Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory management software with barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning for manufacturing and warehouse operations.
- 2#2: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory platform offering mobile barcode and label scanning integrated with sales and shipping.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory management system with robust mobile scanning for stock control across multiple channels.
- 4#4: Unleashed - Real-time cloud inventory software featuring mobile barcode scanning for multi-location businesses.
- 5#5: Sortly - Visual inventory tracking app with easy QR code and barcode scanning for small teams and assets.
- 6#6: inFlow Inventory - Barcode-focused inventory software for SMBs with offline scanning and QuickBooks integration.
- 7#7: SkuVault - Warehouse and fulfillment software with integrated barcode scanning for e-commerce order processing.
- 8#8: DEAR Systems - Inventory and POS system supporting barcode scanning, purchasing, and manufacturing workflows.
- 9#9: Finale Inventory - Cloud-based inventory tool with wireless barcode scanning for real-time stock visibility.
- 10#10: Katana MRP - Manufacturing inventory software with barcode scanning for production planning and tracking.
We ranked these tools based on scanning capabilities, integration strength, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring each entry delivers exceptional performance for diverse operational needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading inventory scanning software, featuring Fishbowl Inventory, Zoho Inventory, Cin7, Unleashed, Sortly, and more, to guide users in finding tools aligned with their needs. It outlines key features, integration options, and suitability for various business sizes, helping readers make informed choices to optimize inventory management processes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory management software with barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning for manufacturing and warehouse operations. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory platform offering mobile barcode and label scanning integrated with sales and shipping. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory management system with robust mobile scanning for stock control across multiple channels. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 4 | Unleashed Real-time cloud inventory software featuring mobile barcode scanning for multi-location businesses. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Sortly Visual inventory tracking app with easy QR code and barcode scanning for small teams and assets. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | inFlow Inventory Barcode-focused inventory software for SMBs with offline scanning and QuickBooks integration. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 7 | SkuVault Warehouse and fulfillment software with integrated barcode scanning for e-commerce order processing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | DEAR Systems Inventory and POS system supporting barcode scanning, purchasing, and manufacturing workflows. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Finale Inventory Cloud-based inventory tool with wireless barcode scanning for real-time stock visibility. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Katana MRP Manufacturing inventory software with barcode scanning for production planning and tracking. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.1/10 |
Advanced inventory management software with barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning for manufacturing and warehouse operations.
Cloud-based inventory platform offering mobile barcode and label scanning integrated with sales and shipping.
Omnichannel inventory management system with robust mobile scanning for stock control across multiple channels.
Real-time cloud inventory software featuring mobile barcode scanning for multi-location businesses.
Visual inventory tracking app with easy QR code and barcode scanning for small teams and assets.
Barcode-focused inventory software for SMBs with offline scanning and QuickBooks integration.
Warehouse and fulfillment software with integrated barcode scanning for e-commerce order processing.
Inventory and POS system supporting barcode scanning, purchasing, and manufacturing workflows.
Cloud-based inventory tool with wireless barcode scanning for real-time stock visibility.
Manufacturing inventory software with barcode scanning for production planning and tracking.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseAdvanced inventory management software with barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning for manufacturing and warehouse operations.
Fishbowl Go mobile scanning app with offline capabilities and direct ERP sync for true anywhere/anytime inventory control
Fishbowl Inventory is a comprehensive inventory management platform tailored for SMBs, excelling in barcode scanning, RFID support, and real-time tracking across multiple locations. It features the Fishbowl Go mobile app for iOS and Android, enabling wireless scanning, cycle counts, and receiving directly from warehouse floors. The software integrates deeply with QuickBooks and other ERPs, automating inventory updates and order fulfillment while supporting manufacturing, sales, and purchasing workflows.
Pros
- Advanced barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning with mobile app support
- Seamless QuickBooks and multi-ERP integrations for automated data sync
- Robust multi-location inventory tracking and lot/serial number management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Higher pricing tier compared to basic scanning tools
- Occasional reports of plugin compatibility issues with newer OS versions
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers, distributors, and warehouses needing enterprise-grade scanning integrated with accounting software.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $439/user/month (Fishbowl Warehouse); one-time licenses from $4,395 + annual maintenance; custom quotes for manufacturing edition.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory platform offering mobile barcode and label scanning integrated with sales and shipping.
Advanced mobile scanning with bin location support and real-time multi-warehouse stock updates
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform with strong barcode scanning capabilities via its mobile apps for iOS and Android. It enables efficient scanning for stock receipts, order picking, cycle counts, and adjustments, supporting multiple barcode types and symbologies. Integrated with Zoho's ecosystem and third-party apps, it provides real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouses and sales channels.
Pros
- Robust mobile scanning for barcode/QR codes with offline support
- Multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory sync via scans
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and Zoho apps
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-Zoho users focused only on scanning
- Lacks native RFID support (requires integrations)
- Mobile app UI can feel cluttered for simple scan-only workflows
Best For
Small to medium businesses seeking affordable, integrated inventory scanning within a full management suite.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 20 orders/month; paid plans start at $29/organization/month (billed annually), scaling to $199 for high-volume users.
Cin7
enterpriseOmnichannel inventory management system with robust mobile scanning for stock control across multiple channels.
Real-time multi-warehouse scanning with automated stock transfers and allocation rules
Cin7 is a robust inventory management platform with strong scanning capabilities via its mobile warehouse app, enabling barcode-based stocktakes, receiving, picking, and packing. It provides real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations and channels, syncing scans directly to orders, sales, and reports. While broader than pure scanning tools, it excels in integrating scanning into omnichannel operations for accurate stock control.
Pros
- Powerful mobile app for barcode scanning, stock counts, and cycle counts with real-time sync
- Multi-location support and automatic stock allocation during scans
- Deep integrations with e-commerce, POS, and 3PL for end-to-end workflow
Cons
- Complex setup and learning curve for non-scanning features
- High pricing may not suit basic scanning needs
- Limited standalone scanning without full inventory suite commitment
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and e-commerce businesses needing integrated scanning for multi-channel inventory management.
Pricing
Starts at $349 USD/month for Core Standard plan (billed annually), scaling to $999+/month for larger operations; custom enterprise quotes available.
Unleashed
enterpriseReal-time cloud inventory software featuring mobile barcode scanning for multi-location businesses.
Light Speed mobile app for ultra-fast barcode scanning and real-time inventory adjustments on the go
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software designed for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, featuring robust mobile barcode scanning for stock takes, receiving, and picking. Its Light Speed mobile app enables fast, real-time inventory updates across multiple locations and channels. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, accounting tools like Xero, and supports batch/serial tracking for precise control.
Pros
- Powerful mobile scanning app (Light Speed) for quick stock counts and movements
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility with batch/serial support
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with sales order volume, less ideal for very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting and custom workflows
- Limited offline scanning capabilities requiring internet connectivity
Best For
Medium-sized wholesalers and distributors managing multi-channel inventory with frequent scanning needs.
Pricing
Starts at $85 USD/month for up to 100 sales orders (Lite plan), scaling to $1,350+/month for high-volume Enterprise plans; annual discounts available.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory tracking app with easy QR code and barcode scanning for small teams and assets.
Visual photo catalogs that attach images directly to inventory items for instant visual recognition during scans
Sortly is a cloud-based inventory management platform designed for small to medium businesses, emphasizing visual catalogs with photos alongside barcode and QR code scanning for quick item tracking. Users can organize inventory into folders, set low-stock alerts, generate reports, and access everything via a mobile app for iOS and Android. It simplifies scanning workflows without requiring complex hardware, making it accessible for non-technical teams.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with photo attachments for easy item identification
- Seamless mobile barcode and QR scanning with offline support
- Real-time sync and customizable folders for organized inventory
Cons
- Item limits on lower plans (e.g., 100 items free, 500 on Basic)
- Advanced reporting and multi-location features locked behind premium tiers
- Lacks native POS or e-commerce integrations
Best For
Small businesses, retail shops, and field teams needing simple, visual inventory scanning without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Free plan (100 items); Basic $29/mo (500 items); Professional $59/mo (5,000 items); Enterprise custom pricing.
inFlow Inventory
specializedBarcode-focused inventory software for SMBs with offline scanning and QuickBooks integration.
Lightning-fast barcode scanning via native mobile apps that sync instantly with cloud inventory for real-time accuracy
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses, with strong emphasis on barcode scanning for efficient stock tracking. It provides a user-friendly mobile app for iOS and Android devices, enabling quick scanning for receiving goods, cycle counts, picking, and sales directly from smartphones or tablets. The platform supports multi-location inventory, purchase and sales orders, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce, making it ideal for streamlining warehouse and retail operations.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile scanning app for fast barcode input
- Real-time multi-user inventory updates across locations
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
Cons
- Reporting and analytics are basic compared to enterprise tools
- Limited advanced customization without developer help
- Higher tiers required for unlimited users and advanced features
Best For
Small to medium retailers and warehouses needing straightforward, mobile-first inventory scanning without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Starter: 1 user, basic features); Professional $189/month (5 users); Manufacturing $289+/month; custom Enterprise plans available.
SkuVault
enterpriseWarehouse and fulfillment software with integrated barcode scanning for e-commerce order processing.
Mandatory 2-step verification scanning for picking and packing, guaranteeing 100% order accuracy
SkuVault is a cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) designed for e-commerce businesses, specializing in inventory scanning for receiving, picking, packing, and cycle counts using barcode and RFID technology. It provides real-time inventory visibility across multiple warehouses and sales channels like Shopify, Amazon, and Walmart. The platform automates workflows to minimize errors and supports high-volume order fulfillment with mobile scanning apps.
Pros
- Robust barcode scanning for inbound/outbound processes with high accuracy
- Seamless integrations with 40+ e-commerce platforms for real-time syncing
- Multi-warehouse and multi-zone support for complex operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Pricing is volume-based and can be expensive for small businesses
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce sellers with multiple sales channels and warehouses needing reliable inventory scanning for fulfillment.
Pricing
Starts at $650/month for Essential (up to 5K orders/mo), scales to $2,000+/month for Growth/Enterprise plans based on order volume and SKUs.
DEAR Systems
enterpriseInventory and POS system supporting barcode scanning, purchasing, and manufacturing workflows.
Advanced picking and packing workflows with mandatory barcode scanning for accuracy
DEAR Systems is a cloud-based inventory management platform that excels in barcode and mobile scanning for warehouse operations, stocktakes, and order fulfillment. It provides real-time inventory tracking, multi-location support, and seamless integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and POS systems. Designed for small to medium businesses, it streamlines scanning workflows to minimize errors and boost efficiency in inventory handling.
Pros
- Robust barcode scanning via mobile app for stock counts, receiving, and picking
- Strong integrations with Shopify, QuickBooks, and 100+ apps
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and automated reordering
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be expensive for very small operations
- Steep learning curve for advanced manufacturing and customization features
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to medium businesses with multi-channel sales needing integrated inventory scanning and management.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month for Standard plan (billed annually), with higher tiers up to custom Enterprise pricing.
Finale Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory tool with wireless barcode scanning for real-time stock visibility.
Wireless cycle counting with barcode scanning that supports partial and full audits in real-time across multiple locations
Finale Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform designed for e-commerce businesses, offering real-time tracking across multiple warehouses and sales channels. It features robust barcode scanning capabilities via a dedicated mobile app for receiving, picking, cycle counts, and adjustments. The software integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and QuickBooks, streamlining order fulfillment and purchasing processes.
Pros
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory visibility with accurate scanning
- Strong e-commerce integrations for automated order syncing
- Comprehensive mobile app for barcode scanning on iOS and Android
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and setup
- Pricing can be high for small businesses without scaling needs
- Limited customization in reporting compared to enterprise rivals
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce sellers managing multi-channel inventory and needing reliable barcode scanning for warehouse operations.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Basic (up to 100 orders/mo), $149/month for Professional, $279/month for Enterprise; annual discounts available, free trial offered.
Katana MRP
specializedManufacturing inventory software with barcode scanning for production planning and tracking.
Live MRP dashboards that update instantly with scanned inventory data for drag-and-drop production scheduling
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software that incorporates inventory scanning via its mobile app for barcode and QR code tracking. It provides real-time visibility into stock levels across multiple locations, syncing scanned data with production planning, purchasing, and sales orders. While versatile for small manufacturers, its scanning features are embedded within a broader MRP ecosystem rather than standing alone as a dedicated inventory scanner.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for quick barcode/QR scanning
- Real-time inventory syncing across platforms like Shopify and QuickBooks
- Multi-location support with visual dashboards
Cons
- Scanning is secondary to MRP functions, lacking deep standalone scanner customization
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features beyond basic scanning
- Limited offline scanning capabilities
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers who need inventory scanning integrated with production and order management.
Pricing
Maker plan starts at $99/month (billed annually, up to 100 orders); Factory at $299/month (500 orders); custom Enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
Reviewing the top inventory scanning solutions reveals Fishbowl Inventory as the standout choice, excelling with its advanced barcode, QR code, and RFID scanning for manufacturing and warehouse needs. Close competitors include Zoho Inventory, a cloud-based platform merging scanning with sales and shipping, and Cin7, an omnichannel system with robust mobile scanning for multi-channel stock control—both strong picks for specific operational demands.
Start optimizing your inventory management by trying Fishbowl Inventory today; for tailored needs, explore Zoho Inventory or Cin7 to find the perfect fit.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison