Why you should consider Katana alternatives
Katana is a popular choice for inventory management, but the platform has some limitations.
For example, many online reviewers have noted that Katana often glitches, which can interfere with operations and require users to develop their own makeshift solutions. Some users have also reported challenges with the interface, mentioning that it is difficult to make changes once data has been input.
Additionally, Katana’s pricing structure has changed several times in recent years and may be too expensive for growing startups.
The 7 best Katana alternatives at a glance:
- Unleashed – best for manufacturing inventory management
- NetSuite – best for large-scale enterprises
- ERPAG – best for small but complex operations
- MRPeasy – best for small manufacturing firms
- Fishbowl – best for QuickBooks users
- Cin7 – best for reporting and analytics
- InventoryCloud – best for startups and on-the-go teams
1. Unleashed
Unleashed is a robust inventory management software that helps you automate key manufacturing and stock control processes. With Unleashed, you can conduct rolling stock takes, automate your purchase orders, and create detailed Bills of Materials (BOM) all in one place.
The platform offers extensive documentation and analytics, with advanced demand planning functionality to help you anticipate busy periods and avoid stockouts. Backordering and partial invoicing features help you stay organised when making partial shipments.
Unleashed also integrates seamlessly with your ecommerce sales channels and cloud accounting software to save hours of administrative work.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
Unleashed is ideal for small–medium manufacturing organisations that need flexible inventory management support.
It’s ideal for growing businesses, as it has a large suite of features that can be configured to suit your unique products and workflows.
Unleashed is particularly effective for manufacturing companies. It allows you to create detailed BOMs for assembly and disassembly and track production statuses in real time. Unleashed’s batch and serial tracking options also work well for managing parts or ingredients.
Pros:
- Scalable: Unleashed grows with your business and supports operations across multiple warehouses. It also integrates with many other SaaS tools for a seamless experience.
- Detailed reporting: Unleashed has extensive reporting features to give you a detailed breakdown of your inventory levels and upcoming orders in real time.
- Reliable customer service: The Unleashed team offers fast response times and is easy to reach via email or in-app support.
- Accessible layout: Unleashed’s user interface is easy to learn and navigate. You’ll be able to see all your current inventory data and orders at a glance.
Cons:
- Not suitable for large enterprises: While Unleashed is scalable, it may not be suitable for large enterprises with complex operations.
- Does not have accounting features: Unleashed does not have any in-app accounting features, although it does integrate with other accounting platforms like Xero and QuickBooks.
- Does not have point-of-sale functionality: Although Unleashed integrates with other commerce solutions, it does not currently include a POS system for brick-and-mortar retailing.
Plans and pricing
Unleashed offers three pricing plans:
- Medium: $380/month, 3 users
- Large: $710/month, 8 users
- Large Plus: $1080/month, 20 users
All plans come with up to 10% savings when billed annually.
Unleashed also offers a la carte add-on modules, including:
- eCommerce integrations: $30/integration/month
- B2B eCommerce store: $129/month
- Advanced inventory manager: $100/month
- Business intelligence: $39/month
With Unleashed, you can try the platform for free to make sure it’s the right fit for your business. Get started now with your 14-day free trial.
2. NetSuite
NetSuite is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform with inventory management features. It is part of the Oracle family of software products.
The NetSuite platform includes automated inventory tracking across your entire warehouse network, brick-and-mortar stores, and 3PL partners. It also helps automate replenishment based on demand levels. Additionally, NetSuite provides detailed trend reports and analytics to give you insight into your inventory patterns.
Inventory management is just one component of NetSuite. This platform also offers a CRM, a cloud accounting platform, human resources management, and more.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
NetSuite is a large-scale platform with an extensive library of features that go beyond inventory management. This software is best for enterprise customers who need an all-in-one solution with complex tools.
NetSuite is part of Oracle, which is a family of cloud-based applications. Because of this, NetSuite may work well for clients who are already using Oracle as part of their operations.
Pros:
- Highly customisable: Since NetSuite offers such a large library of features, you can tailor it to meet your unique needs.
- Goes beyond inventory management: NetSuite offers features for many different aspects of business management all in one place.
- Consolidates data for large enterprises: NetSuite can collect and organise data from all over the world in one place.
Cons:
- Overwhelming for beginners: Because NetSuite is so complex, it can take time to onboard and learn how to use each feature.
- Can be slow: Some users have mentioned that NetSuite’s interface is sometimes very slow to load, which can be frustrating.
- No pricing transparency: NetSuite doesn’t provide pricing on its website, which makes it difficult to assess how the platform would fit into your budget.
Plans and pricing
NetSuite doesn’t provide set pricing on its website.
Instead, interested customers need to contact NetSuite directly to get a quote. Their team will provide a quote based on the features you plan on using and the level of support you need.
Note: ERP systems like NetSuite typically cost a lot more than standalone inventory management software, with expensive implementation and maintenance fees.
3. ERPAG
ERPAG is a cost-effective and user-friendly enterprise resource planning tool for small to mid-sized businesses.
Its production management features facilitate manufacturing processes from raw material management to finished goods while inventory and order management functionality can help you track sales orders, purchase orders, and inventory in real-time
ERPAG also offers useful tools for time tracking, label printing, and lot tracking.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
ERPAG is a cost-effective solution that suits manufacturers wanting the comprehensive functionality and benefits of ERP software, without the hefty price tag associated with larger systems such as NetSuite.
Pros:
- Affordable for small businesses: ERPAG offers pricing plans that make it accessible for smaller companies, making ERP features available for those who can’t afford a large-scale solution.
- All-in-one solution: ERPAG includes modules for inventory, production, sales, and purchasing, allowing you to manage multiple processes in one platform.
- Easy to implement: ERPAG is designed to be user-friendly, making it simpler for smaller teams to get started without extensive training.
Cons:
- Limited integrations: ERPAG offers fewer integrations compared to more extensive ERP systems, which can be restrictive for businesses needing specialised tools.
- Lacks advanced customisability: Customisation options are limited, which might be a drawback if you have unique needs or complex workflows.
- Support could be improved: Some users have reported that customer support can be slow to respond, which can be frustrating for time-sensitive issues.
Plans and pricing:
ERPAG offers three pricing plans:
- Basic: $49/month, 5 users
- Professional: $99/month, 5 users
- Advanced: $199/month, 5 users
The Professional and Advanced plans are available at $49/month for the first three months for new users.
4. MRPeasy
MRPeasy is an intuitive and affordable Katana MRP alternative for small manufacturers, focusing on production planning and inventory management.
It includes practical solutions for production planning and scheduling, and manufacturing inventory management. MRPeasy also integrates with popular software systems like QuickBooks, Xero, Amazon, and HubSpot.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
MRPeasy is a reliable alternative to Katana MRP for small manufacturers with 10–200 employees. Its affordable pricing structure and robust integrations make it especially suitable for D2C manufacturing companies, such as those in the Jewellery and Leisure sectors.
Pros:
- Strong manufacturing focus: MRPeasy is specifically designed for small manufacturers, offering tailored features like BOM management, routing, and shop floor tracking.
- Cloud-based with real-time updates: As a cloud solution, MRPeasy provides real-time data, allowing you to access updated information anywhere with an internet connection.
- User-friendly interface: MRPeasy has a straightforward, intuitive interface, which reduces onboarding time for new users.
Cons:
- Limited accounting features: MRPeasy lacks built-in accounting features, meaning you’ll need to integrate with other accounting tools to manage finances.
- Costs add up with added features: MRPeasy's pricing scales with the number of users and added features, which could make it less cost-effective for growing businesses.
- Limited scalability for larger enterprises: While great for small companies, MRPeasy may lack the advanced functionality needed by larger enterprises with more complex requirements.
Plans and pricing
MRPeasy offers four pricing plans:
- Starter: $49/month per user
- Professional: $69/month per user
- Enterprise: $99/month per user
- Unlimited: $149/month per user
5. Fishbowl
Fishbowl is a platform that offers cloud-based inventory management solutions. This includes real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouse locations, internal parts and asset tracking, and automatic ordering.
On top of that, Fishbowl offers operations tools like BOM software, order fulfilment tools, and time tracking, as well as sales features like order management, kitting, and a POS system.
Fishbowl also provides report generation and analytics that incorporate AI technology.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
This Katana alternative is ideal for teams who are already using QuickBooks and need a platform that will integrate directly with their accounting software. This is because Fishbowl is built primarily to integrate directly with QuickBooks.
Pros:
- Integration options: Fishbowl is built to integrate with QuickBooks products. It also works well with Xero. If you use eCommerce tools like Shopify or WooCommerce, you can integrate those features directly with Fishbowl as well.
- AI-powered analytics: Fishbowl has a built-in AI assistant to help you get helpful insights from your inventory data.
- Accessible interface: Fishbowl’s interface is clean, straightforward, and easy to learn. It includes graphics and other visuals throughout to help you better understand your current inventory status.
Cons:
- Limited reporting capabilities: Fishbowl doesn’t offer as many customisable reporting options as other Katana alternatives.
- Time-consuming setup: The process of implementing Fishbowl into your daily operations can take time, particularly if you are using multiple integrations.
- Customer service can be slow: Fishbowl’s customer service team gets mixed reviews. Some users have noted that it can take a long time to get a representative on the phone.
- Complex pricing structure: Fishbowl doesn’t have pricing available on their website; instead, you need to contact their team for a quote. Pricing can vary based on the exact features you’re using.
Plans and pricing
Fishbowl has two plans available: Fishbowl Drive and Fishbowl Advanced. Fishbowl Drive is the company’s standard cloud-based platform, while Fishbowl Advanced is an on-premise option.
Fishbowl does not provide pricing on its website. Instead, you will need to contact the Fishbowl team directly for a quote.
6. Cin7
Cin7 is an inventory management system that offers detailed reporting and demand planning features to help you prepare for fluctuating periods of consumer interest.
Cin7 allows you to build automated workflows to save time and keep your inventory levels stable. This platform is designed for growing operations, with features for multi-warehouse and 3PL management as well as a point-of-sale system.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
Cin7 works well for small-to-midsized businesses that are looking for detailed analytics and planning features. It has many customisable reporting options as well as advanced forecasting to help you adjust for fluctuating demand levels.
Pros:
- AI-powered features: Cin7 leverages AI to automate various aspects of inventory control and predict upcoming demand.
- Supports entire sales lifecycle: Cin7 has features to help you manage products from the initial order to final delivery.
- Offers manufacturing and inventory control: All Cin7 plans come with robust inventory reporting features and range from basic to advanced manufacturing functionality.
Cons:
- Integration challenges: While Cin7 does integrate with accounting tools, some of the functionality is clunky and unintuitive.
- Slow loading: The platform occasionally loads slowly, and bugs happen occasionally as well.
- Poor customer service: Cin7's customer support quality has deteriorated in recent years, since being acquired by Rubicon. Their Trustpilot rating is considerably lower (2.6/5) than most software on the market.
Plans and pricing
Cin7 Core has three pricing tiers:
- Standard: $349/month.
- Pro: $599/month, offers additional retail and warehousing features.
- Advanced: $999/month, designed for larger teams.
Organisations that need more advanced features and professional implementation options can also select Cin7 Omni. This advanced tool does not offer standard pricing, so you must contact a representative for a quote.
7. InventoryCloud
InventoryCloud is a cloud-based inventory system that is part of the WASP family of software products. It offers real-time inventory updates, as well as features to help you keep track of both sales orders and purchase orders.
InventoryCloud also comes with barcode scanners, labelling tools, and tags to help you process inventory more quickly.
The program is available in both cloud-based and on-premise versions, depending on your preferences and compliance needs. For cloud-based users, mobile apps make it easy to check inventory data quickly from any location.
Who does this Katana alternative suit?
InventoryCloud is a good Katana alternative for startups and other small businesses who want to manage their inventory on the go.
InventoryCloud is designed with both desktop and mobile devices in mind, so it provides these startups with the flexible approach that they need. Additionally, it’s a beginner-friendly product, so it works well for startups that are new to inventory management.
Pros:
- Detailed reports: InventoryCloud produces highly granular, in-depth reports on your current inventory status.
- Barcode and labelling solutions: These integrated features help your team scan and track new items faster.
- Automated features: InventoryCloud allows you to set automatic reorder points, and also sends you automated notifications when stock is low. This helps prevent unexpected stockouts.
Cons:
- Some features require a premium plan: To fully customise your inventory tracking system, you’ll need to invest in InventoryCloud’s premium plan. The premium plan is also necessary if you have multiple warehouses.
- Complex features: This platform has a bit of a learning curve, as some of the features are difficult to find within the interface. Many users mentioned that the search function could be improved.
- Difficult to edit entries: Some users have noted that the process of editing data that you’ve already put into the system can be very clunky.
Plans and pricing
InventoryCloud has three standard pricing options. Each plan includes support and maintenance services.
- Basic: $1,295/year for 1 user.
- Complete: $3,995/year for 5 users. Includes service for unlimited warehouse locations and customisation options not included in the Basic plan.
- E-Comm + ShipStation: $5,385/year for 5 users. Integrates with online eCommerce stores.
You can contact InventoryCloud directly for a more specific quote, depending on the features you’re interested in.
What’s the best Katana alternative overall?
While there are several excellent Katana alternatives on the market, Unleashed is our top choice.
Unleashed offers features for every aspect of inventory management. Rolling stock takes helps ensure accurate planning and reporting, while automated purchase orders save time and prevent unexpected stockouts.
Unleashed’s BOM features also help you plan complex warehouse workflows, such as multi-step assembly and disassembly. On top of that, Unleashed offers extensive sales features, including multichannel order management and production planning.
These advanced features, combined with extensive customisation options and integrations, make Unleashed a top choice for cloud-based inventory management.
