NetSuite ERP vs. Odoo: A Hands-On Review
A comparison of two major ERP platforms
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Price Range
$ $ $ $ $$ $ $ $ $
- Starting Price $99/user/month
- Client OS Web
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Price Range
$ $ $ $ $$ $ $ $ $
- Starting Price $25/user/month
- Client OS Web
NetSuite and Odoo are both powerhouse ERP applications, but they cater to different market segments and have distinct features. Our editorial team has tested both and have some insights on which is best.
Who They Cater To
NetSuite ERP targets primarily medium-sized businesses, especially those in distribution, IT, and professional services. If your organization falls within this range and has around 30 employees, NetSuite might be tailored for you.
Odoo, on the other hand, is well-suited for both small and mid-sized companies. So, if you’re a budding startup with one to ten employees or a mid-sized business with a headcount between 50 to 200, Odoo could be your go-to ERP solution.
Core Features and Customizability
NetSuite’s reputation in the ERP landscape stems from its robust customization capabilities and strong integrations. It supports diverse sectors by offering industry-specific editions and seamlessly integrates with eCommerce platforms, POS applications, and more. However, while it boasts of functionalities, there’s a learning curve involved, so expect to invest in staff training.
Odoo sets itself apart with its open-source nature. It presents itself as a modular ERP - you begin with what you need, then add as you grow. This provides immense flexibility for businesses. But there’s a catch: you might need tech-savvy individuals or a support team for deploying and customizing Odoo to your needs.
Pricing Considerations
NetSuite ERP might appear to be on the pricier side, especially with its implementation fees and annual subscription plans. While NetSuite doesn’t publicly share pricing details, we can say that the absolute minimum total costs are typically over $1000 per month. Usually, there’s a monthly overall package fee plus a per user fee.
Odoo offers a significant advantage with its community version - it’s free. But as your requirements grow and you opt for more functionalities, you’ll need to shell out for its enterprise version and any module-specific costs. Also, Odoo offers upgrades, but they aren’t free.
Deployment & Accessibility
Both ERP solutions are web-based, ensuring ease of access. NetSuite is strictly cloud-hosted, which is a boon for businesses not looking to manage on-premises infrastructure. Odoo gives you a choice: you can either go for cloud-hosted or manage it on-premises, providing flexibility based on your resources and technical capabilities.
Our Recommendation
If you’re a medium-sized business (over 50 employees), especially in sectors like IT, distribution, or professional services, and are ready to invest in robust, customizable ERP solutions, NetSuite ERP is likely a solid choice. Its integrations, industry-specific focus, and cloud hosting make it an attractive proposition.
However, for smaller businesses (under 50 employees) or those looking for cost-effective, modular solutions, Odoo is a great option. Its open-source nature, free community version, and flexibility in adding modules make it a great choice for businesses on a tighter budget or with dynamic needs.
