Zoho Inventory vs Katana: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zoho Inventory and Katana comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Zoho Inventory
Inventory management
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 7.0/10)
- • You need warehouse management features specifically
- • Cloud-based inventory management for SMBs with multi-warehouse support and automated reorder points
- • Integrates with Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Shopify and automatically syncs inventory across all sales channels
Katana
Cloud-based inventory software for total visibility, ensuring on-time deliveries and accurate stock levels.
Best for you if:
- • You need inventory management features specifically
- • Cloud-based inventory and manufacturing software for product businesses.
- • Provides real-time visibility, automation, and control over inventory, production, purchasing, and orders.
| At a Glance |  Katana | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Warehouse Management | Inventory Management |
Rating | 87/100 | 70/100 |
| Feature | Zoho Inventory | Katana |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 70 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Warehouse ManagementSupply Chain | Inventory ManagementSupply Chain |
Understanding the Differences
Both Zoho Inventory and Katana solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Zoho Inventory positions itself as "inventory management" while Katanafocuses on "cloud-based inventory software for total visibility, ensuring on-time deliveries and accurate stock levels.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Zoho Inventory
Zoho Inventory makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 87/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Katana
Katana is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Zoho Inventory lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Zoho Inventory
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Zoho Inventory handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Zoho Inventory
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Zoho Inventory
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Zoho Inventory, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Zoho Inventory higher (87/100). But the community has upvoted Katana more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Zoho Inventory Does Better
- Higher overall score (87/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Katana If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Zoho Inventory (87/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Zoho Inventory scores higher in our analysis, but Katana might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zoho Inventory or Katana better?
Based on our analysis, Zoho Inventory scores higher with 87/100. Zoho Inventory isfreemium while Katana is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Zoho Inventory to Katana easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Zoho Inventory and Katana offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Zoho Inventory is freemium with a free tier.Katana is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.