Quick Overview
- 1#1: QuickBooks Online - Cloud-based accounting software that automates invoicing, bill payments, and reconciliations for efficient AP and AR management.
- 2#2: Xero - Online accounting platform with seamless AP/AR automation, bank reconciliation, and multi-currency support.
- 3#3: Bill.com - AP automation tool that streamlines bill approval, payments, and vendor management with accounting integrations.
- 4#4: Sage Intacct - Cloud financial management system offering advanced AP/AR modules with real-time reporting and multi-entity support.
- 5#5: Oracle NetSuite - Comprehensive cloud ERP providing integrated AP/AR automation, procurement, and financial controls for growing businesses.
- 6#6: Zoho Books - Affordable online accounting software with robust invoicing, expense tracking, and AP/AR workflow automation.
- 7#7: FreshBooks - Invoicing-focused accounting tool that simplifies AR collections, time tracking, and basic AP management.
- 8#8: AvidXchange - AP automation platform digitizing invoice capture, approval workflows, and electronic payments.
- 9#9: Tipalti - Global payables platform automating mass payments, tax compliance, and AP reconciliation across 196 countries.
- 10#10: Melio - B2B payments platform enabling quick AP bill pay and AR collections via ACH, checks, and wires.
We ranked these tools based on features like automation completeness, real-time functionality, and cross-functional integration, paired with user experience, reliability, and overall value to ensure they meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Accounts Payable and Receivable software simplifies financial workflows, from invoicing to payment tracking, and this comparison table breaks down key features of top tools like QuickBooks Online, Xero, Bill.com, Sage Intacct, Oracle NetSuite, and more, helping readers identify the best fit for their unique needs. Discover insights into automation, integrations, and usability to make informed decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QuickBooks Online Cloud-based accounting software that automates invoicing, bill payments, and reconciliations for efficient AP and AR management. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Xero Online accounting platform with seamless AP/AR automation, bank reconciliation, and multi-currency support. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Bill.com AP automation tool that streamlines bill approval, payments, and vendor management with accounting integrations. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 4 | Sage Intacct Cloud financial management system offering advanced AP/AR modules with real-time reporting and multi-entity support. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Oracle NetSuite Comprehensive cloud ERP providing integrated AP/AR automation, procurement, and financial controls for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Zoho Books Affordable online accounting software with robust invoicing, expense tracking, and AP/AR workflow automation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | FreshBooks Invoicing-focused accounting tool that simplifies AR collections, time tracking, and basic AP management. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | AvidXchange AP automation platform digitizing invoice capture, approval workflows, and electronic payments. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Tipalti Global payables platform automating mass payments, tax compliance, and AP reconciliation across 196 countries. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Melio B2B payments platform enabling quick AP bill pay and AR collections via ACH, checks, and wires. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
Cloud-based accounting software that automates invoicing, bill payments, and reconciliations for efficient AP and AR management.
Online accounting platform with seamless AP/AR automation, bank reconciliation, and multi-currency support.
AP automation tool that streamlines bill approval, payments, and vendor management with accounting integrations.
Cloud financial management system offering advanced AP/AR modules with real-time reporting and multi-entity support.
Comprehensive cloud ERP providing integrated AP/AR automation, procurement, and financial controls for growing businesses.
Affordable online accounting software with robust invoicing, expense tracking, and AP/AR workflow automation.
Invoicing-focused accounting tool that simplifies AR collections, time tracking, and basic AP management.
AP automation platform digitizing invoice capture, approval workflows, and electronic payments.
Global payables platform automating mass payments, tax compliance, and AP reconciliation across 196 countries.
B2B payments platform enabling quick AP bill pay and AR collections via ACH, checks, and wires.
QuickBooks Online
enterpriseCloud-based accounting software that automates invoicing, bill payments, and reconciliations for efficient AP and AR management.
Automated bill pay service that mails physical checks to vendors at no extra cost per check
QuickBooks Online is a premier cloud-based accounting platform renowned for its robust accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) management capabilities. It enables users to create customizable invoices, automate payment reminders, and accept online payments to streamline AR processes. For AP, it offers bill scanning via mobile app, approval workflows, and direct payments through ACH, credit card, or check mailing services. As the #1 ranked solution, it provides real-time insights and scalability for growing businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive AR tools including customizable invoicing, recurring billing, and automated payment chasing
- Advanced AP features like bill capture via OCR, multi-user approvals, and scheduled payments
- Seamless bank feeds, real-time reporting, and 750+ app integrations for enhanced workflow
Cons
- Higher-tier plans required for full AP/AR automation and advanced reporting
- Steeper learning curve for complex customizations despite intuitive interface
- Occasional sync delays with banks during peak usage
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing scalable, integrated AP/AR management within a full accounting suite.
Pricing
Starts at $30/month (Simple Start) to $200/month (Advanced); annual billing offers 50% off first 3 months.
Xero
enterpriseOnline accounting platform with seamless AP/AR automation, bank reconciliation, and multi-currency support.
Hubdoc's AI-powered document capture and data extraction for effortless bill entry and AP automation
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering robust tools for managing accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR). It streamlines invoicing, bill payments, bank reconciliations, and cash flow tracking with automation features like recurring bills and multi-currency support. Xero integrates seamlessly with banks and third-party apps to enhance AP/AR workflows, making it ideal for remote teams.
Pros
- Automated bank feeds and reconciliations simplify AP/AR matching
- Multi-currency support and Hubdoc for intelligent bill capture
- Extensive app marketplace for payments and integrations
Cons
- Higher-tier plans needed for advanced AP approvals and payroll
- Reporting can feel basic for complex AR aging analysis
- Customer support relies heavily on community and partners
Best For
Small to medium businesses seeking an intuitive, cloud-first solution for streamlined AP/AR management without heavy IT setup.
Pricing
Starts at $15/month (Early plan) up to $78/month (Ultimate plan), billed annually; pricing varies by region and includes unlimited users.
Bill.com
specializedAP automation tool that streamlines bill approval, payments, and vendor management with accounting integrations.
Customizable multi-level approval workflows with real-time visibility and mobile notifications
Bill.com is a cloud-based platform that automates accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) processes for businesses of various sizes. It enables users to capture bills via mobile scan or email, route them through customizable approval workflows, and execute payments via ACH, checks, wires, or virtual cards. For AR, it supports invoicing, recurring billing, online payments, and cash application. The software integrates deeply with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and NetSuite, reducing manual data entry.
Pros
- Powerful automation for AP approvals and payments with multiple methods including virtual cards
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero
- Mobile app for on-the-go bill management and approvals
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly for larger teams or advanced features
- Initial setup and workflow customization has a learning curve
- Reporting capabilities are solid but not as advanced as enterprise competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses needing robust AP/AR automation with strong accounting integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Essentials), $65/user/month (Team), $79/user/month (Corporate), with Enterprise custom pricing; billed annually.
Sage Intacct
enterpriseCloud financial management system offering advanced AP/AR modules with real-time reporting and multi-entity support.
Multi-entity management with dimension-based accounting for granular AP/AR tracking across subsidiaries
Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management platform with comprehensive Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) modules tailored for mid-market businesses. It automates invoice processing, vendor payments, customer invoicing, collections, and cash application while supporting multi-entity and multi-currency operations. The software provides real-time dashboards, advanced reporting, and seamless integrations for streamlined financial workflows.
Pros
- Robust automation for AP workflows including OCR invoice capture and approval routing
- Powerful AR tools with customer portals, recurring billing, and automated collections
- Multi-dimensional tracking and multi-entity consolidation for complex organizations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires training for full utilization
- Premium pricing that may not suit small businesses
- Customization often needs certified partners, adding to implementation time
Best For
Mid-sized companies with multi-entity structures needing scalable, enterprise-grade AP/AR automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $15,000/year for core AP/AR modules, scales with users, entities, and add-ons.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseComprehensive cloud ERP providing integrated AP/AR automation, procurement, and financial controls for growing businesses.
Real-time multi-book accounting that enables simultaneous compliance with multiple GAAP standards across subsidiaries
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform with robust Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) modules that automate invoice processing, payments, collections, and reconciliations. It provides real-time visibility into cash flow, multi-currency support, and advanced reporting for global operations. As part of a comprehensive financial suite, it integrates AP/AR seamlessly with inventory, CRM, and other business functions for end-to-end efficiency.
Pros
- Comprehensive automation including AI-driven invoice matching and payment approvals
- Real-time dashboards and analytics for AP/AR performance
- Scalable multi-subsidiary and multi-currency support for global enterprises
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training and customization
- High implementation costs and dependency on partners
- Overkill and expensive for small businesses needing only basic AP/AR
Best For
Mid-market to large enterprises seeking integrated ERP with advanced AP/AR capabilities.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at around $999/month for base license plus $99/user/month; total often $20,000+ annually depending on modules and users.
Zoho Books
enterpriseAffordable online accounting software with robust invoicing, expense tracking, and AP/AR workflow automation.
Client and vendor portals enabling self-service invoice payments and bill submissions with real-time tracking
Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting platform designed to handle accounts payable and receivable with automated invoicing, bill tracking, vendor payments, and customer collections. It features client and vendor portals for self-service payments and approvals, multi-currency support, and seamless bank reconciliation. As part of the Zoho ecosystem, it integrates effortlessly with CRM, inventory, and other tools for streamlined financial workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive AP/AR automation including approval workflows and recurring transactions
- Strong multi-currency and bank reconciliation capabilities
- Affordable pricing with extensive integrations to Zoho suite and third-party apps
Cons
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans or custom setups
- Steeper learning curve for complex multi-entity configurations
- Customer support can be slower on lower plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing an integrated, cost-effective AP/AR solution with automation and multi-currency support.
Pricing
Free for < $50K revenue; paid plans start at $20/mo (Standard, 3 users), $50/mo (Professional), $70/mo (Elite), up to $240/mo (Ultimate) billed annually.
FreshBooks
specializedInvoicing-focused accounting tool that simplifies AR collections, time tracking, and basic AP management.
Seamless integration of time tracking with project-based invoicing for effortless AR billing
FreshBooks is a user-friendly cloud-based accounting platform tailored for small businesses, freelancers, and service providers, focusing on invoicing, time tracking, expenses, and basic bookkeeping. For Accounts Payable and Receivable, it offers strong AR capabilities through customizable invoices, automated recurring billing, online payments via credit card or ACH, and payment reminders. AP features include bill scanning, vendor tracking, expense categorization, and payment scheduling, though it's lighter on advanced reporting and approvals compared to enterprise tools.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface ideal for non-accountants
- Excellent invoicing and payment collection tools
- Mobile app with receipt capture and bill approvals
Cons
- Limited depth in AP workflows and reporting
- Pricing scales up quickly for growing teams
- Lacks inventory management and complex AR aging reports
Best For
Small businesses and freelancers managing simple invoicing, expenses, and vendor bills without needing enterprise-level AP/AR complexity.
Pricing
Lite ($19/mo, 5 clients), Plus ($33/mo, 50 clients), Premium ($60/mo, unlimited clients), Select (custom enterprise pricing); annual discounts available.
AvidXchange
specializedAP automation platform digitizing invoice capture, approval workflows, and electronic payments.
Its massive integration ecosystem with over 200 accounting and ERP systems for effortless data synchronization and automation.
AvidXchange is a leading accounts payable (AP) automation platform that digitizes invoice receipt, approval workflows, and payments to streamline financial operations. It excels in integrating with over 200 accounting systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Sage, enabling seamless data sync and reducing manual entry. While primarily focused on AP, it offers some AR capabilities through payment tracking and reporting, making it suitable for businesses aiming to modernize payables processes.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 200+ ERPs and accounting software
- Versatile payment options including ACH, virtual cards, and checks
- Advanced invoice capture and approval automation reducing processing time
Cons
- Limited native AR functionality compared to full AP/AR suites
- Pricing can be costly for small businesses with low transaction volumes
- Steeper learning curve during initial setup and onboarding
Best For
Mid-market businesses in industries like construction, real estate, and nonprofits that need robust AP automation integrated with existing accounting systems.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $1-$3 per transaction or invoice plus monthly platform fees starting at $500+ depending on volume and integrations.
Tipalti
specializedGlobal payables platform automating mass payments, tax compliance, and AP reconciliation across 196 countries.
Global mass payments with built-in tax withholding and compliance automation across 196 countries
Tipalti is an end-to-end accounts payable (AP) automation platform that streamlines global supplier payments, invoice processing, and tax compliance for high-volume businesses. It handles mass payments in 120+ currencies across 196 countries, automates 1099/W-8 form generation, and integrates seamlessly with ERP systems like NetSuite and QuickBooks. While excelling in AP, it offers limited accounts receivable (AR) capabilities, focusing primarily on outbound payments and reconciliation.
Pros
- Robust global payment processing in 120+ currencies and 196 countries
- Automated tax compliance and regulatory reporting (e.g., 1099, W-8)
- Deep integrations with major accounting and ERP systems
Cons
- Limited native AR functionality, requiring third-party integrations
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Pricing can be expensive for small to mid-sized businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with high-volume international supplier payments and complex compliance needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on payment volume; typically starts at $10,000+ annually with per-transaction fees.
Melio
specializedB2B payments platform enabling quick AP bill pay and AR collections via ACH, checks, and wires.
Vendor privacy payments: pay any bill without sharing your banking or card details with vendors, who select their preferred receipt method via a secure portal.
Melio is a cloud-based platform specializing in accounts payable (AP) automation for small to medium-sized businesses, allowing users to pay vendors via ACH, check, wire, or credit card with seamless integrations to QuickBooks, Xero, and other accounting software. It also supports basic accounts receivable (AR) through digital invoicing, payment requests, and automated reminders to streamline incoming payments. Overall, it simplifies B2B payments while maintaining vendor privacy by not requiring businesses to share sensitive financial details.
Pros
- Free ACH payments for senders and receivers
- Quick sync with major accounting tools like QuickBooks Online
- Intuitive interface with mobile app support
- Vendor self-service portal for payment method selection
Cons
- Fees apply to checks (starting at $1.50) and credit cards (2.9%)
- Limited advanced AR automation compared to dedicated invoicing platforms
- No international payments for non-US businesses
- Customer support primarily via email/tickets
Best For
Small businesses and startups seeking simple, cost-effective AP automation with basic AR capabilities.
Pricing
Free for ACH transfers and receiving payments; 2.9% + $0.30 for credit cards; checks from $1.50 (regular) to $20 (same-day); custom plans for high-volume users.
Conclusion
Navigating accounts payable and receivable software is made straightforward by this ranking, with top tools delivering exceptional value. Leading the pack is QuickBooks Online, a cloud-based pioneer that streamlines invoicing, payments, and reconciliations, offering a comprehensive solution for efficient financial management. Close behind, Xero impresses with seamless AP/AR automation and multi-currency support, while Bill.com stands out for its robust vendor management and integration capabilities, serving distinct business needs.
Take control of your AP and AR operations by trying QuickBooks Online—its intuitive design and powerful automation can simplify workflows and drive better financial outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison