20 Best QuickBooks Online Alternatives of 2024
10 Best QuickBooks Online Alternatives Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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QuickBooks Online is a widely-used accounting software that helps businesses manage their finances, including invoicing, expenses, and payroll, with ease. However, some users seek alternatives due to its pricing structure, limited customization options, or specific feature requirements. Below are my suggestions for the best QuickBooks Online alternatives.
What is QuickBooks Online?
QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based accounting software designed to help businesses manage their finances. Small to medium-sized businesses use it for tasks such as invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting.
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Why Look for a QuickBooks Online Alternative?
While QuickBooks Online is certainly a popular and well-known option for payment processing, there are several reasons why you might be looking for an alternative option, including:
- Cost: QuickBooks Online can be expensive for small businesses.
- Complexity: The software may be too complicated for users with basic accounting needs.
- Customization: Limited customization options for specific business requirements.
- Customer Support: Users may find their customer support lacking or unresponsive.
- Integration: It may not integrate well with other tools or software you use.
There are alternatives to QuickBooks Online out there that provide more affordable pricing plans, simpler interfaces, better customization, improved customer support, and superior integration capabilities. These features can better align with the specific needs and preferences of your business.
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Best QuickBooks Alternatives: Pricing Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top QuickBooks alternatives to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Rippling | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| TimeTrex | From $5/user/month | Website |
| FloQast | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Bench | From $249/month (billed annually) | Website |
| FreeAgent | From $13.50/user/month | Website |
| Kashflow | From $14.50/user/month | Website |
| Accurants | From $15/user/month | Website |
| ZipBooks | From $15/user/month | Website |
| Holded | From $7.50/user/month | Website |
| Botkeeper | From $69/license/month | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare Software-
Deel
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Rippling
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
ClearCompany
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6
Best QuickBooks Online Alternative Reviews
Below are my in-depth summaries of my recommendations for the best QuickBooks Online alternatives. I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases to help you find the best fit for your needs.
Rippling
Best for managing accounting, finance, HR, and IT in one place
Rippling is a unified workforce management system that allows businesses to manage HR, IT, and finance all in one place. It offers features such as automating the employee lifecycle, remotely securing and configuring IT, and controlling and reporting on spend.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: Rippling is a strong QuickBooks alternative due to its integrated approach, combining HR, IT, and finance into one cohesive platform. Unlike QuickBooks, which focuses primarily on accounting and payroll, Rippling offers extensive HR management, IT automation, and comprehensive spend management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated payroll processing, global payroll support, tax filing, expense management, time tracking, benefits administration, employee onboarding, performance management, compliance automation, app provisioning, and device management.
Integrations include Dropbox, Salesforce, HubSpot, Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoom, QuickBooks, Xero, Zendesk, Jira, Trello, Asana, Okta, Duo Security, Lever, ADP, PayPal, Stripe, Expensify, and Gusto.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates HR, IT, and finance in one platform
- Global payroll support
- Pre-built workflow automation templates
Cons:
- Learning curve while trying to adapt to its extensive features
- Limited language support on the platform
TimeTrex is a comprehensive workforce management solution designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. It offers a cloud-based platform that includes time and attendance tracking, employee scheduling, and payroll processing.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: TimeTrex is a good alternative because of its robust workforce management features. The platform not only offers time tracking and payroll processing—features that overlap with QuickBooks Online—but it also excels in areas such as employee scheduling and biometric time clock integration. These features make TimeTrex particularly valuable for businesses that need to manage a large, diverse workforce across different locations with complex time tracking and payroll needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time attendance monitoring, customizable reporting, employee self-service portals, absence management, exception notifications, rule-based policies, performance reviews, accrual tracking, shift swapping, overtime alerts, job costing, and task management.
Integrations include ADP, Paychex, Sage HRMS, QuickBooks, Sage 50, Xero, Microsoft Dynamics, Ceridian, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Gusto.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated payroll and tax calculations
- Robust reporting features
- Advanced time tracking and scheduling
Cons:
- Occasional issues with rounding options for time punches
- User interfaced design is outdated
FloQast is a comprehensive tool designed to streamline accounting workflows and ensure compliance. It excels in providing robust workflow solutions and compliance management features.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I chose FloQast because of its robust workflow automation and strong compliance features. When evaluating the best QuickBooks alternatives, FloQast stood out for its ability to improve the accuracy and efficiency of financial close processes, making it a reliable choice for teams that prioritize compliance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated account reconciliations, variance analysis, and compliance management. These features help accounting teams close their books faster and with greater accuracy.
Integrations include Oracle NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Microsoft, SAP, FloQast Connect API, AWS, QuickBooks, Xero, BlackLine, and Workiva.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with major ERP systems
- Strong compliance management tools
- Comprehensive workflow automation
Cons:
- Limited to accounting and finance functions
- Requires a minimum number of seats
Bench provides online bookkeeping services for small businesses, offering dedicated bookkeeping experts and easy-to-use financial software. Bench customers benefit from a dedicated team to handle all bookkeeping tasks, ensuring accuracy and personalized service.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I chose Bench for its dedicated bookkeeping support, which is a significant advantage over QuickBooks Online. Bench provides a team of experts who manage your books, offering a more hands-off experience for entrepreneurs. This makes it a strong alternative for those seeking personalized and professional bookkeeping services.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dedicated bookkeeping experts, accurate monthly books, year-end tax-ready financial packages, and unlimited communication with your bookkeeping team. Additionally, Bench provides powerful financial reporting and real-time insights to help businesses stay on budget and make informed decisions.
Integrations include Stripe, Square, Shopify, Keap, PayPal, Amazon, Gusto, FreshBooks, QuickBooks, Clio, Brex, Attune, Xero, and Wave.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time financial insights
- Comprehensive financial reporting
- Dedicated bookkeeping team
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to DIY bookkeeping software
- Primarily focused on small to mid-sized businesses
FreeAgent is a cloud-based accounting software designed to help small businesses manage daily admin tasks and tax filing. It offers comprehensive tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and automatic tax calculations.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I chose FreeAgent because of its strong focus on simplifying day-to-day administrative tasks and tax compliance. When comparing options, FreeAgent stood out for its ability to automate and streamline these processes, making it easier for small business owners to stay organized and compliant.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing, expense tracking, banking, cash flow management, project management, and time tracking. It also offers tax-related features such as VAT, self-assessment, and end-of-year filing, making it a comprehensive tool for small business accounting.
Integrations include Amazon, PayPal, Stripe, GoCardless, Zapier, Mailchimp, Dropbox, Google Drive, Slack, and Receipt Bank.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong customer support
- User-friendly interface
- Comprehensive tax management features
Cons:
- Primarily UK-focused tax features
- Limited customization options
KashFlow is an accounting software solution designed to simplify bookkeeping, payroll, and tax compliance for small businesses and sole traders in the UK. It is particularly noted for its compliance with the UK's Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I included KashFlow in this list because of its strong focus on UK tax compliance, making it an excellent alternative for UK-based businesses. Its features for VAT returns, invoicing, and payroll management stand out, especially for those needing to adhere to MTD regulations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automatic VAT updates, direct submission to HMRC, customizable invoicing, and integration with multiple payment providers. It also provides a comprehensive payroll management system and real-time financial reporting.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, GoCardless, Dropbox, Google Drive, Mailchimp, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, and eBay.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable invoicing
- Comprehensive payroll management
- Strong UK tax compliance features
Cons:
- Inventory management features are basic
- Limited features for non-UK businesses
Accurants is a business management software that combines accounting, project management, invoicing, and time tracking into one platform. It is best because it offers a unified solution to manage multiple aspects of a business.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I included Accurants in this list because it provides a comprehensive range of integrated tools that streamline business operations. When comparing options, Accurants stood out for its ability to consolidate accounting, project management, and invoicing into a single, cohesive system, making it a versatile choice for businesses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing, time tracking, project management, and accounting within a single platform. It also includes CRM, helpdesk, email marketing, and payroll functionalities, making it a comprehensive business management tool.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, Plaid, Google GSuite, Microsoft Outlook, and Google Analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Simplifies billing with robust invoicing capabilities
- Comprehensive accounting and project management features
- Wide range of integrated tools
Cons:
- Customer support options not clearly outlined
- Learning curve due to the wide range of features
ZipBooks is a free accounting software and online invoicing tool designed to simplify bookkeeping for small businesses. It offers an intuitive user interface and comprehensive features that streamline accounting tasks.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I chose ZipBooks for its simplicity and ease of use, which makes it an excellent alternative to QuickBooks Online. Its user-friendly interface and intelligent insights help users manage their bookkeeping without needing extensive accounting knowledge.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing, payment tracking, automated billing, and intelligent insights. It also provides mobile accounting capabilities, allowing users to manage their business. The software's auto-categorization and color-coding make bookkeeping straightforward and accessible.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Gusto, Google Drive, Slack, Trello, Asana, QuickBooks, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time financial insights
- Intelligent expense categorization
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- No inventory management
- Customer support can be slow
Holded is a business management software that integrates accounting, invoicing, CRM, and inventory management in a single platform. It combines multiple business functions into one tool, improving efficiency and profitability.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I included Holded in this list because it offers a wide range of features that cover various aspects of business management, making it a versatile tool for SMEs. Its ability to automate up to 95% of accounting functions and provide real-time data and reports makes it a strong contender against QuickBooks Online.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include integrated accounting and invoicing, project management tools that help track progress and deadlines, and CRM functionalities to manage customer relationships. It also offers inventory management and recurring invoice features, providing a complete solution for business operations.
Integrations include Google Calendar, PayPal, Stripe, Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, Zapier, Mailchimp, Slack, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data and reporting
- High level of automation in accounting
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform
Cons:
- Limited customer support options
- Complexity may be overwhelming for very small businesses
Botkeeper is an automated bookkeeping solution designed to support accounting firms with scalable and accurate financial management. It leverages machine learning to handle complex bookkeeping tasks, providing high accuracy and efficiency.
Why it's a good QuickBooks Online alternative: I included Botkeeper in this list because it offers a unique focus on accounting firms, providing tailored automation solutions that can significantly reduce manual bookkeeping tasks. This specialization makes it a strong alternative to QuickBooks Online for firms needing scalable, automated bookkeeping.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include its Transaction Manager, which automatically categorizes and integrates transactions into accounting software, and Smart Connect, which fetches bank statements and financial data in real time. Additionally, the Activity Hub centralizes communications, ensuring seamless interaction between firms, clients, and Botkeeper.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, FreshBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Gusto, ADP, Bill.com, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable pricing model
- Reduces manual bookkeeping tasks through automation
- Strong security compliance (SOC2 Type 2)
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Initial setup may require a learning curve
Other QuickBooks Online Alternatives
If you’d like a few more options to consider, here are several other worthwhile QuickBooks Online alternatives that are also worth checking out:
- Patriot Payroll
For affordable and easy payroll and accounting management
- AccountEdge
For advanced data management
- Kashoo
For automated income and expense tracking
- LessAccounting
For freelancers and small businesses
- Big Red Cloud
For simple yet powerful accounting solutions
- Wave
For free accounting software
- Zoho Books
For automation and workflow management
- Sage Business Cloud Accounting
For scalability and growth
- NetSuite
For comprehensive ERP solutions
- Xero
For multi-currency support
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Selection Criteria for QuickBooks Online Alternatives
Selecting alternatives to QuickBooks Online requires a detailed understanding of the features and functionalities that serve common use cases, buyer needs, and pain points. As a software-testing expert, I’ve personally tried and researched many accounting tools to make sure my recommendations are accurate.
Here’s a summary of the selection criteria I used to create this list:
Core Functionalities (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases first:
- Invoicing and Billing: The ability to create, send, and manage invoices and billing processes.
- Expense Tracking: Efficient tracking and categorization of expenses.
- Financial Reporting: Generation of detailed financial reports and statements.
- Bank Reconciliation: Seamless reconciliation of bank transactions and credit card statements.
- Payroll Management: Integrated payroll processing capabilities.
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score): To help me find the best software out of numerous available options, I also kept a keen eye out for unique features, including the following:
- Advanced Integrations: Tools that offer seamless integrations with other business software like CRM, e-commerce platforms, and payment gateways.
- Automation: Solutions that leverage AI and machine learning to automate repetitive tasks, such as expense categorization and invoice processing.
- Customizable Dashboards: Interactive dashboards that allow users to personalize their financial overview.
- Mobile Accessibility: Full-featured mobile apps for Android and iOS devices that offer the same functionality as the desktop version.
- Scalability: Tools that can grow with the business, offering tiered pricing and feature sets.
Usability (10% of total score): To evaluate the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive Interface: Clean and user-friendly design with a logical layout.
- Drag-and-Drop Functionality: Features like drag-and-drop for scheduling and organizing tasks.
- Accessibility: Easy navigation and accessibility features for users of all levels.
Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each software provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:
- Interactive Product Tours: Step-by-step guides to familiarize new users with the software.
- Training Videos and Webinars: Comprehensive resources to help users get up to speed quickly.
- Templates: Ready-to-use templates to simplify initial setup.
- Supportive Chatbots: AI-driven chatbots to assist with common queries during onboarding.
Customer Support (10% of total score): To evaluate the level of customer support each vendor offered, I considered the following:
- 24/7 Availability: Round-the-clock support options, including live chat, phone, and email support.
- Knowledge Base: Extensive documentation and FAQs for self-service.
- Community Forums: Active user forums where customers can seek advice and share experiences.
- Dedicated Account Managers: Personalized support from dedicated account managers for larger clients.
Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the value of each software, I considered the following factors:
- Competitive Pricing: Reasonable pricing structures compared to competitors.
- Feature-to-Cost Ratio: Evaluating the number of features offered relative to the cost.
- Flexible Plans: Availability of different plans to suit varying business sizes and needs.
Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how well a product performs in the hands of real users. Here are the factors I considered:
- Overall Satisfaction: High ratings in customer satisfaction.
- Ease of Use: Positive feedback on the usability of the software.
- Reliability: Consistent reviews praising the reliability and performance.
- Support Quality: Favorable reviews on the quality of customer support.
- Feature Completeness: Reviews indicating that the software meets most or all user needs.
By focusing on these criteria, I was able to identify alternatives to QuickBooks Online that are well-suited to specific business requirements, ensuring a smoother transition and better overall experience.
QuickBooks Online Key Features
Here are the key accounting features of QuickBooks Online that your alternative software should be able to replicate or improve upon in order to be a good fit:
- Invoicing: Create and send professional invoices.
- Expense Tracking: Track and categorize expenses automatically.
- Bank Reconciliation: Match transactions with your bank statements.
- Financial Reporting: Generate detailed financial reports.
- Time Tracking: Track billable hours and employee time.
- Inventory Management: Monitor stock levels and manage inventory.
- Payroll Management: Process payroll and manage employee payments.
- Tax Preparation: Calculate and prepare tax forms.
- Multi-User Access: Allow multiple users with different access levels.
- Mobile App: Access your financial data on the go.
Are There Any Free QuickBooks Online Alternatives?
Looking for free alternatives to QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Desktop? There are several options available that can help you manage your accounting needs without the associated costs. Here are some of the best free tools you can consider:
- Wave: Wave offers a comprehensive suite of features for small businesses, including invoicing, accounting, and receipt scanning. It's particularly suitable for freelancers and small businesses with basic accounting needs.
- GnuCash: GnuCash is a downloadable, open-source accounting software that offers double-entry bookkeeping and detailed financial reports. It's available for Windows, Mac, and other operating systems.
- Zoho Books: Zoho Books offers a free plan for businesses with revenue of less than $50,000 per annum. It includes features like invoicing, expenses, banking, and reconciliation.
- Odoo Accounting: Odoo Accounting is part of the Odoo suite of apps and offers extended functionalities for accounts payable and receivable, customizable KPI reports, and analytics accounting.
- TurboCASH: TurboCASH is a free, open-source accounting software designed for small to large-sized businesses. It includes features for managing inventory, multi-company support, and VAT/GST tracking.
- Akaunting: Akaunting is a free, open-source accounting software that allows you to create invoices, track expenses, and manage your small business finances online from any device.
- Manager: Manager is a desktop-based accounting software that offers a simple interface and free modules for various accounting needs. It's a good option for those who prefer to work offline.
These tools provide a range of features that can help you manage your business finances effectively without the need for a paid subscription.
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