A cloud-first AI inventory app versus an open-source self-hosted system. One is ready in 30 seconds, the other gives you full server control. Here's how they compare.
HomeBox is a free, open-source home inventory system designed for self-hosting. You install it on your own server using Docker, and it runs entirely on your hardware. There's no mobile app — it's web-only, accessed through a browser. HomeBox has no AI features and relies on manual data entry, but it gives tech-savvy users complete control over their data and privacy. If you're comfortable managing Docker containers and want a free inventory tool with zero third-party dependencies, HomeBox is a solid choice.
| Feature | Cratify | HomeBox |
|---|---|---|
| AI Item Identification | ✓ Google Gemini AI | ✗ Manual only |
| QR Code Labels | ✓ Built-in generation & printing | ✗ |
| Mobile App | ✓ iOS (live), Android (coming) | ✗ Web-only |
| Self-Hosted Option | ✗ Cloud-hosted | ✓ Full self-hosting (Docker) |
| Setup Required | ✓ None — ready in 30 seconds | ✗ Docker + server setup |
| Free Plan | ✓ 250 items, 50 boxes, 2 locations | ✓ Completely free (self-hosted) |
| Bulk Photo Upload | ✓ | ✗ |
| Label Printing | ✓ QR code label sheets | ✗ |
| Sharing | ✓ Share with household members | ✗ Single-user |
| Data Privacy | Cloud-hosted, encrypted | ✓ Full control (self-hosted) |
Two very different approaches to home inventory
Cratify uses Google Gemini AI to identify items from photos — snap a picture and it fills in the details. HomeBox requires you to type everything manually, which is slower when cataloging hundreds of items.
Cratify runs in the cloud — no server needed, automatic backups, access anywhere. HomeBox runs on your own hardware, giving you full data control but requiring technical setup and maintenance.
Cratify has a native iOS app (Android coming soon) plus a full web app. HomeBox is web-only with no mobile app, meaning you access it through your phone's browser.
Tech-savvy users who want a self-hosted, open-source solution with full data control. If you already run a home server, are comfortable with Docker, and prioritize privacy over convenience, HomeBox is a strong pick.
Everyone else. No server needed, no technical setup, ready in 30 seconds. Cratify is mobile-first, AI-powered, and includes QR labels, bulk uploads, sharing, and a Location → Room → Box → Item hierarchy that keeps everything organized.
Yes, HomeBox is 100% free and open-source. However, you need your own server to run it — whether that's a home server, Raspberry Pi, or cloud VPS — which may have associated hardware and electricity costs.
Yes. HomeBox is a self-hosted Docker application. Without a server to run it on, you cannot use HomeBox. You'll also need to manage updates, backups, and security yourself.
No, Cratify is a cloud-hosted service. Your data is stored securely with encryption. This means zero setup, automatic backups, and access from any device — but your data lives on Cratify's servers rather than your own hardware.
Cratify is dramatically easier. Download the app or visit the website, create an account, and start adding items in about 30 seconds. HomeBox requires installing Docker, pulling the container image, configuring ports and volumes, and managing updates yourself.
Cratify offers more features: AI identification, QR code labels, mobile apps, bulk photo upload, collections, and sharing. HomeBox focuses on straightforward manual inventory with full data ownership. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize features or self-hosting.