Trying to decide between Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central? This blog breaks down the key differences between these two leading ERP platforms. We’ll cover how each system handles core features like finance, inventory, and customization, who they’re best suited for, and what you should consider before investing. Whether you’re scaling fast or looking to streamline operations, this blog will help you figure out which ERP fits your goals.
Here’s How These Two ERPs Stack Up
When you’re faced with two strong ERP options, the smartest move is to stop guessing and start comparing. That’s why we’ve laid out a clear, side-by-side look at Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, focused on the features that actually impact your day-to-day operations and long-term scalability.
Feature Comparison NetSuite vs. Business Central
| Feature / Factor | NetSuite | Business Central |
| Deployment | Cloud-only | Cloud, On-premises, or Hybrid |
| Best For | High-growth companies, global operations | SMBs, especially those using Microsoft tools |
| Customization | Highly customizable via SuiteScript | Customizable with extensions and AL language |
| Ease of Use | Steep learning curve | Familiar interface for Microsoft users |
| Integration | 752 apps on SuiteApp.com | 6,539 apps on AppSource.com |
| Pricing | Subscription plus custom implementation | Modular pricing with flexible licensing |
| Implementation Time | Longer due to system complexity | Faster setup, especially for small to mid-sized businesses |
| User Interface (UI) | Outdated design and experience | Modern, intuitive, and user-friendly UI |
5-Year ERP Cost Comparison
When it comes to long-term value, total cost of ownership matters just as much as features and functionality. Below is a side-by-side look at the estimated 5-year cost of implementing and maintaining NetSuite vs. Business Central, based on 8 full users and basic implementation.
| Year | NetSuite | Business Central |
| 1st Year | $35,000 (License) + $45,000 (Implementation) = $80,000 | $95,000 (License) + $6,720 (Users) = $101,720 |
| 2nd Year | $49,500 | $6,720 |
| 3rd Year | $54,450 | $6,720 |
| 4th Year | $59,895 | $6,720 |
| 5th Year | $65,884 | $6,720 |
| 5-Year Total | $309,729 | $128,600 |
*The price is for reference purposes and is subject to change based on the requirements, project size, and conditions.
AI Capabilities
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a “nice-to-have”. It’s becoming a core part of how modern ERPs drive efficiency, insights, and smarter decision-making. Both NetSuite and Business Central offer AI features, but the approach and level of integration are quite different.
NetSuite’s AI Capabilities
NetSuite leverages Oracle Cloud Infrastructure to power its AI tools. Its AI Advisor supports key functions like:
- Invoice processing
- Content creation
- Demand planning
- And other operational tasks
These tools aim to automate repetitive work and enhance forecasting, but they’re generally built into specific modules rather than acting as a central intelligence layer across the entire system.
Business Central + Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft takes a more integrated approach to AI. With a $14 billion investment in OpenAI, Microsoft is embedding AI across its product ecosystem—and Business Central is no exception.
Through Copilot, users can:
- Chat directly with the system to get answers
- Automate tasks and look up data
- Receive step-by-step guidance
- Quickly summarize records and customer interactions
Copilot lives inside Business Central and works alongside tools like Outlook and Teams, making it a natural extension of your workflow.
Want the full breakdown?
If you’re still weighing your options or just want a clearer picture of how NetSuite and Business Central compare across features, pricing, and usability, you can watch our full comparison video. It walks you through everything you need to know to make a confident and informed decision.
Finding the Right ERP for Your Business
It’s easy to get distracted by feature lists when you’re comparing ERP systems, but that’s not where the real value is. What actually matters is how well the system fits your business. Not just on paper, but in practice. The right ERP should feel like a natural extension of how your team already works. It should make everyday tasks easier, not more complicated. When your ERP aligns with your goals and supports your processes, it becomes a tool for growth. To make a confident decision, it’s worth considering the key factors that will impact your ERP selection.
So, which ERP fits my business?
Both NetSuite and Business Central are premium ERP solutions with a lot to offer, but when it comes to ERP, the one that fits your business today and tomorrow is better.
NetSuite’s strong multi-entity support suits enterprises with global compliance needs.
Choose NetSuite if your business is expanding quickly, managing multiple legal entities, or operating in different countries with complex compliance needs. It’s built for scale and global operations.
Business Central’s flexible licensing model makes it a better fit for SMBs looking to control long-term costs.
Choose Business Central if you’re a growing small or mid-sized business that wants a modern ERP without a long, expensive implementation. Business Central is a natural fit if you’re already using Microsoft products like Outlook, Excel, or Teams.
For example, TUSA, a global distributor of sporting goods, chose Business Central because it offered the flexibility and ease of use they needed to support their growing operations. They wanted a system that could scale with them, simplify day-to-day processes, and integrate with the Microsoft tools their team was already using. Business Central checked all those boxes, making it a natural fit for their business.
Read more: 3 Factors that will Impact Your ERP selection
The Next Step: Make Your ERP Decision with Confidence
Choosing between Oracle NetSuite and Business Central isn’t just a tech decision—it’s a business decision. The right ERP should fit your operations today and support where you’re headed tomorrow.
If you’re still unsure which path makes the most sense for your business, you’re not alone. Every company has different goals, challenges, and workflows. And that’s exactly why a one-size-fits-all answer doesn’t work here.
Let’s simplify your ERP decision.
We work with growing businesses to evaluate ERP options based on their unique goals, processes, and tech stack. Whether you’re considering NetSuite, Business Central, or weighing both, we can help you assess which platform aligns best with your business needs.
Request a free ERP consultation to get a personalized recommendation that fits your priorities and growth plans.
