Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, automates orders, and integrates with sales channels for small to medium shops.
- 2#2: Square for Retail - POS system with real-time inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-location support designed for retail shops.
- 3#3: Lightspeed Retail - Comprehensive retail POS and inventory platform offering omnichannel management, purchase orders, and analytics for shops.
- 4#4: Shopify POS - E-commerce and POS solution with unified inventory management across online and physical store locations.
- 5#5: Cin7 - Advanced inventory control software that connects sales channels, automates fulfillment, and scales for growing retail operations.
- 6#6: QuickBooks Online - Accounting software featuring inventory tracking, reorder points, and integration with sales for small businesses.
- 7#7: Fishbowl - Warehouse and inventory management tool with QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing and multi-location shops.
- 8#8: Katana MRP - Cloud manufacturing and inventory platform that plans production, tracks stock, and syncs with sales for craft shops.
- 9#9: Unleashed - Real-time cloud inventory software for wholesalers and retailers managing stock, suppliers, and multichannel sales.
- 10#10: inFlow Inventory - Flexible inventory management system for SMBs handling purchasing, sales orders, and reporting across locations.
We selected and ranked these tools by evaluating key factors like functionality, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and overall value, ensuring a balanced showcase of top performers for different shop sizes and operational focus areas.
Comparison Table
Managing shop inventory efficiently is crucial for smooth operations, and selecting the right software can optimize performance. This comparison table outlines key tools like Zoho Inventory, Square for Retail, Lightspeed Retail, Shopify POS, Cin7, and more, guiding readers to compare features, pricing, and usability to find their ideal fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, automates orders, and integrates with sales channels for small to medium shops. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Square for Retail POS system with real-time inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-location support designed for retail shops. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | Lightspeed Retail Comprehensive retail POS and inventory platform offering omnichannel management, purchase orders, and analytics for shops. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 |  Shopify POS E-commerce and POS solution with unified inventory management across online and physical store locations. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Cin7 Advanced inventory control software that connects sales channels, automates fulfillment, and scales for growing retail operations. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | QuickBooks Online Accounting software featuring inventory tracking, reorder points, and integration with sales for small businesses. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 7 | Fishbowl Warehouse and inventory management tool with QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing and multi-location shops. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Katana MRP Cloud manufacturing and inventory platform that plans production, tracks stock, and syncs with sales for craft shops. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Unleashed Real-time cloud inventory software for wholesalers and retailers managing stock, suppliers, and multichannel sales. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | inFlow Inventory Flexible inventory management system for SMBs handling purchasing, sales orders, and reporting across locations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, automates orders, and integrates with sales channels for small to medium shops.
POS system with real-time inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-location support designed for retail shops.
Comprehensive retail POS and inventory platform offering omnichannel management, purchase orders, and analytics for shops.
E-commerce and POS solution with unified inventory management across online and physical store locations.
Advanced inventory control software that connects sales channels, automates fulfillment, and scales for growing retail operations.
Accounting software featuring inventory tracking, reorder points, and integration with sales for small businesses.
Warehouse and inventory management tool with QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing and multi-location shops.
Cloud manufacturing and inventory platform that plans production, tracks stock, and syncs with sales for craft shops.
Real-time cloud inventory software for wholesalers and retailers managing stock, suppliers, and multichannel sales.
Flexible inventory management system for SMBs handling purchasing, sales orders, and reporting across locations.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, automates orders, and integrates with sales channels for small to medium shops.
Multi-channel inventory synchronization that prevents overselling across platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and Etsy in real-time
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based solution for managing shop inventory, orders, and fulfillment across multiple sales channels. It provides real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse support, barcode scanning, and automated reorder points to optimize operations. Seamlessly integrating with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce, plus Zoho's ecosystem, it streamlines purchasing, sales, and reporting for efficient shop management.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 50+ e-commerce, accounting, and shipping apps
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with serial/batch management
- Powerful automation for order fulfillment, reordering, and custom reports
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Some premium features locked behind higher plans
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Growing small to medium retail and e-commerce businesses needing scalable, multichannel inventory management.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 20 online orders/month); Standard $59/org/mo, Professional $129/org/mo, Elite $219/org/mo (billed annually).
Square for Retail
specializedPOS system with real-time inventory tracking, stock alerts, and multi-location support designed for retail shops.
Omnichannel inventory synchronization that automatically updates stock levels across physical stores, online shops, and delivery apps in real-time
Square for Retail is a robust point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for brick-and-mortar retailers, featuring comprehensive inventory management tools like real-time stock tracking, purchase orders, and item variants. It integrates seamlessly with Square's payment processing, e-commerce platforms, and delivery services to provide a unified view of inventory across all sales channels. This solution excels in helping retailers manage stock levels, receive alerts for low inventory, and handle multi-location operations efficiently.
Pros
- Intuitive, mobile-friendly interface with quick setup and minimal training required
- Real-time inventory syncing across in-store, online, and third-party channels
- Integrated payments and no upfront software costs for basic features
Cons
- Advanced inventory features require the $60/month Retail plan per location
- Transaction processing fees (2.6% + 10¢ in-person) can add up for high-volume sales
- Reporting and analytics are solid but less advanced than dedicated enterprise inventory tools
Best For
Small to medium-sized retail shops seeking an affordable, all-in-one POS and inventory management system with strong omnichannel capabilities.
Pricing
Free for basic POS and inventory; Retail plan $60/month per location for advanced features; plus processing fees (2.6% + 10¢ in-person, 2.9% + 30¢ online).
Lightspeed Retail
specializedComprehensive retail POS and inventory platform offering omnichannel management, purchase orders, and analytics for shops.
Matrix inventory system for handling product variants (e.g., sizes, colors) with automatic stock adjustments across channels
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based POS and inventory management platform tailored for brick-and-mortar retail businesses, offering real-time stock tracking, purchase order management, and multi-location inventory synchronization. It integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, ensuring unified online and in-store inventory visibility. The software also provides advanced reporting tools to forecast demand, reduce stockouts, and streamline supplier relationships.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory management with real-time syncing
- Strong e-commerce and POS integrations for omnichannel retail
- Comprehensive analytics and customizable reporting for inventory insights
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers that may overwhelm small shops
- Occasional learning curve for advanced inventory features
- Limited customization in basic plans without add-ons
Best For
Multi-location retail stores seeking integrated POS and advanced inventory control with e-commerce support.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month for Essential plan (1 register), up to $249/month for Advanced; annual discounts available, additional fees for hardware and add-ons.
Shopify POS
specializedE-commerce and POS solution with unified inventory management across online and physical store locations.
Real-time bidirectional inventory synchronization across online and physical sales channels
Shopify POS is a point-of-sale solution integrated with Shopify's e-commerce platform, offering comprehensive inventory management for physical retail stores. It enables real-time stock tracking across online and in-store channels, supports product variants, bundles, and low-stock alerts, while automating updates during sales, transfers, and returns. This makes it a strong choice for unified inventory control in omnichannel retail environments.
Pros
- Seamless real-time inventory sync between online store and physical locations
- Intuitive mobile app for on-the-go stock management and sales
- Built-in support for product variants, bundles, and multi-location inventory
Cons
- Advanced inventory analytics and reporting require POS Pro upgrade
- Higher costs for multi-location or Pro features can add up
- Less specialized for pure wholesale or complex B2B inventory needs
Best For
Omnichannel retailers with Shopify online stores who need simple, unified inventory tracking for in-store and online sales.
Pricing
Free with any Shopify plan (Basic $29/mo, Shopify $105/mo, Advanced $399/mo); POS Pro add-on $89/mo per location.
Cin7
enterpriseAdvanced inventory control software that connects sales channels, automates fulfillment, and scales for growing retail operations.
700+ native integrations enabling true omnichannel inventory synchronization without custom coding
Cin7 is a powerful cloud-based inventory management platform designed for multi-channel retailers, wholesalers, and e-commerce businesses, offering real-time stock tracking across unlimited locations and sales channels. It automates order fulfillment, purchase orders, and integrations with over 700 apps including Shopify, Amazon, QuickBooks, and Xero. The software excels in complex inventory scenarios with features like bundle management, serial/batch tracking, and a self-service B2B portal.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ platforms for seamless multi-channel sync
- Advanced multi-location inventory and smart replenishment tools
- Robust B2B portal and detailed reporting for wholesale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
Best For
Multi-channel retailers and wholesalers with complex inventory needs across e-commerce, POS, and B2B sales.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month (Operations plan, billed annually) scaling to $599+/month for Core/Pro plans; custom enterprise pricing available.
QuickBooks Online
enterpriseAccounting software featuring inventory tracking, reorder points, and integration with sales for small businesses.
Automatic inventory adjustments synced directly to profit/loss statements and tax reports
QuickBooks Online is a comprehensive cloud-based accounting software that includes basic inventory tracking features for small businesses and shops. It enables users to monitor stock levels, set reorder points, adjust quantities for sales and purchases, and generate inventory valuation reports all integrated with financial accounting. While not a standalone inventory management tool, it suits simple shop needs by syncing inventory data with invoicing, expenses, and sales reporting in real-time.
Pros
- Seamless integration of inventory with accounting and sales data
- Real-time stock tracking and low-stock alerts accessible via mobile app
- Strong reporting tools for inventory valuation and profitability
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like serial/lot tracking, multi-warehouse support, or manufacturing without add-ons
- Inventory functionality requires higher-tier plans, increasing costs for basic use
- Setup and customization for inventory can be complex for non-accountants
Best For
Small retail shops or e-commerce sellers needing basic inventory tied to accounting without separate specialized software.
Pricing
Starts at $30/month (no inventory); inventory tracking requires Plus plan at $90/month or Advanced at $200/month (billed annually).
Fishbowl
enterpriseWarehouse and inventory management tool with QuickBooks integration, supporting manufacturing and multi-location shops.
Native, two-way QuickBooks synchronization that eliminates double-entry for inventory and financial data
Fishbowl is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, offering real-time tracking, multi-location support, and seamless integration with QuickBooks. It handles purchase orders, sales orders, barcode scanning, and light manufacturing/assembly processes efficiently. Ideal for warehouses and distributors, it provides cycle counting, lot/serial tracking, and reporting tools to optimize stock levels and operations.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting sync
- Advanced multi-location inventory and barcode support
- Built-in tools for manufacturing, picking, packing, and shipping
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud competitors
Best For
Small to midsize shops and warehouses using QuickBooks that need complex inventory tracking and light manufacturing capabilities.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,395 per user plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription from $439/month.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud manufacturing and inventory platform that plans production, tracks stock, and syncs with sales for craft shops.
Live synchronized inventory across sales channels, production, and warehouses
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers and shops handling inventory, production, and order fulfillment. It offers real-time stock tracking across multiple locations, automated purchase orders, and visual production scheduling to optimize workflows. With seamless integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, Katana helps prevent stockouts, manage bills of materials, and scale operations efficiently.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility and multi-location support
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Visual drag-and-drop production planning board
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may be steep for very small shops
- Learning curve for advanced MRP features
- Limited advanced reporting in entry-level plans
Best For
Small to medium manufacturing shops needing integrated inventory tracking and production scheduling.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, billed annually), $299/month (Professional), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Unleashed
specializedReal-time cloud inventory software for wholesalers and retailers managing stock, suppliers, and multichannel sales.
Multi-warehouse real-time inventory syncing with automated stock adjustments and low-stock alerts
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers, and retailers handling complex stock needs. It provides real-time tracking across multiple warehouses, supports batch/serial number management, purchase/sales orders, and integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, as well as e-commerce platforms. While powerful for inventory control, it focuses more on back-end operations than front-end POS for retail shops.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility
- Robust integrations with accounting and e-commerce
- Advanced batch, serial, and expiry tracking
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
- Steeper learning curve for non-inventory experts
- Limited native POS functionality; relies on integrations
Best For
Mid-sized retailers or wholesalers with multi-channel sales and complex inventory requirements needing precise stock control.
Pricing
Starts at ~$85 AUD/month for Micro plan (40 sales/purchase orders), with tiers up to Enterprise at custom pricing based on order volume.
inFlow Inventory
specializedFlexible inventory management system for SMBs handling purchasing, sales orders, and reporting across locations.
Real-time multi-location inventory syncing with customizable barcode label printing
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, enabling efficient tracking of stock levels across multiple locations. It supports barcode scanning, purchase and sales order management, and detailed reporting to streamline shop operations. The platform integrates with tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce, making it suitable for retail and wholesale environments.
Pros
- Excellent multi-location inventory tracking
- Robust mobile app with barcode scanning
- Strong integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for additional users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited built-in POS functionality
Best For
Small retail shops and distributors managing inventory across multiple warehouses who need reliable scanning and reporting tools.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Solo, 1 user) billed annually; scales to $289/month (Advanced, unlimited users); 14-day free trial.
Conclusion
The top 10 inventory tools provide varied solutions tailored to different shop needs, with standout performers excelling in cloud integration, POS synergy, and omnichannel management. Leading the pack is Zoho Inventory, offering robust cloud-based tracking and sales channel automation. Square for Retail and Lightspeed Retail follow closely, with strong POS-focused and omnichannel capabilities, respectively, making each a compelling choice depending on specific operational priorities.
Ready to upgrade? Begin with Zoho Inventory to unlock seamless inventory management and drive your shop toward smoother operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison