Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

QuickBooks Online VS Xero

Compare QuickBooks Online VS Xero and see what are their differences

QuickBooks Online logo QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online is a Cloud Accounting for small business that can be used on iPad, mobile phone or computer to do invoicing, billing, run reports, or even pay employees online.

Xero logo Xero

Xero is online accounting for your small business.
  • QuickBooks Online Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-08
  • Xero Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-19

Xero

Website
xero.com
$ Details
paid Free Trial $9.0 / Monthly (Send 5 invoices and quotes / Enter 5 bills)

QuickBooks Online features and specs

  • Accessibility
    QuickBooks Online allows users to access their financial data from any device with an internet connection, making it convenient for business owners and accountants who need to work remotely or on the go.
  • Automatic Updates
    Being a cloud-based service, QuickBooks Online automatically updates its software, so users always have access to the latest features and security patches without manual intervention.
  • Integrations
    QuickBooks Online integrates with a wide array of third-party applications such as Shopify, PayPal, and Stripe, enhancing its functionality and enabling seamless workflows across different platforms.
  • Scalability
    It offers different pricing plans and features suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, allowing companies to scale their subscription and functionalities as they grow.
  • Multi-User Capability
    QuickBooks Online supports multiple users, making it easier for teams to collaborate on financial tasks and maintain up-to-date records.

Possible disadvantages of QuickBooks Online

  • Cost
    The subscription-based pricing model can become expensive over time, especially for businesses that require advanced features or multiple user access.
  • Internet Dependency
    Since it is cloud-based, you need a reliable internet connection to access QuickBooks Online. Any disruptions in internet service can affect productivity and access to essential financial data.
  • Learning Curve
    New users may find QuickBooks Online complex and may require time to become proficient with its wide array of features and functionalities, potentially necessitating training.
  • Limited Customization
    QuickBooks Online offers limited customization options compared to its desktop counterpart, which can be restrictive for businesses needing tailored solutions.
  • Customer Support
    Some users have reported that customer support can be slow and not as helpful as needed when addressing complex issues or technical problems.

Xero features and specs

  • Cloud-based Access
    Xero is cloud-based, allowing users to access their accounting data from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • User-friendly Interface
    Xero features a clean, intuitive interface, making it easier for users to navigate and manage their finances.
  • Integration Options
    Xero integrates with a wide range of third-party applications, enhancing its functionality and flexibility for business needs.
  • Real-time Updates
    Xero provides real-time updates on financial data, enabling more accurate and timely decision-making.
  • Comprehensive Feature Set
    Includes a variety of tools for invoicing, bank reconciliation, inventory management, and more, making it a one-stop solution for many businesses.
  • Customer Support
    Offers 24/7 customer support, ensuring that users can get help whenever they need it.

Possible disadvantages of Xero

  • Cost
    While Xero offers a range of pricing plans, the cost can add up, especially for small businesses or freelancers on a tight budget.
  • Complexity for Larger Businesses
    May not be as robust in handling the needs of very large businesses compared to some of its enterprise-level competitors.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, there can be a learning curve for users who are not familiar with accounting software.
  • Limited Customization
    Some users may find the customization options for reports and invoices to be limited compared to other accounting software.
  • Occasional Connectivity Issues
    As a cloud-based service, it can sometimes suffer from internet connectivity issues that can disrupt access to financial data.

QuickBooks Online videos

Which QuickBooks Online Should You Buy in 2020?

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to use QuickBooks Online: a super fast 6-minute review & tutorial
  • Review - My Honest Review of Intuit Quickbooks Online (QBO)

Xero videos

Xero vs QuickBooks Online 2019

More videos:

  • Review - Xero Accounting Software Review
  • Review - 3 Minute Overview of Xero Accounting Software

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to QuickBooks Online and Xero)
Accounting
39 39%
61% 61
Accounting & Finance
51 51%
49% 49
Bookkeeping
38 38%
62% 62
Small Business
40 40%
60% 60

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare QuickBooks Online and Xero

QuickBooks Online Reviews

  1. Elle Bennett
    · Webmaster at FixedFeeTaxReturn ·
    Very good for self service accounting

    This is a great solution for self-service bookkeeping needs and is very affordable.


