Side by side

Katana vs SQLWorks

Both stand on bill of materials software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Katana

Free plan Web

Choose Katana if its web-based inventory and order tools fit your workflow, especially if the free 30-SKU tier is enough or Core's one location works for you. Look elsewhere if you need mobile apps, or if you need more than one location alongside unlimited SKUs on Core.

Visit Katana

SQLWorks

Paid MacWindows

SQLWorks brings production planning, finance, CRM, and inventory into one desktop platform. Its HMRC connection, permissions, backup, and customization options should be weighed against the paid per-user model.

Visit SQLWorks

The facts

	Katana	SQLWorks
Free plan	Yes	No
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Web	Mac, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Core: $299 a month	Build your SQLWorks: £37 a month
Plans published	3	1
Maker	Katana	Not published
Website	katanamrp.com	sqlworks.co.uk
On bill of materials software	#13 of 52	#46 of 52

Katana: what it does well

Permanent free tier has no expiry date and requires no credit card.
Free includes unlimited users, integrations, and inventory locations.
Core includes unlimited SKUs, users, and integrations.
Barcode scanning, purchase orders, and sales orders are listed features.

What to know first

The free tier is limited to 30 SKUs.
Core starts at $299 a month and scales with usage and add-ons.
Core includes one inventory location.
Mobile apps are not available.

SQLWorks: what it does well

Combines manufacturing and accounting
MRP forecasts component requirements
HMRC API supports VAT submissions
Group permissions override individual settings
Cloud backup and audit trail

What to know first

No free plan is available
Costs £37 per user per month
Desktop deployment on macOS and Windows
Integration work goes through the development team

Alternatives to Katana Alternatives to SQLWorks The whole list