Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that automates tracking, orders, and integrations with sales channels.
- 2#2: Cin7 - Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with real-time stock control.
- 3#3: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory management solution that integrates deeply with QuickBooks for manufacturing and warehousing.
- 4#4: NetSuite - Cloud ERP system with robust inventory management features for demand planning and multi-location tracking.
- 5#5: Katana MRP - Cloud manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory and production tracking.
- 6#6: Odoo - Open-source ERP platform with comprehensive inventory management for procurement, warehousing, and forecasting.
- 7#7: inFlow Inventory - Flexible inventory management software for SMBs supporting on-premise or cloud deployment with sales tracking.
- 8#8: SkuVault - Cloud-based warehouse and inventory management optimized for e-commerce multi-channel fulfillment.
- 9#9: Sortly - Visual inventory management app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock tracking.
- 10#10: Unleashed - Cloud inventory software for wholesalers and distributors with multi-currency and multi-location support.
Tools were ranked based on their ability to deliver robust features, user-friendly interfaces, seamless integrations, and strong value, ensuring they meet the practical and strategic needs of both small and large businesses alike.
Comparison Table
This comparison table showcases leading inventory management tools—such as Zoho Inventory, Cin7, Fishbowl Inventory, NetSuite, Katana MRP, and more—to highlight key features, use cases, and practical differences, helping readers identify the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that automates tracking, orders, and integrations with sales channels. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Cin7 Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with real-time stock control. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory management solution that integrates deeply with QuickBooks for manufacturing and warehousing. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | NetSuite Cloud ERP system with robust inventory management features for demand planning and multi-location tracking. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Katana MRP Cloud manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory and production tracking. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Odoo Open-source ERP platform with comprehensive inventory management for procurement, warehousing, and forecasting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 7 | inFlow Inventory Flexible inventory management software for SMBs supporting on-premise or cloud deployment with sales tracking. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | SkuVault Cloud-based warehouse and inventory management optimized for e-commerce multi-channel fulfillment. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Sortly Visual inventory management app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Unleashed Cloud inventory software for wholesalers and distributors with multi-currency and multi-location support. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that automates tracking, orders, and integrations with sales channels.
Inventory and order management platform for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with real-time stock control.
Advanced inventory management solution that integrates deeply with QuickBooks for manufacturing and warehousing.
Cloud ERP system with robust inventory management features for demand planning and multi-location tracking.
Cloud manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory and production tracking.
Open-source ERP platform with comprehensive inventory management for procurement, warehousing, and forecasting.
Flexible inventory management software for SMBs supporting on-premise or cloud deployment with sales tracking.
Cloud-based warehouse and inventory management optimized for e-commerce multi-channel fulfillment.
Visual inventory management app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock tracking.
Cloud inventory software for wholesalers and distributors with multi-currency and multi-location support.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that automates tracking, orders, and integrations with sales channels.
Seamless omnichannel inventory synchronization that keeps stock levels updated in real-time across multiple sales platforms and warehouses.
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management solution designed to streamline stock tracking, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations for businesses of all sizes. It offers real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations, supports multi-channel selling with seamless integrations to platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay, and includes tools for purchase orders, serial/batch tracking, and barcode scanning. As part of the Zoho ecosystem, it integrates effortlessly with Zoho Books for accounting and other Zoho apps, providing end-to-end business management.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, shipping, and accounting tools
- Real-time multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory syncing
- Free plan available with robust features for small businesses
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Occasional sync delays with third-party integrations
- Limited reporting customization in lower tiers
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with multi-channel online sales needing scalable inventory and order management.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 20 online orders/month); Standard $59/org/month, Professional $129/org/month, Elite $249/org/month (billed annually).
Cin7
specializedInventory and order management platform for multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with real-time stock control.
Connect Marketplace with 700+ pre-built integrations for effortless connectivity across e-commerce, accounting, and POS systems
Cin7 is a powerful cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for retailers and wholesalers handling complex, multi-channel operations. It offers real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouses and sales channels, including e-commerce, POS, and marketplaces like Amazon and Shopify. The software automates order fulfillment, procurement, and reporting while integrating deeply with over 700 apps via its Connect marketplace, enabling centralized control and scalability for growing businesses.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ apps for seamless multi-channel synchronization
- Advanced multi-location inventory management with real-time visibility and smart replenishment
- Robust B2B portal and reporting tools for wholesale and analytics needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring training
- Higher pricing that may not suit very small businesses
- Occasional reports of customer support delays during peak times
Best For
Multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with high-volume inventory across online, retail, and B2B channels seeking enterprise-grade control.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $349/month for Starter plan, scaling to Enterprise tiers; includes 14-day free trial.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory management solution that integrates deeply with QuickBooks for manufacturing and warehousing.
Deep QuickBooks integration with automatic syncing of inventory, orders, and financials
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, providing real-time tracking, order fulfillment, purchasing, and manufacturing tools. It integrates deeply with QuickBooks and other platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce for seamless data synchronization. The solution supports barcode scanning, multi-location inventory, bill of materials (BOM), and advanced reporting to optimize warehouse and distribution operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and e-commerce platforms
- Powerful manufacturing and BOM features for complex assemblies
- Comprehensive multi-location and barcode inventory tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Dated user interface compared to modern SaaS competitors
- Higher pricing that may not suit very small businesses
Best For
Small to midsize distributors, manufacturers, and warehouses relying on QuickBooks that need advanced inventory and production management.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,395 for standard edition plus ~$1,000/year maintenance; cloud subscription from ~$150/user/month.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP system with robust inventory management features for demand planning and multi-location tracking.
AI-driven demand sensing and real-time multi-subsidiary inventory optimization
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud ERP platform from Oracle that includes advanced inventory management capabilities, providing real-time visibility across multiple locations, warehouses, and subsidiaries. It supports features like demand forecasting, lot and serial number tracking, automated replenishment, and landed cost management, all integrated seamlessly with financials, order management, and supply chain modules. This makes it suitable for complex, global inventory operations requiring scalability and deep analytics.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with advanced demand planning and forecasting
- Seamless integration with ERP modules for end-to-end supply chain visibility
- Scalable for global enterprises with robust reporting and mobile access
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expert setup
- High cost that may not suit small businesses
- Customization often needed for optimal inventory workflows
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing integrated ERP with sophisticated multi-location inventory management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; typically starts at $999/month for base platform + $99-$199/user/month, with additional fees for inventory modules and customizations.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory and production tracking.
Visual drag-and-drop production scheduler with live MRP calculations
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturers to streamline inventory management and production processes. It offers real-time tracking of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods across multiple locations, with automated reorder points and demand forecasting. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software such as QuickBooks, enabling efficient order fulfillment and sales synchronization.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility and multi-location tracking
- Automated production scheduling and material requirements planning
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with users and production volume
- Reporting and analytics could be more customizable
- Limited support for complex bill of materials in basic plans
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking an intuitive tool for real-time inventory control and production planning.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Essentials plan (up to 100 orders/mo), $299/month for Professional, with Enterprise custom pricing.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source ERP platform with comprehensive inventory management for procurement, warehousing, and forecasting.
Integrated inventory forecasting and automated procurement rules that use AI-driven demand predictions
Odoo is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with a powerful Inventory Management module that provides real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse support, and advanced features like lot/serial number traceability and automated replenishment. It integrates seamlessly with sales, purchasing, manufacturing, and other business apps for end-to-end visibility. The module excels in handling complex inventory workflows, including barcode scanning, route optimization, and demand forecasting.
Pros
- Highly customizable with open-source community edition
- Seamless integration across ERP modules for unified operations
- Advanced inventory tools like forecasting, traceability, and multi-location management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Performance can lag with very large inventories
- Enterprise features require paid subscription
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking an integrated ERP solution with scalable inventory management.
Pricing
Free community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) with additional costs for hosting and apps.
inFlow Inventory
specializedFlexible inventory management software for SMBs supporting on-premise or cloud deployment with sales tracking.
Robust mobile barcode scanning with offline sync and customizable label printing
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering comprehensive tools for tracking stock across multiple locations, processing sales and purchase orders, and generating insightful reports. It excels in barcode scanning and mobile accessibility, allowing users to manage inventory on the go with offline capabilities. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, streamlining operations for growing teams.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and minimal training required
- Powerful mobile app supporting barcode scanning and offline use
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other key tools
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with additional users and advanced features
- Reporting lacks deep customization for complex analytics
- Limited built-in CRM or advanced forecasting tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized retailers and wholesalers needing user-friendly, mobile-first inventory tracking without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month for Starter (1 user, core features), up to $289/month for Premium (unlimited users, advanced tools); 14-day free trial and annual discounts available.
SkuVault
specializedCloud-based warehouse and inventory management optimized for e-commerce multi-channel fulfillment.
Smart Warehouse Replenishment that automatically allocates inventory across locations based on demand forecasts
SkuVault is a robust inventory management and warehouse management system (WMS) designed for multi-channel e-commerce businesses. It offers real-time inventory synchronization across platforms like Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and Walmart, along with advanced features for picking, packing, shipping, and lot/serial tracking. The software excels in handling complex fulfillment operations across multiple warehouses, making it suitable for scaling online retailers.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel inventory sync and integrations
- Powerful WMS tools including barcode scanning and smart picking
- Strong multi-warehouse management with replenishment automation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be expensive for small businesses
- Reporting capabilities require higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-to-large e-commerce businesses with multiple sales channels and warehouses needing advanced fulfillment automation.
Pricing
Starts at $499/month for Core plan (up to 500 orders/mo), with Professional at $999/month and custom Enterprise pricing for higher volumes.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory management app using photos and QR codes for simple asset and stock tracking.
Visual photo-based catalog that turns inventory into an easy-to-browse image library
Sortly is a visual inventory management software that enables users to catalog items with photos, barcodes, and QR codes for intuitive organization and quick scanning. It supports features like custom fields, folder structures, low stock alerts, activity logs, and basic reporting to track inventory movements across locations. The platform offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, making it easy to manage stock on the go, with multi-user collaboration in paid plans.
Pros
- Highly visual interface with photos simplifies item identification and search
- Seamless barcode/QR code scanning via mobile apps
- Intuitive setup with custom fields and folders for flexible organization
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting compared to enterprise tools
- Item limits on lower plans require upgrades for scaling businesses
- Integrations are basic, lacking depth with major accounting/ERP systems
Best For
Small businesses and teams seeking a simple, visual tool for tracking inventory without complex setup.
Pricing
Free (100 items); Basic $29/mo (500 items, 1 user); Professional $59/mo (unlimited items, 5 users); Enterprise custom pricing.
Unleashed
specializedCloud inventory software for wholesalers and distributors with multi-currency and multi-location support.
Real-time multi-warehouse stock allocation and transfer capabilities
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and light manufacturers, offering real-time stock tracking across multiple locations. It streamlines purchase orders, sales orders, batch/serial tracking, and demand forecasting while integrating seamlessly with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks. The software emphasizes accuracy in inventory control and provides customizable reporting for operational insights.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory tracking with real-time visibility
- Strong integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
- Advanced batch/serial number and expiry date management
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users
- Limited built-in CRM or advanced manufacturing modules
Best For
Wholesalers and distributors managing inventory across multiple warehouses who need tight accounting integrations.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting around $350 USD/month based on order volume and users, with annual billing discounts.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top tools, Zoho Inventory leads as the top choice, noted for its strong automation and sales channel integrations. Cin7 follows closely with real-time stock control, perfect for multi-channel retailers, and Fishbowl Inventory impresses with deep QuickBooks integration, ideal for manufacturing and warehousing. Each option excels in distinct areas, making the right pick depend on specific business needs.
Don’t miss out—try Zoho Inventory to simplify tracking, orders, and integrations, or explore Cin7 or Fishbowl for your unique workflow, and take the first step to smoother inventory management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison