Axelor vs Odoo: which open source ERP should you choose for your SME or ETI?
Odoo and Axelor are not playing in the ultra-complex, expensive and inflexible ERP league. These two open source solutions are shaking things up by offering modular, accessible and, above all, customisable business management. But between the well-established Belgian giant and the up-and-coming French alternative, which ERP tool should you choose to manage your business with agility?
👉 We've taken a closer look at their key features, pricing, interface, management modules (stock, CRM, accounting, HR, etc.), and above all their real-life use cases. In short, everything you need to know to avoid choosing the wrong solution... and wasting time, resources and data.
What is Axelor?
General presentation of Axelor
Axelor is the agile challenger to open source ERP. Developed in France, this modular management software is aimed at companies that want a flexible solution, without falling into the trap of gas factories. Its great strength? A low-code framework that lets you create bespoke applications without coding everything by hand... ideal for SMEs, ETIs or start-ups looking for performance and customisation.
Axelor combines three dimensions: ERP, CRM and BPM (Business Process Management) platform. The result is a single tool for managing all your business processes, from inventory and accounting to invoicing, purchasing and human resources management.
Designed to be modular and scalable, it can be adapted to the specific needs of each company. In terms of technology, it is full web, open source, with a Java base (Spring, PostgreSQL, etc.) and a modern interface.
Axelor's main features
Before going into the functional comparison, let's look at what Axelor offers natively. There are no superfluous functions here: the logic is modular, so each company can activate only the bricks it needs. The publisher provides over 30 modules covering all the needs of business management.
⚒️ Here are Axelor's key features:
- Complete ERP: management of purchases, sales, stock, production, projects, contracts, etc. ;
- integrated CRM: customer follow-up, management of leads and opportunities, sales tunnel, etc;
- accounting: general accounting, cost accounting, third-party accounting, fixed assets, lettering, etc;
- human resources management: holiday tracking, timesheets, expense reports, payslips, etc;
- invoicing and estimates: automated creation of estimates, invoices, customer reminders, etc;
- project management: tasks, planning, Gantt, milestones, cost management;
- BPM & low-code: create workflows and custom applications without advanced technical skills.
Axelor
Advantages and disadvantages of Axelor
Before jumping headlong into integrating a tool, it's best to understand the strengths and limitations of the solution. Even if Axelor's flexibility and low-code approach make it appealing, it is not without its shortcomings... and it's often these small details that can make or break a decision.
✅ Axelor has not stolen its reputation as an 'intelligent and flexible' solution. Here's what user reviews and product tests have to say:
- extreme modularity: you activate only the modules you need for your business;
- modern interface: fluid, responsive, easy to use every day;
- open source and free community version: perfect for SMEs on a tight budget;
- Powerful BPM engine: automate processes without coding;
- advanced customisation: thanks to the low-code approach, it's easy to model business applications;
- hosted wherever you want: on-premise or cloud, the choice is yours;
- made in France: responsive support, clear documentation, compliance with European standards.
❌ But every medal has its downside. Here are the potential brakes to consider before taking the plunge:
- smaller community than Odoo: fewer extensions, fewer partners ;
- initial learning curve a little steep for the uninitiated ;
- fewer native integrations than Odoo or more mature ERPs;
- limited community version support and some advanced functions;
- technical installation: requires in-house skills or a service provider for optimum implementation.
What is Odoo?
Odoo overview
Odoo is a bit like the heavyweight of open source ERP, but without the heaviness. Originating in Belgium, this software has established itself as one of the most comprehensive solutions on the market, for VSEs, SMEs, ETIs... and even large companies. It combines a robust ERP, a high-performance CRM and a panoply of business applications covering the entire business management cycle.
Its promise? An intuitive interface, modules that can be activated à la carte, and an 'all-in-one' approach that avoids the need for multiple tools. Odoo adapts to all sizes of organisation and all budgets.
Its rich ecosystem, active community and marketplace of applications make it an ultra-flexible ERP, capable of integrating with almost any existing system.
Odoo's main features
Before getting into the Odoo vs Axelor duel, let's take a look at the functional overview of this behemoth. With more than 40 native modules and thousands of extensions via the Odoo App Store, this software can cover almost all the needs of a modern business on its own.
⚒️ Here are Odoo's key features:
- Complete ERP: management of purchasing, sales, inventory, production and logistics;
- Advanced CRM: visual pipeline, automated customer follow-up, integrated email marketing;
- invoicing and accounting: quotes, invoices, payments, bank synchronisation, automatic reconciliation ;
- HR management: timesheets, holidays, expense reports, payroll (Enterprise version);
- projects and tasks: kanban, Gantt, planning, time tracking, collaboration;
- website and e-commerce: integrated CMS, online shop, payment gateways ;
- marketing automation: emailing, SMS, campaigns, forms, tracking.
Odoo
Advantages and disadvantages of Odoo
Odoo is as seductive as it is questioning: its rich catalogue of modules may impress, but you need to know where you stand. We take a look at what makes Odoo such a powerful tool... and what can put some users off.
Odoo has built its reputation on its flexibility, broad functional coverage and fluid user experience. Here's what's often mentioned in customer reviews:
- modern, intuitive interface: designed for non-technical users ;
- complete modularity: add functionality as you grow;
- very comprehensive community version for a free tool
- Rich ecosystem: thousands of modules available in the Odoo App Store;
- active community and certified partners all over the world;
- excellent connectivity: numerous integrations with third-party tools;
- frequent updates: Odoo evolves quickly and well.
❌ But despite its qualities, Odoo is not a magic wand. Here are a few points of attention raised by users:
- expensive Enterprise version for fast-growing companies ;
- some advanced functions absent from the Community version;
- parameterisation can be complex if you go off the beaten track;
- dependency on the Odoo ecosystem (modules, partners, app store);
- can become cumbersome if not properly dimensioned (particularly in terms of performance).
Axelor vs Odoo: compare features
| Functionality | Axelor | Odoo |
| General ERP | Modular, open source | Very complete, open source |
| CRM | Integrated, customisable | Powerful, highly visual |
| Project management | Tasks, Gantt, milestones | Kanban, Gantt, time tracking |
| Accounting and billing | Standard French, solid | Advanced, connected banking |
| Human Resources (HR) | HR tracking, holidays, basic payroll | HR + Payroll modules (Enterprise) |
| Inventory management | Multi-warehouse, traceability | Logistics, automation |
| Customisation | Low-code, powerful BPM engine | App store + studio (Enterprise) |
| Marketplace / third-party apps | ❌ Limited | Odoo App Store |
| User interface | Modern, clear | Very fluid, neat UX |
| APIs and integrations | REST API, open documentation | Extensive API + connectors |
Focus on stock management
Axelor offers multi-warehouse management, with :
- batch and serial number traceability,
- integration with production
- and support for multiple units.
It's solid and well thought-out, but sometimes requires a bit of configuration to shine.
Odoo takes things up a notch with advanced workflow logic:
- cross-docking,
- automated picking
- intelligent replenishment,
- barcodes,
- integration with carriers, etc.
All within a fluid interface. On this point, Odoo has the edge for structures with advanced logistics needs.
💡 The verdict: Odoo for companies with a high level of logistics activity. Axelor if requirements remain traditional but customisable.
Focus on accounting and invoicing
Axelor offers comprehensive accounting:
- compliant with French standards: journal, lettering, VAT, fixed assets, balance sheet ;
- you can also generate quotes, invoices and manage reminders.
Solid, but a little austere.
Odoo shines for its ease of use:
- quotes become invoices with a single click
- payments are tracked in real time
- and bank connections automate many actions,
- the reports are clear,
- navigation is simple, even for a non-accountant.
💡 Verdict: equal if you stay with the free version, but Odoo takes the cake with its Enterprise version.
Focus on CRM
Axelor offers a functional CRM, customisable via its low-code engine, with :
- lead management,
- sales cycles,
- forecasting.
Perfect for long or complex B2B sales cycles, especially if you want to adapt fields or processes.
Odoo focuses on ergonomics:
- Kanban pipeline
- automation (reminders, scoring, tasks),
- direct integration with emailing
- and marketing automation.
Less customisable, but ultra-efficient to use.
💡 The verdict: Axelor if you have specific needs. Odoo if you want to go fast, well, no questions asked.
Focus on project management
Axelor offers a fairly standard project management module:
- task creation
- milestones
- Gantt chart,
- time and cost tracking.
A link with CRM or invoicing is possible, but not native.
Odoo has a highly integrated approach:
- tasks can be invoiced automatically
- time is tracked precisely,
- Kanban mode makes the tool visual.
We can even connect project management with HR or sales.
💡 The verdict: Odoo for smoother, more connected management. Axelor remains functional but a little more rigid.
Focus on human resources
Axelor offers decent HR management:
- holiday management,
- expense claims
- time sheets,
- employee records.
There is a basic payroll module, but it is limited compared with dedicated solutions.
Odoo, on the other hand, offers a wider HR range:
- appraisal management
- recruitment
- payroll (in some countries),
- automated approvals.
The interface is simple, but powerful.
💡 The verdict: Odoo has the edge when it comes to advanced HR management. Axelor remains sufficient for an SME in the structuring phase.
Axelor vs Odoo: compare prices
| Plan | Axelor | Odoo |
| Free | " Community:
|
A free Odoo app, among :
|
| Professional Plan | " Pro- from €35/user/month :
|
" Standard- from €19.90 / month :
|
| Enterprise Plan | " Enterprise- from €55/user/month :
|
" Customised- from €29.90 / month :
|
Axelor vs Odoo: which interface is more intuitive?
| Criterion | Axelor | Odoo |
| General ergonomics | Modern, structured, clear | Very fluid, intuitive, visual |
| Navigation | Side menu + quick search | Modular interface, quick access |
| Customisation | Fields, views, apps via low-code | Odoo Studio (Enterprise) |
| Mobile accessibility | Responsive, dedicated mobile apps | Native mobile application |
| Learning curve | ⚠️ Slightly more technical | Very accessible from day one |
| Dark mode / advanced UX | ❌ Not native | Modern UI, frequent improvements |
Axelor offers a fully responsive web interface, with good structuring of information. The menus are clear, the screens well laid out, and the views customisable according to roles.
But beware: the low-code / BPM approach can make the experience a little technical at first. It can take several days to fully understand the logic behind workflows or dynamic forms.
👉 Recommended for: users who like to retain control and customise in depth.
Odoo puts a lot of emphasis on ergonomics: everything is designed so that any employee can be autonomous in just a few hours. Modules have a consistent visual logic, filters and menus are well integrated, and the experience is the same on mobile and desktop.
👉 Recommended for: operational teams who want to move fast without having to spend a lot of time training.
Axelor vs Odoo: compare integrations
The more easily an ERP can be integrated with your CRM, accounting, invoicing or HR management tools, the more central it becomes to your information system. For a CIO, a CTO or even an SME that wants to save time without complexity, the richness of the integration catalogue, the ease of configuration and the power of automation are major criteria.
👉 Number of integrations available
- Axelor: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Axelor offers a limited set of native integrations, but a well-documented REST API allows custom connectors to be built. There are a few integrations with traditional solutions (Google Workspace, Outlook, LDAP, SSO...), but no public marketplace or ecosystem of community modules as extensive as Odoo.
- Odoo: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Over 10,000 applications available via the Odoo App Store, with connectors for Salesforce, Stripe, WooCommerce, Shopify, Prestashop, Zapier, Google Drive, Outlook, Amazon, etc. Ready-to-use integrations, often without coding. The ecosystem is one of the richest on the open source ERP market.
👉 Ease of configuration
- Axelor: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
The administration interface allows you to connect certain standard services, but as soon as you go outside the box, you have to go through the API or through development (Java, XML, BPM). It's a long way from plug & play. That said, integrators can build solid connectors provided they have the skills in-house.
- Odoo: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Many integrations are turnkey, especially in the SaaS version. Configuration remains simple for most third-party apps. Community modules can sometimes be poorly maintained, but Odoo Studio (in the Enterprise version) allows workflows to be adapted without coding.
👉 Customisation and automation
- Axelor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
This is where Axelor flexes its muscles: its BPM engine and low-code approach make it possible to create customised workflows that trigger automated actions based on business rules. Perfect for orchestrating complex processes...provided you take the time to model them properly.
- Odoo: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Odoo also offers a high level of automation via its modules (automatic invoicing, customer reminders, lead management, marketing campaigns). With Studio, you can create conditional actions, dynamic fields, and easily link different modules.
💡 Conclusion
- Odoo clearly has the edge in terms of the wealth of available integrations and ease of implementation, making it ideal for companies that want to quickly centralise their management without wasting time on development.
- Axelor, on the other hand, appeals to tech teams or organisations that want to master end-to-end automation thanks to its BPM engine. It requires a little more effort... but can go a long way towards customisation.
When should you choose Axelor or Odoo?
The right ERP is not the one that does "the most" on paper. It's the one that really fits your way of working, your available resources and your level of business complexity.
We'll help you make sense of it with some practical examples: in which contexts is Axelor best suited? And when is Odoo a more strategic choice?
Typical use cases for Axelor
Axelor shines when it comes to modelling complex or specific processes, without starting from scratch. Thanks to its BPM engine, low-code approach and modular philosophy, it's a solution that's tailor-made for companies that need control and customisation, without blowing the budget. It's often found in contexts where 'off-the-shelf' ERPs just won't cut it.
📌 Cases where Axelor is an excellent choice:
- Industrial or service companies with specific flows to be modelled;
- SMEs and SMIs looking for an open source ERP, hosted internally ;
- organisations that want to control their end-to-end workflows (without depending on a software vendor);
- ERP projects with strong integration with internal business processes;
- in-house tech teams capable of managing BPM development or configuration;
- companies looking for a Made in France ERP with local support.
Typical use cases for Odoo
Odoo is the champion of rapid implementation and functional versatility. Ideal for growing SMEs that want to centralise their tools, without necessarily investing in bespoke development. Thanks to its thousands of modules and polished UX, Odoo is often chosen by teams who want to get things done quickly, well... and avoid silos.
📌 Cases where Odoo is an excellent choice:
- SMEs and VSEs looking to get started quickly with a complete, turnkey ERP ;
- organisations looking to centralise several business tools (CRM, invoicing, projects, HR, etc.);
- sales or customer support teams looking for a fluid, intuitive experience
- organisations needing a rich, connected ecosystem of apps;
- e-commerce, retail or B2B companies with standard needs that are well covered;
- Non-technical users who want to get started straight away.
Odoo or Axelor, your next ERP shouldn't be a gamble
Choosing between Odoo and Axelor is not a question of which is "better" on paper... it's a question of context.
Both software packages are powerful, open source, modular and designed to help you manage your business more effectively. But each has its own playground.
👉 Odoo is the perfect solution if you're looking for :
- an all-in-one ERP,
- that's easy to learn
- with a rich ecosystem of applications
- and a fluid interface.
It's a logical choice for growing SMEs that want to quickly centralise their management without getting in over their heads.
👉 Axelor, on the other hand, is aimed at organisations that want :
- a tailor-made ERP,
- capable of modelling complex processes thanks to its BPM engine.
Ideal if you have specific needs, non-standard business flows, and want to retain technical control of your tool.
In both cases, take the time to test, compare and, above all, map out your real needs.
Article translated from French