Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fishbowl Inventory - Provides advanced inventory tracking, manufacturing, and warehouse management with seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time control.
- 2#2: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based solution for multi-channel inventory management, order fulfillment, and sales tracking with affordable pricing.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory platform that unifies stock across sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers for centralized control.
- 4#4: DEAR Systems - Comprehensive inventory and order management software tailored for SMBs with strong accounting and e-commerce integrations.
- 5#5: NetSuite - Full ERP system offering robust inventory control, demand planning, and multi-location management for enterprises.
- 6#6: Katana MRP - Cloud MRP software for real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and supply chain visibility in manufacturing.
- 7#7: Unleashed - Real-time inventory management for distributors and wholesalers with multi-currency and multi-location support.
- 8#8: inFlow Inventory - Perpetual inventory software for small to medium businesses handling purchasing, sales, and stock tracking offline/online.
- 9#9: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers providing inventory planning, production scheduling, and CRM integration.
- 10#10: SkuVault - E-commerce focused inventory management with warehouse tools for picking, packing, and multi-channel order syncing.
We selected these tools based on rigorous evaluation of core features (including real-time tracking, integration capabilities, and scalability), user experience (intuitive design and onboarding), and long-term value (cost-effectiveness and adaptability to evolving business demands), ensuring each entry delivers tangible benefits across sectors.
Comparison Table
Inventory control software is essential for optimizing operations, and this comparison table features top tools like Fishbowl Inventory, Zoho Inventory, Cin7, DEAR Systems, and NetSuite, guiding businesses to identify solutions suited to their needs, from scalability to industry-specific requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishbowl Inventory Provides advanced inventory tracking, manufacturing, and warehouse management with seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time control. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based solution for multi-channel inventory management, order fulfillment, and sales tracking with affordable pricing. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory platform that unifies stock across sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers for centralized control. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | DEAR Systems Comprehensive inventory and order management software tailored for SMBs with strong accounting and e-commerce integrations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | NetSuite Full ERP system offering robust inventory control, demand planning, and multi-location management for enterprises. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Katana MRP Cloud MRP software for real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and supply chain visibility in manufacturing. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Unleashed Real-time inventory management for distributors and wholesalers with multi-currency and multi-location support. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | inFlow Inventory Perpetual inventory software for small to medium businesses handling purchasing, sales, and stock tracking offline/online. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 9 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers providing inventory planning, production scheduling, and CRM integration. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 10 | SkuVault E-commerce focused inventory management with warehouse tools for picking, packing, and multi-channel order syncing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
Provides advanced inventory tracking, manufacturing, and warehouse management with seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time control.
Cloud-based solution for multi-channel inventory management, order fulfillment, and sales tracking with affordable pricing.
Omnichannel inventory platform that unifies stock across sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers for centralized control.
Comprehensive inventory and order management software tailored for SMBs with strong accounting and e-commerce integrations.
Full ERP system offering robust inventory control, demand planning, and multi-location management for enterprises.
Cloud MRP software for real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and supply chain visibility in manufacturing.
Real-time inventory management for distributors and wholesalers with multi-currency and multi-location support.
Perpetual inventory software for small to medium businesses handling purchasing, sales, and stock tracking offline/online.
Cloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers providing inventory planning, production scheduling, and CRM integration.
E-commerce focused inventory management with warehouse tools for picking, packing, and multi-channel order syncing.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedProvides advanced inventory tracking, manufacturing, and warehouse management with seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time control.
Two-way, real-time synchronization with QuickBooks
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust, real-time inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, particularly manufacturers, distributors, and warehouses. It provides comprehensive tools for tracking stock across multiple locations, managing purchase orders, sales orders, and assemblies, while offering lot/serial number traceability and barcode scanning. The platform excels in seamless integration with QuickBooks and e-commerce systems like Shopify, enabling automated data sync and streamlined operations.
Pros
- Deep integration with QuickBooks for seamless accounting sync
- Advanced manufacturing and multi-location inventory tools
- Real-time tracking with lot/serial numbers and cycle counts
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher upfront or subscription costs
- Primarily desktop-based with some mobile limitations
Best For
Manufacturers, distributors, and warehouses needing advanced inventory control with QuickBooks integration.
Pricing
One-time license from $4,395 + $1,295 annual maintenance, or subscription starting at ~$300/month per user.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based solution for multi-channel inventory management, order fulfillment, and sales tracking with affordable pricing.
Seamless multi-channel inventory sync that automatically updates stock levels across online stores, marketplaces, and physical warehouses in real-time
Zoho Inventory is a robust cloud-based solution designed for efficient inventory control, enabling real-time tracking of stock levels across multiple warehouses, serial/batch management, and automated reordering. It excels in multi-channel order management by integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay, as well as shipping carriers for streamlined fulfillment. The software also offers comprehensive reporting, purchase order automation, and sales analytics, making it ideal for scaling businesses. When paired with other Zoho apps like Books and CRM, it provides a unified ecosystem for inventory-driven operations.
Pros
- Advanced multi-warehouse support with automated stock transfers and real-time visibility
- Deep integrations with e-commerce platforms, Zoho apps, and 50+ third-party services
- Powerful automation for orders, picking/packing, and low-stock alerts
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex setups and custom workflows
- Some premium features like advanced reporting require higher-tier plans
- Limited offline access compared to dedicated on-premise solutions
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with multi-channel sales needing scalable inventory tracking and Zoho ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Free plan for basic use (up to 20 online store orders/mo); paid plans start at $29/mo (Standard), $59/mo (Professional), $99/mo (Elite) billed annually per organization.
Cin7
enterpriseOmnichannel inventory platform that unifies stock across sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers for centralized control.
Cin7 Core platform delivering a single real-time source of truth for inventory across all channels and locations with patented automation.
Cin7 is a robust cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers, offering real-time stock visibility across unlimited warehouses and sales channels. It automates purchase orders, order fulfillment, and replenishment while supporting complex inventory types like bundles, matrices, and serial numbers. With deep integrations to over 700 platforms including Shopify, Amazon, and QuickBooks, it centralizes operations to prevent stockouts and overselling.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with 700+ e-commerce, POS, and accounting platforms
- Advanced real-time multi-warehouse inventory tracking and forecasting
- Comprehensive automation for purchasing, fulfillment, and B2B sales
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customization options
- Pricing is premium and quote-based, less ideal for small businesses
- Implementation may require professional services for complex setups
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce retailers and distributors with multi-channel sales and multiple warehouses needing advanced inventory synchronization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $349/month for Core plan, scaling up to $999+/month for Omni or Enterprise with more users, locations, and support.
DEAR Systems
specializedComprehensive inventory and order management software tailored for SMBs with strong accounting and e-commerce integrations.
Landed cost tracking that automatically allocates freight, duties, and overhead for accurate product costing and profitability analysis
DEAR Systems (now part of Cin7) is a robust inventory control software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses handling multi-channel sales. It offers real-time stock tracking across multiple warehouses, automated reordering, batch and serial number management, and landed cost calculations for precise profitability. The platform integrates deeply with e-commerce sites like Shopify and Amazon, as well as accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero, streamlining operations from purchase to fulfillment.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-location and multi-channel inventory tracking
- Advanced features like batch/serial tracking and landed costs
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Pricing can escalate quickly for high-volume users
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets
Best For
Small to medium businesses managing complex, multi-channel inventory with e-commerce and wholesale operations.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (billed annually), with higher tiers up to $749/month based on order volume and users; custom enterprise pricing available.
NetSuite
enterpriseFull ERP system offering robust inventory control, demand planning, and multi-location management for enterprises.
Real-time, global multi-subsidiary inventory visibility with AI-driven demand planning
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform from Oracle that provides robust inventory control features as part of its comprehensive business management suite. It enables real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations, supports lot and serial number tracking, bin management, and demand forecasting to optimize stock levels. The system integrates inventory data seamlessly with financials, order management, and supply chain operations for end-to-end control.
Pros
- Advanced multi-location inventory tracking with lot/serial/bin management
- Real-time analytics and demand planning for optimized replenishment
- Deep integration with ERP modules like finance and procurement
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity for setup
- Steep learning curve requiring training or consultants
- Overkill and expensive for small businesses focused solely on inventory
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, multi-location inventory needs integrated into full ERP operations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $999/month base plus $99-$199 per user/month depending on modules.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud MRP software for real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and supply chain visibility in manufacturing.
Live MRP engine that dynamically calculates material needs and production schedules in real-time
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software that excels in real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management for makers and small manufacturers. It automates purchase orders, prevents stockouts through smart replenishment, and supports multi-location inventory visibility. The platform integrates with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, streamlining operations from raw materials to finished goods.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking with multi-warehouse support
- Automated production planning and purchase order generation
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features and larger teams
- Reporting and analytics could be more customizable
- Steeper learning curve for complex manufacturing workflows
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers and makers who need integrated inventory control with production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (billed annually) for Digital Workshop (up to 5 makers), with Professional at $299/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Unleashed
specializedReal-time inventory management for distributors and wholesalers with multi-currency and multi-location support.
