Top 12 NetSuite Competitors of 2024
Finding the right ERP system for your business is crucial for streamlining processes and ensuring seamless integration across various departments. With numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which ERP is the best fit for your organization. As a leading ERP solution, NetSuite has become a popular choice for businesses of all sizes. In this article, we will discuss the top NetSuite competitors, delving into their features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision and select the perfect ERP system tailored to your needs.
It's no surprise businesses looking for ERP solutions want to know who NetSuite's competitors are and how they compare.
In this guide, we're comparing NetSuite to some of its top alternatives:
- NetSuite vs. Salesforce
- NetSuite vs. Sage Intacct
- NetSuite vs. Acumatica Cloud ERP
- NetSuite vs. SAP
- NetSuite vs. Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP
- NetSuite vs. Epicor
- NetSuite vs. Microsoft Business Dynamics 365
- NetSuite vs. IFS Cloud ERP
- NetSuite vs. QuickBooks
- NetSuite vs. SYSPRO
- NetSuite vs. Infor ERP
- NetSuite vs. Odoo
Who Are NetSuite's Competitors?
Many of NetSuite's competitors aren't full-fledged ERP systems. While there are a few competitive ERPs, many of NetSuite's competitors are the best-in-breed of a specific business area, such as sales, CRM, or accounting.
Here are some of NetSuite's competitors and how they compare.
1. NetSuite vs. Salesforce
Salesforce is the world's #1 CRM tool — Gartner named it the top CRM platform for 13 years. Primarily aimed at sales companies, Salesforce contains a powerful CRM with multiple "clouds" that give you additional functionalities such as marketing, IT, and eCommerce.
While NetSuite has its own CRM, many companies integrate NetSuite and Salesforce to continue using the Salesforce CRM but combine it with the rest of their business data.
Best for: Sales companies of all sizes.
Salesforce vs. NetSuite
- Salesforce is great even for small budgets, with pricing starting at $25 per user per month
- NetSuite is much more than just a CRM; it comes with ERP out of the box
- Adding ERP functionalities to Salesforce can be expensive, as it can only be done through third-party connections
2. NetSuite vs. Sage Intacct
Sage Intacct is a cloud accounting software. As a "best of breed" in the financial space, Sage Intacct offers a wide range of financial capabilities that aren't found in most ERP systems. While this is incredibly strong accounting software, it doesn't offer all of the benefits of an ERP.
Sage Intacct vs. NetSuite
- NetSuite provides much more than accounting
- NetSuite supports international, multi-entity organizations
- Intacct relies on third-party integrations for functionalities beyond accounting, whereas all of this is native to NetSuite
Best for: Small to medium-sized companies who need a standalone accounting solution.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Project-Based ERP, Accounting, Nonprofit Accounting, and Subscription Billing.
Why NetSuite is Better: NetSuite excels in multiple areas compared to Intacct, making it a more suitable option for some businesses.
- Adaptability: NetSuite can easily scale with your company, allowing users to incorporate native payroll, inventory management, CRM, e-commerce, and more while providing a range of integration possibilities. Additionally, it includes free domestic entities and extra segments.
- Industry-Specific Expertise: NetSuite leverages best practices tailored to specific industries to reduce risks and expedite ROI, whereas Intacct employs a conventional SaaS approach.
- Enhanced Reporting & Business Intelligence: NetSuite delivers highly adaptable native reporting and business intelligence capabilities, enabling users to execute JOIN operations across records within its relational schema.
- Multi-Subsidiary Compatibility: NetSuite facilitates real-time transparency into consolidated financials for all subsidiaries. In contrast, Intacct might necessitate manual adjustments for certain functionalities, such as generating project invoices or managing credit card transactions at the entity level.
- Efficient Search Functionality: NetSuite features a global search function akin to Google, which grants swift and straightforward access to any information in the database due to its unified database structure.
3. NetSuite vs. Acumatica Cloud ERP
Acumatica is a fully customizable ERP system. This is a huge benefit to the cloud software; however, it's also one of its biggest weaknesses — Acumatica doesn't offer pre-built setups.
Everything has to be created from the ground up, which is great for organizations that need complex setups but not as great for smaller companies that would be fine with pre-built workflows. Another plus of Acumatica is that it integrates with many other applications, allowing you to build whatever you need.
