Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Delivers a comprehensive cloud-native ERP and MES platform for end-to-end manufacturing operations management.
- 2#2: Epicor Kinetic - Provides cloud ERP software optimized for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing processes.
- 3#3: NetSuite Manufacturing - Offers cloud ERP with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and supply chain execution capabilities.
- 4#4: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP system for small to medium manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and scheduling.
- 5#5: Katana - Real-time cloud MRP software for tracking inventory, production orders, and sales in small manufacturing businesses.
- 6#6: Prodsmart - Cloud MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production tracking, and performance analytics.
- 7#7: Tulip - No-code platform for building custom apps to digitize and optimize frontline manufacturing operations.
- 8#8: Odoo Manufacturing - All-in-one cloud ERP application suite with manufacturing modules for planning, quality control, and maintenance.
- 9#9: Autodesk Fusion 360 - Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE toolset for collaborative product design, simulation, and manufacturing preparation.
- 10#10: Onshape - Cloud-native CAD platform with integrated PDM for secure product development and team collaboration.
We ranked these tools based on functionality, user experience, reliability, and value proposition, ensuring they address key demands like scalability, integration, and real-time visibility for diverse manufacturing workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading online manufacturing software tools, including Plex, Epicor Kinetic, NetSuite Manufacturing, MRPeasy, Katana, and more, to guide businesses in selecting solutions that match their production, inventory, and financial management needs. By outlining key features like integration, scalability, and user-friendliness, the table simplifies the process of finding software that optimizes their digital workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Delivers a comprehensive cloud-native ERP and MES platform for end-to-end manufacturing operations management. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Kinetic Provides cloud ERP software optimized for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing processes. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | NetSuite Manufacturing Offers cloud ERP with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and supply chain execution capabilities. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | MRPeasy Cloud-based MRP system for small to medium manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and scheduling. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 5 | Katana Real-time cloud MRP software for tracking inventory, production orders, and sales in small manufacturing businesses. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Prodsmart Cloud MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production tracking, and performance analytics. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Tulip No-code platform for building custom apps to digitize and optimize frontline manufacturing operations. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Odoo Manufacturing All-in-one cloud ERP application suite with manufacturing modules for planning, quality control, and maintenance. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Fusion 360 Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE toolset for collaborative product design, simulation, and manufacturing preparation. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 10 | Onshape Cloud-native CAD platform with integrated PDM for secure product development and team collaboration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
Delivers a comprehensive cloud-native ERP and MES platform for end-to-end manufacturing operations management.
Provides cloud ERP software optimized for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing processes.
Offers cloud ERP with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and supply chain execution capabilities.
Cloud-based MRP system for small to medium manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and scheduling.
Real-time cloud MRP software for tracking inventory, production orders, and sales in small manufacturing businesses.
Cloud MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production tracking, and performance analytics.
No-code platform for building custom apps to digitize and optimize frontline manufacturing operations.
All-in-one cloud ERP application suite with manufacturing modules for planning, quality control, and maintenance.
Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE toolset for collaborative product design, simulation, and manufacturing preparation.
Cloud-native CAD platform with integrated PDM for secure product development and team collaboration.
Plex
enterpriseDelivers a comprehensive cloud-native ERP and MES platform for end-to-end manufacturing operations management.
Infinite scalability through its cloud-native architecture, allowing seamless growth from single plants to global operations without hardware investments
Plex is a cloud-native smart manufacturing platform that serves as a comprehensive MES and ERP solution for discrete manufacturers, providing end-to-end visibility and control over production processes. It integrates real-time shop floor data, quality management, supply chain operations, and analytics powered by IIoT devices to optimize efficiency and decision-making. With modules for traceability, inventory, and compliance, Plex enables manufacturers to reduce waste, improve throughput, and scale operations seamlessly.
Pros
- Real-time production monitoring and analytics for immediate issue resolution
- Fully integrated MES, ERP, QMS, and SCM in a scalable cloud environment
- Strong IIoT connectivity and machine integration for automated data capture
Cons
- Steep initial implementation and customization effort for complex setups
- Higher pricing tier may not suit very small manufacturers
- Limited flexibility for highly bespoke workflows without developer support
Best For
Mid-to-large discrete manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, or electronics seeking an all-in-one, cloud-based platform for operational excellence.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $20,000+ annually, based on modules, users, and production volume; free trial available.
Epicor Kinetic
enterpriseProvides cloud ERP software optimized for discrete, make-to-order, and mixed-mode manufacturing processes.
Integrated Manufacturing Execution System (MES) with real-time shop floor visibility and AI-powered predictive maintenance
Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-native ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, integrating production planning, inventory management, supply chain, quality control, finance, and CRM into a unified system. It provides real-time visibility and AI-driven insights to optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency across discrete, make-to-order, and process manufacturing. Designed for scalability, it supports digital transformation with mobile access and advanced analytics for mid-market to enterprise manufacturers.
Pros
- Deep manufacturing-specific functionality including MES integration and shop floor control
- Scalable cloud architecture with strong security and real-time analytics
- Extensive customization via low-code tools and robust API ecosystem
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- Pricing can be high for small manufacturers
- Implementation may require significant consulting support
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers needing a comprehensive, industry-specific ERP with advanced production and supply chain capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $175-$300 per user/month for cloud subscriptions, depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
NetSuite Manufacturing
enterpriseOffers cloud ERP with integrated manufacturing, inventory management, and supply chain execution capabilities.
Seamless integration of manufacturing execution with core financial and ERP functions in a single cloud platform
NetSuite Manufacturing is a cloud-based ERP solution tailored for manufacturers, offering end-to-end management of production processes including MRP, work orders, shop floor control, inventory tracking, and quality management. It integrates seamlessly with financials, supply chain, and CRM modules for real-time visibility and data-driven decisions. Designed for discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing, it supports scalability from mid-market to enterprise levels with advanced analytics and automation capabilities.
Pros
- Comprehensive ERP integration covering manufacturing, finance, and supply chain
- Real-time dashboards and analytics for production optimization
- Scalable cloud platform with strong customization and API support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High pricing and implementation costs
- Overkill for small manufacturers with basic needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large manufacturers needing a fully integrated ERP system for complex operations.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $10,000/month for mid-tier deployments, plus significant one-time implementation fees (often $100K+).
MRPeasy
specializedCloud-based MRP system for small to medium manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory, and scheduling.
Dynamic production scheduling with drag-and-drop Gantt charts and automatic adjustments for delays or changes
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP/MRP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering end-to-end management of production planning, inventory, procurement, sales, CRM, and basic accounting. It supports discrete, make-to-order, make-to-stock, and mixed-mode manufacturing with real-time data synchronization across modules. The platform emphasizes simplicity and quick implementation, making it suitable for businesses seeking to streamline operations without heavy IT involvement.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP tools including visual production scheduling and material requirements planning
- Real-time inventory tracking and multi-warehouse support
- Quick setup with intuitive interface and mobile app access
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Accounting integrations required (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero) rather than fully native
- Scalability challenges for enterprises with very high volumes
Best For
Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers needing an affordable, all-in-one cloud ERP for make-to-order or mixed-mode production.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (billed annually, minimum 5 users) for Basic plan; scales to $199/user/month for advanced tiers with more features.
Katana
specializedReal-time cloud MRP software for tracking inventory, production orders, and sales in small manufacturing businesses.
Live MRP engine that auto-generates production and purchase orders from sales data and forecasts
Katana is a cloud-based manufacturing ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering real-time inventory management, production planning, and multi-channel order fulfillment. It features a visual scheduling board for production workflows and automates material requirements planning (MRP) to minimize stockouts and overstock. The platform integrates with tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce, enabling seamless data sync across sales, inventory, and accounting.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production scheduling for quick planning
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with mobile access
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or higher order volumes
- Reporting and advanced analytics are somewhat limited
- Performance can lag with very high-volume data sets
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing straightforward MRP, inventory control, and order management without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter, up to 100 orders/mo), Pro at $179/month (500 orders), Business at $579/month (2,500 orders), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Prodsmart
specializedCloud MES platform providing real-time shop floor visibility, production tracking, and performance analytics.
Live production tracking with mobile barcode scanning for paperless, real-time job and inventory management
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time visibility into shop floor operations. It enables paperless production tracking, job scheduling, material management, quality control, and OEE monitoring through mobile apps and barcode scanning. The platform integrates with ERPs to streamline workflows and reduce downtime in discrete manufacturing environments.
Pros
- Real-time production dashboards and alerts for immediate issue resolution
- Mobile-first interface for easy shop floor data capture via scanning
- Strong OEE analytics to identify and improve bottlenecks
Cons
- Limited customization for complex, high-volume enterprises
- Integration setup can require technical support
- Pricing lacks transparency and scales with production lines
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers in discrete industries like food, pharma, or assembly seeking affordable real-time shop floor digitization.
Pricing
Quote-based; starts around $500/month for basic plans, scales with users, devices, and production lines.
Tulip
specializedNo-code platform for building custom apps to digitize and optimize frontline manufacturing operations.
No-code app builder optimized for edge computing in manufacturing environments
Tulip (tulip.co) is a no-code platform that empowers manufacturers to build custom apps for frontline operations, connecting workers, machines, and systems without requiring developers. It provides real-time data capture, analytics, and workflows for production tracking, quality management, and maintenance. Deployed on edge devices, it ensures reliable performance in factory environments with offline capabilities.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop app builder for rapid customization
- Real-time shop floor data capture and analytics
- Strong integrations with PLCs, sensors, and ERP systems
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may deter small manufacturers
- Initial configuration requires domain expertise
- Limited flexibility for non-manufacturing workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers looking to digitalize shop floor operations without heavy IT involvement.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $1,000–$5,000/month depending on apps, users, and deployment scale.
Odoo Manufacturing
enterpriseAll-in-one cloud ERP application suite with manufacturing modules for planning, quality control, and maintenance.
Real-time manufacturing dashboard with Gantt charts and capacity planning for optimized production scheduling
Odoo Manufacturing is a robust module within the Odoo ERP platform, designed for online management of production processes including bills of materials (BOM), work orders, inventory tracking, and quality control. It supports multi-level manufacturing, planning, and automation, integrating seamlessly with sales, purchasing, and accounting for end-to-end operations. As a cloud-based solution, it enables real-time visibility and scalability for businesses of varying sizes.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP tools with multi-level BOMs, routing, and production scheduling
- Seamless integration across Odoo's full ERP suite for unified workflows
- Flexible customization and automation capabilities via Odoo Studio
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups and advanced configurations
- Performance can lag with very large datasets or high-volume production
- Advanced analytics and reporting require additional apps or custom development
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing an affordable, all-in-one online ERP with strong manufacturing and inventory integration.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Odoo Online/Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually), with manufacturing included in most plans.
Autodesk Fusion 360
specializedCloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE toolset for collaborative product design, simulation, and manufacturing preparation.
Cloud-native CAM with automated toolpath generation and direct integration to cloud manufacturing services
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform that integrates design, engineering, simulation, and manufacturing workflows for product development. It supports 2D/3D modeling, generative design, and advanced CAM strategies for milling, turning, and additive manufacturing directly in the browser or desktop app. Users can collaborate in real-time, simulate performance, and send jobs to CNC machines or 3D printers seamlessly.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of CAD, CAM, and CAE in one platform
- Cloud-based collaboration and real-time sharing
- Extensive library of manufacturing post-processors and simulation tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced CAM features
- Subscription-only model with additional costs for extensions
- Occasional performance lags with complex assemblies in the cloud
Best For
Small to medium-sized engineering teams or individual makers needing an all-in-one solution for design-to-manufacturing workflows.
Pricing
Free for personal/hobbyist use; commercial plans start at $70/user/month or $545/year, with paid extensions for advanced manufacturing.
Onshape
specializedCloud-native CAD platform with integrated PDM for secure product development and team collaboration.
Git-style branching and merging for version-controlled CAD design
Onshape is a fully cloud-native CAD platform designed for 3D product design, assembly, and manufacturing preparation, accessible directly via web browser without installations. It features built-in product data management (PDM), Git-like version control with branching and merging, and real-time multi-user collaboration. The software supports exporting to manufacturing formats like STEP and STL, with integrations for CAM tools and direct manufacturing services.
Pros
- Cloud-based with no software installation required
- Superior real-time collaboration and version control
- Seamless PDM and manufacturing file exports
Cons
- Requires constant internet connection
- Subscription-only for private/professional use
- Limited advanced simulation compared to desktop CAD
Best For
Distributed engineering teams needing collaborative CAD for manufacturing-ready designs.
Pricing
Free for public documents; Professional $2,500/user/year; Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The top 10 tools reviewed reflect the breadth of innovation in online manufacturing software, catering to needs from enterprise-wide ERP to small-scale production management. Leading the pack, Plex excels as the overall choice with its comprehensive cloud-native ERP and MES platform. Epicor Kinetic and NetSuite Manufacturing follow, each standing out for optimized discrete processes and integrated supply chain capabilities, respectively, as strong alternatives for tailored requirements. The best solution depends on a business’s specific workflow, but Plex emerges as the most versatile.
Explore Plex to leverage a seamless, end-to-end approach to manufacturing operations, designed to drive efficiency and growth in your unique process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison