QuickBooks vs Xero vs FreshBooks: Best Accounting Software in 2025?
QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks are the leading small business accounting tools. Here is how they compare in 2025.
QuickBooks vs Xero vs FreshBooks: Best Accounting Software in 2025?
Quick Answer
For established small businesses in the US needing full accounting: QuickBooks Online — most accountants know it, most integrations, most features. For global small businesses wanting clean UX: Xero — beautiful interface, unlimited users on all plans. For freelancers and service businesses: FreshBooks — best invoicing, client management, time tracking.
QuickBooks Online — Best for US Small Business
Pricing: Simple Start $18/month, Essentials $27/month, Plus $38/month, Advanced $76/month
Best for: US-based small businesses, companies with inventory, businesses needing payroll integration
QuickBooks dominates US small business accounting. Almost every bookkeeper and CPA knows QuickBooks, making it the safest choice for collaboration. The most integrations of any accounting platform. AI features include automated categorization and anomaly detection.
FreshBooks — Best for Service Businesses
Pricing: Lite $19/month, Plus $33/month, Premium $60/month
Best for: Freelancers, consultants, agencies, service-based businesses that invoice clients
FreshBooks was built for service businesses, not retail. Superior invoicing with automatic payment reminders, late fees, and client portals. Time tracking built in. Proposal and contract features for project-based work. Simpler than QuickBooks for businesses that do not need inventory or complex reporting.
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