Quick Overview
- 1#1: QuickBooks Online - Cloud-based accounting platform offering invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting for small businesses and bookkeepers.
- 2#2: Xero - Online accounting software with bank reconciliation, inventory management, and multi-currency support tailored for small to medium businesses.
- 3#3: FreshBooks - User-friendly invoicing and bookkeeping tool with time tracking, expense management, and automated payments for freelancers and service providers.
- 4#4: Wave - Free cloud accounting software providing invoicing, receipt scanning, and basic financial reporting for solopreneurs and small teams.
- 5#5: Zoho Books - Integrated online accounting solution with automation, inventory tracking, and CRM connectivity for growing businesses.
- 6#6: Sage Intacct - Scalable cloud financial management system delivering advanced reporting, multi-entity management, and compliance tools for mid-sized enterprises.
- 7#7: ZipBooks - Affordable accounting software combining invoicing, time tracking, and profitability analytics for small businesses.
- 8#8: Manager - Free, open-source desktop and cloud accounting app with customizable reporting and multi-currency support for independent bookkeepers.
- 9#9: GnuCash - Free, open-source double-entry accounting software for personal and small business finance tracking on desktop.
- 10#10: Akaunting - Free, self-hosted open-source accounting platform with invoicing, expenses, and banking integration for small businesses.
We selected these tools by evaluating features, usability, value, and scalability, ensuring they cater to diverse needs—from automated workflows and multi-currency support to integration with other systems—so you can find software that aligns with your unique financial goals.
Comparison Table
Navigating bookkeeper software can be daunting, but this comparison table streamlines the process by examining top tools like QuickBooks Online, Xero, FreshBooks, Wave, and Zoho Books. Readers will gain clarity on key features, pricing, and usability, helping them identify the best fit for their workflow or business requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QuickBooks Online Cloud-based accounting platform offering invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting for small businesses and bookkeepers. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Xero Online accounting software with bank reconciliation, inventory management, and multi-currency support tailored for small to medium businesses. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | FreshBooks User-friendly invoicing and bookkeeping tool with time tracking, expense management, and automated payments for freelancers and service providers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Wave Free cloud accounting software providing invoicing, receipt scanning, and basic financial reporting for solopreneurs and small teams. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 5 | Zoho Books Integrated online accounting solution with automation, inventory tracking, and CRM connectivity for growing businesses. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | Sage Intacct Scalable cloud financial management system delivering advanced reporting, multi-entity management, and compliance tools for mid-sized enterprises. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | ZipBooks Affordable accounting software combining invoicing, time tracking, and profitability analytics for small businesses. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 8 | Manager Free, open-source desktop and cloud accounting app with customizable reporting and multi-currency support for independent bookkeepers. | other | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 9 | GnuCash Free, open-source double-entry accounting software for personal and small business finance tracking on desktop. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 10 | Akaunting Free, self-hosted open-source accounting platform with invoicing, expenses, and banking integration for small businesses. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-based accounting platform offering invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting for small businesses and bookkeepers.
Online accounting software with bank reconciliation, inventory management, and multi-currency support tailored for small to medium businesses.
User-friendly invoicing and bookkeeping tool with time tracking, expense management, and automated payments for freelancers and service providers.
Free cloud accounting software providing invoicing, receipt scanning, and basic financial reporting for solopreneurs and small teams.
Integrated online accounting solution with automation, inventory tracking, and CRM connectivity for growing businesses.
Scalable cloud financial management system delivering advanced reporting, multi-entity management, and compliance tools for mid-sized enterprises.
Affordable accounting software combining invoicing, time tracking, and profitability analytics for small businesses.
Free, open-source desktop and cloud accounting app with customizable reporting and multi-currency support for independent bookkeepers.
Free, open-source double-entry accounting software for personal and small business finance tracking on desktop.
Free, self-hosted open-source accounting platform with invoicing, expenses, and banking integration for small businesses.
QuickBooks Online
specializedCloud-based accounting platform offering invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting for small businesses and bookkeepers.
Accountant Toolbox, enabling bookkeepers to manage multiple client books efficiently from one dashboard with batch actions and ProAdvisor tools.
QuickBooks Online is a leading cloud-based accounting software from Intuit, tailored for bookkeepers and small to medium-sized businesses to manage invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliations, payroll, and financial reporting. It automates routine tasks like transaction categorization and reconciliation, providing real-time insights and customizable reports. With robust mobile apps and over 750 third-party integrations, it streamlines workflows and supports collaborative bookkeeping with accountants.
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set including automated bank feeds, inventory tracking, and project profitability
- Seamless integrations with banks, payment processors, and 750+ apps
- Excellent reporting tools and real-time collaboration for accountants
- Strong mobile app for on-the-go bookkeeping
Cons
- Higher-tier plans required for advanced features like inventory and bill pay
- Pricing can be steep for very small businesses or solo bookkeepers
- Occasional learning curve for complex customizations
- Customer support varies, with phone support limited to higher plans
Best For
Professional bookkeepers and small to medium businesses needing scalable, automated accounting with strong integrations and reporting.
Pricing
Starts at $30/month (Simple Start) up to $200/month (Advanced); annual discounts available, free trial offered.
Xero
specializedOnline accounting software with bank reconciliation, inventory management, and multi-currency support tailored for small to medium businesses.
Unlimited users across all plans, enabling seamless team and client collaboration without additional fees
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses and professional bookkeepers, offering comprehensive tools for invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, payroll, and financial reporting. It emphasizes real-time collaboration with unlimited users and seamless integrations with over 1,000 third-party apps. Bookkeepers appreciate its advisor dashboard for managing multiple clients efficiently, making it a robust solution for outsourced bookkeeping services.
Pros
- Unlimited users at no extra cost, ideal for bookkeepers serving multiple clients
- Automatic bank feeds and smart reconciliation tools save significant time
- Extensive integrations and mobile app for on-the-go access
Cons
- Advanced features like multi-currency and projects require higher-tier plans
- Inventory management is basic compared to specialized tools
- Customer support is ticket-based without phone or live chat for all users
Best For
Freelance bookkeepers and small accounting firms needing scalable, collaborative tools for client management.
Pricing
Early ($15/mo), Growing ($42/mo), Established ($78/mo) – USD pricing, annual billing, varies by country and excludes add-ons like payroll.
FreshBooks
specializedUser-friendly invoicing and bookkeeping tool with time tracking, expense management, and automated payments for freelancers and service providers.
Automated invoicing with built-in late payment reminders and one-click online payments via client portal
FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting platform tailored for small businesses, freelancers, and service providers, offering robust invoicing, time tracking, expense management, and basic bookkeeping features like bank reconciliation and financial reporting. It simplifies client management with proposals, contracts, and a client portal for approvals and payments. While it supports double-entry accounting, it shines in user-friendly automation rather than advanced enterprise-level bookkeeping.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with excellent mobile app for on-the-go bookkeeping
- Powerful invoicing tools including automation, recurring bills, and client portals
- Strong time tracking and project profitability insights for service-based clients
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization compared to full ERP systems
- No native inventory or payroll management (requires integrations)
- Pricing can feel steep for solo bookkeepers with basic needs
Best For
Bookkeepers serving small businesses, freelancers, or agencies who need simple, client-friendly invoicing and expense tracking without complex accounting demands.
Pricing
Starts at $19/month (Lite, 5 clients) up to $60/month (Select, unlimited clients), billed annually; free 30-day trial available.
Wave
specializedFree cloud accounting software providing invoicing, receipt scanning, and basic financial reporting for solopreneurs and small teams.
100% free unlimited accounting and invoicing with no hidden subscription fees
Wave is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses, freelancers, and solopreneurs, providing essential bookkeeping tools like invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting. It excels in simplicity and accessibility, with core features available at no monthly cost, allowing users to manage finances without subscription barriers. While robust for basic needs, it integrates additional paid services like payments and payroll for growing operations.
Pros
- Completely free core accounting and unlimited invoicing
- Intuitive, beginner-friendly interface with mobile receipt scanning
- Automatic bank transaction imports and categorization
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Transaction fees for payments (2.9% + 30¢ per card)
- Basic customer support primarily via email and self-help resources
Best For
Freelancers and very small businesses seeking simple, cost-free bookkeeping without complex needs.
Pricing
Free for accounting, invoicing, and reports; payments at 2.9% + 30¢ per credit card transaction; payroll from $20/month + $6/employee.
Zoho Books
specializedIntegrated online accounting solution with automation, inventory tracking, and CRM connectivity for growing businesses.
Powerful automation rules and smart bank feeds that categorize transactions and reduce manual entry by up to 80%.
Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses and freelancers, offering comprehensive bookkeeping tools like invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, inventory management, and financial reporting. It automates routine tasks such as recurring bills and payments, supports multi-currency transactions, and provides customizable dashboards for real-time insights. Integrated with the Zoho ecosystem and over 40 third-party apps, it streamlines workflows for growing teams.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with a robust free tier for very small businesses
- Intuitive interface with mobile app and automation rules for efficiency
- Seamless integrations with Zoho apps and third-party tools like PayPal and Stripe
Cons
- Payroll features limited to certain regions and require add-ons
- Customer support can be slow outside business hours
- Advanced inventory and project accounting locked behind higher plans
Best For
Small businesses and freelancers seeking affordable, scalable bookkeeping with strong automation and integrations.
Pricing
Free for organizations under $50K annual revenue; paid plans start at $20/month (Standard, 3 users), $50/month (Professional), up to $275+/month (Ultimate).
Sage Intacct
enterpriseScalable cloud financial management system delivering advanced reporting, multi-entity management, and compliance tools for mid-sized enterprises.
Multi-dimensional accounting allowing unlimited custom dimensions for precise transaction analysis
Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management and accounting software tailored for mid-market businesses, providing core bookkeeping functions like general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, cash management, and bank reconciliation. It stands out with advanced multi-dimensional accounting and multi-entity consolidation, enabling detailed tracking by dimensions such as location, department, project, or customer. The platform offers robust reporting, automation workflows, and seamless integrations with over 200 third-party apps, making it scalable for growing organizations.
Pros
- Multi-dimensional accounting for granular tracking
- Strong multi-entity management and consolidation
- Advanced automation, reporting, and integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High pricing not ideal for small businesses
- Customization requires professional services
Best For
Mid-sized businesses with multiple entities, complex structures, or growth needs requiring detailed financial tracking and scalability.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $15,000-$30,000 annually, depending on modules, users, and entities.
ZipBooks
specializedAffordable accounting software combining invoicing, time tracking, and profitability analytics for small businesses.
Free forever plan with unlimited invoices, expenses, and basic reports
ZipBooks is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses, freelancers, and solopreneurs, providing essential bookkeeping tools like invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting. It features automated bank feeds, time tracking, project management, and customizable invoices with online payments. The platform emphasizes simplicity and affordability, with a standout free plan that includes core functionalities for basic bookkeeping needs.
Pros
- Generous free plan with unlimited invoicing and basic bookkeeping
- Intuitive, modern interface that's quick to learn
- Integrated time tracking and project profitability insights
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise competitors like QuickBooks
- No built-in payroll or inventory management
Best For
Freelancers and micro-businesses needing a simple, cost-effective bookkeeping solution without advanced accounting requirements.
Pricing
Free plan available; paid tiers start at $17/month (Smarter plan), $37/month (Sophisticated), and $60/month (Accountant plan) billed annually.
Manager
otherFree, open-source desktop and cloud accounting app with customizable reporting and multi-currency support for independent bookkeepers.
100% free open-source core with unlimited features, users, and no vendor lock-in
Manager.io is a free, open-source accounting software designed for small businesses, freelancers, and bookkeepers, offering double-entry bookkeeping, invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and customizable financial reports. It supports multi-currency transactions, inventory management, and payroll in its editions, making it a comprehensive solution without subscription fees for the desktop version. Users can self-host or use the cloud edition for remote access.
Pros
- Completely free desktop version with no feature limitations or user caps
- Robust double-entry accounting, reporting, and customization options
- Offline functionality and data portability across devices
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to less intuitive interface
- Limited native integrations with third-party apps
- Community-based support rather than dedicated customer service
Best For
Cost-conscious bookkeepers and small business owners who need powerful, unrestricted accounting tools without ongoing fees.
Pricing
Free forever desktop/self-hosted version; cloud hosting from $19/month (annual discounts available).
GnuCash
otherFree, open-source double-entry accounting software for personal and small business finance tracking on desktop.
Strict double-entry accounting that automatically balances books and prevents errors common in single-entry systems
GnuCash is a free, open-source desktop accounting software that uses double-entry bookkeeping to manage personal finances and small business accounts effectively. It supports tracking of income, expenses, assets, liabilities, multiple currencies, stocks, and scheduled transactions. The software generates customizable reports, budgets, and graphs, making it suitable for detailed financial analysis on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no feature limitations
- Robust double-entry accounting ensures accuracy and audit trails
- Comprehensive reporting, budgeting, and multi-currency support
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Outdated UI lacks modern polish and intuitiveness
- No native cloud sync or mobile app for on-the-go access
Best For
Tech-savvy bookkeepers or small business owners seeking a powerful, cost-free desktop solution for detailed double-entry accounting.
Pricing
Free (open-source, donations encouraged).
Akaunting
otherFree, self-hosted open-source accounting platform with invoicing, expenses, and banking integration for small businesses.
Fully open-source and perpetually free with no usage limits or upsells
Akaunting is a free, open-source accounting software tailored for small businesses, freelancers, and bookkeepers, offering core bookkeeping functions like double-entry accounting, invoicing, expense tracking, and bank reconciliation. It supports multi-currency transactions, inventory management, and customizable reports, all accessible via a web-based interface. Self-hosted on your own server, it emphasizes data privacy and customization through a marketplace of apps.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no subscription fees
- Full data ownership through self-hosting
- Extensible via apps marketplace for added functionality
Cons
- Self-hosting requires technical setup and server maintenance
- Limited professional support (community-driven)
- No native mobile app, relying on web access
Best For
Tech-savvy small business owners and independent bookkeepers looking for a customizable, cost-free alternative to paid SaaS accounting tools.
Pricing
100% free open-source software; requires self-hosting (e.g., VPS costs $5-20/month); optional paid apps available.
Conclusion
The reviewed bookkeeper software varies in focus—from free tools for solopreneurs to scalable systems for growing businesses—but QuickBooks Online rises as the top choice, offering a comprehensive suite of invoicing, expense tracking, and payroll features. Xero and FreshBooks stand out as solid alternatives; Xero excels with its robust bank reconciliation and multi-currency support, while FreshBooks’ user-friendly design and time tracking make it perfect for freelancers. For most, QuickBooks Online is the best overall pick, though alternatives cater to specific needs.
Ready to simplify your bookkeeping? Dive into QuickBooks Online to leverage its all-in-one tools and take control of your finances with ease.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison