Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory management software specializing in cycle counting, barcode scanning, and real-time stock adjustments for warehouses.
- 2#2: Cin7 - Comprehensive inventory platform with automated cycle counts, multi-location tracking, and mobile scanning for retailers.
- 3#3: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based tool for efficient inventory counting via barcode scanning, serial number tracking, and bulk adjustments.
- 4#4: DEAR Systems - Inventory control software offering physical and cycle counts with e-commerce integrations and mobile support.
- 5#5: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly desktop and mobile app for quick inventory counts, barcode generation, and stock reconciliation.
- 6#6: Unleashed - Cloud inventory solution for wholesalers with precise stocktaking, batch tracking, and multi-currency counting.
- 7#7: QuickBooks Commerce - Multi-channel inventory manager with stock count tools, low-stock alerts, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
- 8#8: Sortly - Visual inventory app enabling easy mobile counting, QR code scanning, and folder-based organization.
- 9#9: Katana MRP - Manufacturing inventory software with live stock counts, production planning, and barcode integration.
- 10#10: Final Inventory - Secure cloud platform for multi-location inventory counting, order management, and API integrations.
These tools were selected based on a focus on key features, user-friendly design, reliability, and value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits across industries and scales.
Comparison Table
This comparison table evaluates key features, workflows, and suitability of leading inventory counting software tools, such as Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, Zoho Inventory, DEAR Systems, inFlow Inventory, and more. Readers will gain insights into how each tool performs across usability, integrations, scalability, and reporting to identify the optimal solution for their operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory management software specializing in cycle counting, barcode scanning, and real-time stock adjustments for warehouses. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Cin7 Comprehensive inventory platform with automated cycle counts, multi-location tracking, and mobile scanning for retailers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based tool for efficient inventory counting via barcode scanning, serial number tracking, and bulk adjustments. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | DEAR Systems Inventory control software offering physical and cycle counts with e-commerce integrations and mobile support. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly desktop and mobile app for quick inventory counts, barcode generation, and stock reconciliation. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Unleashed Cloud inventory solution for wholesalers with precise stocktaking, batch tracking, and multi-currency counting. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | QuickBooks Commerce Multi-channel inventory manager with stock count tools, low-stock alerts, and seamless QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | Sortly Visual inventory app enabling easy mobile counting, QR code scanning, and folder-based organization. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Katana MRP Manufacturing inventory software with live stock counts, production planning, and barcode integration. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Final Inventory Secure cloud platform for multi-location inventory counting, order management, and API integrations. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
Advanced inventory management software specializing in cycle counting, barcode scanning, and real-time stock adjustments for warehouses.
Comprehensive inventory platform with automated cycle counts, multi-location tracking, and mobile scanning for retailers.
Cloud-based tool for efficient inventory counting via barcode scanning, serial number tracking, and bulk adjustments.
Inventory control software offering physical and cycle counts with e-commerce integrations and mobile support.
User-friendly desktop and mobile app for quick inventory counts, barcode generation, and stock reconciliation.
Cloud inventory solution for wholesalers with precise stocktaking, batch tracking, and multi-currency counting.
Multi-channel inventory manager with stock count tools, low-stock alerts, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
Visual inventory app enabling easy mobile counting, QR code scanning, and folder-based organization.
Manufacturing inventory software with live stock counts, production planning, and barcode integration.
Secure cloud platform for multi-location inventory counting, order management, and API integrations.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory management software specializing in cycle counting, barcode scanning, and real-time stock adjustments for warehouses.
Advanced cycle counting with ABC categorization and blind count options that minimize stock disruptions while maximizing accuracy
Fishbowl Inventory is a comprehensive inventory management platform tailored for small to mid-sized businesses, specializing in real-time tracking, order fulfillment, and precise inventory counting across multiple locations. It offers advanced tools for cycle counting, physical inventories, and barcode/RFID scanning through its mobile app, Fishbowl Go, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other ERPs make it ideal for businesses seeking end-to-end warehouse control without disrupting operations.
Pros
- Robust cycle counting and physical inventory tools with ABC analysis and automatic variance adjustments
- Mobile barcode scanning via Fishbowl Go for fast, accurate counts on the warehouse floor
- Deep integrations with QuickBooks and e-commerce platforms for real-time data sync
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its extensive feature set and desktop-heavy interface
- Higher upfront costs may deter very small businesses
- Limited native cloud functionality, relying on on-premise installation for full capabilities
Best For
Mid-sized distributors and manufacturers needing scalable, precise inventory counting with multi-location support and accounting integrations.
Pricing
One-time license starts at $4,395 for standard edition, plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription plans from $439/month available.
Cin7
specializedComprehensive inventory platform with automated cycle counts, multi-location tracking, and mobile scanning for retailers.
Mobile stocktake app with offline mode and automated reconciliation for accurate, efficient counting anywhere
Cin7 is a comprehensive inventory management platform with strong inventory counting capabilities, including cycle counts, full stocktakes, and adjustments via barcode scanning and mobile apps. It supports multi-location tracking, RFID integration, and real-time synchronization to maintain accurate stock levels. Ideal for businesses needing more than basic counting, it automates reconciliation and integrates with e-commerce, POS, and accounting systems for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Robust cycle counting and full stocktake tools with barcode/RFID support
- Multi-warehouse inventory tracking with real-time updates
- Seamless integration with 700+ apps for automated workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Higher pricing unsuitable for small businesses
- Can feel overly complex for basic counting needs
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers with multi-channel sales and complex inventory across multiple locations.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (billed annually), with Pro at $599/month and custom Enterprise pricing.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based tool for efficient inventory counting via barcode scanning, serial number tracking, and bulk adjustments.
Intelligent cycle counting that enables targeted partial audits to minimize operational disruptions
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform designed to streamline stock tracking, order fulfillment, and physical inventory counting for businesses. It supports cycle counts, barcode scanning via mobile app, and stock adjustments to ensure accurate inventory levels without full warehouse shutdowns. Integrated with Zoho's ecosystem and e-commerce platforms, it provides real-time visibility and automation for efficient counting processes.
Pros
- Robust cycle counting and barcode scanning tools for precise inventory audits
- Multi-warehouse support with real-time stock syncing
- Seamless integrations with Zoho apps and major sales channels
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and customizations
- Some counting tools require higher-tier plans
- Mobile app lacks offline mode in basic plans
Best For
Small to medium businesses needing scalable inventory counting integrated with sales and accounting tools.
Pricing
Free plan for basic use (up to 20 orders/month); paid plans start at $29/user/month (Standard, billed annually) up to $199/user/month (Ultimate).
DEAR Systems
specializedInventory control software offering physical and cycle counts with e-commerce integrations and mobile support.
Cycle Count Planner that intelligently schedules and assigns counts based on ABC analysis and historical variances
DEAR Systems (now part of Cin7 Core) is a cloud-based inventory management platform with robust inventory counting features, including cycle counts, full stocktakes, and mobile barcode scanning for accurate physical inventories. It supports real-time stock adjustments, variance analysis, and multi-location counting, helping businesses minimize discrepancies and maintain precise inventory levels. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, POS, and accounting tools like QuickBooks and Shopify, streamlining operations for retailers and wholesalers.
Pros
- Advanced cycle counting with automated prioritization based on turnover and variance
- Mobile app enables efficient barcode and RFID scanning for on-floor counts
- Real-time inventory syncing across locations and integrations prevents stockouts
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex counting workflows and setup
- Pricing escalates quickly with order volume, less ideal for very small businesses
- Reporting on counts lacks deep customization without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers needing integrated, scalable inventory counting with e-commerce and accounting ties.
Pricing
Starts at $325 USD/month (annual) for Essentials plan; scales to $1,049+/month for higher volumes, plus setup fees.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly desktop and mobile app for quick inventory counts, barcode generation, and stock reconciliation.
Mobile-first cycle counting with photo attachments and approval workflows for accurate, auditable stock takes
inFlow Inventory is a robust inventory management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering powerful tools for inventory counting including cycle counts, full physical inventories, and barcode scanning via a mobile app. It provides real-time stock tracking, adjustments, and reporting to ensure accuracy and minimize shrinkage. Beyond counting, it integrates sales, purchasing, and order fulfillment for comprehensive operations.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for efficient barcode-based cycle counting
- Real-time inventory updates and detailed discrepancy reporting
- Supports multi-location counting and kit assemblies
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for multi-user or advanced plans
- Steeper learning curve for complex features like serial tracking
- Limited customization in counting workflows compared to specialized tools
Best For
Small to medium retailers and distributors needing integrated inventory counting within full management software.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Solo, 1 user), $129/month (Team), up to $439/month (Professional); 30-day free trial, annual discounts available.
Unleashed
specializedCloud inventory solution for wholesalers with precise stocktaking, batch tracking, and multi-currency counting.
Live cycle counting that allows ongoing operations without locking inventory, enabling perpetual accuracy checks.
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, with robust tools for inventory counting including full stocktakes, cycle counts, and barcode scanning via a mobile app. It provides real-time stock visibility across multiple locations and integrates with accounting systems like Xero and QuickBooks. While versatile for broader operations, its counting features emphasize accuracy and efficiency without freezing inventory.
Pros
- Comprehensive stocktake tools supporting cycle counts and mobile barcode scanning
- Real-time inventory updates across multi-locations without operational freezes
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users, less ideal for very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced counting and reporting features
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited compared to enterprise rivals
Best For
Mid-sized wholesalers and distributors requiring precise, real-time inventory counting across multiple warehouses.
Pricing
Starts at $85 USD/month (billed annually) for Essentials plan (200 orders/month), scaling to $349+/month for Pro and Enterprise tiers based on order volume.
QuickBooks Commerce
enterpriseMulti-channel inventory manager with stock count tools, low-stock alerts, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
Native QuickBooks integration that auto-posts inventory adjustments to accounting ledgers
QuickBooks Commerce is an e-commerce-focused inventory management platform from Intuit that syncs stock levels across multiple sales channels like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay. It supports basic inventory counting through stocktake features, including mobile app scanning for physical counts and adjustments to maintain accuracy. While strong in multichannel synchronization, its counting tools are more supplementary than specialized for complex warehouse operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for automatic accounting sync
- Mobile app supports barcode scanning for efficient stocktakes
- Real-time multi-channel inventory visibility reduces discrepancies
Cons
- Lacks advanced counting tools like cycle counting automation or ABC analysis
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for low-volume users
- Interface can feel cluttered for users focused solely on inventory counting
Best For
E-commerce businesses using QuickBooks that need straightforward inventory counting integrated with sales and accounting.
Pricing
Starts at $39/month for up to 100 orders, with tiers up to $599/month for high-volume plans; annual discounts available.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory app enabling easy mobile counting, QR code scanning, and folder-based organization.
Visual QR code labels that embed item photos for instant recognition and scanning during counts
Sortly is a user-friendly inventory management platform that emphasizes visual catalogs, allowing users to track items with photos, custom fields, barcodes, and QR codes. It supports efficient inventory counting through mobile scanning, count sheets, and real-time updates across devices. Primarily designed for small businesses, it simplifies stock tracking, alerts for low inventory, and basic reporting without complex setup.
Pros
- Highly intuitive visual interface with photo-based item tracking
- Seamless mobile app for barcode/QR scanning and cycle counts
- Affordable entry-level plans suitable for small teams
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics for large-scale operations
- Item/entry limits on free and lower-tier plans
- Fewer integrations with e-commerce or accounting software
Best For
Small businesses and retail shops needing simple, visual inventory counting without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 100 items); Professional ($29/month, up to 1,000 items); Business ($49/month, up to 10,000 items); Enterprise (custom).
Katana MRP
specializedManufacturing inventory software with live stock counts, production planning, and barcode integration.
Visual production scheduler that automatically syncs with live inventory counts for proactive adjustments
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software with robust inventory management capabilities, including real-time tracking, cycle counting, and stock adjustments across multiple locations. It supports barcode scanning via mobile app and integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks for streamlined operations. While versatile for manufacturers, its inventory counting features emphasize accuracy in production environments rather than standalone warehouse counting.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility with multi-location support
- Intuitive mobile app for cycle counting and scanning
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
Cons
- Less specialized for high-volume pure inventory counts compared to dedicated tools
- Production-focused features may overwhelm simple counting needs
- Higher pricing tiers required for scaling operations
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing integrated inventory counting with production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Cloud, up to 100 orders), $399/month (Scale), custom Enterprise; 14-day free trial.
Final Inventory
specializedSecure cloud platform for multi-location inventory counting, order management, and API integrations.
Mobile-first cycle counting with barcode and RFID support for quick, accurate physical inventories
Final Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform designed to streamline stock tracking, order fulfillment, and physical counting for small to medium-sized businesses. It supports barcode scanning, cycle counting, and real-time inventory adjustments via a user-friendly mobile app, making it suitable for warehouse operations and retail environments. The software integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and QuickBooks, providing a comprehensive solution for maintaining accurate inventory levels without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for on-the-go cycle counting and barcode scanning
- Affordable pricing with no long-term contracts
- Seamless integrations with popular e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting options
- Customer support response times can be slow for non-premium users
- Lacks robust multi-warehouse features compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to medium businesses seeking a straightforward, cost-effective tool for routine inventory counts and basic stock management.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month for Basic plan (up to 500 orders), $99/month for Pro (unlimited orders, advanced features), with a free trial available.
Conclusion
Through careful comparison, Fishbowl Inventory emerges as the top choice, leading with advanced cycle counting, barcode scanning, and real-time adjustments for warehouses. Cin7 follows closely, offering a comprehensive platform with automated cycle counts and multi-location tracking ideal for retailers, while Zoho Inventory stands out as a reliable cloud-based solution for efficient barcode scanning and bulk adjustments. Regardless of specific needs, these top three tools deliver innovation and functionality, empowering businesses to streamline inventory processes effectively.
Ready to elevate your inventory management? Start with Fishbowl Inventory—its intuitive tools and robust features are designed to simplify counting, reduce errors, and boost operational efficiency for your unique business needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison