If you're a current Microsoft Dynamics GP user, you've likely heard the news: Microsoft is ending support for GP. While your system won't stop working overnight, the clock is ticking on support, updates, and long-term viability. This post breaks down the key differences between Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Acumatica, for organizations looking to for their next platform aft Dynamics GP.
We'll look at pricing, features, ecosystem, and potential drawbacks. Hopefully by the end you will have a clear idea of how to weigh these two options which consistently emerged as top contenders for GP users planning their next move:
The GP Timeline You Need to Know
- April 2025: New perpetual license sales ended
- April 2026: New subscription license sales end
- December 2029: End of product enhancements, tax updates, and technical support
- April 2031: End of security updates
You have time, but migration projects typically take 6–18 months. Starting conversations now makes sense.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
What It Is
Business Central has become Microsoft's flagship cloud ERP for small and mid-sized businesses. It evolved from Dynamics NAV, which has been around since 1987.
Why GP Users Like It
- Microsoft ecosystem integration: If you're already using Microsoft 365, Teams, Outlook, and Power BI, Business Central fits naturally into your workflow
- Familiar interface: The look and feel resembles other Microsoft products, which can reduce training time
- Large partner network: With over 160,000 customers, finding implementation partners and third-party add-ons is straightforward
- AI capabilities: Copilot features are built in and actively expanding
- Deployment flexibility: Available as cloud SaaS, on-premises, or hybrid
Considerations
- No direct migration path from GP: Moving to Business Central is effectively a new implementation, not an upgrade—plan accordingly
- Per-user pricing: Costs scale with headcount ($70–$100/user/month for full users), which can add up for larger teams
- Some GP functionality gaps: Certain GP features may require third-party ISV solutions in Business Central
GP to BC: Considerations for Accounts Payable »
Acumatica
What It Is
Acumatica is a cloud-native ERP founded in 2008, known for its flexible licensing model and industry-specific editions for distribution, manufacturing, construction, and retail.
Why GP Users Like It
- Unlimited user licensing: Pricing is based on resources/transactions, not user count—attractive for businesses with many employees needing system access
- Industry editions: Purpose-built modules for specific verticals often include functionality that would require add-ons elsewhere
- True cloud architecture: Designed for cloud from the start, with strong mobile access
- Customization flexibility: Built on open APIs with standard development tools (C#, .NET)
Considerations
- Smaller ecosystem: Fewer than 10,000 customers means a smaller partner network and ISV marketplace compared to Business Central
- Variable costs: While unlimited users sounds great, costs can escalate if transaction volumes grow significantly
- Less Microsoft integration: Basic Teams integration exists, but it lacks the deep Microsoft 365 connectivity that Business Central offers
- Ownership changes: Acumatica was acquired by Vista Equity Partners in 2025—long-term product direction may evolve
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Business Central | Acumatica |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Per user | Resource/transaction-based |
| Microsoft Integration | Deep, native | Basic |
| User Count | Scales with cost | Unlimited included |
| Industry Modules | Via ISVs | Built-in editions |
| Partner Ecosystem | Very large | Growing |
| Deployment | Cloud, on-prem, hybrid | Cloud, private cloud, on-prem |
| Typical ROI Timeline | 12–24 months | 18–30 months |
How to Decide
Business Central may be the better fit if:
- Your organization already relies heavily on Microsoft 365 and Teams
- You value a large partner and ISV ecosystem
- Predictable per-user costs work for your budget
- AI/Copilot features are a priority
Acumatica may be the better fit if:
- You have many users who need system access but don't need full functionality
- Your industry (construction, distribution, field service) aligns with their specialized editions
- You want more flexibility in cloud hosting providers
- Per-user costs would become prohibitive at your scale
Conclusion
Both Business Central and Acumatica represent significant upgrades from GP in terms of cloud capabilities, mobility, and modern functionality. There's no universally "right" answer—the best choice depends on your team size, industry, existing technology stack, and growth plans.
The important thing is to start evaluating now. With GP support ending in 2029, businesses that begin their migration planning early will have more options, better implementation timelines, and smoother transitions than those who wait until the deadline approaches.