Real-time, multi-location inventory visibility with automated stock takes and low-stock alerts across warehouses and channels
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and light manufacturers, offering real-time tracking of stock levels across multiple locations. It handles purchase orders, sales orders, batch and serial number tracking, and basic manufacturing workflows. The platform excels in integrations with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, as well as e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, enabling streamlined inventory control for growing businesses.
Pros
- Robust real-time multi-location inventory tracking with automatic adjustments
- Extensive integrations with accounting, e-commerce, and shipping tools
- Strong support for batch, serial, and expiry date management
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users, potentially costly for small businesses
- Limited built-in CRM or advanced sales features beyond inventory
- Steeper learning curve for complex manufacturing setups
Best For
Mid-sized wholesalers and distributors needing precise, multi-channel inventory control with strong integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $85 AUD/month (Starter plan for up to 100 orders), scales to $649 AUD/month (Pro plan for 10,000+ orders); custom enterprise pricing available.
inFlow Inventory
specializedPerpetual inventory software for small to medium businesses handling purchasing, sales, and stock tracking offline/online.
Fully offline mobile app for inventory scanning and adjustments in areas without internet connectivity
inFlow Inventory is a user-friendly inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses in retail, wholesale, and light manufacturing. It provides robust tools for tracking stock across multiple locations, managing purchase and sales orders, and handling serial/batch numbers with barcode scanning support. The platform includes customizable reporting, integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools like QuickBooks and Shopify, and a mobile app that functions offline for on-the-go inventory control.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and minimal training required
- Offline mobile app for barcode scanning and real-time inventory updates
- Strong multi-location support and detailed stock tracking including serial/lot numbers
Cons
- Reporting lacks advanced customization and drill-down capabilities
- No native CRM or full accounting suite, requiring integrations
- Pricing increases significantly with additional users and locations
Best For
Small to medium-sized retailers and wholesalers seeking straightforward, mobile-friendly inventory control without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (1 user, 1 location) up to $259/month (unlimited users/locations); 20% discount for annual billing.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP system for small manufacturers providing inventory planning, production scheduling, and CRM integration.
Material requirements planning (MRP) that automatically calculates inventory needs based on production schedules and sales orders
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software designed primarily for small to medium-sized manufacturers, providing robust inventory control features like real-time tracking, lot and serial number traceability, and multi-warehouse management. It integrates inventory with production planning, BOM management, purchasing, and sales orders to streamline operations. The system automates reorder points, demand forecasting, and stock adjustments for efficient inventory optimization.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory tracking with lot/serial traceability and multi-warehouse support
- Seamless integration of inventory with manufacturing planning and BOMs
- Real-time reporting and demand forecasting for better stock control
Cons
- Heavily manufacturing-focused, less ideal for pure retail/distribution inventory needs
- Per-user pricing can add up for larger teams
- Steeper learning curve for non-manufacturing users
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking integrated inventory control with production scheduling.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic), $99/user/month (Production), $199/user/month (Business); annual billing discounts available.
SkuVault
specializedE-commerce focused inventory management with warehouse tools for picking, packing, and multi-channel order syncing.
SkuVault CORE: Proprietary inventory engine guaranteeing 100% accuracy through real-time, multi-location tracking and automated adjustments.
SkuVault is a robust inventory management and warehouse management system (WMS) designed for multi-channel e-commerce sellers. It offers real-time inventory synchronization across platforms like Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and Walmart, along with advanced features for picking, packing, shipping, and cycle counting. The software excels in handling complex warehouse operations and scaling with growing businesses, ensuring accurate stock levels and streamlined fulfillment processes.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel integrations with 50+ platforms for real-time sync
- Advanced WMS tools including wave planning, batch picking, and cycle counts
- Scalable for high-volume operations with strong reporting and analytics
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small businesses with low order volumes
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users and complex setups
- Occasional reports of integration delays and customer support inconsistencies
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce businesses managing inventory across multiple warehouses and sales channels with high order volumes.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; starts around $499/month for basic plans, scales with order volume (e.g., $1,000+ for higher tiers).
Conclusion
The top 10 inventory control tools, from advanced manufacturing solutions to cloud-based multi-channel platforms, each cater to distinct needs, yet Fishbowl Inventory rises as the top choice for its seamless tracking, integration, and warehouse management. Zoho Inventory and Cin7 follow closely, with strong alternatives for affordability and omnichannel unification, respectively.
Don't miss out—discover why Fishbowl Inventory leads by trying its real-time, integrated approach to maximize control and efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
