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Quick verdict

FreshBooks is easier and built around invoicing and time tracking: great for freelancers and service firms. QuickBooks is the more complete accounting system for growing businesses.

Side by side

FreshBooksQuickBooks Online
Our rating4.3/54.4/5
Value4/53.7/5
Features4.2/54.8/5
Ease of use4.8/54.3/5
Output quality4.3/54.6/5
CategoryAccounting & invoicingAccounting & invoicing
Free planNo: 30-day free trial, no cardNo: 30-day free trial
Cheapest paid plan (monthly)$23/mo$38/mo
Same plan billed yearly - -
Top planPremium: $70/moAdvanced: $340/mo
Seats1 user; $11/mo per extra team memberUsers included per plan
Trial / refund30-day free trial, no credit card30-day free trial (or a 3-month discount)
PlatformsWeb, iOS, AndroidWeb, iOS, Android
Best forFreelancers and service businesses that bill clients for timeUS small businesses that want the accounting software their accountant already uses

FreshBooks: pros & cons

  • Easiest invoicing and time tracking
  • Great client-facing experience
  • Frequent intro promos
  • Client limits on Lite and Plus
  • Extra users cost $11/mo each

Read the full FreshBooks review

QuickBooks Online: pros & cons

  • Most accountants know it
  • Huge app ecosystem
  • Payroll, payments and inventory options
  • Simple Start is $38/mo for one user
  • Big jumps between tiers
  • Frequent price increases

Read the full QuickBooks Online review

At a glance

FreshBooks QuickBooks Online
Entry Lite $23 (5 clients) Simple Start $38
Extra users $11/mo each Included by plan
Inventory Limited Plus and above

Frequently asked questions

Which is easier?

FreshBooks.

Which is better for product businesses?

QuickBooks, for inventory and deeper reporting.

Questions from readers

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