall value proposition to ensure they deliver exceptional performance across varied business needs.
Comparison Table
Streamline your inventory management with this comparison of leading software tools—including Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, inFlow Inventory, and Katana MRP—designed to simplify tracking, storage, and order fulfillment. Readers will gain clear insights into key features, integration strengths, and workflow suitability, empowering them to select the right tool for their business size, industry, and operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock, orders, and sales across multiple channels for small to medium businesses. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and warehousing operations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory management platform that connects e-commerce, POS, and wholesale for retailers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly cloud inventory software for small businesses to manage stock, orders, and customers. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Katana MRP Cloud manufacturing resource planning tool for real-time inventory tracking and production planning. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Odoo Open-source ERP with comprehensive inventory management modules for businesses of all sizes. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 7 | Unleashed Cloud inventory software designed for distributors and wholesalers with multi-location support. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | NetSuite Enterprise cloud ERP offering robust inventory management, forecasting, and supply chain tools. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Linnworks Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel e-commerce sellers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Brightpearl Retail-focused ERP with unified inventory, order, and financial management for scaling brands. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock, orders, and sales across multiple channels for small to medium businesses.
Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and warehousing operations.
Omnichannel inventory management platform that connects e-commerce, POS, and wholesale for retailers.
User-friendly cloud inventory software for small businesses to manage stock, orders, and customers.
Cloud manufacturing resource planning tool for real-time inventory tracking and production planning.
Open-source ERP with comprehensive inventory management modules for businesses of all sizes.
Cloud inventory software designed for distributors and wholesalers with multi-location support.
Enterprise cloud ERP offering robust inventory management, forecasting, and supply chain tools.
Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel e-commerce sellers.
Retail-focused ERP with unified inventory, order, and financial management for scaling brands.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock, orders, and sales across multiple channels for small to medium businesses.
Seamless multi-channel inventory synchronization across e-commerce platforms, warehouses, and sales channels in real-time
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management platform that helps businesses track stock levels, manage orders, and optimize supply chains in real-time. It supports multi-warehouse operations, serial/batch tracking, barcode scanning, and automated reorder points, making it ideal for e-commerce and retail businesses. With robust reporting, purchase order automation, and seamless integrations with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and Zoho's own CRM and accounting tools, it scales effortlessly from small shops to enterprises.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce platforms (Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce) and Zoho ecosystem for unified operations
- Advanced inventory tools like multi-warehouse management, batch/serial tracking, and real-time analytics
- Scalable pricing with a free tier and high customization options for growing businesses
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for users new to feature-rich systems
- Advanced reporting and automation locked behind higher-tier plans
- Customer support can be slower during peak times without premium add-ons
Best For
Small to medium-sized e-commerce and retail businesses needing robust, multi-channel inventory syncing and Zoho suite integration.
Pricing
Free for up to 20 online store orders/month; Standard $29/mo (500 orders), Professional $79/mo (1,500 orders), Elite $199/mo (unlimited), billed annually with per-order overage fees.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and warehousing operations.
Bidirectional QuickBooks synchronization that keeps inventory and financial data in perfect sync without manual entry
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust, on-premise inventory management software tailored for small to mid-sized businesses, offering advanced tracking, order fulfillment, and manufacturing capabilities. It seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks for real-time accounting synchronization and supports multi-location inventory, barcode scanning, and cycle counting. Ideal for warehouse operations, it also includes tools for bill of materials, sales orders, and reporting to streamline complex supply chain processes.
Pros
- Deep, bidirectional QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting
- Powerful manufacturing and multi-location inventory tools
- Strong barcode and mobile scanning support for warehouse efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Dated user interface that feels clunky
- High upfront costs with ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers needing advanced inventory control tightly integrated with QuickBooks.
Pricing
One-time license starts at ~$4,395 for standard edition, plus 20% annual maintenance, per-user fees (~$439/user/year), and optional hosting/add-ons.
Cin7
specializedOmnichannel inventory management platform that connects e-commerce, POS, and wholesale for retailers.
Market-leading 700+ integrations via the Connect marketplace for effortless multi-channel synchronization
Cin7 is a powerful inventory management platform tailored for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers, offering real-time stock tracking across unlimited sales channels including e-commerce, marketplaces, and POS systems. It automates order management, procurement, and fulfillment while integrating with over 700 apps for seamless connectivity with accounting, shipping, and ERP systems. With advanced B2B features like EDI and customer portals, Cin7 scales operations for growing businesses handling complex inventory needs.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ apps for true omnichannel sync
- Real-time multi-location inventory and demand forecasting
- Robust automation for orders, procurement, and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher pricing may not suit small businesses
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response
Best For
Multi-channel retailers and distributors with complex, high-volume inventory operations across online, wholesale, and retail channels.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month (Operations plan, billed annually) scaling to $999+/month for Pro/Enterprise based on orders, users, and locations.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly cloud inventory software for small businesses to manage stock, orders, and customers.
Multi-warehouse management with automatic stock transfers and real-time visibility across all locations
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, enabling real-time tracking of stock across multiple locations. It streamlines purchasing, sales orders, barcode scanning via a robust mobile app, and generates insightful reports for better decision-making. The platform integrates with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, supporting both retail and wholesale operations.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and mobile app supporting offline barcode scanning
- Strong multi-location inventory tracking and real-time syncing
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small businesses
- Limited advanced manufacturing or lot/serial tracking in basic plans
- Customer support primarily email-based without live chat in lower tiers
Best For
Small to medium-sized retailers, wholesalers, and distributors managing inventory across multiple warehouses.
Pricing
Basic ($89/mo), Professional ($159/mo), Premium ($289/mo) billed annually; 14-day free trial available.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud manufacturing resource planning tool for real-time inventory tracking and production planning.
Visual drag-and-drop production scheduling board for intuitive workflow management
Katana MRP (katana.io) is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, focusing on real-time inventory management, production planning, and order fulfillment. It enables users to track stock across multiple locations, manage bills of materials (BOMs), schedule production visually, and integrate with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks. The platform emphasizes preventing stockouts and overproduction through live insights and automated workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface for production scheduling and inventory tracking
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility to avoid stock issues
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for higher order volumes
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting options
- Best suited for manufacturers, less ideal for pure retail inventory needs
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers and wholesalers needing real-time MRP and inventory control for make-to-order or make-to-stock operations.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Cloud Inventory, up to 100 orders/mo), $299/month (Professional MRP), custom Enterprise plans; 14-day free trial.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source ERP with comprehensive inventory management modules for businesses of all sizes.
Built-in multi-warehouse management with advanced forecasting and automated reordering rules
Odoo is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with powerful inventory management modules designed for businesses of all sizes. It enables real-time stock tracking across multiple warehouses, supports barcode scanning, serial/lot tracking, and automated forecasting for optimal replenishment. The system integrates inventory seamlessly with sales, purchasing, manufacturing, and accounting, reducing silos and streamlining operations.
Pros
- Highly customizable with modular apps for tailored inventory workflows
- Seamless integration with other ERP functions like sales and procurement
- Free community edition with robust core inventory features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced configurations
- Performance can lag with very large inventories without optimization
- Advanced features and support require paid Enterprise edition
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking an integrated ERP with scalable inventory management.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) with hosting and premium apps.
Unleashed
specializedCloud inventory software designed for distributors and wholesalers with multi-location support.
Real-time, multi-channel inventory synchronization across warehouses, suppliers, and sales platforms
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers handling complex supply chains. It offers real-time tracking of stock across multiple warehouses, purchase and sales order automation, batch/serial number management, and demand forecasting. The software integrates deeply with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, plus e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, enabling seamless operations from procurement to fulfillment.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse and multi-currency inventory tracking
- Strong integrations with accounting and e-commerce systems
- Advanced features like batch tracking and demand planning
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited native CRM or customer management tools
Best For
Medium-sized wholesalers and distributors managing multi-location inventory with heavy reliance on accounting integrations.
Pricing
Usage-based pricing starts at ~$350/month for up to 40 orders, scaling to $1,000+ for higher volumes; annual contracts and custom quotes available.
NetSuite
enterpriseEnterprise cloud ERP offering robust inventory management, forecasting, and supply chain tools.
Real-time multi-subsidiary inventory visibility with advanced AI-driven demand planning
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform from Oracle that offers robust inventory management as part of its comprehensive suite, handling multi-location tracking, order fulfillment, procurement, and demand planning. It integrates inventory data seamlessly with financials, CRM, and e-commerce for real-time visibility across the business. Designed for scalability, it supports advanced features like lot/serial number tracking, cycle counting, and warehouse management.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory tools with multi-location support, lot/serial tracking, and demand forecasting
- Deep integration with ERP modules for unified business operations
- Scalable analytics and customizable dashboards for enterprise needs
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity requiring professional services
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Overkill and expensive for small businesses with simple inventory needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing integrated ERP with advanced, scalable inventory management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at ~$999/month base plus $99/user/month; annual costs often $10,000+ depending on modules and users.
Linnworks
specializedInventory and order management platform for multi-channel e-commerce sellers.
Deep integration with 100+ sales channels and marketplaces for seamless, real-time inventory synchronization
Linnworks is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for multi-channel e-commerce businesses, enabling real-time synchronization of stock levels across marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and more than 100 other channels. It centralizes order management, automates fulfillment processes, and provides tools for warehouse operations to prevent overselling and streamline shipping. The software also supports advanced features like kitting, bundling, and custom reporting for scaling operations.
Pros
- Extensive multi-channel integrations for real-time inventory sync
- Powerful automation for order processing and fulfillment
- Scalable warehouse management tools including POS and shipping
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- Pricing can be high for small businesses with low order volumes
- Reporting and customization options feel limited compared to competitors
Best For
Multi-channel e-commerce sellers with moderate to high order volumes needing centralized control across diverse sales platforms.
Pricing
Starts at $170/month for Channel Manager (up to 500 orders), scales to $500+/month for higher volumes; custom enterprise plans available.
Brightpearl
enterpriseRetail-focused ERP with unified inventory, order, and financial management for scaling brands.
Intelligent demand forecasting with automated replenishment across multiple warehouses and channels
Brightpearl is a cloud-based retail ERP platform designed for inventory management, order processing, and multichannel operations. It provides real-time visibility into stock levels across warehouses, e-commerce sites, and marketplaces, while automating purchasing, fulfillment, and replenishment. The software integrates accounting, CRM, and reporting to support scaling retailers and wholesalers.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-channel inventory syncing and real-time tracking
- Built-in automation for purchasing, fulfillment, and forecasting
- Seamless integrations with major e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Custom quote-based pricing can be expensive for smaller businesses
- Limited self-service customization without developer support
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers handling complex, multi-channel inventory across online and physical sales.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $300-$500 per month depending on users, locations, and modules.
Conclusion
After careful evaluation of the tools, Zoho Inventory emerges as the top choice, excelling at multi-channel tracking and supporting small to medium businesses effectively. Fishbowl Inventory stands out for its advanced manufacturing integration, while Cin7 impresses with seamless omnichannel connectivity, each offering strong solutions tailored to specific needs.
Don’t let inventory management bottleneck your success—explore Zoho Inventory today to streamline operations and keep your business running smoothly.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison