Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lightspeed Retail - Cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for retail with real-time stock tracking across multiple locations.
- 2#2: Cin7 - Unified inventory management software that connects retail POS, ecommerce, and suppliers for automated stock control.
- 3#3: DEAR Systems - Comprehensive inventory, order, and POS system designed for retail and wholesale businesses with multi-channel support.
- 4#4: Shopify POS - Integrated POS and inventory solution for omnichannel retail syncing online stores and physical sales.
- 5#5: Zoho Inventory - Online inventory management tool for small retailers handling stock, orders, and multi-warehouse operations affordably.
- 6#6: Fishbowl Inventory - Warehouse and inventory management software with QuickBooks integration for retail tracking and manufacturing.
- 7#7: Square for Retail - Affordable POS system with built-in inventory tracking, purchase orders, and reporting for small retailers.
- 8#8: NetSuite - Cloud ERP platform offering advanced retail inventory management, demand planning, and omnichannel fulfillment.
- 9#9: inFlow Inventory - Inventory management software for SMB retailers with barcode scanning, purchasing, and QuickBooks sync.
- 10#10: QuickBooks Commerce - Multi-channel inventory and order management tool for retailers integrating with ecommerce platforms.
Tools were ranked based on a blend of key features (real-time tracking, omnichannel integration, and scalability), user-friendly design, performance reliability, and overall value, ensuring they deliver measurable impact for diverse retail operations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading inventory retail software tools, such as Lightspeed Retail, Cin7, DEAR Systems, Shopify POS, and Zoho Inventory, providing insights into their key features, usability, and suitability for different business sizes. Readers will gain clarity to select the best tool aligned with their unique inventory management, sales tracking, and operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lightspeed Retail Cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for retail with real-time stock tracking across multiple locations. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Cin7 Unified inventory management software that connects retail POS, ecommerce, and suppliers for automated stock control. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | DEAR Systems Comprehensive inventory, order, and POS system designed for retail and wholesale businesses with multi-channel support. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Shopify POS Integrated POS and inventory solution for omnichannel retail syncing online stores and physical sales. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Zoho Inventory Online inventory management tool for small retailers handling stock, orders, and multi-warehouse operations affordably. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | Fishbowl Inventory Warehouse and inventory management software with QuickBooks integration for retail tracking and manufacturing. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Square for Retail Affordable POS system with built-in inventory tracking, purchase orders, and reporting for small retailers. | other | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 8 | NetSuite Cloud ERP platform offering advanced retail inventory management, demand planning, and omnichannel fulfillment. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | inFlow Inventory Inventory management software for SMB retailers with barcode scanning, purchasing, and QuickBooks sync. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 10 | QuickBooks Commerce Multi-channel inventory and order management tool for retailers integrating with ecommerce platforms. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-based POS and inventory management platform for retail with real-time stock tracking across multiple locations.
Unified inventory management software that connects retail POS, ecommerce, and suppliers for automated stock control.
Comprehensive inventory, order, and POS system designed for retail and wholesale businesses with multi-channel support.
Integrated POS and inventory solution for omnichannel retail syncing online stores and physical sales.
Online inventory management tool for small retailers handling stock, orders, and multi-warehouse operations affordably.
Warehouse and inventory management software with QuickBooks integration for retail tracking and manufacturing.
Affordable POS system with built-in inventory tracking, purchase orders, and reporting for small retailers.
Cloud ERP platform offering advanced retail inventory management, demand planning, and omnichannel fulfillment.
Inventory management software for SMB retailers with barcode scanning, purchasing, and QuickBooks sync.
Multi-channel inventory and order management tool for retailers integrating with ecommerce platforms.
Lightspeed Retail
enterpriseCloud-based POS and inventory management platform for retail with real-time stock tracking across multiple locations.
True omnichannel inventory unification that syncs stock levels across in-store POS, online stores, and marketplaces in real-time.
Lightspeed Retail is a comprehensive cloud-based POS and inventory management platform designed specifically for retail businesses, offering real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations. It streamlines operations with features like automated purchase orders, supplier management, stock transfers, and detailed reporting to prevent stockouts and overstocking. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms, accounting tools, and third-party apps, enabling omnichannel selling without discrepancies in inventory data.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory synchronization prevents overselling
- Robust integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and marketplaces
- Advanced analytics and customizable reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for full advanced features
- Occasional reports of slower customer support response times
- Steep learning curve for complex multi-store setups
Best For
Multi-location retailers needing scalable, omnichannel inventory management with strong POS integration.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per register (Lean plan), up to $199+/month (Advanced), with annual discounts and additional fees for hardware/e-commerce add-ons.
Cin7
enterpriseUnified inventory management software that connects retail POS, ecommerce, and suppliers for automated stock control.
Core Inventory Engine providing unlimited multi-channel, multi-location stock syncing in real-time
Cin7 is a powerful cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for retailers and wholesalers handling multi-channel sales. It offers real-time stock tracking across e-commerce sites, POS systems, marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, and physical stores. The software automates order processing, procurement, and fulfillment while integrating deeply with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with over 700 apps including major e-commerce and accounting platforms
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and automated replenishment
- Robust B2B portal and EDI support for wholesale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve during initial setup and customization
- Higher pricing may not suit very small businesses
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
Best For
Multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with complex inventory needs across online, in-store, and B2B sales.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (up to 3 users), $599/month for Standard, $999/month for Advanced; custom enterprise pricing available.
DEAR Systems
enterpriseComprehensive inventory, order, and POS system designed for retail and wholesale businesses with multi-channel support.
Seamless multi-channel inventory synchronization that keeps stock levels accurate across online stores, marketplaces, and physical POS in real-time
DEAR Systems (now part of Cin7 Core) is a robust inventory management software tailored for retailers and wholesalers, offering real-time tracking across multiple sales channels like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay. It streamlines purchasing, sales orders, light manufacturing, and POS operations while integrating seamlessly with accounting tools such as QuickBooks and Xero. The platform excels in providing detailed reporting and automation to optimize stock levels and reduce manual errors.
Pros
- Excellent multi-channel sales integration
- Real-time inventory visibility across locations
- Powerful automation for purchasing and fulfillment
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups
- Pricing can be high for small businesses
- Mobile app functionality is limited
Best For
Medium-sized retailers and wholesalers managing omnichannel sales with multiple inventory locations.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Starter plan (billed annually), up to custom Enterprise pricing; includes a 14-day free trial.
Shopify POS
enterpriseIntegrated POS and inventory solution for omnichannel retail syncing online stores and physical sales.
Real-time omnichannel inventory synchronization that automatically updates stock levels across online and in-store sales
Shopify POS is a robust point-of-sale solution integrated with Shopify's e-commerce platform, enabling retailers to manage in-store transactions while maintaining real-time inventory synchronization across online and physical channels. It supports inventory tracking, stock transfers, purchase orders, and product bundling, making it suitable for omnichannel retail operations. The system also handles reporting, customer data, and multi-location management to streamline retail workflows.
Pros
- Seamless real-time inventory syncing between online store and physical locations
- Intuitive mobile-first interface with quick setup
- Extensive app integrations for expanded inventory tools
Cons
- Advanced analytics and forecasting require third-party apps
- POS Pro features add extra costs per location
- Less specialized for complex multi-warehouse needs compared to dedicated inventory software
Best For
Omnichannel retailers with an existing Shopify online store seeking unified inventory management for physical sales points.
Pricing
POS Lite free with any Shopify plan (starting at $29/month); POS Pro $89/month per location.
Zoho Inventory
specializedOnline inventory management tool for small retailers handling stock, orders, and multi-warehouse operations affordably.
Seamless multi-warehouse inventory synchronization with automatic stock adjustments across all sales channels
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based solution for managing inventory, orders, and fulfillment tailored for retailers handling multi-channel sales. It provides real-time stock tracking across multiple warehouses, automated order processing from platforms like Shopify and Amazon, and tools for purchase orders, invoicing, and shipping. The software scales well for growing businesses with features like serial/batch tracking and customizable reports.
Pros
- Excellent multi-channel integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and Etsy
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple warehouses and locations
- Affordable pricing with a robust free tier for small operations
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Reporting and analytics lack depth compared to enterprise tools
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Small to medium retailers with multi-channel online sales needing scalable inventory management without breaking the bank.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 20 online orders/month); paid plans start at $29/month (Standard, 500 orders) up to $199/month (Elite, unlimited), billed annually with per-user scaling.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedWarehouse and inventory management software with QuickBooks integration for retail tracking and manufacturing.
Native, real-time QuickBooks Desktop integration that syncs inventory, orders, and costs without manual data entry
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust warehouse management and inventory control software that integrates deeply with QuickBooks Desktop, enabling real-time tracking of stock across multiple locations. It supports barcode scanning, purchase/sales order fulfillment, bill of materials for manufacturing, and cycle counting to maintain accuracy. Primarily designed for small to mid-sized businesses in distribution, manufacturing, and retail with complex inventory needs, it bridges accounting and operations seamlessly.
Pros
- Seamless two-way integration with QuickBooks for automated accounting sync
- Advanced multi-location inventory tracking with barcode support
- Built-in manufacturing and assembly tools for light production needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training for full utilization
- Desktop-based (Windows-only client), lacking native mobile/web apps
- Pricing scales quickly with additional users and modules
Best For
Small to medium-sized distributors, manufacturers, or retailers needing QuickBooks-integrated inventory management for multi-warehouse operations.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$4,395 for single-user (Warehouse edition), $1,375 per additional user; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost; add-ons extra.
Square for Retail
otherAffordable POS system with built-in inventory tracking, purchase orders, and reporting for small retailers.
Real-time inventory synchronization across in-store, online, and multi-channel sales without additional costs
Square for Retail is an all-in-one POS and inventory management platform tailored for small to medium retail businesses, offering real-time stock tracking, purchase order creation, and multi-location inventory support. It integrates seamlessly with Square's payment processing, enabling automatic inventory updates from sales both in-store and online. The solution includes features like low-stock alerts, stock transfers, and basic reporting to help retailers maintain efficient inventory levels without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and mobile accessibility
- Seamless integration with Square POS and payments for real-time inventory sync
- Cost-effective with no long-term contracts and scalable free tier options
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting compared to enterprise tools
- Reporting features lack depth for complex inventory needs
- Best suited for smaller operations; may struggle with very large catalogs
Best For
Small to medium retail shops seeking an affordable, user-friendly inventory solution integrated with POS and payments.
Pricing
Free Square POS software with 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction; Square for Retail at $60/month per location (after 30-day free trial), plus processing fees.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP platform offering advanced retail inventory management, demand planning, and omnichannel fulfillment.
Unified real-time inventory visibility across all sales channels with automated replenishment and lot/serial number tracking
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that excels in inventory and retail management, providing real-time visibility across multiple locations, channels, and warehouses. It integrates inventory tracking, order fulfillment, demand forecasting, and POS systems into a unified system for streamlined retail operations. Designed for scaling businesses, it supports omnichannel retail with advanced analytics and automation to optimize stock levels and reduce costs.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory management with real-time tracking
- Seamless integration with e-commerce, POS, and supply chain tools
- Advanced analytics and AI-driven demand planning for retail optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex customization process
- High implementation costs and long setup time
- Premium pricing not ideal for small retailers
Best For
Mid-to-large retailers and enterprises needing scalable, omnichannel inventory management across complex operations.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$999/month base fee plus $99+ per user/month, with additional costs for modules and implementation.
inFlow Inventory
specializedInventory management software for SMB retailers with barcode scanning, purchasing, and QuickBooks sync.
Drag-and-drop replenishment planning for efficient stock ordering across locations
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized retailers and wholesalers, offering real-time tracking across multiple locations. It streamlines purchasing, sales orders, barcode scanning, and stock transfers with an intuitive interface and mobile app support. The platform integrates with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other tools, providing robust reporting for better decision-making.
Pros
- Multi-location inventory tracking with seamless transfers
- User-friendly interface and mobile app for barcode scanning
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Limited built-in CRM or customer management tools
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
- No free tier or extensive trial beyond 14 days
Best For
Small to medium retailers and wholesalers needing reliable multi-location inventory control without complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Solo, 1 user) up to $489/month (Enterprise, unlimited users); annual discounts available, 14-day free trial.
QuickBooks Commerce
specializedMulti-channel inventory and order management tool for retailers integrating with ecommerce platforms.
Deep native integration with QuickBooks Online for real-time syncing of inventory, orders, and financial data
QuickBooks Commerce is an inventory management platform tailored for retailers and wholesalers, enabling real-time tracking across multiple sales channels like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay. It automates order fulfillment, purchase orders, and stock replenishment while integrating seamlessly with QuickBooks accounting for financial accuracy. Ideal for scaling businesses, it provides robust reporting and a B2B portal to streamline operations from warehouse to customer.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel inventory synchronization
- Native integration with QuickBooks for automated accounting
- Advanced reporting and B2B e-commerce tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups
- Pricing escalates quickly for high-volume users
- Limited native POS functionality for in-store retail
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers handling omnichannel sales who need tight accounting integration.
Pricing
Starts at $39/mo (Simple, 100 orders), $99/mo (Professional, 500 orders), $599/mo (Enterprise, unlimited); annual billing required.
Conclusion
Choosing the best inventory retail software hinges on business needs, but Lightspeed Retail rises as the top pick, boasting real-time stock tracking across locations. Cin7 follows, unifying POS, ecommerce, and suppliers for automated control, while DEAR Systems stands out with comprehensive multi-channel support for retail and wholesale. These tools showcase the power of modern solutions, with the top three leading the way in meeting diverse operational demands.
Take the first step to streamline your inventory and sales—explore Lightspeed Retail today to unlock seamless stock management and omnichannel efficiency that drives growth.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
