Quick Overview
- 1#1: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud-based ERP platform delivering advanced MRP for demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling.
- 2#2: SAP S/4HANA - Intelligent enterprise ERP system with real-time MRP capabilities for supply chain management and materials forecasting.
- 3#3: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management - Comprehensive ERP solution featuring MRP tools for master production scheduling and inventory control.
- 4#4: Epicor Kinetic - Manufacturing ERP platform with robust MRP for discrete and process manufacturing operations.
- 5#5: Infor CloudSuite Industrial - Industry-specific cloud ERP offering MRP for engineer-to-order and repetitive manufacturing environments.
- 6#6: Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform - Cloud-native MES and ERP with integrated MRP for real-time shop floor control and materials planning.
- 7#7: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and purchasing.
- 8#8: Katana - Visual MRP tool for small businesses to plan manufacturing, track inventory, and sync with sales channels.
- 9#9: Odoo Manufacturing - Modular open-source ERP with MRP app for BOM management, work orders, and materials requirements planning.
- 10#10: Fishbowl - Inventory and MRP software for QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing orders and material tracking.
Ranked based on key metrics including MRP functionality depth, integration flexibility, user-friendliness, and value proposition, ensuring relevance across business sizes and manufacturing environments.
Comparison Table
Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) software is essential for optimizing inventory management and production workflows, with a spectrum of tools to suit varied business requirements. This comparison table evaluates leading solutions including Oracle NetSuite, SAP S/4HANA, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, Epicor Kinetic, Infor CloudSuite Industrial, and more, offering insights to help select the right fit for operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud-based ERP platform delivering advanced MRP for demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | SAP S/4HANA Intelligent enterprise ERP system with real-time MRP capabilities for supply chain management and materials forecasting. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.7/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Comprehensive ERP solution featuring MRP tools for master production scheduling and inventory control. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Epicor Kinetic Manufacturing ERP platform with robust MRP for discrete and process manufacturing operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | Infor CloudSuite Industrial Industry-specific cloud ERP offering MRP for engineer-to-order and repetitive manufacturing environments. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform Cloud-native MES and ERP with integrated MRP for real-time shop floor control and materials planning. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and purchasing. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Katana Visual MRP tool for small businesses to plan manufacturing, track inventory, and sync with sales channels. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Odoo Manufacturing Modular open-source ERP with MRP app for BOM management, work orders, and materials requirements planning. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | Fishbowl Inventory and MRP software for QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing orders and material tracking. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
Cloud-based ERP platform delivering advanced MRP for demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling.
Intelligent enterprise ERP system with real-time MRP capabilities for supply chain management and materials forecasting.
Comprehensive ERP solution featuring MRP tools for master production scheduling and inventory control.
Manufacturing ERP platform with robust MRP for discrete and process manufacturing operations.
Industry-specific cloud ERP offering MRP for engineer-to-order and repetitive manufacturing environments.
Cloud-native MES and ERP with integrated MRP for real-time shop floor control and materials planning.
Cloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and purchasing.
Visual MRP tool for small businesses to plan manufacturing, track inventory, and sync with sales channels.
Modular open-source ERP with MRP app for BOM management, work orders, and materials requirements planning.
Inventory and MRP software for QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing orders and material tracking.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud-based ERP platform delivering advanced MRP for demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling.
Cloud-native, real-time MRP with multi-subsidiary support and AI-driven planning across global operations
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform with integrated Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) functionality that automates material needs calculation based on demand forecasts, bills of materials, and inventory levels. It supports production planning, purchase order generation, and capacity management to optimize manufacturing and supply chain operations. With real-time visibility and AI-driven insights, NetSuite MRP enables businesses to minimize excess inventory, reduce lead times, and enhance overall efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP with advanced demand forecasting, capacity planning, and multi-location inventory support
- Seamless integration with financials, CRM, and e-commerce for end-to-end visibility
- Real-time analytics and AI-powered recommendations for proactive decision-making
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires significant training for full utilization
- High implementation costs and time, often needing consultants
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses or startups
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, integrated MRP within a full ERP suite for complex manufacturing and supply chain operations.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $10,000-$25,000 annually for core modules, plus $99+ per user/month and implementation fees.
SAP S/4HANA
enterpriseIntelligent enterprise ERP system with real-time MRP capabilities for supply chain management and materials forecasting.
MRP Live with HANA-powered real-time processing for instant planning runs and simulations
SAP S/4HANA is an enterprise-grade ERP system with advanced Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities, leveraging in-memory HANA database for real-time demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and production planning. It handles complex multi-level bills of materials (BOMs), supports multiple planning strategies like lot-sizing and safety stock calculations, and integrates seamlessly with procurement, manufacturing, and sales modules. Ideal for global supply chains, it offers embedded advanced planning tools like PP/DS for constraint-based optimization.
Pros
- Real-time MRP calculations and analytics via HANA in-memory computing
- Comprehensive integration across ERP modules for end-to-end supply chain visibility
- Scalable for complex, high-volume manufacturing environments with advanced heuristics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive customization required
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Premium pricing not suitable for small or mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large enterprises and multinational manufacturers with intricate supply chains needing robust, integrated MRP within a full ERP ecosystem.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model; starts at $100,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (cloud/on-premise), requires custom quotes.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management
enterpriseComprehensive ERP solution featuring MRP tools for master production scheduling and inventory control.
Planning Optimization add-in, which uses mixed-integer programming and AI for ultra-fast, constraint-based master planning
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a robust ERP platform with advanced Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities, enabling automated calculation of material needs based on demand, inventory, and production schedules. It generates optimized purchase orders, work orders, and safety stock recommendations while integrating forecasting, master production scheduling, and capacity planning. As part of the Dynamics 365 suite, it provides real-time visibility across the supply chain, leveraging AI for enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP engine with multi-level BOM support and real-time recalculations
- AI-driven Planning Optimization for faster, constraint-aware planning
- Deep integration with Microsoft tools like Power BI and Azure for analytics
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity requiring consultants
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- Premium pricing may not suit small to mid-sized operations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex manufacturing and supply chain operations seeking an integrated ERP with advanced MRP.
Pricing
Subscription-based; starts at ~$180/user/month for Supply Chain Management module, plus implementation fees (enterprise licensing varies)
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseManufacturing ERP platform with robust MRP for discrete and process manufacturing operations.
Advanced MES integration with MRP for real-time shop floor control and dynamic production adjustments
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform with robust Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities tailored for manufacturing, distribution, and service industries. It automates demand forecasting, inventory optimization, production scheduling, and procurement to streamline supply chain operations and reduce stockouts. Integrated with broader ERP functions, it provides real-time visibility and advanced analytics for efficient material planning across multi-site operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP with multi-level pegging and finite capacity scheduling
- Seamless integration with ERP modules for end-to-end supply chain visibility
- Scalable for multi-site enterprises with strong customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant training
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees for full deployment
- Customization often needs specialized IT resources
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturing companies seeking an integrated ERP solution with advanced MRP for complex supply chains.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically $150-$300 per user/month for cloud deployments, with additional costs for implementation and customizations.
Infor CloudSuite Industrial
enterpriseIndustry-specific cloud ERP offering MRP for engineer-to-order and repetitive manufacturing environments.
Embedded Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) that dynamically optimizes MRP decisions with finite capacity constraints
Infor CloudSuite Industrial is a cloud-based ERP platform with robust Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities designed for discrete manufacturers in industries like machinery, equipment, and aerospace. It handles multi-level bill of materials (BOM) processing, demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and production scheduling to ensure materials are available when needed while minimizing excess stock. The solution integrates MRP with shop floor control, quality management, and financials for comprehensive manufacturing operations.
Pros
- Advanced multi-level MRP with accurate BOM explosion and pegging
- Real-time visibility into inventory, capacity, and supply chain
- Deep industry-specific configurations for discrete manufacturing
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex user interface
- High implementation costs and long deployment times
- Customization requires specialized expertise
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers requiring scalable MRP integrated within a full ERP suite for engineer-to-order or make-to-order environments.
Pricing
Subscription-based cloud pricing; custom quotes typically start at $150-300/user/month plus significant implementation fees.
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform
enterpriseCloud-native MES and ERP with integrated MRP for real-time shop floor control and materials planning.
Seamless IIoT connectivity for live shop floor data feeding directly into dynamic MRP planning
Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform is a cloud-native ERP and MES solution designed for discrete manufacturers, providing integrated Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) to manage inventory, forecast demand, and schedule production in real-time. It connects shop floor data via IIoT for accurate material needs calculation, automates purchase orders, and optimizes supply chain efficiency. The platform supports end-to-end visibility from raw materials to finished goods, reducing stockouts and overstock.
Pros
- Real-time IIoT integration for precise MRP calculations
- Comprehensive manufacturing-specific tools like quality control and traceability
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong uptime and mobility support
Cons
- High implementation costs and time for full customization
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing less competitive for small-scale operations
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers needing integrated MRP with shop floor execution and real-time analytics.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at $5,000+/month based on users, modules, and production volume; quotes required.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud MRP software tailored for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and purchasing.
Visual Gantt chart production scheduler with drag-and-drop for real-time MRP adjustments and infinite BOM nesting
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP and MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses, focusing on streamlining production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment. It offers robust Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) capabilities, including bill of materials (BOM) management, automated purchase order generation, and real-time inventory tracking to prevent stockouts and overstocking. The platform integrates CRM, sales, procurement, and basic accounting into a single intuitive dashboard, making it ideal for make-to-order and make-to-stock operations.
Pros
- Intuitive, visual interface with drag-and-drop scheduling for easy MRP planning
- Comprehensive MRP tools including multi-level BOMs, capacity planning, and automated reordering
- Cloud-based with mobile access and real-time data syncing across operations
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and API integrations compared to enterprise solutions
- Pricing scales quickly with users and features, less ideal for very small teams
- Reporting and analytics lack depth for complex data analysis needs
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers handling make-to-order production who need an user-friendly, all-in-one MRP system without heavy IT overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user/month (minimum 5 users, billed annually), with tiers up to $99+ for advanced MRP and accounting features.
Katana
specializedVisual MRP tool for small businesses to plan manufacturing, track inventory, and sync with sales channels.
Visual production board with real-time capacity planning and drag-and-drop scheduling
Katana is a cloud-based MRP software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, providing real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and order management. It automates material requirements calculations based on sales orders, bills of materials (BOMs), and production schedules to prevent stockouts and overstocking. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce tools like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for production scheduling
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Limited advanced demand forecasting and analytics
- Pricing scales quickly with production capacity
- Reporting features lack depth for complex enterprises
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers handling make-to-order or make-to-stock production who need simple, visual MRP without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Essentials (up to 500 orders/mo), $299/month for Professional, and custom Enterprise pricing; billed annually with per-order capacity limits.
Odoo Manufacturing
enterpriseModular open-source ERP with MRP app for BOM management, work orders, and materials requirements planning.
Real-time MRP engine with infinite-level BOM support and automated planning across procurement, inventory, and production.
Odoo Manufacturing is a module within the open-source Odoo ERP suite that delivers comprehensive Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) functionality for production planning and inventory management. It supports multi-level Bills of Materials (BOMs), automated MRP calculations, manufacturing orders, work orders, and real-time inventory tracking with lot/serial number traceability. Ideal for streamlining just-in-time manufacturing, it integrates seamlessly with Odoo's inventory, sales, and procurement modules to optimize material needs and reduce stockouts.
Pros
- Fully integrated with Odoo's ERP ecosystem for end-to-end visibility
- Highly customizable with open-source flexibility
- Cost-effective with a free community edition
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations
- Advanced MRP features like PLM require paid Enterprise edition
- Performance may slow with very large datasets or high-volume operations
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing an affordable, integrated ERP with robust MRP capabilities without separate software silos.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise edition starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually), with pricing scaling by apps and users.
Fishbowl
specializedInventory and MRP software for QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing orders and material tracking.
Native, two-way QuickBooks integration that automates inventory and financial data sync without manual entry.
Fishbowl is a robust inventory management and light manufacturing software that offers core Materials Requirements Planning (MRP) functionalities, including bill of materials (BOM) management, automated purchase order generation, and production scheduling. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for accounting synchronization, making it suitable for small to mid-sized businesses handling inventory across multiple locations. While it supports barcode scanning, sales order fulfillment, and basic demand forecasting, it lacks advanced features like capacity planning or AI-driven optimization found in enterprise MRP solutions.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for real-time accounting sync
- Strong BOM and manufacturing order tools for basic MRP needs
- Multi-location inventory tracking with barcode support
Cons
- Dated, Windows-only desktop interface with a learning curve
- Limited advanced MRP features like capacity planning or predictive analytics
- Reporting and customization require add-ons or technical expertise
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers using QuickBooks who need affordable, straightforward MRP for BOM-driven production and inventory control.
Pricing
One-time licenses start at $4,395 for Lite edition (single user), up to $13,995 for Advanced; includes annual maintenance (~20% of license cost).
Conclusion
The reviewed materials requirements planning software presents a spectrum of powerful solutions, each designed to address unique operational needs. At the peak is Oracle NetSuite, a leading cloud-based ERP that excels in demand planning, inventory optimization, and production scheduling. SAP S/4HANA and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management stand out as strong alternatives, offering real-time capabilities and comprehensive supply chain management respectively, to meet diverse organizational requirements.
Begin optimizing your materials planning by exploring Oracle NetSuite—its robust features can transform your operations. If its strengths don’t fully align, consider SAP S/4HANA or Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, which excel in their own specialized areas, to find the perfect fit for your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
