Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, orders, and sales across multiple sales channels for small businesses.
- 2#2: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly inventory control software designed for small businesses to manage stock, purchases, and sales efficiently.
- 3#3: QuickBooks Online - Accounting platform with robust inventory tracking features tailored for small businesses to monitor stock and automate reordering.
- 4#4: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory management system that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small to medium-sized businesses.
- 5#5: Cin7 - Integrated inventory and order management platform for small businesses handling multi-channel retail and wholesale operations.
- 6#6: Sortly - Visual inventory app that uses photos and QR codes to simplify stock tracking for small businesses.
- 7#7: Lightspeed Retail - POS and inventory management software optimized for small retail businesses to handle sales and stock in real-time.
- 8#8: Square for Retail - Free POS system with built-in inventory tracking ideal for small retail shops to manage products and low-stock alerts.
- 9#9: Odoo Inventory - Open-source ERP module providing scalable inventory management for small businesses with warehouse and order tracking.
- 10#10: Katana MRP - Manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory tracking for small makers and workshops.
Tools were selected based on functionality (including automation, integration, and scalability), user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring they cater to the unique demands of small businesses, from retail and manufacturing to wholesale operations.
Comparison Table
Small business owners seeking reliable inventory software often face a crowded market, with tools like Zoho Inventory, inFlow, QuickBooks Online, Fishbowl, Cin7, and more, each boasting unique features. This comparison table simplifies the selection process by outlining key capabilities, pricing structures, and usability, allowing readers to quickly evaluate which solution aligns best with their operational needs and budget.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, orders, and sales across multiple sales channels for small businesses. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly inventory control software designed for small businesses to manage stock, purchases, and sales efficiently. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | QuickBooks Online Accounting platform with robust inventory tracking features tailored for small businesses to monitor stock and automate reordering. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 4 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory management system that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small to medium-sized businesses. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Cin7 Integrated inventory and order management platform for small businesses handling multi-channel retail and wholesale operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Sortly Visual inventory app that uses photos and QR codes to simplify stock tracking for small businesses. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 7 | Lightspeed Retail POS and inventory management software optimized for small retail businesses to handle sales and stock in real-time. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Square for Retail Free POS system with built-in inventory tracking ideal for small retail shops to manage products and low-stock alerts. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 9 | Odoo Inventory Open-source ERP module providing scalable inventory management for small businesses with warehouse and order tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 10 | Katana MRP Manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory tracking for small makers and workshops. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, orders, and sales across multiple sales channels for small businesses.
User-friendly inventory control software designed for small businesses to manage stock, purchases, and sales efficiently.
Accounting platform with robust inventory tracking features tailored for small businesses to monitor stock and automate reordering.
Advanced inventory management system that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small to medium-sized businesses.
Integrated inventory and order management platform for small businesses handling multi-channel retail and wholesale operations.
Visual inventory app that uses photos and QR codes to simplify stock tracking for small businesses.
POS and inventory management software optimized for small retail businesses to handle sales and stock in real-time.
Free POS system with built-in inventory tracking ideal for small retail shops to manage products and low-stock alerts.
Open-source ERP module providing scalable inventory management for small businesses with warehouse and order tracking.
Manufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory tracking for small makers and workshops.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that tracks stock levels, orders, and sales across multiple sales channels for small businesses.
Real-time multi-channel inventory sync across e-commerce platforms, preventing overselling and ensuring accuracy
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based solution tailored for small businesses, enabling efficient tracking of inventory across multiple warehouses, serial/batch number management, and real-time stock updates. It automates order fulfillment, purchase orders, and invoicing while integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce, as well as Zoho's accounting suite. Ideal for growing businesses, it supports barcode scanning via mobile apps and provides customizable reports for informed decision-making.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory synchronization
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, shipping, and accounting tools
- Affordable pricing with a generous free plan for startups
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features and customizations
- Some reporting and automation tools limited to higher-tier plans
- Customer support can be slower for non-premium users
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with online sales channels needing scalable inventory management integrated with accounting and e-commerce.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 20 online orders/month); Standard $29/mo; Professional $79/mo; Elite $199/mo (billed annually, per organization).
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly inventory control software designed for small businesses to manage stock, purchases, and sales efficiently.
Offline-capable mobile app for barcode scanning and stock adjustments, ideal for warehouse and field operations
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses, offering tools for real-time stock tracking, order management, purchasing, and sales processing. It supports barcode scanning, multi-location inventory, assemblies for light manufacturing, and customizable reporting to streamline operations. With seamless integrations to platforms like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce, it helps businesses maintain accurate inventory without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app with offline barcode scanning for on-the-go inventory management
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools like Shopify and QuickBooks
- Multi-location support and customizable reports for growing small businesses
Cons
- Additional per-user fees can increase costs for teams beyond basic plans
- Learning curve for advanced features like assemblies and custom fields
- Limited built-in advanced analytics compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Small retailers, wholesalers, and light manufacturers needing mobile-friendly inventory tracking with e-commerce integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Starter, 1 user), $149/month (Professional, up to 5 users), $349/month (Advanced), with extra users at $29/month each; 14-day free trial available.
QuickBooks Online
enterpriseAccounting platform with robust inventory tracking features tailored for small businesses to monitor stock and automate reordering.
Deep integration of inventory data directly into accounting, invoicing, and financial reporting for unified business insights
QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based accounting software with built-in inventory management features tailored for small businesses, enabling tracking of stock levels, costs, sales, and purchase orders. It supports multi-location inventory and basic assemblies in higher plans, providing real-time updates synced with financial data. While not a dedicated inventory solution, it streamlines operations by combining inventory tracking with invoicing, expenses, and reporting.
Pros
- Seamless integration of inventory with full accounting suite
- Real-time inventory tracking and reporting across multiple locations
- User-friendly interface with mobile app support
Cons
- Advanced inventory features (e.g., serial/lot tracking) limited to expensive Advanced plan
- Lacks native barcode scanning and sophisticated forecasting tools
- Inventory management not available in entry-level plans, increasing costs
Best For
Small businesses already using QuickBooks for accounting who need basic, integrated inventory tracking without complex supply chain needs.
Pricing
Inventory features start with Plus plan at $90/month (annual billing); Advanced at $200/month for enhanced capabilities; billed monthly or annually.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory management system that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small to medium-sized businesses.
Unrivaled native integration with QuickBooks Desktop for synchronized inventory and financial data.
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, providing real-time tracking, order fulfillment, and manufacturing tools. It excels in multi-location inventory control, barcode scanning, and bill of materials (BOM) management, with seamless integration to QuickBooks Desktop for accounting synchronization. The platform supports warehouse operations, sales orders, and custom reporting to optimize supply chain efficiency.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks Desktop integration for effortless accounting sync
- Advanced manufacturing and BOM tools ideal for assembly businesses
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with barcode support
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Pricing can be expensive for very small businesses
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Small manufacturers, distributors, or warehouses using QuickBooks that require advanced inventory and production management.
Pricing
Cloud subscriptions start at $129/user/month; on-premise perpetual licenses from $4,395 plus annual maintenance.
Cin7
enterpriseIntegrated inventory and order management platform for small businesses handling multi-channel retail and wholesale operations.
Real-time inventory sync across unlimited sales channels and warehouses
Cin7 is a robust inventory management software designed for small to medium businesses, offering real-time stock tracking across multiple sales channels like e-commerce, POS, and marketplaces. It automates order processing, purchasing, and fulfillment while integrating with over 700 apps including QuickBooks, Shopify, and Amazon. The platform excels in multi-warehouse management and B2B EDI support, making it suitable for scaling operations.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel inventory synchronization in real-time
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and POS systems
- Advanced features like multi-warehouse and B2B EDI support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Higher pricing may not suit very small businesses
- Customization can require technical setup
Best For
Growing small businesses managing inventory across multiple online and physical sales channels with complex fulfillment needs.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (billed annually), scaling to $599+ for Pro and Enterprise with user and order volume limits.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory app that uses photos and QR codes to simplify stock tracking for small businesses.
Visual inventory catalog using item photos as thumbnails for instant visual search and organization
Sortly is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small businesses, emphasizing a visual catalog where items are displayed with photos, barcodes, and QR codes for intuitive tracking. It offers features like folder organization, low-stock alerts, custom fields, basic reporting, and mobile scanning via iOS and Android apps. While suitable for simple asset and product management, it lacks advanced capabilities like multi-location optimization or deep manufacturing support found in enterprise tools.
Pros
- Highly visual interface with photo thumbnails for quick item recognition
- Effortless barcode/QR scanning on mobile devices
- Affordable plans with a functional free tier for startups
Cons
- Limited scalability for businesses exceeding a few thousand items
- Basic reporting lacks advanced analytics or forecasting
- Fewer integrations compared to more robust competitors like Fishbowl
Best For
Small retail shops, workshops, and field teams needing simple, visual inventory tracking without complex ERP features.
Pricing
Free plan (100 items); Basic $29/mo (500 items); Professional $59/mo (5,000 items); Enterprise custom; billed annually.
Lightspeed Retail
enterprisePOS and inventory management software optimized for small retail businesses to handle sales and stock in real-time.
Omnichannel inventory sync that automatically updates stock levels across in-store POS and online storefronts in real-time.
Lightspeed Retail is a cloud-based POS and inventory management platform designed for retail businesses, offering real-time stock tracking across multiple locations. It streamlines inventory with features like automated reordering, purchase order management, and integration with e-commerce platforms for unified sales channels. Ideal for small retailers, it provides detailed reporting and analytics to optimize stock levels and reduce overstocking.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory tracking with real-time updates
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
- Advanced analytics and customizable reporting for inventory insights
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain very small budgets
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Occasional reports of sync delays during peak times
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses with physical stores and online sales needing centralized inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Essentials, billed annually per location), up to $269/month (Advanced); hardware and add-ons extra.
Square for Retail
specializedFree POS system with built-in inventory tracking ideal for small retail shops to manage products and low-stock alerts.
Real-time, multi-location inventory syncing automatically updated by POS sales data
Square for Retail is a POS-focused solution with integrated inventory management designed for small retail businesses, enabling real-time stock tracking, low-stock alerts, and purchase order creation. It syncs inventory directly with sales transactions across multiple locations, supporting item variants, bundles, and modifiers. While not a standalone inventory powerhouse, it provides essential tools for retailers needing simplicity alongside point-of-sale functionality.
Pros
- Seamless integration of inventory with POS sales for real-time accuracy
- Intuitive, mobile-friendly interface with quick setup
- No monthly software fees on basic plan, only transaction-based pricing
Cons
- Lacks advanced inventory features like lot/serial tracking or demand forecasting
- Transaction processing fees can add up for high-volume sales
- Reporting and analytics are basic compared to dedicated inventory tools
Best For
Small retail shops seeking straightforward inventory management tightly integrated with everyday POS operations without steep learning curves or upfront costs.
Pricing
Free basic plan (2.6% + 10¢ per in-person transaction); Plus plan $60/month per location for advanced inventory and reporting; Premium custom pricing.
Odoo Inventory
enterpriseOpen-source ERP module providing scalable inventory management for small businesses with warehouse and order tracking.
Advanced route optimization and push/pull logistics for automated warehouse workflows
Odoo Inventory is a powerful module within the open-source Odoo ERP platform, designed to streamline inventory management for small businesses. It provides real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse support, barcode scanning, automated reordering, and lot/serial number traceability. The tool integrates seamlessly with Odoo's sales, purchase, and manufacturing apps, enabling end-to-end supply chain visibility without needing third-party software.
Pros
- Comprehensive features like multi-location inventory, forecasting, and automation rules
- Seamless integration with Odoo's full ERP suite for sales, accounting, and more
- Scalable and customizable with free community edition for basic use
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive options and modular complexity
- Interface can feel overwhelming for users needing simple inventory only
- Enterprise features and hosting incur additional costs beyond free tier
Best For
Growing small businesses seeking integrated inventory management within a broader ERP system.
Pricing
Free Community edition; One App Free plan; Standard plan starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) for full apps and hosting.
Katana MRP
specializedManufacturing resource planning software focused on real-time inventory tracking for small makers and workshops.
Visual drag-and-drop manufacturing planning board for intuitive production scheduling
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations. It streamlines production planning with visual drag-and-drop boards, bill of materials (BOM) management, and automated purchasing workflows. The platform integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, making it suitable for inventory-intensive businesses scaling operations.
Pros
- Real-time inventory visibility and multi-warehouse support
- Visual production planning board for efficient scheduling
- Seamless integrations with Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero
Cons
- Pricing starts relatively high for very small operations
- Advanced reporting and customizations limited to higher tiers
- Can feel complex for non-manufacturing inventory-only users
Best For
Small manufacturing businesses with inventory and production needs that require visual planning and e-commerce integrations.
Pricing
Essentials at $99/month (100 orders), Professional at $299/month (unlimited orders), Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
Evaluating the best small business inventory software highlights a range of strong tools, with Zoho Inventory leading as the top choice, offering seamless multi-channel tracking and comprehensive management. inFlow Inventory stands out for its user-friendly design, making stock and sales oversight accessible, while QuickBooks Online excels with its tight integration with accounting processes, catering to businesses prioritizing financial efficiency. Each tool addresses unique needs, but these three—Zoho, inFlow, and QuickBooks—emerge as the most impactful for simplifying daily operations.
Don’t wait—dive into Zoho Inventory to transform how you manage stock, sales, and orders, setting your business up for smooth growth.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison