Quick Overview
- 1#1: Katana - Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines manufacturing planning, inventory tracking, and production scheduling for small to medium businesses.
- 2#2: MRPeasy - Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning system offering production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM for small manufacturers.
- 3#3: Fishbowl - Inventory control and manufacturing software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and multi-location tracking.
- 4#4: Odoo - Modular open-source ERP platform with integrated manufacturing, inventory, and supply chain management apps.
- 5#5: NetSuite - Cloud ERP solution providing advanced inventory management, demand planning, and manufacturing execution for growing businesses.
- 6#6: ERPNext - Open-source ERP system with comprehensive manufacturing, inventory, and BOM management features for cost-effective operations.
- 7#7: Cin7 - Inventory management platform that unifies multichannel sales, procurement, and manufacturing workflows.
- 8#8: Unleashed - Cloud inventory software designed for manufacturers and distributors with real-time stock tracking and multi-currency support.
- 9#9: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor management and MES software for tracking production, inventory, and quality in manufacturing.
- 10#10: Plex - Cloud MES and ERP platform focused on smart manufacturing, inventory control, and supply chain visibility.
These tools were selected based on a balanced assessment of features, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring they cater to the varied requirements of small to large manufacturers and inventory operations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key inventory and manufacturing software tools, including Katana, MRPeasy, Fishbowl, Odoo, NetSuite, and more, to guide businesses in evaluating their options. It highlights core features, integration strengths, and user-friendliness, helping readers identify a tool that aligns with their operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Katana Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines manufacturing planning, inventory tracking, and production scheduling for small to medium businesses. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | MRPeasy Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning system offering production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM for small manufacturers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Fishbowl Inventory control and manufacturing software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and multi-location tracking. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Odoo Modular open-source ERP platform with integrated manufacturing, inventory, and supply chain management apps. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | NetSuite Cloud ERP solution providing advanced inventory management, demand planning, and manufacturing execution for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | ERPNext Open-source ERP system with comprehensive manufacturing, inventory, and BOM management features for cost-effective operations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 7 | Cin7 Inventory management platform that unifies multichannel sales, procurement, and manufacturing workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Unleashed Cloud inventory software designed for manufacturers and distributors with real-time stock tracking and multi-currency support. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Prodsmart Real-time shop floor management and MES software for tracking production, inventory, and quality in manufacturing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Plex Cloud MES and ERP platform focused on smart manufacturing, inventory control, and supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-native MRP software that streamlines manufacturing planning, inventory tracking, and production scheduling for small to medium businesses.
Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning system offering production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM for small manufacturers.
Inventory control and manufacturing software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and multi-location tracking.
Modular open-source ERP platform with integrated manufacturing, inventory, and supply chain management apps.
Cloud ERP solution providing advanced inventory management, demand planning, and manufacturing execution for growing businesses.
Open-source ERP system with comprehensive manufacturing, inventory, and BOM management features for cost-effective operations.
Inventory management platform that unifies multichannel sales, procurement, and manufacturing workflows.
Cloud inventory software designed for manufacturers and distributors with real-time stock tracking and multi-currency support.
Real-time shop floor management and MES software for tracking production, inventory, and quality in manufacturing.
Cloud MES and ERP platform focused on smart manufacturing, inventory control, and supply chain visibility.
Katana
specializedCloud-native MRP software that streamlines manufacturing planning, inventory tracking, and production scheduling for small to medium businesses.
Live MRP engine that automatically generates production plans, purchase orders, and reorder suggestions based on real-time demand and inventory data
Katana is a cloud-based MRP (Manufacturing Resource Planning) and inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors. It offers real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations, automated production planning, and shop floor execution with visual scheduling tools. The platform streamlines order fulfillment, purchasing, and BOM (Bill of Materials) management while integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with infinite traceability
- Intuitive drag-and-drop visual production scheduling
- Seamless integrations with Shopify, Xero, QuickBooks, and more
Cons
- Advanced reporting and analytics could be more customizable
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or high-volume operations
- Limited options for highly complex manufacturing workflows
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers and distributors needing an intuitive, visual MRP system to manage inventory, production, and orders without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan, up to 5 users), $299/month (Manufacturing plan), custom Enterprise; 14-day free trial available.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based manufacturing resource planning system offering production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM for small manufacturers.
Dynamic visual scheduling board with automatic rescheduling and infinite capacity planning
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP (Material Requirements Planning) and ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturing companies. It offers comprehensive tools for production planning, scheduling, real-time inventory management, BOM handling, procurement, CRM, and financial reporting. The platform enables manufacturers to achieve end-to-end visibility, optimize operations, reduce stockouts, and improve on-time deliveries without the complexity of enterprise-level systems.
Pros
- Intuitive visual production scheduling with drag-and-drop functionality
- Real-time inventory tracking and automatic reorder points
- All-in-one solution covering MRP, CRM, and procurement for SMEs
Cons
- Pricing scales with users, which can be costly for larger teams
- Limited advanced customizations without developer support
- Mobile app lacks some desktop features
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers seeking an affordable, user-friendly MRP system to streamline production and inventory.
Pricing
Starts at €49 per user/month (minimum 10 users, billed annually); single plan with all features, scales down per additional user.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory control and manufacturing software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for order fulfillment and multi-location tracking.
Native, bidirectional QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory, orders, and financials without manual data entry
Fishbowl is a robust inventory and manufacturing management software tailored for small to mid-sized businesses, with deep integration into QuickBooks for seamless accounting synchronization. It excels in multi-location inventory tracking, barcode scanning, purchase and sales order management, and advanced manufacturing features like bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, and production scheduling. The platform supports warehouse operations and e-commerce integrations, making it ideal for distributors and light manufacturers seeking detailed control over inventory cycles.
Pros
- Exceptional two-way QuickBooks integration for real-time accounting sync
- Comprehensive manufacturing tools including BOMs, routings, and labor tracking
- Strong multi-location inventory and barcode support for warehouse efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and customization options
- Higher upfront costs and potential add-ons inflate total pricing
- Mobile app is functional but lacks full feature parity with desktop version
Best For
QuickBooks-using small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors needing advanced inventory and production management.
Pricing
One-time license starts at ~$4,395 for Warehouse edition (1 user), ~$5,835 for Manufacturing; annual maintenance ~20%; cloud subscription from $599/month.
Odoo
enterpriseModular open-source ERP platform with integrated manufacturing, inventory, and supply chain management apps.
Modular app ecosystem enabling no-code customizations via Odoo Studio while providing advanced MRP II with real-time capacity planning and full traceability
Odoo is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with powerful inventory and manufacturing modules designed for efficient warehouse management, production planning, and supply chain operations. It supports multi-warehouse setups, lot/serial number tracking, barcode integration, demand forecasting, and advanced MRP functionalities including work orders, BOMs, and quality inspections. The software stands out for its seamless integration across modules, enabling real-time data flow from procurement to manufacturing and sales.
Pros
- Highly modular and scalable with deep inventory and MRP capabilities
- Seamless integration between inventory, manufacturing, and other ERP functions
- Open-source community edition offers excellent value for customization
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and configuration options
- Advanced customizations often require developer expertise
- Performance can degrade at enterprise scale without optimization
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors seeking a scalable, integrated ERP for inventory and production management without high upfront costs.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise edition ~$12-37/user/month per app module, with flexible per-user scaling.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP solution providing advanced inventory management, demand planning, and manufacturing execution for growing businesses.
Unified real-time MRP and demand planning integrated directly with financials and CRM for precise production forecasting.
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform from Oracle that excels in inventory and manufacturing management for mid-to-large enterprises. It offers real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations, lot and serial number traceability, demand planning, and advanced manufacturing features like MRP, production scheduling, work orders, and quality management. The system integrates seamlessly with financials, CRM, and supply chain modules, providing end-to-end visibility and automation for complex operations.
Pros
- Highly scalable with real-time inventory visibility and multi-location support
- Robust manufacturing tools including MRP, shop floor control, and quality assurance
- Deep integration across ERP modules for streamlined operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring expert implementation
- High cost with custom pricing that may not suit smaller businesses
- Overkill for simple inventory needs due to enterprise focus
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers and distributors requiring a full ERP suite with advanced inventory and production capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $999/month base plus $99-$150 per user/month, often $20,000+ annually for full implementations with add-ons.
ERPNext
enterpriseOpen-source ERP system with comprehensive manufacturing, inventory, and BOM management features for cost-effective operations.
100% open-source architecture allowing unlimited customization without vendor lock-in
ERPNext is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with strong inventory and manufacturing modules, enabling efficient stock tracking, warehouse management, serial/batch numbering, and multiple valuation methods. Its manufacturing features include multi-level Bill of Materials (BOM), production planning, work orders, quality inspections, and subcontracting support. The system integrates seamlessly with other ERP functions like accounting and sales for end-to-end operations.
Pros
- Fully open-source with no licensing fees
- Advanced manufacturing tools like multi-level BOM and production planning
- Highly customizable via low-code framework
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Complex initial setup and configuration
- UI feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers or distributors needing a cost-effective, highly customizable inventory and production management system.
Pricing
Free open-source self-hosted version; Frappe Cloud hosting starts at $10/site/month for basic plans, scaling with users and resources.
Cin7
enterpriseInventory management platform that unifies multichannel sales, procurement, and manufacturing workflows.
True omnichannel inventory synchronization across 700+ connectors, ensuring real-time stock levels prevent discrepancies.
Cin7 is a robust inventory management platform tailored for multi-channel retailers, wholesalers, and light manufacturers, providing real-time stock visibility across e-commerce, POS, marketplaces, and ERP systems. It streamlines order fulfillment, purchasing, and reporting while supporting manufacturing workflows like bill of materials (BOM), assemblies, and production planning. With over 700 integrations, it centralizes operations to prevent overselling and stockouts.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ platforms for seamless omnichannel sync
- Comprehensive inventory tools including multi-location tracking and forecasting
- Solid manufacturing support with BOM, kits, and production orders
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and setup
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
- Limited advanced MRP features compared to dedicated manufacturing software
Best For
Multi-channel retailers and distributors handling inventory across online stores, POS, and marketplaces with light manufacturing needs.
Pricing
Starts at $349 USD/month (billed annually) for Standard plan; scales to $749+ for Pro/Advanced based on order volume, users, and add-ons; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Unleashed
specializedCloud inventory software designed for manufacturers and distributors with real-time stock tracking and multi-currency support.
Live multi-location stock visibility with automatic synchronization across unlimited warehouses
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and light manufacturers, providing real-time stock tracking across multiple locations. It supports core inventory functions like purchasing, sales orders, and stock movements, alongside manufacturing tools such as bill of materials (BOMs), assemblies, and production orders. The software excels in integrations with accounting systems like Xero and QuickBooks, e-commerce platforms, and offers customizable reporting for better visibility.
Pros
- Multi-warehouse real-time inventory tracking with unlimited locations
- Seamless integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
- Batch and serial number traceability for compliance
Cons
- Manufacturing capabilities are basic, lacking advanced MRP or shop floor control
- Pricing is relatively high for smaller businesses
- Steeper learning curve for complex setups and customizations
Best For
Small to medium-sized distributors and light manufacturers prioritizing accurate multi-location inventory control over deep manufacturing automation.
Pricing
Tiered subscription starting at ~$400 USD/month for basic plans, scaling with users, stock-keeping units, and locations; custom enterprise pricing available.
Prodsmart
specializedReal-time shop floor management and MES software for tracking production, inventory, and quality in manufacturing.
Paperless, mobile-driven real-time production tracking that replaces manual logs with instant data from the shop floor.
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time production tracking, inventory management, and shop floor control. It enables paperless manufacturing through mobile apps that capture data instantly from operators, machines, and processes. The platform provides analytics for performance optimization, waste reduction, and ERP integrations to streamline operations.
Pros
- Real-time visibility into production KPIs and bottlenecks
- Mobile-first app for seamless shop floor data capture
- Strong integrations with ERPs like SAP and QuickBooks
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger operations
- Some advanced customizations require professional services
- Reporting tools lack depth compared to enterprise MES
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers needing real-time shop floor control and inventory tracking without heavy IT investment.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500–$1,000/month for small factories, scaling by users, machines, and locations.
Plex
enterpriseCloud MES and ERP platform focused on smart manufacturing, inventory control, and supply chain visibility.
Plex Machine Monitoring for real-time IoT-driven shop floor data capture and predictive analytics
Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform offering MES, ERP, inventory management, quality control, and supply chain solutions primarily for discrete manufacturers. It provides real-time visibility into shop floor operations, production scheduling, asset performance, and inventory tracking through IoT integration and analytics. The system streamlines manufacturing processes, reduces waste, and supports compliance with industry standards like IATF 16949.
Pros
- Real-time production visibility and analytics
- Seamless IoT and machine integration
- Scalable cloud architecture for growing operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups
- Custom pricing can be expensive for SMBs
- Limited flexibility in highly customized workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, and electronics seeking real-time MES and ERP integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $1,200/month per facility with tiers based on users and modules.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, Katana leads as the top choice, excelling in streamlining manufacturing planning, inventory tracking, and scheduling for small to medium businesses. MRPeasy stands out with its integrated production scheduling, inventory management, and CRM, making it a strong option for small manufacturers, while Fishbowl impresses through seamless QuickBooks integration, ideal for order fulfillment and multi-location tracking. Each tool offers distinct strengths, ensuring there is a solution tailored to various operational needs.
Don’t miss out on Katana’s simplified workflow—try it today to elevate your manufacturing and inventory management processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison