Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fishbowl Inventory - Comprehensive inventory management software optimized for manufacturing with QuickBooks integration, BOM support, and production tracking.
- 2#2: Katana MRP - Real-time cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers to manage inventory, production planning, and shop floor control.
- 3#3: MRPeasy - Affordable cloud MRP system for small manufacturers handling production scheduling, inventory tracking, and purchasing.
- 4#4: Odoo - Modular open-source ERP with robust manufacturing and inventory modules for BOM, work orders, and multi-warehouse management.
- 5#5: Cin7 - Inventory management platform for manufacturers and distributors with multichannel sales integration and light manufacturing features.
- 6#6: DEAR Systems - Cloud inventory and order management software with manufacturing capabilities including assemblies and serial number tracking.
- 7#7: NetSuite - Cloud ERP solution offering advanced manufacturing inventory control, demand planning, and supply chain management.
- 8#8: Epicor Kinetic - ERP platform designed for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers with deep inventory and production management features.
- 9#9: Plex - Smart manufacturing cloud platform providing real-time inventory visibility, MES, and quality control for factories.
- 10#10: SAP Business One - ERP software for SMBs with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and production planning modules.
Tools were selected based on feature depth (including production tracking, BOM management, and integration capabilities), performance reliability, user-friendliness, and value proposition, ensuring they cater to diverse scales and needs, from small producers to enterprise-level operations.
Comparison Table
Manufacturing inventory software is vital for optimizing operations, and selecting the right tool hinges on specific needs. This comparison table features top tools like Fishbowl Inventory, Katana MRP, MRPeasy, Odoo, and Cin7, analyzing their core capabilities and strengths. Readers will discover which software aligns best with their production, inventory tracking, and business management requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishbowl Inventory Comprehensive inventory management software optimized for manufacturing with QuickBooks integration, BOM support, and production tracking. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Katana MRP Real-time cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers to manage inventory, production planning, and shop floor control. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | MRPeasy Affordable cloud MRP system for small manufacturers handling production scheduling, inventory tracking, and purchasing. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Odoo Modular open-source ERP with robust manufacturing and inventory modules for BOM, work orders, and multi-warehouse management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | Cin7 Inventory management platform for manufacturers and distributors with multichannel sales integration and light manufacturing features. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | DEAR Systems Cloud inventory and order management software with manufacturing capabilities including assemblies and serial number tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | NetSuite Cloud ERP solution offering advanced manufacturing inventory control, demand planning, and supply chain management. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 8 | Epicor Kinetic ERP platform designed for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers with deep inventory and production management features. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Plex Smart manufacturing cloud platform providing real-time inventory visibility, MES, and quality control for factories. | enterprise | 0.5/10 | 0.0/10 | 4.0/10 | 0.5/10 |
| 10 | SAP Business One ERP software for SMBs with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and production planning modules. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
Comprehensive inventory management software optimized for manufacturing with QuickBooks integration, BOM support, and production tracking.
Real-time cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers to manage inventory, production planning, and shop floor control.
Affordable cloud MRP system for small manufacturers handling production scheduling, inventory tracking, and purchasing.
Modular open-source ERP with robust manufacturing and inventory modules for BOM, work orders, and multi-warehouse management.
Inventory management platform for manufacturers and distributors with multichannel sales integration and light manufacturing features.
Cloud inventory and order management software with manufacturing capabilities including assemblies and serial number tracking.
Cloud ERP solution offering advanced manufacturing inventory control, demand planning, and supply chain management.
ERP platform designed for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers with deep inventory and production management features.
Smart manufacturing cloud platform providing real-time inventory visibility, MES, and quality control for factories.
ERP software for SMBs with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and production planning modules.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseComprehensive inventory management software optimized for manufacturing with QuickBooks integration, BOM support, and production tracking.
Native, two-way QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory, orders, and manufacturing data in real-time without double-entry.
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust, on-premise inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, with strong capabilities in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. It excels in handling complex manufacturing processes through features like bill of materials (BOM) management, work orders, production planning, and multi-location inventory tracking. The software seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks for real-time accounting synchronization, making it a go-to solution for manufacturers needing precise inventory control and shop floor execution.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting
- Advanced manufacturing tools including BOM, routings, and work orders
- Multi-location inventory and barcode scanning support scalability
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- On-premise deployment requires IT setup
- Higher upfront costs compared to cloud-only alternatives
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers using QuickBooks who need comprehensive production and multi-warehouse inventory management.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $4,395 for Warehouse edition; Manufacturing module adds ~$1,500; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time cloud-based MRP software for small manufacturers to manage inventory, production planning, and shop floor control.
Infinite traceability tracking materials from raw inputs to finished goods across the entire production process
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, providing real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management. It excels in multi-location inventory control, automated purchasing, and seamless integrations with platforms like Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero. The platform's visual tools and mobile app enable efficient shop floor execution, reducing waste and improving operational visibility.
Pros
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory visibility
- Intuitive visual production scheduler
- Robust integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
- Limited advanced analytics and custom reporting
- Steeper learning curve for complex BOM setups
Best For
Small to mid-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing real-time inventory and production control with e-commerce integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter plan for basic inventory), $299/month (Pro for manufacturing), up to custom Enterprise pricing.
MRPeasy
specializedAffordable cloud MRP system for small manufacturers handling production scheduling, inventory tracking, and purchasing.
Dynamic production scheduling with real-time Gantt charts and automatic material/capacity optimization
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering comprehensive tools for production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment. It excels in handling complex manufacturing processes like make-to-order and engineer-to-order with features such as BOM management, real-time scheduling via Gantt charts, and multi-warehouse inventory tracking. The platform also integrates CRM, procurement, and basic accounting to streamline operations end-to-end.
Pros
- Powerful production scheduling with drag-and-drop Gantt charts and capacity planning
- Robust inventory management including lot/serial tracking and multi-warehouse support
- Quick implementation and strong mobile app for shop floor use
Cons
- Limited advanced customization without developer help
- Reporting features lack deep analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Pricing scales quickly for teams over 20 users
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order manufacturers needing an intuitive, all-in-one MRP system without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user per month (billed annually), with a minimum of 10 users; scales up for additional modules and users.
Odoo
enterpriseModular open-source ERP with robust manufacturing and inventory modules for BOM, work orders, and multi-warehouse management.
Fully integrated MRP system with automatic production scheduling, kanban boards, and shop floor execution tied directly to inventory levels
Odoo is a comprehensive open-source ERP platform with powerful manufacturing and inventory management modules tailored for production planning, inventory tracking, and supply chain optimization. It supports bill of materials (BOM) management, work orders, quality control, and real-time stock visibility across multiple warehouses. The modular design allows seamless integration of manufacturing processes with CRM, sales, and accounting for end-to-end operations.
Pros
- Highly customizable modules with native MRP, inventory forecasting, and traceability features
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory management and automated reordering
- Open-source community edition with extensive app store integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups and customizations
- Implementation often requires developer expertise or partners
- Advanced manufacturing features locked behind Enterprise pricing
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers seeking a scalable, integrated ERP solution for inventory and production without high licensing costs.
Pricing
Free Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) plus implementation fees.
Cin7
enterpriseInventory management platform for manufacturers and distributors with multichannel sales integration and light manufacturing features.
700+ native integrations enabling true omnichannel inventory sync with manufacturing workflows
Cin7 is a cloud-based inventory management platform designed for retailers, wholesalers, and light manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations and seamless integration with e-commerce channels like Shopify and Amazon. It includes manufacturing capabilities such as bills of materials (BOM), production orders, kitting, and assemblies to support basic production planning and inventory needs. While strong in omnichannel sales and inventory sync, its manufacturing features are suitable for small-scale operations rather than complex ERP requirements.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ connectors for e-commerce, accounting, and POS systems
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory visibility and automated replenishment
- Solid BOM management and production order tools for light manufacturing
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature complexity
- Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons and per-order fees
- Lacks advanced manufacturing features like capacity planning or shop floor control
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses combining light manufacturing with multi-channel retail and wholesale operations.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (plus order fees); Manufacturing add-on extra; custom quotes for Enterprise.
DEAR Systems
enterpriseCloud inventory and order management software with manufacturing capabilities including assemblies and serial number tracking.
Multi-level Bill of Materials (BOM) with support for by-products, kits, and variable costing for precise manufacturing cost tracking
DEAR Systems is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, providing comprehensive tools for tracking stock across multiple locations, sales order fulfillment, and purchasing. It offers light manufacturing capabilities including bill of materials (BOM), production orders, assemblies, and lot/serial number tracking, enabling efficient handling of make-to-order processes. The software excels in integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools such as Xero and QuickBooks, streamlining operations for growing manufacturers and distributors.
Pros
- Robust multi-channel inventory tracking with real-time visibility and lot/serial control
- Strong integrations with e-commerce, POS, and accounting software
- Flexible manufacturing module supporting BOMs, assemblies, and production planning
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced manufacturing and customization features
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, potentially costly for high-volume users
- Lacks advanced MRP tools like capacity planning or shop floor control found in dedicated manufacturing ERPs
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers and distributors handling light assembly operations who need seamless e-commerce and accounting integrations.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at $99 USD/month for Lite (100 orders), up to $599+/month for Enterprise (unlimited orders, advanced manufacturing features); annual discounts available.
NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP solution offering advanced manufacturing inventory control, demand planning, and supply chain management.
Integrated MRP and demand planning with AI-driven forecasting for precise inventory optimization
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform that provides comprehensive manufacturing inventory management, including real-time tracking, multi-location support, lot and serial number traceability, and material requirements planning (MRP). It integrates inventory with production scheduling, bill of materials (BOM) management, work orders, and supply chain optimization for end-to-end visibility. Designed for scalability, it suits enterprises needing robust automation alongside financials, CRM, and e-commerce.
Pros
- Extensive feature set with MRP, demand forecasting, and advanced inventory controls
- Seamless integration across ERP modules for unified manufacturing operations
- Scalable cloud platform with strong customization and real-time analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring expert implementation
- High cost, especially for smaller manufacturers
- Overly comprehensive for businesses needing only basic inventory tools
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing enterprises requiring a fully integrated ERP with advanced inventory and production management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$10,000-$20,000 annually for base setups, plus $99-$199 per user/month; implementation often adds $50k+.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseERP platform designed for discrete and make-to-order manufacturers with deep inventory and production management features.
AI-enhanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) with real-time inventory synchronization across global sites
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform designed for manufacturing enterprises, providing advanced inventory management tools integrated with production, supply chain, and financials. It offers real-time visibility into stock levels, lot/serial tracking, demand forecasting via AI-driven analytics, and multi-site inventory control to optimize manufacturing operations. The solution supports complex scenarios like just-in-time inventory and material requirements planning (MRP), making it suitable for discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturers.
Pros
- Robust inventory features including real-time tracking, MRP, and lot/serial control tailored for manufacturing
- Scalable for multi-site operations with strong integration across ERP modules
- AI-powered analytics for demand forecasting and inventory optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant customization
- High upfront costs and ongoing subscription fees
- Interface can feel overwhelming for smaller teams despite modern UI
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing businesses seeking a comprehensive ERP with deep inventory and production integration.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at ~$175/user/month for cloud; varies by modules, users, and deployment (quotes required).
Plex
enterpriseSmart manufacturing cloud platform providing real-time inventory visibility, MES, and quality control for factories.
Personal media library organization and remote streaming, irrelevant to manufacturing inventory
Plex is a media server and streaming platform primarily designed for organizing, managing, and streaming personal media libraries like movies, TV shows, music, and photos across devices. It offers no features whatsoever for manufacturing inventory management, such as stock tracking, bill of materials (BOM), production scheduling, supplier integration, or real-time inventory reporting. While excellent for home entertainment, it is completely unsuitable and incapable of serving as a manufacturing inventory solution.
Pros
- Free basic version available for media streaming
- User-friendly interface for non-business media tasks
- Cross-platform support on various devices
Cons
- Zero manufacturing inventory features like stock tracking or MRP
- No support for BOM, production planning, or supply chain tools
- Not designed or viable for industrial or business inventory needs
Best For
Home media enthusiasts mistakenly evaluating it for inventory, but not recommended for any manufacturing use.
Pricing
Free core app; Plex Pass premium subscription at $4.99/month, $39.99/year, or $119.99 lifetime.
SAP Business One
enterpriseERP software for SMBs with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and production planning modules.
Integrated MRP engine that automates material planning based on real-time inventory and demand forecasts
SAP Business One is a comprehensive ERP solution designed for small and medium-sized enterprises, offering robust modules for manufacturing and inventory management. It supports key functions like bill of materials (BOM), material requirements planning (MRP), production orders, quality control, and real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouses. The software integrates these capabilities with financials, sales, and CRM for end-to-end business visibility.
Pros
- Advanced MRP and production planning tools for efficient manufacturing workflows
- Seamless integration with inventory, procurement, and financial modules
- Scalable for growing SMB manufacturers with multi-site support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring consultants
- High upfront and ongoing costs not ideal for very small operations
- Customization can be time-consuming and expensive
Best For
Midsize manufacturers needing a full ERP system with integrated inventory and production management.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$3,200 per user plus 22% annual maintenance; cloud subscriptions from $99/user/month.
Conclusion
The ranked tools offer tailored solutions for manufacturing inventory needs, with Fishbowl Inventory leading as the top choice, boasting comprehensive features like QuickBooks integration, BOM support, and production tracking. Katana MRP stands out as a strong cloud-based option ideal for real-time planning, while MRPeasy excels as an affordable solution for small-scale manufacturers, each serving distinct user requirements.
Ready to optimize your manufacturing inventory? Start with the top-ranked Fishbowl Inventory to streamline operations, enhance tracking, and align production with demand.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
