To become certified, advisors complete learning modules on Xero’s key features and pass a practical exam. If you have any further questions about Xero, or are looking for an online accountant to handle all our financial needs. Having reviewed all the key features and aspects of Xero versus QuickBooks, a question you may well be asking yourself is, “Are QuickBooks and Xero the same? Both platforms are accountancy systems that will help you keep track of your finances and help to make your business more efficient by connecting seamlessly with software like Katana.

Includes tools that help automate the reconciliation process, along with a global search function and customizable dashboard; has a simple layout. Then, we award each piece of software a rating out of five for each of these categories to understand how they compare against each other. Aside from helping us to determine which solution is stronger overall, these scores also help us to determine which product is better suited to different types of businesses. That said, both QuickBooks and Xero often offer a special entry deal for your first few months, although these deals can vary.

Xero Vs. QuickBooks (2024 Comparison)

Both QuickBooks and FreshBooks are designed to offer useful features when it comes to expense tracking. Get the details of the bills from the bills dashboard to know what you owe, from whom, and when to pay. You can pay partially or fully and let QuickBooks automatically track the amount you paid and update the billing dashboard accordingly. QuickBooks Online lets you track inventory with real-time reports and updates.

• The software must also have a mobile app to enable users to perform accounting tasks even when away from their laptops or desktops.
• The Online version has a monthly subscription charge, rather than a hefty upfront fee.
• Neither QuickBooks or Xero offers a permanent free plan, but if that’s what you need, we have a guide to the best free accounting software.
• On the other hand, Xero lets you add your company logo and edit fields, but you can’t change the invoice colors.
• In addition, Quickbooks is pretty straightforward in terms of user-friendliness.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team. I have learned never to underestimate the importance of live product support, particularly when it comes to managing my money. Another benefit is that QuickBooks Online is better for small businesses, as you’re able to scale with your growing company.

Inventory Tracking

In today’s business world, everyone who owns a business must thoroughly understand accounting. Having a solid knowledge of accounting makes the individual realize the company’s performance. While paying an amount to the contractor, you will need to track this on a 1099. QuickBooks also tracks separate expenses like paying a vendor or contractor for equipment rentals.

You have a growing startup

Smooth integration with other business tools and applications is paramount in the modern business landscape. Assess the compatibility of the accounting software with the tools your business relies on. Whether it’s customer relationship management (CRM) software, ecommerce platforms, or point-of-sale systems, seamless integration enhances workflow efficiency and prevents data silos. As you can see in the example of Xero and QuickBooks Online, selecting the right accounting software might not be that easy. So you might want to approach it wisely and thoroughly compare the two solutions agains your requirements. That means careful consideration, planning, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of your business.

Xero prices vs. QuickBooks

It has comparable invoicing features, but lacks an audit trail and doesn’t integrate with third-party apps. If you need to give accounting access to more than five people, Xero could be the better option for you. QuickBooks Online’s most popular Plus plan tops out at five users; its highest-tier Advanced plan allows up to 25 users, but that plan is expensive at $200 per month. In contrast, all Xero plans offer unlimited users and its highest-tier Established plan is a more affordable $70 per month. Includes project tracking tools in most expensive plan; limited transaction tracking tags; lacks industry-specific reports; users with multiple businesses must pay for separate subscriptions. Track mileage, send invoices and get a snapshot of your business cash flow with both Xero and QuickBooks.

Now, let’s look at what QuickBooks Online has under the hood to empower business accounting and business management. In the heartbeat of Xero’s functionality lies the power of real-time collaboration, transforming how teams engage with financial data. With simultaneous access and work capabilities, multiple users can contribute seamlessly, accelerating workflow and eliminating bottlenecks.

While you can certainly use Xero to check most of your invoicing boxes, you get more flexibility and options with QuickBooks. All QuickBooks pricing packages include automatic expense importing and categorization. You can also take photos of receipts and upload them what is absorption costing from the mobile app. QuickBooks will automatically match receipts to recorded expenses or generate new expenses accordingly. You can cancel anytime, you’ll get 24/7 support during your trial, and your prices don’t change based on whether you pursue the trial.

While Xero and QuickBooks are wildly popular, they’re not the only options available. There are a number of alternative accounting software programs that can offer powerful features and a user-friendly interface. With a research score of 5/5 for software attributes and 5/5 for its accounts receivable features, the complimentary software gives Quickbooks and Xero a run for their money too.