ERP5 vs ERPNext

ERP5 is a free, open-source business platform covering CRM, production management, supply chain, product design, accounting, human resources and e-commerce. Its listed modules include finance, inventory, order management and manufacturing, with support for multiple entities. The system can be used and configured in a web browser, and the maker says all browsers are supported. Organizations can also run a preconfigured ERP5 virtual machine on their own server. That VM package is not recommended for large production environments with many users or for development; the maker recommends SlapOS for production deployments and complex integrations. ERP5 is written mostly in Python and uses the NEO transactional NoSQL database alongside a relational SQL database, with MariaDB preferred. It provides a HATEOAS JSON API and an MCP implementation that can expose read-only or read-write services. ERP5 uses role-based permissions configured by module and document. The maker says it is intended for organizations prepared to supervise deployment or learn the platform in depth. ERP5 is free to download and use under GPL v2.

ERPNext is an open-source enterprise resource planning system for businesses managing work across multiple functions. Its modules cover accounts, invoicing, sales, procurement, stock, manufacturing, projects, point of sale, HR and payroll. A low-code and no-code builder supports changes to forms, reports, print formats, dashboards and workflows. Organizations can manage subsidiaries, branches and currencies, with consolidated reports and configurable tax compliance. ERPNext exposes records through REST API endpoints for reading, creating, updating and deleting, subject to permissions. Application controls include OTP or two-factor authentication, IP restrictions, field-level roles and permissions, and an audit trail. It can be self-hosted under the AGPL-3.0 license at no product charge, or run through Frappe Cloud; Sites hosting starts at $5 per month. The product page describes implementation options for enterprises, small and medium businesses, freelancers and DIY users. Product Warranty covers bug fixes by Frappe engineers, not functional support.