Quick Overview
- 1#1: NetSuite - Cloud ERP platform providing comprehensive inventory management, real-time tracking, and demand forecasting for enterprises.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory control software with QuickBooks integration for manufacturing, warehousing, and multi-location tracking.
- 3#3: Odoo - Open-source ERP system featuring robust inventory management, barcode scanning, and automated reordering.
- 4#4: Zoho Inventory - Multi-channel inventory management tool for e-commerce with order processing, warehouse management, and integrations.
- 5#5: Cin7 - Inventory and order management platform optimized for high-volume e-commerce and retail operations.
- 6#6: Unleashed - Cloud-based inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility and multi-currency support.
- 7#7: Katana MRP - Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking, production planning, and supplier management.
- 8#8: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly inventory system for SMBs offering sales, purchasing, and stock control with mobile access.
- 9#9: SkuVault - Warehouse management and inventory control software focused on e-commerce fulfillment and SKU tracking.
- 10#10: Sortly - Visual inventory app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock organization.
Tools were ranked based on functionality, quality, ease of use, and value, ensuring a balanced selection that combines technical excellence with practical value for modern business workflows
Comparison Table
This comparison table features popular inventory control system software tools like NetSuite, Fishbowl Inventory, Odoo, Zoho Inventory, and Cin7, offering readers a clear overview of key options. It helps users understand differences in features, scalability, and usability to identify the best fit for their inventory management needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NetSuite Cloud ERP platform providing comprehensive inventory management, real-time tracking, and demand forecasting for enterprises. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory control software with QuickBooks integration for manufacturing, warehousing, and multi-location tracking. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Odoo Open-source ERP system featuring robust inventory management, barcode scanning, and automated reordering. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Zoho Inventory Multi-channel inventory management tool for e-commerce with order processing, warehouse management, and integrations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Cin7 Inventory and order management platform optimized for high-volume e-commerce and retail operations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Unleashed Cloud-based inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility and multi-currency support. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Katana MRP Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking, production planning, and supplier management. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly inventory system for SMBs offering sales, purchasing, and stock control with mobile access. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | SkuVault Warehouse management and inventory control software focused on e-commerce fulfillment and SKU tracking. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Sortly Visual inventory app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock organization. | other | 8.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
Cloud ERP platform providing comprehensive inventory management, real-time tracking, and demand forecasting for enterprises.
Advanced inventory control software with QuickBooks integration for manufacturing, warehousing, and multi-location tracking.
Open-source ERP system featuring robust inventory management, barcode scanning, and automated reordering.
Multi-channel inventory management tool for e-commerce with order processing, warehouse management, and integrations.
Inventory and order management platform optimized for high-volume e-commerce and retail operations.
Cloud-based inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility and multi-currency support.
Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking, production planning, and supplier management.
User-friendly inventory system for SMBs offering sales, purchasing, and stock control with mobile access.
Warehouse management and inventory control software focused on e-commerce fulfillment and SKU tracking.
Visual inventory app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock organization.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP platform providing comprehensive inventory management, real-time tracking, and demand forecasting for enterprises.
Real-time, multi-dimensional inventory analytics with demand-driven replenishment across global subsidiaries.
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform from Oracle that provides enterprise-grade inventory control capabilities, offering real-time visibility and management of stock across multiple locations, warehouses, and sales channels. It includes advanced features like lot/serial number tracking, demand forecasting, automated replenishment, and cycle counting to optimize inventory accuracy and efficiency. Integrated with financials, order management, and supply chain modules, it supports complex, scalable operations for growing businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-location and multi-channel inventory tracking
- Advanced demand planning and replenishment automation
- Deep integration with ERP modules for end-to-end visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup
- High cost with custom implementation fees
- Overkill for small businesses with simple needs
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, multi-location inventory operations needing full ERP integration.
Pricing
Subscription-based; starts at ~$999/user/month (billed annually) plus one-time implementation costs averaging $50K+.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory control software with QuickBooks integration for manufacturing, warehousing, and multi-location tracking.
Bidirectional QuickBooks synchronization for automatic inventory and accounting updates
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory control system designed for small to midsize businesses, offering real-time tracking, multi-location management, and barcode scanning capabilities. It excels in manufacturing workflows with bill of materials (BOM) support, production planning, and assembly processes. The software integrates deeply with QuickBooks for seamless accounting synchronization and supports e-commerce platforms like Shopify.
Pros
- Deep, real-time QuickBooks integration eliminates double data entry
- Advanced manufacturing tools including BOM and production scheduling
- Multi-warehouse inventory tracking with mobile barcode scanning
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex features
- Primarily on-premise with optional cloud hosting adding costs
- Higher upfront pricing may deter very small businesses
Best For
SMB manufacturers and distributors using QuickBooks who require sophisticated inventory and production management.
Pricing
One-time licenses start at $4,395 for standard edition, plus annual maintenance (~20%) and optional add-ons; subscription plans available from $439/month.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source ERP system featuring robust inventory management, barcode scanning, and automated reordering.
Advanced routing rules (push/pull) for complex, automated multi-step inventory movements across warehouses
Odoo is a modular, open-source ERP platform with a robust Inventory app designed for comprehensive inventory control, offering real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse management, and barcode integration. It supports advanced features like lot/serial number traceability, automated replenishment rules, and forecasting based on sales data. The system handles complex workflows such as dropshipping, manufacturing integration, and push/pull routes for optimized stock movements.
Pros
- Advanced inventory features like multi-location support, lot tracking, and automated forecasting
- Seamless integration with Odoo's sales, purchasing, and manufacturing modules
- Free Community edition with extensive customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations and full ERP setup
- Performance can lag with very large inventories without optimized hosting
- Enterprise edition required for premium features and official support
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing scalable inventory control integrated into a full ERP ecosystem.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at ~$25/user/month (billed annually) with app-based pricing.
Zoho Inventory
specializedMulti-channel inventory management tool for e-commerce with order processing, warehouse management, and integrations.
Real-time multi-channel inventory sync across platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and eBay
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based solution designed for efficient inventory control, offering real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse management, and order fulfillment automation. It supports serial/batch tracking, low-stock alerts, and seamless integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay, as well as Zoho's own CRM and accounting tools. Ideal for scaling businesses, it provides customizable reports, barcode scanning, and purchase order automation to streamline operations.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory synchronization
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, shipping, and Zoho apps
- Affordable pricing with scalable plans and a free tier for small volumes
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex setups and advanced features
- Some analytics and customization limited to higher-tier plans
- Customer support response times can be slower during peak periods
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with e-commerce operations needing scalable, integrated inventory tracking and order management.
Pricing
Free for up to 20 orders/month; paid plans from $29/mo (Standard, 50 orders) to $449/mo (Ultimate, unlimited), with annual discounts.
Cin7
specializedInventory and order management platform optimized for high-volume e-commerce and retail operations.
Real-time Inventory HQ dashboard unifying stock across all channels, locations, and suppliers in one view
Cin7 is a robust inventory control and operations platform tailored for retailers and wholesalers, offering real-time tracking of stock levels across multiple warehouses, sales channels, and locations. It automates purchase orders, stock transfers, and order fulfillment while handling complex scenarios like bundles, matrix SKUs, and serial/batch tracking. With deep integrations to e-commerce platforms (Shopify, Amazon), accounting tools (Xero, QuickBooks), and 3PL providers, it centralizes inventory management to prevent stockouts and overstocking.
Pros
- Extensive multi-channel integrations for seamless real-time inventory syncing
- Advanced inventory tools like bundle management and multi-location stock control
- Scalable for growing businesses with B2B/B2C and EDI support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be high for small businesses
- Occasional performance lags with very large inventories
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers with multi-channel sales needing centralized, real-time inventory visibility and automation.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month (Core, billed annually) up to $999+/month (Advanced/Enterprise), with custom pricing available.
Unleashed
specializedCloud-based inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility and multi-currency support.
Lightning-fast real-time stock syncing across unlimited warehouses and channels
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, offering real-time tracking of stock across multiple locations and currencies. It handles purchase orders, sales orders, batch/serial tracking, and automates replenishment to prevent stockouts or overstocking. The platform excels in integrations with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, as well as e-commerce tools like Shopify, providing comprehensive inventory control for scaling businesses.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location and multi-currency inventory visibility
- Seamless integrations with accounting, e-commerce, and ERP systems
- Robust reporting and analytics for demand forecasting
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, potentially expensive for small businesses
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
- Lacks native POS for retail-heavy operations
Best For
Wholesalers and distributors with multi-warehouse operations needing precise, real-time inventory control and strong integrations.
Pricing
Subscription tiers starting at $85 USD/month (billed annually) for up to 100 orders, scaling to $500+ for higher volumes with custom enterprise options.
Katana MRP
specializedManufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking, production planning, and supplier management.
Live MRP dashboard with visual Kanban-style production boards for drag-and-drop scheduling
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software that excels in real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and multi-location management for small to medium-sized manufacturers and wholesalers. It automates purchase orders, tracks materials through production, and syncs with e-commerce and accounting platforms like Shopify and QuickBooks. Ideal for businesses needing visibility into stock levels and manufacturing workflows without complex ERP setups.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple warehouses
- Intuitive visual production planning and scheduling
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Reporting features lack deep customization
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking integrated inventory control with production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Essentials (up to 500 orders/mo), $299/month for Professional, custom Enterprise pricing.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly inventory system for SMBs offering sales, purchasing, and stock control with mobile access.
Offline mode in the mobile app for seamless inventory updates without internet connectivity
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, providing real-time stock tracking across multiple locations. It supports barcode and QR code scanning, purchase and sales order management, and basic manufacturing workflows. The platform integrates with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, offering customizable reporting and a mobile app for on-the-go access.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory tracking with real-time sync
- User-friendly mobile app with offline capabilities
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other SMB tools
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting compared to enterprise solutions
- Higher-tier plans required for manufacturing and custom fields
- Occasional reports of sync delays during peak usage
Best For
Small to medium-sized retailers and distributors with multiple warehouses seeking affordable, mobile-first inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Basic, 1 user), $129/month (Pro, unlimited users), $189/month (Premium); 20% discount on annual plans.
SkuVault
specializedWarehouse management and inventory control software focused on e-commerce fulfillment and SKU tracking.
SmartFill intelligent order routing that automatically directs orders to the optimal warehouse based on location, stock, and cost.
SkuVault is a comprehensive inventory control system tailored for multi-channel e-commerce businesses, offering real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouses and sales platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and eBay. It automates order fulfillment with features like wave planning, batch picking, and intelligent order routing via SmartFill technology. The platform ensures accurate stock levels, prevents overselling, and provides detailed reporting for optimized inventory management.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory synchronization
- Advanced automation for picking, packing, and order routing
- Strong integrations with major e-commerce platforms and 3PLs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced features
- Pricing can be expensive for small to mid-sized operations
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-to-large e-commerce businesses with multiple warehouses and sales channels needing real-time inventory control and fulfillment automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500+/month based on order volume, SKUs, and warehouses.
Sortly
otherVisual inventory app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock organization.
Photo-based visual inventory catalogs that make item identification and organization effortless
Sortly is a visual inventory management software designed for small businesses, enabling users to catalog items with photos, barcodes, QR codes, and custom fields for easy tracking. It supports stock level monitoring, low-stock alerts, multi-location management, and basic reporting via a mobile-first app. Ideal for simplifying inventory counts and organization without requiring complex setups.
Pros
- Highly intuitive visual interface with photo catalogs
- Excellent mobile app for on-the-go scanning and counts
- Affordable entry-level pricing with a free tier
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting tools
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise solutions
- Scalability issues for very large inventories or complex supply chains
Best For
Small businesses and retail teams seeking simple, visual inventory tracking for basic stock control.
Pricing
Free plan (100 entries); paid plans start at $29/month (Basic, 1,000 entries) up to $99/month (Advanced, unlimited entries and users), billed annually.
Conclusion
The top three inventory control systems highlight a range of strengths, with NetSuite emerging as the top choice, offering comprehensive cloud ERP features suited for enterprises. Fishbowl Inventory follows, excelling with QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and multi-location tracking, while Odoo impresses as an open-source solution with robust automation. Each tool caters to specific needs, ensuring alternatives exist for various operations, from e-commerce to SMBs.
Take the next step in optimizing your inventory processes by exploring NetSuite’s real-time tracking, demand forecasting, and enterprise-grade capabilities—tailored to elevate efficiency for your unique needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
