Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management platform with mobile stocktaking, cycle counts, and barcode scanning for accurate physical inventory audits.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory control software offering robust stocktaking tools, asset tracking, and QuickBooks integration for precise counts.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory platform with automated stocktaking, multi-location support, and real-time adjustments for growing businesses.
- 4#4: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly desktop and cloud inventory software featuring mobile stock counts, barcode printing, and recount workflows.
- 5#5: Unleashed Software - Cloud inventory management system with stocktake modules, batch tracking, and mobile apps for efficient physical verification.
- 6#6: DEAR Inventory - Integrated inventory and POS solution providing cycle counting, stock adjustments, and handheld device support for stocktaking.
- 7#7: Sortly - Visual inventory app with QR code scanning and photo-based stocktaking for simple, low-cost asset and stock tracking.
- 8#8: Katana MRP - Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking and stocktake features for production-focused businesses.
- 9#9: SkuVault - E-commerce inventory management with blind stock counts, wave picking, and warehouse optimization for accurate audits.
- 10#10: Odoo Inventory - Open-source ERP module for inventory offering perpetual inventory, stock moves, and multi-warehouse counting capabilities.
We selected these tools by prioritizing robust features, user-friendly design, reliability, and value, ensuring a comprehensive range suitable for businesses of all sizes and operational focuses.
Comparison Table
Efficient stocktaking is key to maintaining accurate inventory and streamlining operations, so selecting the right software matters for businesses across scales. This comparison table explores top tools like Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, inFlow Inventory, and Unleashed Software, outlining key features, usability, and ideal use cases to help readers find the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management platform with mobile stocktaking, cycle counts, and barcode scanning for accurate physical inventory audits. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory control software offering robust stocktaking tools, asset tracking, and QuickBooks integration for precise counts. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory platform with automated stocktaking, multi-location support, and real-time adjustments for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly desktop and cloud inventory software featuring mobile stock counts, barcode printing, and recount workflows. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Unleashed Software Cloud inventory management system with stocktake modules, batch tracking, and mobile apps for efficient physical verification. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | DEAR Inventory Integrated inventory and POS solution providing cycle counting, stock adjustments, and handheld device support for stocktaking. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Sortly Visual inventory app with QR code scanning and photo-based stocktaking for simple, low-cost asset and stock tracking. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Katana MRP Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking and stocktake features for production-focused businesses. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | SkuVault E-commerce inventory management with blind stock counts, wave picking, and warehouse optimization for accurate audits. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Odoo Inventory Open-source ERP module for inventory offering perpetual inventory, stock moves, and multi-warehouse counting capabilities. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management platform with mobile stocktaking, cycle counts, and barcode scanning for accurate physical inventory audits.
Advanced inventory control software offering robust stocktaking tools, asset tracking, and QuickBooks integration for precise counts.
Omnichannel inventory platform with automated stocktaking, multi-location support, and real-time adjustments for growing businesses.
User-friendly desktop and cloud inventory software featuring mobile stock counts, barcode printing, and recount workflows.
Cloud inventory management system with stocktake modules, batch tracking, and mobile apps for efficient physical verification.
Integrated inventory and POS solution providing cycle counting, stock adjustments, and handheld device support for stocktaking.
Visual inventory app with QR code scanning and photo-based stocktaking for simple, low-cost asset and stock tracking.
Manufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking and stocktake features for production-focused businesses.
E-commerce inventory management with blind stock counts, wave picking, and warehouse optimization for accurate audits.
Open-source ERP module for inventory offering perpetual inventory, stock moves, and multi-warehouse counting capabilities.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management platform with mobile stocktaking, cycle counts, and barcode scanning for accurate physical inventory audits.
Mobile app with offline barcode scanning and instant sync for precise on-the-go stock counts
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for efficient inventory management, with robust stocktaking capabilities including cycle counts, full physical audits, and real-time adjustments. It supports barcode and QR code scanning via a mobile app, multi-warehouse tracking, and serial/batch number management to ensure accurate stock levels. Seamlessly integrated with Zoho's ecosystem like Books and CRM, it streamlines operations from procurement to sales fulfillment.
Pros
- Advanced mobile app for barcode scanning and offline stocktaking
- Real-time multi-warehouse visibility and automated alerts
- Deep integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Higher-tier plans needed for unlimited orders and advanced analytics
- Steeper learning curve for complex custom workflows
- Occasional delays in third-party syncs during peak usage
Best For
Small to medium businesses needing scalable stocktaking with seamless Zoho ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 20 orders/month; paid plans start at $29/month (Standard, billed annually).
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory control software offering robust stocktaking tools, asset tracking, and QuickBooks integration for precise counts.
Deep, bidirectional QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory data in real-time during stocktaking processes
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory management platform tailored for small to midsize businesses, with strong capabilities in stocktaking through cycle counts, physical inventories, and barcode-enabled scanning. It supports multi-location tracking, order fulfillment, and manufacturing processes while integrating seamlessly with QuickBooks for real-time data syncing. The software automates inventory adjustments and provides detailed reporting to minimize discrepancies during stocktaking.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for accurate financial and inventory syncing
- Advanced stocktaking tools including cycle counts, tag counts, and mobile barcode scanning
- Multi-warehouse support with real-time visibility and robust reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher upfront costs compared to cloud-only alternatives
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets
Best For
QuickBooks-using SMBs with multiple locations needing precise, scalable stocktaking and inventory control.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,395 for standard edition, plus annual maintenance fees around 20% of license cost; warehouse edition from $5,745.
Cin7
enterpriseOmnichannel inventory platform with automated stocktaking, multi-location support, and real-time adjustments for growing businesses.
Real-time multi-location stock visibility with automated purchase order generation from stocktake variances
Cin7 is a robust inventory management platform with advanced stocktaking capabilities, including mobile barcode scanning, cycle counts, full physical inventories, and real-time stock adjustments across multiple locations. It integrates stock data with sales channels, POS systems, and accounting software for comprehensive visibility and accuracy. Designed for scaling businesses, it minimizes discrepancies through automated reconciliation and detailed reporting.
Pros
- Powerful mobile stocktaking app with barcode and RFID support
- Multi-warehouse and multi-channel real-time inventory syncing
- Automated stock adjustments and variance reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Higher pricing may not suit small businesses
- Complex setup for basic stocktaking needs
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers with multi-channel sales needing integrated, scalable stocktaking.
Pricing
Starts at $349 USD/month for Core plan (billed annually), scaling to custom enterprise pricing based on order volume and users.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly desktop and cloud inventory software featuring mobile stock counts, barcode printing, and recount workflows.
Advanced cycle counting with offline-capable mobile barcode scanning for precise, efficient stocktakes
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering robust tools for tracking stock levels, managing purchases, sales, and conducting efficient stocktakes. It supports cycle counts, full physical inventories, and barcode scanning through a dedicated mobile app, ensuring accurate and real-time inventory data. The platform also includes multi-location support, reporting dashboards, and integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools like Shopify and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Powerful mobile app for barcode scanning and on-the-go stocktaking
- Real-time inventory tracking with multi-location support
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting features
- Limited built-in advanced analytics compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small to medium retailers and wholesalers needing mobile-enabled stocktaking and multi-channel inventory management.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (Standard, up to 100 orders), $129/month (Pro), $199-$349/month (Premium tiers); 30-day free trial available.
Unleashed Software
specializedCloud inventory management system with stocktake modules, batch tracking, and mobile apps for efficient physical verification.
Mobile stocktake app with offline mode, photo capture, and instant syncing for accurate, on-the-go inventory counts
Unleashed Software is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, offering comprehensive tools for tracking and managing stock levels across multiple locations. It excels in stocktaking with features like mobile cycle counts, full physical audits, barcode scanning, and real-time adjustments to maintain accuracy. The software integrates with e-commerce, accounting, and sales channels to provide end-to-end visibility and automate inventory processes.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking
- Robust mobile app for efficient stocktakes and barcode scanning
- Seamless integrations with 200+ platforms including Xero and Shopify
Cons
- Pricing can be high for very small businesses
- Initial setup and learning curve for complex configurations
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Mid-sized wholesalers and distributors needing scalable, real-time stocktaking across multiple warehouses.
Pricing
Starts at around $349 AUD/month for Lite plan (billed annually); custom quotes for higher volumes and features.
DEAR Inventory
enterpriseIntegrated inventory and POS solution providing cycle counting, stock adjustments, and handheld device support for stocktaking.
Mobile stocktake app with offline support and instant syncing for accurate, on-the-go inventory counts
DEAR Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management system designed for small to medium-sized businesses, with strong stocktaking capabilities including full and cycle counts via a mobile app. It supports barcode scanning, RFID, lot/serial tracking, and multi-location inventory adjustments to maintain accuracy. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero, automating reconciliation after stocktakes.
Pros
- Robust mobile app for efficient barcode and RFID stocktaking
- Real-time inventory adjustments and multi-warehouse support
- Extensive integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced stocktake configurations
- Pricing can escalate quickly for higher-volume users
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited for complex stock analysis
Best For
Small to medium businesses requiring integrated stocktaking with accounting and sales channels.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (Lite, billed annually) up to $599/month (Enterprise), based on order volume and users.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory app with QR code scanning and photo-based stocktaking for simple, low-cost asset and stock tracking.
Photo-first visual inventory interface that displays items as thumbnails for instant recognition during counts
Sortly is a cloud-based visual inventory management software designed for easy stocktaking and asset tracking, using photos, barcodes, and QR codes to catalog items intuitively. It enables users to organize inventory in folders, set custom fields, receive low-stock alerts, and generate reports for efficient stock counts and audits. The mobile app supports real-time scanning and updates, making it suitable for small to medium-sized businesses handling physical inventory.
Pros
- Visual photo-based catalog for quick item identification
- Intuitive mobile app with barcode/QR scanning for fast stocktaking
- Customizable alerts and basic reporting for proactive inventory management
Cons
- Item limits on lower plans (e.g., 100 items on free tier)
- Limited advanced analytics and multi-location support in basic plans
- Pricing scales quickly for larger inventories or teams
Best For
Small businesses and teams needing a simple, visual tool for everyday stocktaking without complex ERP features.
Pricing
Free (100 items); Plus $29/mo (500 items); Premium $59/mo (10,000 items); Enterprise custom.
Katana MRP
specializedManufacturing resource planning tool with live inventory tracking and stocktake features for production-focused businesses.
Live multi-location inventory dashboard with automatic stock level syncing across sales channels
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that excels in inventory management, providing real-time stock tracking essential for accurate stocktaking. It supports cycle counts, stock adjustments, and multi-location inventory visibility, making it suitable for manufacturers handling physical inventory audits. Integrated with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, it streamlines stock reconciliation alongside production and sales processes.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking with multi-location support
- Mobile app for efficient on-the-go stocktaking and adjustments
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Primarily manufacturing-focused, which may overwhelm simple stocktaking users
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features and higher volumes
- Limited specialized tools for large-scale physical audits like RFID support
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers who need integrated stocktaking with production planning and order fulfillment.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 500 orders), $179/month (Professional), $399/month (Business); annual billing offers discounts.
SkuVault
specializedE-commerce inventory management with blind stock counts, wave picking, and warehouse optimization for accurate audits.
Smart cycle counting with blind counts and automated variance alerts for pinpoint inventory accuracy
SkuVault is a robust warehouse management system (WMS) tailored for e-commerce businesses, providing real-time inventory tracking and control across multiple sales channels. It excels in stocktaking through features like cycle counting, blind counts, and automated stock adjustments to maintain accuracy. Integrated with order fulfillment, it minimizes discrepancies and supports scalable operations for growing warehouses.
Pros
- Real-time multi-channel inventory synchronization
- Advanced cycle counting and blind count tools
- Strong integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing scales quickly with volume
- Mobile app lacks some advanced stocktaking reporting
Best For
Mid-to-large e-commerce businesses managing high-volume warehouses who need integrated stocktaking with fulfillment.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $499/month for essential plans, scaling with order volume and features.
Odoo Inventory
enterpriseOpen-source ERP module for inventory offering perpetual inventory, stock moves, and multi-warehouse counting capabilities.
Advanced push/pull warehouse routes for fully automated, multi-step stock movements and replenishment
Odoo Inventory is a comprehensive module in the open-source Odoo ERP suite, specializing in warehouse and stock management with robust stocktaking capabilities like cycle counts, physical inventories, and barcode scanning. It supports real-time tracking across multiple locations, lot/serial number management, and automated replenishment rules. As part of an integrated platform, it seamlessly connects inventory data with sales, purchases, manufacturing, and accounting for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Highly customizable inventory workflows with multi-warehouse and advanced routing
- Real-time stock visibility and mobile app for efficient cycle counting and adjustments
- Seamless integration with Odoo's full ERP suite for unified business operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options and modular setup
- Performance can lag with very large datasets without proper optimization
- Community edition lacks premium support and some advanced reporting features
Best For
Growing SMBs seeking scalable, integrated inventory management within a broader ERP system rather than standalone stocktaking tools.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise edition starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) with hosted options and full support.
Conclusion
After a thorough review, Zoho Inventory emerges as the top choice, excelling with its cloud-based mobile stocktaking, cycle counts, and barcode scanning for precise physical audits. Fishbowl Inventory and Cin7, ranking second and third, offer strong alternatives—Fishbowl with advanced control and QuickBooks integration, Cin7 for omnichannel flexibility—each catering to distinct operational needs.
Don’t miss out on streamlining your inventory processes; try Zoho Inventory to experience its user-friendly tools and ensure accurate, efficient stocktaking for your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison