The Odoo journey from version 16 to 19 shows how rapidly the platform evolves. For Australian SMEs, each upgrade has delivered stronger compliance, faster performance, and new opportunities for growth. This blog compares the four most recent versions and highlights why upgrading matters in 2025.
Odoo 16 – The Foundation
- Solid ERP base with accounting, inventory, CRM modules
- Improved website builder compared to earlier versions
- Limitations: weaker integrations, less automation, slower performance
Odoo 17 – Modernised
- New UI refresh: more intuitive than 16
- Better CRM features for pipeline management
- Enhanced reporting in accounting
- Limitations: automation still basic, integrations limited
Odoo 18 – Smarter Automation
- Real-time inventory management with replenishment
- Advanced accounting: GST compliance, smart reconciliation
- AI-powered CRM insights for forecasting
- Cleaner UI, better mobile experience
- Limitations: still catching up on advanced integrations
Odoo 19 – The Leap Forward
- Faster performance across modules
- Stronger API support for Xero, Neto, PinPayments
- Compliance-ready for Australian SMEs
- Improved user adoption with simplified workflows
- Sets the stage for Odoo 20
Why Upgrading Matters
- Security & Compliance → Old versions lose support, exposing businesses to risks
- Performance Gains → Each version brings speed and automation upgrades
- Integration Capabilities → Odoo 19 connects better with AU-specific tools
- Future Proofing → Staying current means easier migration to Odoo 20
Internal & External Links
- Landing: Odoo Upgrades in Australia
- Related Blogs:
- External Authority: Odoo Official Release Notes
| Feature / Version | Odoo 16 | Odoo 17 | Odoo 18 | Odoo 19 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| User Interface (UI/UX) | Basic, less intuitive | Modernised UI, smoother than 16 | Cleaner design, mobile-friendly | Simplified workflows, fastest adoption |
| Accounting | Solid base, limited AU compliance | Better reporting, improved basics | GST compliance, smart reconciliation | Advanced compliance, AI-supported |
| Inventory & Warehouse | Standard tracking | Improved reporting, manual-heavy | Real-time replenishment, multi-warehouse | Faster automation, reduced errors |
| CRM & Sales | Lead management basics | Better pipeline tools | AI-assisted forecasting, advanced analytics | Enhanced automation, deeper customer insights |
| Integrations | Limited connectors | Some improvements | Basic external integrations | Strong API support (Xero, Neto, PinPayments) |
| Performance | Stable but slower | Faster than 16 | Improved automation speed | Highest performance, lightweight |
| Best For | SMEs starting digitalisation | Growing SMEs needing CRM | SMEs ready for automation | SMEs aiming for future-proof ERP |
FAQ
Q: What’s the main difference between Odoo 16 and 19?
- Odoo 19 is faster, more secure, and offers stronger integrations compared to Odoo 16.
Q: Do I need to upgrade step by step (16 → 17 → 18 → 19)?
- No, you can migrate directly, but careful testing and data checks are essential.
Q: What’s the risk of staying on an old Odoo version?
- Security issues, poor integration, and higher maintenance costs.
Get Started Today!
Ready to unlock the full potential of Odoo?
At MoonSun, we offer a Free 2-Hour Consultation with a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) and Odoo Functional Certified Expert.
Here’s what you get in your session:
✅ A tailored business analysis for your company.
✅ Risk assessment of your current Odoo setup.
✅ A clear roadmap for upgrades, integrations, or optimisation.
Don’t leave your digital transformation to chance—partner with experts who understand Australian SMEs.
