Quick Summary
We explored the 10 best free asset-tracking software solutions, highlighting their unique strengths and some pros and cons. Each tool caters to specific needs, such as IT management, depreciation tracking, or healthcare. Learn more about asset tracking on the BlueTally blog.
Looking For a Free Asset Tracking Tool for Your Business?
Managing assets efficiently is a challenge many businesses face today. From tracking equipment across multiple locations to ensuring every item is accounted for, the complexities can lead to significant time and financial losses.
However, there's good news for companies looking to optimize their assets without straining their budget.
In this BlueTally article, we’ll explore the top 7 free asset tracking software solutions that can streamline your asset management processes. Be prepared to discover how each goes above the standard to enhance your asset management while reducing your overhead costs.
Ready to transform your asset management? Let's dive into the best free solutions available.
Why Listen To Us?
At BlueTally, our deep understanding of asset management technology shapes the tools we develop. Our team consists of industry experts whose insights keep our software efficient and user-friendly, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of businesses, from startups to large enterprises.
Trust in our platform comes from proven results–enhanced tracking accuracy, cost savings, and improved asset utilization.
As a leader in the asset tracking domain, BlueTally doesn't just create software. We provide transformative solutions that optimize how organizations manage their resources.
What is Asset Tracking Software?
Asset tracking software is vital for any business that needs to manage and monitor its assets effectively. This software allows organizations to keep track of equipment, inventory, and other valuable assets through various stages of their lifecycle—from acquisition to disposal.
For small businesses or startups operating on tight budgets, free asset tracking software tools provide a crucial capability without the overhead of expensive licenses or subscriptions.
Free software can offer essential features like barcode scanning, real-time data updates, and basic asset reporting, which are enough for many businesses to manage their assets efficiently.
Benefits of Free Asset Tracking Software
Free asset tracking software is a strategic asset for businesses. Here’s how these tools can be particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized enterprises:
- Operational efficiency: Streamlines asset management processes, reducing time spent on asset tracking and increasing overall productivity.
- Theft and loss reduction: Helps deter theft and mitigate losses by tracking asset locations and statuses accurately.
- Cost efficiency: Eliminates the need for large upfront investments in software, allowing smaller businesses to allocate funds to other areas like marketing and customer service.
- Reduced risk: With no financial commitment, businesses can test different software options without the risk of sunk costs if the tool doesn’t meet their needs.
- Immediate access: Quick setup and no cost mean businesses can implement these tools almost immediately, leading to faster improvement in asset management processes.
Criteria to Consider When Choosing Free Asset Tracking Software
Selecting the right free asset tracking software requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure it meets your business needs effectively. Here are five crucial criteria to consider:
Functionality and features: Evaluate whether the software offers the essential functions you need, such as asset tagging, location tracking, and maintenance scheduling. Even if it's a free version, it's important that the tool can handle your specific requirements.
User interface and usability: The software should have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. A steep learning curve can reduce the overall efficiency of asset tracking. For instance, BlueTally is known for its straightforward interface that facilitates quick adoption and efficient use.
Integration capabilities: Check if the software can integrate seamlessly with other systems you already use, such as ERP systems or accounting software. Integration can significantly streamline your operations and data management.
Software support and updates: Good support from the software provider is crucial. Look for a tool that offers regular updates and reliable customer support to help resolve any issues that may arise.
Security features: Ensure the software has robust security measures to protect your data. BlueTally, for example, offers comprehensive security through SOC 2 Type II certification and strong encryption standards (256-bit SSL for transmission and AES-256 for data at rest).
10 Best Free Asset Tracking Software Tools
Asset tracking software tools provide critical functionalities that streamline operations, enhance accuracy, and improve overall asset lifecycle management.
Let’s take a look at some of the top solutions that can significantly affect how you track and manage your assets.
- BlueTally: Best asset tracking software overall.
- AssetTiger: Best for small businesses.
- Snipe-IT: Best open-source tool for IT asset tracking.
- GLPI: Best tool for multi-language support.
- Reftab: Best for asset reservations.
- Sortly: Best for photo documentation.
- AssetFrog: Best for depreciation tracking.
- Zebra Medical Asset Tracking: Best for Healthcare Industries
- Atera: Best for IT Asset and Service Management
- Invgate Asset Management: Best for Comprehensive IT Asset Lifecycle Management
1. BlueTally
At BlueTally, we understand the importance of efficient asset management for growing businesses.
Our software is designed to offer a comprehensive solution that meets the needs of small to medium enterprises without the complexity or cost of traditional asset management systems.
With BlueTally, you gain access to a powerful yet user-friendly platform that makes asset tracking accessible and hassle-free.
Key Features
- Assign Assets & Checkin/Checkout: BlueTally lets you assign assets to locations or employees with detailed records, including asset condition, photos, and expected check-in dates.
- Asset Audit & Maintenances: Our tool manages asset audits, scheduling, and notifications for overdue checks and also tracks maintenance schedules for all assets.
- Asset Depreciation: BlueTally automatically calculates asset and license depreciation using straight-line methods and provides you with a detailed depreciation report.
- Kits: Effortlessly create kits of commonly used assets, such as new employee starter packs, with customizable contents and quantities for checkout.
- Asset Barcodes: Easily manage and track asset barcodes to maintain accurate inventory records and streamline asset management processes.
- Powerful Integration: Seamlessly integrates with popular services like Microsoft InTune, Azure Active Directory, and Okta, enhancing the fluidity of asset management across various platforms.
- Real-Time Asset Tracking: Track your assets in real-time, ensuring up-to-date information is always available.
- Security: With SOC 2 Type II compliance and robust encryption measures, your asset data remains secure against unauthorized access.
- Mobile Device Compatibility: Our mobile-friendly tool allows you to manage and track your assets on any device, providing flexibility and convenience.
Pros
- Easy setup and configuration
- User-friendly interface
- Competitive pricing
- Integrations with popular tools
- Responsive customer support
- Ideal for IT asset management
Cons
- 50 asset limit
2. AssetTiger
AssetTiger is a versatile and highly acclaimed free asset tracking tool that has carved a niche among small and large businesses.
This cloud-based solution offers a comprehensive suite of features to simplify asset management across various industries.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Asset Lifecycle Management: Manage every aspect of your assets from acquisition to disposal.
- Maintenance Scheduling: Automate and schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure asset longevity.
- Customizable Reports: Generate detailed reports tailored to your specific needs for better decision-making.
- Mobile Accessibility: Access and update asset information on the go with a fully functional mobile app.
- Barcode Scanning: Use your device’s camera to scan asset barcodes quickly, streamlining the inventory process.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Customizable fields and alerts
- Barcode scanning and mobile functionality
- Unlimited users and custom reports
Cons
- Cumbersome check-out/in-process
- Limited advanced reporting features
3. Snipe-IT
Snipe-IT is a popular open-source asset tracking software designed to offer businesses a flexible and scalable solution for their asset management needs.
This platform is particularly favored for its customization capabilities. It allows users to tailor the software to their specific operational requirements.
Key Features
- Asset Management: Track your physical assets' status, location, and history efficiently.
- Check-in/Check-out: Monitor assets as they are assigned or returned, providing clear accountability.
- Customizable Fields: Adapt asset data fields to fit the unique data requirements of your business.
- License Management: Manage software licenses, warranties, and associated contracts to stay compliant.
- Robust Reporting: Generate detailed reports that provide insights into asset utilization and performance.
Pros
- Free and open-source
- Easy-to-use interface
- Multi-platform support
- Secure user management
Cons
- Challenging initial setup
- Lacks mass check-in and network scans
4. GLPI
GLPI (Gestionnaire Libre de Parc Informatique) is an open-source asset and IT management software that provides a comprehensive suite of tools to manage and track IT assets.
This solution is highly regarded for its extensive features that cater to both asset tracking and IT service management, making it ideal for organizations looking to streamline their IT operations.
Key Features
- Comprehensive IT Asset Management: Centralize all IT asset information, including hardware, software, and associated peripherals.
- IT Service Management: Includes a helpdesk feature for managing IT user support tickets and service requests.
- Configuration Management: Define and manage the configurations of IT assets to ensure consistency and reliability in IT services.
- Software License Management: Track software licenses, installations, and compliance to avoid legal issues related to software usage.
- Environmental Management: Monitor the impact of IT assets on the environment, including energy consumption and disposal management.
Pros
- Extensive IT and asset management features
- Highly customizable with plugins
- Strong community support
- Free and open-source
- Supports ITIL standards
Cons
- Clunky and outdated interface
- High server disk space usage
- Incomplete translations and documentation
5. Reftab
Reftab is a streamlined asset tracking software that offers a user-friendly and efficient approach to asset management, particularly appealing to small and medium-sized businesses.
The cloud-based tool stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness in managing various assets.
Key Features
- Asset Tracking: Easily track physical assets with tools designed for quick updates and real-time information.
- Maintenance Scheduling: Set up and track maintenance schedules to keep your assets in optimal condition.
- Loan Management: Manage loans of equipment to employees or departments with automated return reminders.
- Custom Reporting: Generate customizable reports to analyze asset utilization and performance.
- QR and Barcode Scanning: Utilize QR and barcodes for quick asset identification and management.
Pros
- Easy and intuitive interface
- Robust mobile app
- Excellent customer support
- Effective integrations with other systems
Cons
- Initial learning curve
- Challenges with location data management
- API can be unintuitive
6. Sortly
Sortly is a highly intuitive asset tracking software that simplifies the complexities of asset management with its visually-oriented and user-friendly interface.
The software tool is especially popular among businesses that prioritize ease of use and visual data management, catering to various industries.
Key Features
- Visual Inventory Management: Use photos to track assets, making it easier to identify and manage items visually.
- Custom Tags and Categories: Organize assets with customizable tags and categories to streamline searches and reporting.
- Activity Logs: Maintain detailed records of asset changes and movements to ensure accountability and traceability.
- Multi-User Access: Allow multiple users to access the system with varied permissions, enhancing collaborative asset management.
- Mobile App: Manage assets on the go with a full-featured mobile app that syncs with the desktop version.
Pros
- Easy to use with a user-friendly interface
- Mobile app available
- Customizable for a variety of inventory needs
- Effective barcode scanning and inventory tracking capabilities
- Good customer support
Cons
- Limited in terms of integrations with other tools
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
7. AssetFrog
AssetFrog is an emerging player in the field of asset tracking, offering robust features with a focus on simplicity and efficiency.
AssetFrog is designed for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a straightforward way to manage their assets without the complexity often associated with such systems.
Key Features
- Easy-to-Use Interface: Designed for simplicity, allowing users to adapt quickly without extensive training.
- Bulk Editing: Update multiple asset records simultaneously, saving time and reducing errors.
- Alerts and Notifications: Set up alerts for maintenance, warranty expirations, and other key asset events.
- Depreciation Calculation: Automatically calculate asset depreciation, aiding financial planning and reporting.
- Document Storage: Attach and manage asset-related documents directly within the platform.
Pros
- Unlimited users
- Contract and license management
- Maintenance alerts
- Unlimited cloud storage
- Powerful depreciation schedule
Cons
- Limited documentation
- Might not be ideal for advanced needs
8. Zebra Medical Asset Tracking
Best for Healthcare Industries, Zebra Medical Asset Tracking is a solution specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the healthcare sector. It offers efficient asset tracking tools that help healthcare providers manage medical equipment, devices, and supplies, ensuring optimal use and reducing equipment loss.
Key Features
- Real-Time Location Tracking: Tracks the location and status of medical assets in real time, improving asset utilization.
- Temperature Monitoring: Monitors sensitive equipment, like pharmaceuticals, ensuring they are stored at the correct temperatures.
- RFID Technology: Uses RFID tags and readers to quickly locate assets and manage inventory efficiently.
- Maintenance Scheduling: Schedule and track the maintenance of medical equipment to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations.
Pros
- Specialized for healthcare equipment tracking
- Real-time location and temperature monitoring
- Reliable RFID and barcode scanning
- Helps prevent health asset theft and misplacement
Cons
- Primarily focused on healthcare; may not be suitable for other industries
- RFID hardware and setup can be expensive
9. Atera
Atera is an all-in-one remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform primarily designed for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT professionals. It offers tools for IT monitoring, automation, patch management, ticketing, and reporting, streamlining IT management tasks and allowing MSPs to efficiently manage their clients' IT environments.
Key Features
- Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM): Provides real-time monitoring of endpoints, servers, and networks.
- Automation: Automates repetitive tasks, such as software updates, patching, and system maintenance.
- Ticketing and Helpdesk: Built-in ticketing system for handling service requests and tracking IT issues.
- Endpoint Management: Includes remote access tools for troubleshooting and support, as well as endpoint management features for updating software and monitoring performance.
- Reports and Analytics: Detailed reporting features to analyze IT performance, incidents, and trends.
- Backup and Disaster Recovery: Integration with backup and disaster recovery services.
Pros
- Suitable for both small MSPs and large enterprises due to its scalable features
- Atera is cloud-based, so no on-premises infrastructure is needed, making it cost-effective and accessible from anywhere
- Combines RMM, ticketing, and reporting tools, reducing the need for multiple platforms
- Comes with a generous 30 day free trial with no credit card required
Cons
- While the platform offers a lot of built-in functionality, certain aspects, like reporting templates, may lack deep customization
- Atera is cloud-only, which may not meet the needs of companies requiring on-premises software solutions
- Some users have reported that the integrations with third-party applications can be limited or require extra configuration.
10. Invgate Asset Management
Invgate Asset Management is an IT asset management (ITAM) solution designed to help organizations track, manage, and optimize their IT assets throughout their lifecycle. It is part of Invgate’s suite of IT service management (ITSM) tools and is primarily used for managing hardware and software assets, ensuring compliance, reducing costs, and improving operational efficiency.
Key Features
- Asset Discovery: Automatically detects and inventories hardware and software assets across the network, making it easier to track assets in real time.
- Lifecycle Management: Helps organizations manage the entire lifecycle of assets—from procurement to decommissioning—including warranties and maintenance schedules.
- Software Compliance: Assists in managing software licenses and ensuring compliance with licensing agreements to avoid legal issues and optimize software usage.
- Contract Management: Allows users to track contracts, vendor agreements, and service level agreements (SLAs), providing a clear overview of contractual obligations.
- Audit and Reporting: Provides detailed reports and audits to help monitor asset usage, compliance, and potential risks associated with asset management.
Pros
- The automatic discovery of hardware and software assets saves time and ensures an up-to-date inventory without manual data entry
- Offers detailed reports for compliance, usage, and financial insights into assets, helping organizations make informed decisions
- Integrates well with other IT service management (ITSM) solutions, such as Invgate Service Desk, to provide a unified IT management experience
- Offers flexibility in asset tracking, reporting, and compliance features to suit various business needs
- Comes with a generous 30 day free trial with no credit card required
Cons
- While the platform is user-friendly, users unfamiliar with asset management software might take time to familiarize themselves with advanced features
- Some features, such as advanced reporting and integrations, may be limited in the lower-tier pricing plans
Use BlueTally for Free and Comprehensive Asset Tracking
Selecting the right free asset tracking software is crucial for efficient asset management, especially for smaller businesses looking to maximize their resources. Thankfully, this article highlighted several great options, each offering unique benefits tailored to different needs.
To start managing your assets effectively, consider BlueTally. By creating a free account, you can immediately benefit from our user-friendly platform designed to streamline your asset tracking.
Get started with BlueTally today and take a significant step towards optimized asset management.