Acumatica Cloud ERP vs. NetSuite
- Acumatica does not have any preconfigured solutions, whereas NetSuite is viable out-of-the-box
- Acumatica doesn't provide its own implementation services; you can only go through a third-party provider. To implement NetSuite, you can choose between working directly with NetSuite or going with a NetSuite Solution Provider
- Acumatica is more limited than NetSuite, and changes require the help of an experienced developer
Best for: Small to mid-sized businesses who don't need advanced functionalities.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Accounting, Project-Based ERP, and Distribution ERP.
Why NetSuite is Better: NetSuite outshines Acumatica with its unified general ledger and robust out-of-the-box reporting, eliminating the need for programming knowledge and third-party analytics. As a true cloud solution, NetSuite ensures seamless upgrades and offers advanced "no-code/low-code" customization options. Its international subsidiary functionality and support for multiple base currencies are more comprehensive, providing real-time foreign exchange feeds, country-specific customizations, and multi-book accounting. Additionally, NetSuite's intercompany accounting and multi-entity branch accounting capabilities are more flexible, catering to diverse business needs.
4. NetSuite vs. SAP
SAP started as an on-premise solution and started offering cloud software solutions in 2012. Now, SAP has a comprehensive suite of cloud ERP solutions for businesses of all sizes. Depending on whether you're a small business ready for growth or an enterprise-level company, SAP has a software solution designed for you.
SAP Business One
SAP Business One is an ERP for small and medium-sized companies. Offered as an on-premise or cloud solution, this software includes accounting and financials, inventory, purchasing, sales, and CRM functionalities.
SAP Business ByDesign
SAP's mid-market cloud ERP solution is called Business ByDesign. It contains pre-built processes for every business facet, from sales to product management and finance, and is a great solution for manufacturing and distribution companies.
SAP S/4HANA
The most advanced version of SAP's software is SAP S/4HANA. It was built for enterprise companies and has more advanced technology than other versions of the software, as it includes AI, machine learning, and analytics.
SAP vs. NetSuite
- NetSuite is better suited for integrations. SAP provides access to its database for SQL-based integrations but pales in comparison to NetSuite's integration abilities
- NetSuite tends to have a shorter go-live timeline, though this is dependent on the needs of the company
Best for: SAP ByDesign is great for manufacturing and distribution companies, while SAP S/4HANA is great for enterprise companies.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Accounting, Project-Based ERP, Distribution ERP, and Project-Based ERP.
Why NetSuite is Better: Compared to NetSuite, SAP Business One has limitations in customization, reporting, scalability, and cloud deployment. NetSuite offers seamless integration with third-party apps and a unified platform, while SAP B1 often involves multiple software providers and consulting fees. NetSuite's powerful native reporting contrasts with SAP B1's reliance on additional software packages. As NetSuite is built to scale, SAP B1 targets smaller companies, with performance declines for larger user numbers and the need for new implementations to upgrade. Finally, NetSuite leads in true cloud implementations, while SAP B1 uses single-tenant solutions with manual upgrades and additional costs.
5. NetSuite vs. Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP
Oracle's Fusion Cloud ERP is an advanced cloud ERP system that integrates AI to automate processes, provide real-time analytics, and help companies gain a competitive advantage.
If your business is looking for a comprehensive ERP solution, Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP is a top contender. Oracle owns NetSuite, so it's an interesting bit of friendly competition here.
Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP vs. NetSuite
- Oracle Fusion Cloud ERP contains more AI functionalities than NetSuite
- Oracle's ERP contains enterprise performance management (EPM)
- Both solutions offer similar features
Best for: Enterprise companies looking for advanced resource planning.
6. NetSuite vs. QuickBooks
QuickBooks is an accounting software solution tailored for small businesses, offering features such as invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting. It is easy to use and can be customized to fit the needs of various businesses.
NetSuite vs. QuickBooks
- NetSuite offers native functionalities, like CRM and BI, while QuickBooks focuses primarily on accounting and basic financial management.
- QuickBooks is well-suited for small businesses with simple accounting needs, whereas NetSuite is more focused on small and mid-sized businesses with comprehensive ERP requirements.
- Both solutions offer extensive support for various devices and operating systems, ensuring accessibility across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices.
Best for: NetSuite and QuickBooks cater to different business sizes and industries, with NetSuite focusing on small to medium-sized businesses requiring integrated ERP solutions and QuickBooks targeting small businesses with basic accounting needs. NetSuite provides comprehensive solutions for manufacturing, distribution, services, and retail, offering integrated features like CRM and eCommerce. QuickBooks, on the other hand, excels in offering user-friendly accounting features for businesses with simpler financial requirements. While both platforms support a variety of industries, NetSuite's strength lies in its all-encompassing ERP functionality, while QuickBooks shines in its straightforward accounting capabilities for small businesses.
Why NetSuite is Better: Compared to NetSuite, QuickBooks has several limitations, particularly in its scope and functionality. As an accounting software designed for small businesses, QuickBooks offers basic features like invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting but lacks the comprehensive features of an ERP system like NetSuite. QuickBooks has limited reporting options, inventory management, and project management capabilities. It also lacks multi-subsidiary consolidation and advanced accounting functions, such as fixed assets, multibook accounting, and revenue recognition. In contrast, NetSuite offers a scalable and flexible all-in-one ERP solution, integrating seamlessly with other business applications and catering to a wide range of industries.
7. NetSuite vs. Epicor
Epicor is a cloud ERP primarily created for the manufacturing industry. To date, Epicor has helped over 70,000 manufacturing users optimize processes, scale their capabilities, maximize revenue, and gain a competitive edge over other manufacturers.
This cloud solution also helps companies create a better user experience, whether you're managing multiple sales territories, following up on leads, or needing stronger business data.
Epicor vs. NetSuite
- Epicor offers on-premise, hybrid, and cloud deployment; if you're looking for on-premise deployment, Epicor is a solid option
- NetSuite offers a more robust, centralized platform, as it has CRM, PSA, and marketing automation and is more native to the software
Best for: Manufacturing and distribution companies looking to implement an on-premise or hybrid solution.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Accounting, Discrete ERP, and Core HR.
Why NetSuite is Better: Epicor might have cornered the ERP market for manufacturing (and it isn’t close), but overall, NetSuite is the more well-rounded and easier-to-use product. Changes and updates in NetSuite can be completed with minimal downtime, if any. Epicor has a history of needing scheduled downtime for minor updates, and even then still causes a ripple effect of issues. If you’re looking for the truly optimal manufacturing ERP, get NetSuite with all the plug-ins you might need.
8. NetSuite vs. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a business management ERP solution best for small and medium-sized companies, it includes extensive functionalities for sales management, marketing campaigns, and supply chain optimization.
Dynamics 365 vs. NetSuite
- NetSuite has native functionalities, such as CRM and BI, that Dynamics 365 requires separate technologies for
- Dynamics 365 works well across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices on any operating system
Best for: Small and mid-sized companies, ideally in distribution, manufacturing, or retail.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Accounting and Distribution ERP.
Why NetSuite is Better: Compared to NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics Business Central has limited reporting capabilities, lacking native financial consolidation and multi-country support. Its customization process is more challenging and often requires partner assistance. Microsoft Dynamics Business Central also relies on third-party applications for revenue recognition, subscription billing, and payroll. As a relatively young product with separate databases and user interfaces for additional CRM and HR modules, it creates siloed data and may not suit businesses with ambitious growth plans. NetSuite's more robust feature set and unified database structure make it a more comprehensive and scalable ERP solution
9. NetSuite vs. IFS Cloud ERP
IFS Cloud ERP is an enterprise resource planning solution that caters to larger businesses, providing functionalities for various industries such as manufacturing, distribution, and service management. It offers capabilities for financial management, human resources, and project management.
NetSuite vs. IFS Cloud ERP
- NetSuite offers native functionalities, like CRM and BI, while IFS Cloud ERP provides more industry-specific modules and features
- IFS Cloud ERP is well-suited for larger enterprises with complex requirements, whereas NetSuite is more focused on small and mid-sized businesses
- Both solutions offer extensive support for various devices and operating systems, ensuring accessibility across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices
Best for: NetSuite and IFS Cloud ERP cater to different business sizes and industries, with NetSuite focusing on small to medium-sized businesses and IFS Cloud ERP targeting larger enterprises. NetSuite provides comprehensive solutions for manufacturing, distribution, services, and retail, offering integrated features like CRM and eCommerce. IFS Cloud ERP, on the other hand, excels in industries like industrial manufacturing, construction, and service management, with advanced capabilities for complex production processes, asset management, and workforce scheduling. While both platforms support a variety of industries, NetSuite's strength lies in its retail-specific functionality, while IFS Cloud ERP shines in its support for asset-intensive and large-scale operations.
10. NetSuite vs. SYSPRO
SYSPRO is an ERP software system that helps businesses manage their core business processes, such as accounting, manufacturing, and distribution. It’s a cloud-based or on-premises solution that can be customized to meet the specific needs of businesses of all sizes. SYSPRO is particularly well-suited for companies in the manufacturing and distribution industries.
NetSuite vs. SYSPRO
- SYSPRO focuses specifically on the needs of manufacturers, while NetSuite provides a broader range of functionalities across various industries, including financial management, CRM, and distribution.
- Both SYSPRO and NetSuite offer integration capabilities with other business systems and applications. However, NetSuite has a reputation for its seamless integrations and a larger third-party application ecosystem.
Best for: Manufacturers and distributors who prioritize inventory management, production management, and supply chain optimization.
Why NetSuite is Better: NetSuite offers a more extensive range of functionalities than SYSPRO, making it a better choice for businesses that require a comprehensive ERP solution across multiple departments.
11. NetSuite vs. Infor ERP
Infor ERP is a suite of ERP software solutions that helps businesses manage their core business processes. It’s a hybrid solution with both cloud and on-premises offerings. Infor ERP is known for its industry-specific focus and ability to scale to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
NetSuite vs. Infor ERP
- Infor ERP provides pre-configured templates and best practices that enable businesses to quickly implement the software and achieve faster ROI
- NetSuite and Infor ERP are scalable solutions that can accommodate the needs of growing businesses. However, NetSuite’s cloud-based architecture provides more flexibility and agility, allowing companies to easily scale their operations and add new functionalities as their requirements evolve
- While NetSuite is more modern and user-friendly, Infor ERP could be the better choice if your business has very complex or specialized needs – or requires an on-premises ERP system
Best for: Businesses that require industry-specific solutions and tailored modules to address the specific needs of their sector. It’s particularly beneficial for organizations in manufacturing, distribution, retail, healthcare, and other industries that require supply chain and financial management capabilities.
Why NetSuite is Better: NetSuite is generally considered better than Infor ERP because it’s a cloud-native ERP system that’s more scalable, flexible, and user-friendly. It can also integrate with other cloud-based applications and has a wider global reach.
12. NetSuite vs. Odoo
Odoo is an open-source ERP system that offers a wide range of business applications. Built on a community-driven model, Odoo encourages innovation and customization, allowing businesses to tailor the platform to their specific needs.
NetSuite vs. Odoo
- Odoo uses a modular structure, allowing businesses to choose and activate specific modules for flexibility and cost-effectiveness. NetSuite follows a suite, all-in-one solution approach.
- While NetSuite works with a proprietary model, Odoo is an open-source model, which promotes community-driven development and innovation.
- Odoo is cost-effective because it’s an open-source solution, where the platform is free, and businesses only pay for the modules and support they need. NetSuite operates on a subscription-based model.
Best for: Odoo is great for larger businesses as it provides a unified platform to handle multiple applications. With flexible pricing and extensive features, it’s an appealing option for organizations looking to integrate across departments without paying separately for each user and app.
Categories That Overlap With NetSuite: Financial Management, Inventory and Supply Chain Management, and CRM.
Why NetSuite is Better: NetSuite is a top choice for most because it covers various functions in one package, works for small and large companies, and ensures smooth data flow between different parts of the business. Another thing that sets NetSuite apart is the robust support from Oracle, a global tech leader.
While Odoo has some of these features, NetSuite’s distinct advantages make it a preferred choice for those looking for a comprehensive, scalable, and well-supported ERO solution with global capabilities.
Why is NetSuite Better Than Its Competitors?
NetSuite offers a much more comprehensive cloud solution than most of its competitors. Most of the competitors on this list don't offer the full suite of functionalities NetSuite has.
For example, QuickBooks and Sage are mainly accounting programs, and Salesforce is primarily a CRM. Sure, you can still add on additional functionalities to many platforms, but if it wasn't built into the software, it could get expensive and difficult to add on.
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