Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

QuickBooks Pro VS QuickBooks Online

Compare QuickBooks Pro VS QuickBooks Online and see what are their differences

QuickBooks Pro logo QuickBooks Pro

Learn why QuickBooks Desktop Pro is the desktop accounting software 94% of users would recommend to a friend. Learn about features, pricing and what's new for 2020.

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.
  • QuickBooks Pro Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-22
  • QuickBooks Online Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-08

QuickBooks Pro features and specs

  • Comprehensive Features
    QuickBooks Pro offers a wide range of features including invoicing, expense tracking, payroll management, and financial reporting, making it a robust tool for small to medium-sized businesses.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software has a well-organized and intuitive interface, which simplifies navigation and reduces the learning curve for new users.
  • Integration Capabilities
    QuickBooks Pro can seamlessly integrate with various third-party applications, including payment gateways, CRM systems, and e-commerce platforms, enhancing its versatility and functionality.
  • Customer Support
    Intuit provides comprehensive customer support options including phone support, live chat, and an extensive online knowledge base, ensuring that users can get help when they need it.
  • Regular Updates
    QuickBooks Pro receives regular updates and improvements, which helps in keeping the software aligned with modern accounting standards and user needs.
  • Data Security
    QuickBooks Pro offers strong data security measures including encryption and regular backups, ensuring that sensitive financial data is protected.

Possible disadvantages of QuickBooks Pro

  • Cost
    QuickBooks Pro can be relatively expensive, particularly for very small businesses or freelancers, with upfront costs and ongoing subscription fees for updates and support.
  • Limited User Licenses
    The software typically supports a limited number of users (up to three), which may not be sufficient for growing businesses with more extensive accounting needs.
  • Installation and Setup
    As a desktop-based software, QuickBooks Pro requires installation and setup on individual computers, which can be time-consuming and complicated for users not familiar with software installation.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, the depth and breadth of features can result in a significant learning curve, especially for users who are new to accounting software.
  • Limited Mobile Access
    Being a desktop-based application, QuickBooks Pro lacks the flexibility that cloud-based solutions offer, resulting in limited access for users who need to manage their finances on the go.
  • Performance Issues
    The software can experience performance issues such as slow loading times or occasional crashes, particularly when handling large volumes of data.

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.

QuickBooks Pro videos

QuickBooks Premier for New Desktop Users

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)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to QuickBooks Pro and QuickBooks Online)
Accounting
22 22%
78% 78
Small Business
39 39%
61% 61
Accounting & Finance
0 0%
100% 100
ERP
100 100%
0% 0

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 Pro and QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Pro Reviews

We have no reviews of QuickBooks Pro yet.
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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

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, QuickBooks Pro should be more popular than QuickBooks Online. It has been mentiond 2 times since March 2021. 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 Pro mentions (2)

  • Intuit Misleading Info
    I'm a MSP and am trying to assist my client in getting Quickbooks Premier Plus 2023 for 3 users. When going to the product page for Quickbooks desktop (https://quickbooks.intuit.com/desktop/) it shows that Premier "Includes 5 Users." However, it only includes 1 user and makes you pay $300/additional user, up to 5. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Emergency help needed!!!!! not very tech savvy mom, tasked with acquiring a laptop to use to run QuickBooks with payroll.
    According to this: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/desktop/pro/ The requirements are for a Windows PC. Source: over 3 years ago

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

What are some alternatives?

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

FreshBooks - The ideal accounting software for small business owners.

Xero - Xero is online accounting for your small business.

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

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

PeopleSoft - Discover how Oracle's PeopleSoft applications are designed to address the most complex business requirements. They provide comprehensive business and industry solutions, enabling organizations.

Zoho Books - Smart Accounting for Growing Business