Best ERP software for SMBs at a glance
| ERP | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Odoo | SMBs that want sales, inventory, accounting and more in one system, adding apps over time | Community and Enterprise features differ; plan the setup carefully |
| Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central | SMBs already using Microsoft 365 | Usually purchased through a Microsoft partner |
| Oracle NetSuite | Fast-growing SMBs with several entities | May cost more than many SMB options |
| Acumatica | Distribution and construction SMBs | Compare local partner availability |
| ERPNext | Budget-conscious teams able to self-host | Fewer US partners; more in-house administration |
| Zoho One | Small teams already using Zoho apps | Evaluate whether its apps cover your ERP requirements |
Review the vendors' current information: Odoo pricing, Business Central pricing, NetSuite cost information, Acumatica pricing, ERPNext plans, and Zoho One pricing.
Choosing ERP software is an important decision for a small or midsize business. Compare systems based on the processes you need to connect, such as sales, inventory, accounting, purchasing and customer service. Review the options below and see our ERP guide for startups if your business is still in an early growth stage.
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What is ERP System?
An ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system is an integrated software application which helps the business to process, automate and manage various functions across an organization. It acts as a core which collects, stores, interprets data and manages it to perform numerous business activities.
For a practical overview of the implementation role, read what an Odoo consultant does.
How to choose an ERP
Start with the requirements that will shape implementation and day-to-day use:
- Number of users and the roles they need
- Industry fit and inventory requirements
- Accounting, sales tax and reporting needs
- Integrations such as QuickBooks and Shopify
- Partner support and implementation capacity near you
Compare the six ERP options
Odoo
Odoo is a modular ERP option for small and midsize businesses that want to connect sales, inventory, accounting and other workflows, then add apps as their needs change. Explore our Odoo implementation services to plan the apps, integrations and rollout for your business.
Key Features
Complete Solution: Odoo offers a wide range of modules, Odoo can be ideal to fulfil different business needs, making it an all-in-one solution.
Odoo Community is open source; available features differ between Community and Enterprise editions.
A modular app catalog lets businesses select functions relevant to their workflows.
Odoo can connect with third-party apps; confirm that the integrations you need are available.
Acumatica
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP solution that helps the business in managing their financial processing along with the distribution and manufacturing within the organization. The software also provides solutions like customization, integration with its easy-to-use interface.
Key Features
Provides easy Cash management
Mobile accessibility through application
Payroll Management with Retail processing
Customer Relationship Management.
ERPNext
ERPNext is an open-source ERP built on the Frappe framework, which uses Python on the server side. It may suit budget-conscious teams with the technical capacity to host and maintain their system. Key features include:
Key Features
Easy setup framework
Intuitive interface that provides fast, flexible, and scalable solution tailored to your need
The software can handle multi-functionality at a time
Self-hosting gives technical teams control over deployment and maintenance
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is an ERP option for small and midsize companies already using Microsoft 365. Compare its finance and operations workflows with your needs and review implementation with a Microsoft partner.
Key Features
Financial management and reporting workflows.
Integration with the Microsoft business software ecosystem.
Evaluate fit with your existing finance and operations workflows.
Implementation is typically planned with a Microsoft partner.
Oracle NetSuite
Oracle NetSuite may suit fast-growing small and midsize businesses that need to coordinate finances and operations across multiple entities. Evaluate its scope and implementation needs against your growth plans.
Key Features
Supports financial consolidation across entities.
Compare finance and operations requirements during evaluation.
Zoho One
Zoho One brings together Zoho business apps for teams already using that ecosystem. Check whether its finance, sales, inventory and operations apps meet your ERP requirements before choosing it.
Key Features
Provides a wide range of Integrated applications for finance, HR, and sales.
The user can easily Customize the workflows according to their current automation.
Provides a Real-time analytics and reporting tools.
Compare the included apps and deployment options with your needs.
Real O2B example: 98% reconciliation accuracy. O2B helped an accounting client improve financial processes after moving to Odoo, reaching 98% reconciliation accuracy. Read the case study.
Moving off QuickBooks Desktop? O2B's connector brings over customers and invoices into Odoo. Learn about Odoo accounting.
Our verdict
For most US small and midsize businesses, Odoo and Business Central are the two to shortlist; choose NetSuite if you are growing quickly across several entities and its scope fits your budget.
Not sure which ERP fits your business?
Talk it through with O2B's team in Austin and compare the workflows your business needs.
Talk to an Odoo expertFAQs
What is the best ERP for a small business?
It depends on your industry and tools. Odoo, Business Central and NetSuite are common options for US SMBs to compare.
How much does ERP cost for a small business?
It depends on users, apps and setup. Check each vendor's pricing page; see Odoo pricing.
Do I need an ERP or is QuickBooks enough?
QuickBooks covers accounting. An ERP can also connect inventory, sales, purchasing and operations in one system.