6 alternatives to Quickbooks that make accounting a breeze
QuickBooks has long been the popular accounting software pick, and it is loved for its wide array of features. However, as businesses grow and evolve, so do their accounting needs. It is vital to consider which accounting software other than QuickBooks truly fits your unique business journey—because, let’s face it, there is no one-size-fits-all here!
In this article, we’ll explore six top QuickBooks alternatives. From Xero to Sage, we’ll dissect each option and help you find the right tool that complements your business and makes you look forward to crunching numbers. Let's take a look.
The top 6 QuickBooks alternatives for small business
While we love QuickBooks and recognize it as a leader in the industry, we also understand that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. We want to empower small businesses to find the perfect software, which means exploring all options to fit your unique needs best. Therefore, let’s check out the top six contenders for software similar to QuickBooks and see what they offer.
Xero
Meet Xero, the accounting software that’s sleek and user-friendly. With robust features like thorough payroll options and unlimited user access, Xero makes collaboration easier and integrates well with many other tools you probably already use. It’s a compelling alternative to QuickBooks desktop. Plus, it integrates with Expensify!
Pros: User-friendly interface, robust features, unlimited users, integrates well with other tools.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, a steep learning curve for complex accounting tasks.
Who can use it: Medium-sized businesses looking for collaborative accounting solutions, companies with multiple team members who need access to financial data, and businesses that heavily rely on third-party integrations. Particularly suitable for companies that need robust payroll features and don't mind investing in comprehensive accounting software.
Sage Business Cloud Accounting
Sage Business Cloud Accounting stands out with its in-depth reporting and impressive integration capabilities, catering to businesses of all sizes. It provides detailed financial insights but can be complex.
Pros: In-depth reporting, integrations with other tools, suitable for businesses of various sizes.
Cons: Can be complex for small businesses, and pricing can be higher for advanced features.
Who can use it: Growing businesses that need detailed financial reporting, companies with dedicated accounting staff who can handle complex features, and organizations that require extensive integration capabilities. Ideal for businesses that prioritize comprehensive financial insights over simplified interfaces.
FreeAgent
FreeAgent takes automation and tax calculations to the dance floor, excelling in handling VAT requirements. It’s tailored for those who love efficiency and have a UK-based business.
Pros: Focus on automation and tax calculations, suitable for businesses with VAT requirements.
Cons: Primarily designed for UK-based businesses with limited international support.
Who can use it: UK-based small businesses and freelancers, particularly those dealing with VAT calculations and requirements. Perfect for contractors and small business owners who want automated tax handling and prefer software tailored to UK tax regulations.
ZipBooks
ZipBooks zeroes in on collaboration, partnering effortlessly with accountants and integrating smoothly with payroll services. It’s great for those who work in team settings, but may feel like too much if you only need simple accounting features. That is, unless you really want a robust accounting software alternative to QuickBooks.
Pros: Focus on collaboration with accountants and seamless integration with payroll services.
Cons: Limited features compared to other options and may not be suitable for businesses with complex needs.
Who can use it: Small to medium-sized businesses that frequently collaborate with external accountants, teams that need simple payroll integration, and companies looking for a straightforward QuickBooks alternative. Best suited for businesses that value collaboration features over advanced accounting capabilities.
OneUp
OneUp is great at inventory management, point-of-sale integration, and sales tracking. While it serves retail-based businesses well, this accounting tool might seem excessive for smaller operations or service-based businesses.
Pros: Designed for retail businesses, inventory management, and point-of-sale integration.
Cons: Less suitable for service-based businesses, may be overkill for small businesses.
Who can use it: Retail businesses with inventory management needs, brick-and-mortar stores requiring point-of-sale integration, and companies focusing on sales tracking. Particularly valuable for businesses that need robust inventory and sales features in their accounting software.
Tiller
Tiller specializes in transforming Google Sheets into accounting powerhouses. Tiller might be the one if you love automated data entry and nifty financial report generators.
Pros: Automates data entry, generates financial reports, and integrates with Google Sheets.
Cons: Requires technical knowledge to set up and it is not full-featured accounting software.
Who can use it: Tech-savvy small business owners and freelancers who are comfortable with Google Sheets, data-driven professionals who want customizable financial reporting, and businesses looking for automated data entry solutions. Ideal for those who prefer spreadsheet-based accounting and are willing to handle some technical setup.
Four key factors to consider when it comes to accounting software
If you’re searching for accounting software that’s a great alternative to QuickBooks for your small business, here are four major factors to keep in mind:
Business size and complexity: Your accounting needs will vary depending on whether you’re running a cozy shop or a sprawling enterprise. Don’t settle for too tight or overly baggy software—find your perfect fit.
Industry-specific requirements: Are you in retail, professional services, or nonprofits? Each industry has its own needs, and your software should cater to them. Think of it like shopping for shoes: stilettos won’t do well on a construction site.
Budget: Let's be honest—dollars matter. Do compare costs, but remember that sometimes saving a buck means losing out on essential features.
Must-have features and integrations: Ensure your software can handle invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and everything else you need to run your business—it should integrate seamlessly with other tools you use.
How Expensify simplifies expense management with QuickBooks
Expense management can often feel like a drag. However, with Expensify, tracking and reporting expenses is smooth and easy. Snap a photo of your receipt, and voilà! Expensify does the math and even submits reports automatically. Those endless hours of manual entry? Poof, gone!
On top of that, Expensify complements some of the most popular accounting software out there. Whether using QuickBooks or one of its alternatives like Xero, Sage, and others, Expensify seamlessly integrates, ensuring your expense reports are accurate and headache-free.
If you haven’t tried Expensify yet, here’s why you should:
Automatic receipt scanning: Save time with OCR technology.
One-click report submission: Simplifies reporting, no more chasing down approvals.
Mobile and desktop access: Manage expenses on-the-go with the Expensify mobile app or from the office on your desktop – your choice.
No matter your choice of accounting software, Expensify is the perfect sidekick, helping you transform expense management into a process as easy as pie. Enjoy smoother finances and focus on what truly matters – running your business.
Additional things to think about when choosing an accounting software
We've gone over quite an extensive list of accounting software alternatives to QuickBooks, but it’s crucial to find the right tool for your business needs. To make your decision a bit easier, here are some additional things to consider when it comes to accounting software:
Search for a user-friendly interface and intuitive design. Clicking around aimlessly in a complex maze isn't anyone's idea of fun.
Check for mobile compatibility. If you're always on the run, your accounting data should be in your back pocket, not just your desktop.
Research reviews and testimonials. Don't be fooled by shiny marketing jargon. Listen to the voices of fellow users.
Consider customer support and training. Ensure the software provider has your back with adequate support.
Embrace the power of the free trial. Test-drive different options before you fully commit.
FAQs about alternatives to QuickBooks
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Yes. Front-runners like Xero and Sage provide effective alternatives with features that often rival what QuickBooks rolls out. These competitors cater to businesses seeking anything from user-friendly interfaces and specific features to those who want a more budget-friendly financial tool.
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While not strictly an accounting package like QuickBooks, Google Sheets can get you pretty far in the early days of your business. However, if you are not a spreadsheet wizard, or as your business starts to get real traction, you should transition to an actual accounting software.
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Xero is likely the best alternative, although Quickbooks is the world's most widely used accounting software. If you are not using Quickbooks, we recommend that you go with Xero or an accounting package designed specifically for your industry. Both Quickbooks and Xero integrate with Expensify, so those are great options!
