The best ERP software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Spending time with SAP S/4HANA, I liked how fast it could process even the most complex business data. Its in-memory database can deliver real-time insights by removing the usual delays from batch processing. Its modern Fiori interface is a big change from SAP’s old user experience. Now it’s very easy to navigate and needs less training from new users.

Also, the platform’s AI features are more than just marketing talk. They improve daily operations with predictive analytics and intelligent automation. I loved how the system learns from user behavior. It suggests optimal workflows and spots bottlenecks before they even have a chance to affect operations. Embedded analytics give you great visibility into business performance. Managers can drill down from high-level dashboards to detailed transaction data without switching apps.

However, S/4HANA needs a lot of money and technical know-how to implement. This can be tough for smaller organizations. Migrating from old systems often requires hiring consultants, which adds costs on top of licensing fees. Still, the scalability and features alone make S/4HANA a strong choice for large companies ready for digital transformation and advanced ERP.

SAP S/4HANA features: Real-time data processing | In-memory computing | AI and machine learning | Fiori user interface | Industry-specific solutions | Cloud and on-premise options | Advanced analytics

Oracle NetSuite is a top-tier cloud-based business management platform. It removes the hassle of juggling multiple disconnected business systems. Instead, it combines ERP, customer relationship management, and e-commerce in one database so you can cut down on all data entry errors. Plus, its cloud-native design means automatic updates and no on-premise infrastructure. This really reduces IT costs for growing companies.

Businesses can start with basic modules and keep adding features as they grow. And they only pay for what they actually use. NetSuite also provides real-time reporting, giving immediate insights into financial performance, inventory, and customer relationships. This lets you make quicker decisions even with stakeholders working across different departments. And the platform is great at handling multientity operations, supporting multiple currencies and local compliance for international businesses.

NetSuite also offers many customization options through SuiteScript and SuiteFlow. But making major changes after implementation can be tough and time-consuming. Though the subscription pricing model provides predictable costs, it can get pricey as organizations add users and modules. Still, this vendor is a strong choice for midmarket companies. It offers a unified platform that grows with the business, avoiding the complexity of traditional on-premise ERP.

Oracle NetSuite features: Unified ERP and CRM | Financial management | Inventory control | Project management | E-commerce integration | Real-time reporting | Multicurrency support

Microsoft Dynamics 365 has the smoothest business technology ecosystem. It integrates well with Microsoft products like Office 365, Teams, and Power BI. This makes workflows feel natural for businesses already using Microsoft tools. You can choose specific applications — like sales, finance, or customer service, instead of investing in the entire suite right away.

Microsoft’s Copilot AI makes a big difference in productivity. You can automate many routine tasks and gather smart insights based on available data. For example, I analyzed customer data from emails, social media, and phone calls to get lots of useful insights. I could even build complete customer profiles from the data it gleaned.

However, implementing the system can be tough, especially for small to midsize businesses without dedicated IT support. Customization is powerful but can result in complex setups that need ongoing specialists to manage. Microsoft’s subscription model can also get expensive quickly as businesses add users and modules. Still, Dynamics 365 is a strong choice for those who need close Microsoft integration and the ability to expand their ERP powers over time.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 features: Microsoft ecosystem integration | Copilot AI assistance | Modular application suite | Power Platform connectivity | Real-time analytics | Workflow automation | Mobile accessibility

Odoo is refreshingly affordable compared with offerings from big ERP players. Its open-source foundation offers real cost savings while maintaining most key features. I was a big fan of the modular design. Businesses can begin with a basic CRM, then add inventory, manufacturing, or e-commerce as needed. A pay-as-you-scale model attracts startups that want enterprise-level features without high costs.

Odoo’s interface has an easy drag-and-drop design, requiring little tech skill to use and customize. I found its integration system to be strong, making it easy to connect disparate business functions to break data silos. Real-time analytics dashboards give insights that support data-driven decisions. Plus, mobile apps let teams access vital information on the go.

But implementation was tougher than Odoo’s marketing suggests. The setup needs ample time to configure correctly. Though the platform’s flexibility is a strength, it can overwhelm businesses without dedicated teams for customization and support. Still, Odoo offers great value for organizations wanting full ERP features at a much lower cost than traditional software.

Odoo features: Modular business applications | Drag-and-drop interface | Mobile accessibility | Cloud deployment | Access control | Custom workflows | Multilanguage support

Keeping with the theme of small business ERPs, Cin7 is an inventory-focused ERP platform with a solid understanding of modern omnichannel commerce. Its ability to unify inventory across various sales channels is a big part of its value. It can pull inventory from Shopify, Amazon, and traditional wholesale. The platform also offers more than 700 prebuilt integrations, which connect with other tools. It’s great for any startup or business focused on e-commerce.

I loved its AI-driven demand forecasting. It helps your teams intelligently manage stock levels and cut down on waste. Cin7 also has strong manufacturing features, like bill of materials management and production tracking. These tools support businesses that assemble or customize products. Real-time inventory visibility across warehouses and sales channels offers the transparency needed to prevent overselling and stockouts.

With Cin7, costs rise quickly with new users or added features. First-time complexity also exceeded initial expectations. It often takes a lot of time to set up the system for specific needs. Customer service experiences can vary, too. Some users report excellent support, while others faced issues with responsiveness and technical help. 

Cin7 features: Multichannel inventory management | Over 700 integrations | EDI connectivity | AI demand forecasting | Warehouse management | Manufacturing BOM | Automated workflows