Quick Overview
- 1#1: Plex - Cloud-based MES platform providing real-time visibility and control over manufacturing production processes.
- 2#2: Tulip - No-code platform for building custom apps to track and optimize frontline production operations in real time.
- 3#3: MachineMetrics - Real-time machine monitoring software delivering OEE insights and performance analytics for manufacturers.
- 4#4: Prodsmart - Cloud shop floor management tool for real-time production tracking, scheduling, and quality control.
- 5#5: Epicor MES - Integrated manufacturing execution system offering real-time production monitoring within ERP.
- 6#6: MRPeasy - Cloud MRP software with live production planning, scheduling, and tracking features for small manufacturers.
- 7#7: Katana - Visual MRP platform for real-time inventory management and production tracking in make-to-order businesses.
- 8#8: Shoplogix - Manufacturing intelligence software providing real-time shop floor dashboards and OEE tracking.
- 9#9: Evocon - Simple, affordable machine monitoring solution for real-time production data and utilization insights.
- 10#10: L2L - Connected worker platform enabling real-time production workflows and continuous improvement.
Tools were chosen based on robustness of real-time features, user experience, integration potential, and overall value, ensuring they cater to varied manufacturing scales and operational priorities.
Comparison Table
Real-time production tracking software is essential for monitoring workflows, minimizing delays, and boosting operational productivity. This comparison table explores leading platforms—such as Plex, Tulip, MachineMetrics, Prodsmart, and Epicor MES—outlining key features, integration strengths, and industry applications to help readers identify the right fit for their production needs. By analyzing capabilities like live data dashboards, machine connectivity, and reporting tools, users can make informed choices to optimize their processes effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plex Cloud-based MES platform providing real-time visibility and control over manufacturing production processes. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Tulip No-code platform for building custom apps to track and optimize frontline production operations in real time. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | MachineMetrics Real-time machine monitoring software delivering OEE insights and performance analytics for manufacturers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Prodsmart Cloud shop floor management tool for real-time production tracking, scheduling, and quality control. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Epicor MES Integrated manufacturing execution system offering real-time production monitoring within ERP. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | MRPeasy Cloud MRP software with live production planning, scheduling, and tracking features for small manufacturers. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Katana Visual MRP platform for real-time inventory management and production tracking in make-to-order businesses. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Shoplogix Manufacturing intelligence software providing real-time shop floor dashboards and OEE tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Evocon Simple, affordable machine monitoring solution for real-time production data and utilization insights. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 10 | L2L Connected worker platform enabling real-time production workflows and continuous improvement. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-based MES platform providing real-time visibility and control over manufacturing production processes.
No-code platform for building custom apps to track and optimize frontline production operations in real time.
Real-time machine monitoring software delivering OEE insights and performance analytics for manufacturers.
Cloud shop floor management tool for real-time production tracking, scheduling, and quality control.
Integrated manufacturing execution system offering real-time production monitoring within ERP.
Cloud MRP software with live production planning, scheduling, and tracking features for small manufacturers.
Visual MRP platform for real-time inventory management and production tracking in make-to-order businesses.
Manufacturing intelligence software providing real-time shop floor dashboards and OEE tracking.
Simple, affordable machine monitoring solution for real-time production data and utilization insights.
Connected worker platform enabling real-time production workflows and continuous improvement.
Plex
enterpriseCloud-based MES platform providing real-time visibility and control over manufacturing production processes.
Infinite scalability with real-time machine connectivity, allowing unlimited growth without performance degradation
Plex is a cloud-native Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time production tracking by capturing data directly from machines, operators, and IoT devices across the shop floor. It provides comprehensive visibility into production schedules, quality metrics, inventory, and performance KPIs through intuitive dashboards and mobile apps. Designed for scalability, Plex enables manufacturers to optimize operations, reduce downtime, and drive continuous improvement with AI-powered insights.
Pros
- Seamless real-time data capture from any machine via open protocols like MTConnect and OPC UA
- End-to-end MES functionality including scheduling, quality, maintenance, and supply chain management
- Infinite cloud scalability supporting single plants to global enterprises
Cons
- Pricing can be high for small manufacturers due to its enterprise focus
- Initial implementation may require IT expertise for integrations
- Advanced customization options have a learning curve
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers needing scalable, real-time shop floor visibility and operational control.
Pricing
Quote-based SaaS pricing starting at around $100/user/month, scaled by factory size, modules, and users; free trial available.
Tulip
specializedNo-code platform for building custom apps to track and optimize frontline production operations in real time.
No-code app studio for building tailored production apps that run on edge devices for true real-time execution
Tulip is a no-code platform designed for manufacturing operations, enabling the creation of custom apps for real-time production tracking directly on the shop floor. It leverages edge computing to collect live data from machines, operators, and sensors, providing instant visibility into metrics like OEE, cycle times, and downtime. The software offers intuitive dashboards, analytics, and integrations with MES/ERP systems to optimize processes and drive continuous improvement.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code app builder for shop floor apps
- Real-time data capture and analytics from edge devices
- Scalable for enterprise manufacturing with strong integrations
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small-scale operations
- Initial setup requires hardware like Tulip Edge devices
- Advanced customizations may involve a learning curve
Best For
Mid-to-large manufacturers seeking flexible, no-code real-time tracking for digital transformation on the factory floor.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $1,000-$5,000/month depending on stations, users, and features.
MachineMetrics
specializedReal-time machine monitoring software delivering OEE insights and performance analytics for manufacturers.
EdgeConnect hardware-agnostic connectivity for instant, low-latency access to machine data without IT overhauls
MachineMetrics is a cloud-based real-time production tracking platform designed for manufacturers to monitor CNC machines and other equipment with sub-second data latency. It provides comprehensive insights into OEE, downtime, cycle times, and production rates through intuitive dashboards and advanced analytics. The software enables predictive maintenance, operator guidance, and process optimization to boost overall equipment effectiveness and reduce waste.
Pros
- Seamless real-time data collection from diverse machines via MTConnect and EdgeConnect
- Powerful OEE tracking with prescriptive alerts and operator messaging
- Robust analytics and customizable dashboards for actionable insights
Cons
- Setup may require hardware gateways for older machines
- Pricing scales with machine count, potentially costly for small shops
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers with CNC-heavy operations seeking real-time OEE improvements and operator empowerment.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $75 per machine per month, with flexible plans based on machine count and features.
Prodsmart
specializedCloud shop floor management tool for real-time production tracking, scheduling, and quality control.
Mobile-first real-time scanning and data entry that transforms smartphones into production terminals for instant shop floor updates.
Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) designed for real-time production tracking in manufacturing environments. It enables operators to capture live data on production, quality, downtime, and inventory using mobile apps on smartphones or tablets, eliminating paper-based processes. The platform delivers customizable dashboards with KPIs like OEE, cycle times, and yields, helping managers optimize efficiency and reduce waste in real time.
Pros
- Real-time data capture via intuitive mobile apps for shop floor operators
- Comprehensive dashboards and analytics for OEE, downtime, and quality tracking
- Paperless operations that integrate production scheduling and inventory management
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small manufacturers
- Initial setup and customization may require professional services
- Limited native integrations with some ERP systems beyond major ones like SAP
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers in regulated industries like food, pharma, and packaging needing mobile-enabled real-time shop floor visibility.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $1,000–$2,000/month depending on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Epicor MES
enterpriseIntegrated manufacturing execution system offering real-time production monitoring within ERP.
Epicor Matrex for touchscreen-based real-time shop floor data collection and execution
Epicor MES is a robust Manufacturing Execution System designed for real-time production tracking and shop floor management, tightly integrated with the Epicor ERP platform. It captures live data on machine utilization, labor performance, material usage, and quality metrics to optimize manufacturing operations. The solution supports discrete, process, and mixed-mode manufacturing with features like scheduling, downtime tracking, and performance analytics.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Epicor ERP for unified data flow
- Comprehensive real-time dashboards and OEE tracking
- Scalable for enterprise-level manufacturing environments
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant customization
- Steep learning curve for non-Epicor users
- High upfront costs and dependency on Epicor ecosystem
Best For
Established mid-to-large manufacturers using Epicor ERP seeking integrated real-time production visibility and control.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $50,000+ annually per site plus implementation fees.
MRPeasy
otherCloud MRP software with live production planning, scheduling, and tracking features for small manufacturers.
Mobile Shop Floor App for instant, worker-driven real-time production updates and issue reporting
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses, offering comprehensive production planning, inventory management, and real-time shop floor tracking. Workers use a mobile app to log production progress, material usage, and downtime in real-time, feeding data into dynamic dashboards for live visibility. It combines scheduling, CRM, and reporting to streamline operations from quote to delivery.
Pros
- Real-time production data collection via intuitive mobile shop floor app
- Seamless integration of tracking with full MRP/ERP functionalities
- Customizable dashboards and reports for operational insights
Cons
- Limited native IoT/machine connectivity compared to dedicated MES platforms
- Pricing scales with users and production volume, potentially costly for larger teams
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking an all-in-one MRP system with solid real-time tracking for discrete production.
Pricing
Starts at $49 per user/month (billed annually) for basic plans; scales based on users and monthly production output up to enterprise tiers.
Katana
otherVisual MRP platform for real-time inventory management and production tracking in make-to-order businesses.
Live MRP engine that dynamically adjusts production plans based on real-time demand, stock levels, and capacity constraints
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering real-time production tracking, inventory management, and order fulfillment. It provides live visibility into shop floor operations through drag-and-drop scheduling, multi-location stock syncing, and mobile app support for execution. The platform integrates seamlessly with e-commerce, accounting, and CRM tools to streamline make-to-order and make-to-stock workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop production scheduling for quick planning
- Real-time inventory accuracy across multiple locations and channels
- Robust integrations with Shopify, QuickBooks, and other popular tools
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume or larger teams
- Some constraints on complex multi-level BOM handling
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers focused on real-time shop floor tracking and inventory control in make-to-order environments.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 100 orders/mo), $299/month (Professional), $599+/month (Business), with custom Enterprise plans.
Shoplogix
specializedManufacturing intelligence software providing real-time shop floor dashboards and OEE tracking.
Touchless wireless connectivity to legacy equipment for seamless real-time data capture
Shoplogix's ShopfloorDirector is a real-time production tracking software designed for manufacturing environments, providing live visibility into shop floor operations by connecting to CNC machines, PLCs, and other equipment via wireless sensors or MTConnect. It captures data on cycle times, downtime, production rates, and calculates OEE metrics to help optimize throughput and reduce inefficiencies. The platform delivers customizable dashboards, alerts, and reporting tools for proactive decision-making on the shop floor.
Pros
- Excellent connectivity to legacy machines without invasive hardware
- Accurate real-time OEE tracking and downtime analysis
- Customizable dashboards for shop floor teams
Cons
- High upfront costs and custom pricing model
- Setup requires technical expertise for machine integration
- Limited native integrations with modern ERP systems
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers with CNC-heavy operations needing reliable real-time machine monitoring.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $10,000+ annually depending on machine count and features.
Evocon
specializedSimple, affordable machine monitoring solution for real-time production data and utilization insights.
Wireless trackers that install in under 5 minutes on any machine, providing instant real-time data without wiring or IT expertise
Evocon is a real-time production tracking software tailored for manufacturing, focusing on monitoring machine uptime, downtime, speed losses, and OEE through wireless sensors and intuitive dashboards. It delivers live insights into production performance, enabling quick identification of bottlenecks and inefficiencies without needing extensive IT support. The platform emphasizes simplicity, with easy sensor installation on any machine and actionable alerts for operators and managers.
Pros
- Ultra-simple plug-and-play sensor installation in minutes
- Real-time dashboards and OEE tracking with minimal setup
- Cost-effective for SMEs with strong focus on downtime analysis
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Customization options are basic
- ERP integrations are functional but not deeply featured
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking straightforward, no-fuss real-time production monitoring without complex IT requirements.
Pricing
Starts at €49 per machine/month (billed annually); scales with number of machines and features
L2L
enterpriseConnected worker platform enabling real-time production workflows and continuous improvement.
Live leaderboards and gamification that boost operator productivity through real-time performance competition
L2L is a connected worker platform tailored for manufacturing, offering real-time production tracking via mobile apps and digital work instructions for frontline operators. It captures live data on production output, downtime, quality issues, and OEE metrics, delivering instant visibility through customizable dashboards and leaderboards. The software focuses on operator engagement and continuous improvement, integrating with shop floor devices to streamline workflows and reduce paper-based processes.
Pros
- High operator adoption with intuitive mobile interface
- Real-time dashboards and leaderboards for motivation
- Strong focus on digital standard work and audits
Cons
- Limited native integrations with advanced MES systems
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for small ops
- Customization requires admin expertise
Best For
Mid-sized discrete manufacturers prioritizing frontline worker engagement and real-time shop floor visibility.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50-100 per user/month with site-based tiers; quotes required.
Conclusion
With a range of powerful tools, the review highlights Plex as the top choice, offering unmatched real-time visibility and control over manufacturing processes. Close behind, Tulip excels with its no-code app-building for frontline optimization, while MachineMetrics delivers critical OEE insights and analytics, each serving distinct needs. Together, these solutions redefine production tracking, making efficiency and transparency accessible to diverse workflows.
To unlock seamless real-time production management, Plex leads as the optimal starting point—explore its cloud-based MES platform to elevate your operations today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison