Free open source ERP system.
- LGPL-3.0
- Python
- Docker
- Actively maintained
ERP & Inventory comparison
Odoo vs ERPNext: which should you self-host in 2026?
Pick Odoo for the largest app ecosystem and polished UX, knowing key apps are Enterprise-only; pick ERPNext if you want a full ERP with every module open source under GPL-3.0.
Both are open source and run on your own server. Below: a side-by-side of license, stack and features, live GitHub activity, and our verdict on who should pick which.
ERP system to help you run your business.
- GPL-3.0
- Python
- Docker
- Actively maintained
Head-to-head
Odoo vs ERPNext, side by side
Hand-checked differences first, then live numbers from GitHub, refreshed with every catalog update.
| Aspect |  Odoo |  ERPNext |
|---|---|---|
| License | Community edition LGPL-3.0; Enterprise edition is proprietary | GPL-3.0 for the entire product |
| Language/stack | Python with its own OWL JavaScript framework | Python and JavaScript on the Frappe framework |
| Database | PostgreSQL | MariaDB (PostgreSQL support in Frappe is partial) |
| Scope | Many apps (CRM, sales, inventory, website, POS); some only in Enterprise | Accounting, inventory, manufacturing, projects, HR (via Frappe HR) all open |
| Customization | Python modules plus a large third-party app store | Low-code DocTypes, custom fields and scripts in the UI |
| GitHub stars | 54,848 | 39,821 |
| Commits, last 12 months | 10,679 | 6,664 |
| Last commit | Oct 6, 2026 | Oct 6, 2026 |
| Latest release | No GitHub releases | v15.121.6Sep 30, 2026 |
| Main language | Python | Python |
| Official Docker image | Yes | Yes |
| Repository | odoo/odoo | frappe/erpnext |
Swipe the table sideways to see both apps. GitHub figures come from the public API. Highlighted values are the higher of the two.
Verdict
Odoo has the bigger module ecosystem and partner network, but the free Community edition lacks several Enterprise apps and features, so many businesses end up on a paid plan. ERPNext ships accounting, inventory, manufacturing, HR and more in one GPL-3.0 codebase with no closed edition, which makes it the safer pick if you want a fully open ERP you can self-host long-term.
Best for
Choose Odoo for
Businesses that want a large app ecosystem and partner support.
Best for
Choose ERPNext for
Companies that want a full ERP with no closed-source edition.
Deploy either in minutes
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Is Odoo Community enough for a small business?
It covers CRM, sales, inventory, purchasing and invoicing, but full accounting and some apps such as Studio are Enterprise-only. Check the edition comparison before you commit.
Is ERPNext completely free?
Yes. All ERPNext modules are GPL-3.0, and Frappe sells hosting and support rather than a closed edition.
Which is easier to self-host?
Both need some Linux skills. ERPNext installs with the Frappe bench tool or official Docker images, and Odoo has packages and official Docker images.
Which is more popular on GitHub, Odoo or ERPNext?
Odoo has 54,848 GitHub stars against 39,821 for ERPNext. Over the last twelve months Odoo received 10,679 commits and ERPNext received 6,664, so Odoo is the more actively developed of the two right now. Stars measure interest, not fit, so weigh them against the differences above.