11 Alternatives to QuickBooks in 2024
Wave gets you through the whole receivables process similarly to QuickBooks. It allows you to create invoices, accept payments, and stay on top of any outstanding accounts with crystal-clear reporting. Like QuickBooks, Wave also lets you track your income and expenses, helps you stay on top of your financial health with financial statements, and offers support for multiple...
Source: www.bench.co
Small Business Expense Tracking Apps: Streamlining Financial Management
In conclusion, the realm of expense tracking apps offers diverse solutions for small businesses. Whether opting for established platforms like QuickBooks Online, Expensify, Zoho Expense, or considering newer entrants like Centy, these tools empower businesses to take control of their finances and pave the way for sustainable growth.
Source: medium.com
Top 9 NetSuite Alternative Software for Professional Services
QuickBooks is a project accounting solution that is similar to Xero in its capabilities and target users. In comparison, it offers a more affordable entry point with its basic pricing model, which can make it a better option for agencies with a need for limited support. As with Xero, agencies looking to switch from NetSuite to a more comprehensive agency management software...
Source: productive.io
Top 9 Odoo Alternatives
We We Chose It: Intuit Quickbooks Online is a cost-effective accounting solution for individuals, freelancers, startups, and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs). While limited in features compared to Odoo, it is a great alternative for those looking to downsize into something more basic, while also providing features Odoo may not excel at, including tax management.
20 best accounting software tools
If you’re looking for a free alternative to the more expensive accounting tools such as QuickBooks and FreshBooks, you can try Wave Accounting – you’ll get a cost-effective invoicing and accounting app that allows card processing and handling payroll.
Source: clockify.me

Xero Reviews

11 Alternatives to QuickBooks in 2024
Xero lets you access your finances on any device with an internet connection and automatically imports all of your transactions. It also gives you (and your accountant) many of the financial reporting features that make QuickBooks so attractive, without the feature overload. An inexpensive alternative, packages are starting at just $15/month and going up to $78/month...
Source: www.bench.co
The 10 Best Alternatives to GnuCash for Managing Your Finances
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software platform designed for small and medium-sized businesses. With a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with third-party apps, Xero simplifies financial management and helps businesses keep their finances organized and up to date.
Top 10 QuickBooks Alternatives (Free/Paid)
Xero is the best yet small accounting software that allows you to collaborate with advisors and lets you provide access to your employees to work on it. Using this free version of QuickBooks Desktop, you can send online invoices when online payments are made. Xero is a cloud-based accounting software designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a wide range of...
Top 9 NetSuite Alternative Software for Professional Services
Xero offers an accessible, intuitive user experience suitable for smaller companies. However, certain reviewers have noted that the pricing points can be high for the tool’s value. As Xero doesn’t provide end-to-end project management support, investing in a unified platform with Xero integration is something you can consider.
Source: productive.io
5 Best Alternatives to QuickBooks Accounting Software
Easy-to-use dashboard: Both QuickBooks Online and Xero have intuitive dashboards that present all relevant data, including cash flow from all banks. While QuickBooks takes a more sophisticated approach to this, Xero’s style is more streamlined.

Social recommendations and mentions

Xero might be a bit more popular than QuickBooks Online. We know about 1 link to it since March 2021 and only 1 link to QuickBooks Online. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

QuickBooks Online mentions (1)

  • Quickbooks over VPN... FML
    Quick books now have online version. It’s quick, backed up and online. Try to get them to purchase it. Will solve all their problems. https://quickbooks.intuit.com/online/. Source: over 2 years ago

Xero mentions (1)

  • I would like some input on accounting software
    Thanks, will you be able to sign me up on South African packages as well? The naming scheme and pricing is different for xero.com/us and xero.com/za. Source: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing QuickBooks Online and Xero, you can also consider the following products

FreshBooks - The ideal accounting software for small business owners.

Oracle NetSuite - NetSuite is the leading integrated cloud business software suite, including business accounting, ERP, CRM and ecommerce software.

QuickBooks - Business runs better with QuickBooks, the #1 accounting solution for small business.

Zoho Books - Smart Accounting for Growing Business

Sage Intacct - Intacct is a cloud-based accounting and financial management system that is designed for the businesses of all levels.

Wave Financial - Award-winning financial software designed for entrepreneurs.