Top 8 Alternatives to Xero Accounting – Why ZarMoney Leads!

Are you looking for the best alternatives to Xero Accounting? You've landed in the right place. The software market has accounting tools for various business needs, from start-ups to mid-sized companies. We've sifted through the plethora of options to bring you a curated list of the 8 best software tools that offer a mix of user-friendly interfaces, comprehensive features, and value for money. Let's dive in!

1. ZarMoney

ZarMoney, emerging as a compelling Alternative to Xero accounting, has taken the accounting world by storm. Its adaptability to cater to different business sizes, with its advanced features like real-time financial tracking and cloud-based accessibility, offers businesses a comprehensive solution at an affordable cost.

Features

• Dashboard overview
• Customizable invoices
• Expense tracking
• Inventory management
• Purchase orders
• Time tracking
• Multi-user access levels
• Cloud-based accessibility
• Customizable reports
• Credit card processing

Top 3 Features of ZarMoney 

1. Versatility for Diverse Business Sizes

ZarMoney is designed to cater to the needs of a wide range of business structures, whether you're a sole trader or a medium-sized company. It scales as you grow, ensuring you always have the necessary tools.

2. Robust Inventory Management

Easily keep track of your products with ZarMoney's inventory management tools. Its features allow for timely restocking, avoiding stockouts or overstocks.

3. Customizable Forms and Reports

Whether invoicing or financial reporting, ZarMoney offers customization to ensure your business needs are met seamlessly.

Pros of ZarMoney 

• User-friendly interface
• Comprehensive inventory management tools
• Allows unlimited users without additional costs

Cons of ZarMoney 

• Lacks an integrated payroll system
• It might be overwhelming for users seeking only basic features
• Some users have reported the need for a more vertical learning curve

Supported Platforms

ZarMoney's availability on Android / iOS is primarily through its mobile-friendly web version.

Pricing

ZarMoney's pricing starts at $15/Month.

Final Verdict on ZarMoney

ZarMoney, a notable Xero alternative for accounting, stands out with its flexibility and robust features. Equipped with an intuitive interface and a wide range of financial tools, it offers businesses unparalleled insights into their financial health. While newcomers might need a brief adjustment period, its scalable options and comprehensive reporting capabilities make it a top choice for businesses of all sizes.

2. QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online, a leading alternative to Xero accounting, is a cloud-based accounting software solution developed by Intuit for miniature and medium-sized companies. Emerging as a formidable competitor in the online accounting arena, it offers an exhaustive range of financial management tools. 

QuickBooks Online covers all the essential economic facets of a business, from efficient invoicing systems and detailed expense tracking to robust payroll processing and intricate reporting modules. The platform's real-time financial management capabilities, accessible from any device with an internet connection, set it apart from many competitors. 

Moreover, its user-friendly interface, seamless integration capabilities, and a plethora of third-party applications reinforce QuickBooks Online's reputation as a preferred choice for countless business owners and accounting professionals worldwide.

Features

• Invoice customization
• Expense tracking
• Profit and loss reporting
• Sales tax tracking
• Inventory tracking
• Employee time tracking
• Payroll (additional cost)
• Multi-user roles
• Mileage tracking
• Cloud-based access

Top 3 Features of QuickBooks Online 

1. Comprehensive Reporting Tools

Dive deep into your finances with detailed reports. From income statements to balance sheets, QuickBooks has it all.

2. Expense Tracking and Categorization

Stay on top of your expenses. Organize them, tag them, and monitor them with ease.

3. Invoice Customization and Tracking

Customize invoices according to your brand and track them till they're paid.

Pros of QuickBooks Online

• User-friendly interface
• A broad spectrum of integrations is available
• Strong community and support

Cons of QuickBooks Online

• Might be expensive for start-ups
• Advanced features require an upgrade
• Mobile apps lack some desktop functionalities

Supported Platforms

Whether you're on the go, traveling, or prefer the flexibility of controlling your finances from your mobile device, QuickBooks Online has you shielded. With its dedicated mobile apps for Android and iOS, you can seamlessly track your expenses, send invoices, reconcile transactions, and stay updated on your business's financial health from the palm of your hand. 

Pricing

Pricing starts at US$1/mo. Save US$17 for six months.

Final Verdict on QuickBooks Online 

QuickBooks Online, a well-known alternative to Xero accounting, has garnered its reputation for good reason. Its comprehensive toolset, from invoicing to expense tracking and robust customer support, makes it a favorite for many businesses, from start-ups to established enterprises.

3. FreshBooks

FreshBooks, a superior alternative to Xero accounting, is a cloud-based accounting and invoicing software tailored for small businesses and freelancers. It provides an extensive suite of financial management tools, including capabilities to manage and track invoices, expenses, and time. 

Furthermore, it has a user-friendly interface, robust reporting features, and integrations with other business tools, making it a comprehensive solution for those looking for resources relevant to the financial side of running a business.

Features

• Custom invoicing
• Time tracking
• Expense tracking with receipt capture
• Client retainer management
• Project management and collaboration
• Estimates and proposals
• Payment acceptance (Credit Card, ACH)
• Reporting
• Recurring invoices

Top 3 Features of FreshBooks

1. All-In-One Invoicing and Accounting Solution

FreshBooks provides an integrated solution that enables businesses to handle invoicing and accounting within a unified platform.

2. Time Tracking Capabilities

Particularly useful for freelancers and agencies, it lets you track the hours spent on projects and bill clients accordingly.

3. Expense Management

Automatically import expenses directly from your bank account and categorize them for tax time.

Pros of FreshBooks 

• Intuitive user interface
• Robust mobile applications
• Seamless integration with many third-party tools

Cons of FreshBooks

• Limited advanced accounting features compared to competitors
• It might be more expensive for multiple clients/projects
• No built-in inventory management

Supported Platforms

FreshBooks offers robust apps for both Android and iOS.

Pricing

FreshBooks pricing starts from $15/month.

Final Verdict on FreshBooks 

Great for freelancers and small businesses prioritizing invoicing and time-tracking over advanced accounting features, this alternative to Xero accounting offers a user-friendly interface and efficient integrations to streamline financial processes.

4. Wave

Wave Accounting, a prominent alternative to Xero accounting, is a cloud-based financial software tool for small business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. It offers user-friendly invoicing, expense tracking, and payroll services, making financial management more convenient and precise.

Features 

• Free invoicing
• Expense tracking
• Accounting and financial reporting
• Recurring billing
• Payroll (in specific regions, at an additional cost)
• Payment processing
• Personal finance tracking

Top 3 Features of Wave

1. Free Accounting Solution

Wave offers free tools for accounting, invoicing, and receipts management.

2. Transparent Payment Processing Fees

There are no hidden charges; only pay when you get paid.

3. Connect Multiple Bank Accounts

Keep track of several enterprise accounts in one place.

Pros of Wave 

• Ideal for freelancers and start-ups with tight budgets
• User-friendly interface
• Seamless integrations for credit card and bank payments

Cons of Wave 

• Lack of developed accounting features
• No inventory management
• Limited mobile app functionalities

Supported Platforms

Wave's mobile app is available on Android and iOS.

Pricing

Wave's accounting components are free. Pay only for payment processing and payroll.

Final Verdict on Wave 

Wave Accounting is a compelling alternative to Xero accounting for small businesses and freelancers needing an accessible and user-friendly accounting solution. With its range of financial tools, including invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting, Wave simplifies the essential aspects of financial management. 

Moreover, its affordability makes it an appealing option for those looking to minimize their accounting costs. While Wave may not offer all the advanced features in premium accounting software, its accessibility, ease of use, and dedicated customer support make it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners. 

For many, Wave Accounting is a practical and cost-effective solution to help manage their finances efficiently.

5. Zoho Books

Zoho Corporation offers Zoho Books, an alternative to Xero accounting, online accounting software. It's specifically designed for small businesses, providing a comprehensive suite of financial tools to manage their finances, streamline invoicing, and ensure timely compliance with tax authorities. 

Its user-friendly interface and integration capabilities make it a leading choice for businesses desiring a powerful yet intuitive accounting solution.

Features

• Invoicing
• Expense tracking
• Banking automation (Bank Feeds)
• Projects and time tracking
• Inventory management
• Sales orders & purchase orders
• Multi-currency
• Financial reporting
• Recurring transactions

Top 3 Features of Zoho Books

1. Automated Workflows

Streamline operations with automated banking, invoicing, and more.

2. Multi-Currency Capabilities

Perfect for businesses operating in multiple countries.

3. Client Portal

Offer your clients a dedicated space to view their invoices, estimates, and payments.

Pros of Zoho Books 

• Comprehensive dashboard and reporting
• Seamless integration with other Zoho apps
• Supports client collaboration

Cons of Zoho Books 

• Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
• The mobile app lacks some desktop functionalities
• It might require a learning curve for some users

Supported Platforms

Zoho Books has apps for Android and iOS.

Pricing

Zoho Books pricing starts from $9/month.

Final Verdict on Zoho Books

Excellent for those already in the Zoho ecosystem, Zoho Books is a solid alternative to Xero accounting, especially for businesses looking for robust multi-currency support and an integrated suite of business applications.

6. FreeAgent 

FreeAgent is a cloud-based accounting forum for freelancers, miniature businesses, and accounting experts. FreeAgent's primary market has been the UK, but its features apply to various regions. It aims to simplify financial management for small businesses, ensuring that users without a deep accounting background can still manage their finances effectively. If you're considering it for your needs, signing up for a trial or demo is always a good idea to ensure it fits your specific requirements.

Features

• Estimates and invoices
• Expenses
• Time tracking
• Banking 
• Security 
• Dashboards
• Projects

Top 3 Features of FreeAgent 

1. Invoicing 

FreeAgent allows users to create custom invoices using their logo and branding. It also automatically sends recurring invoices and reminders for due payments.

2. Time Tracking

Users can track time against precise tasks and projects, providing clarity on time spent. Quickly determine billable hours and incorporate them into client invoices.

3. Banking

FreeAgent supports automatic bank feeds, which means users can link their bank accounts and get everyday transaction updates. It offers a direct bank reconciliation process, helping users match transactions to ensure their books are accurate.

Pros of FreeAgent

• User-friendly interface
• Comprehensive features
• Tailored for small businesses and freelancers 

Cons of FreeAgent

• Limited advanced features
• More suitable for UK-based businesses
• Limited integrations

Supported Platforms

FreeAgent is available on the desktop, but they are optimized for on-the-go tasks such as capturing expenses, time tracking, and checking invoice statuses. The advantage of FreeAgent being cloud-based is its users' flexibility; they can manage their finances from anywhere, whether at the office, at home, or traveling.

Pricing

FreeAgent’s pricing starts at $11/month.

Final Verdict on FreeAgent

FreeAgents intuitive design and a myriad of elements, from invoicing to time tracking, make it a go-to choice for those seeking streamlined financial management without the sophistication often associated with larger platforms. By catering to the unique needs of its target audience, FreeAgent has carved a place for itself in the crowded accounting software market. 

7. KashFlow

KashFlow, an alternative to Xero accounting, is a cloud-based accounting software specifically tailored for miniature enterprises. Its user-friendly interface offers invoicing, payroll integration, and comprehensive financial reporting, enabling businesses to manage their finances efficiently.

Features

• Custom invoices
• Purchase management
• Credit control
• Payroll management
• Banking integration
• VAT return (for U.K. businesses)
• Stock control
• Multi-currency
• Financial reporting

Top 3 Features of KashFlow

1. Compliance with U.K. Regulations

KashFlow is built to comply with UK-specific accounting and tax regulations.

2. Automated Invoicing and Payments

Send invoices, track their payment status, and set up recurring billing.

3. Integrated Payroll System

Manage payslips, P60s, and other payroll aspects.

Pros of KashFlow 

• UK-centric functionalities
• Built-in payroll features
• User-friendly for non-accountants

Cons of KashFlow 

• It might only be suitable for businesses within the U.K.
• Limited third-party integrations

Supported Platforms

KashFlow is primarily web-based, with mobile apps for Android and iOS.

Pricing

Pricing starts from £7/month.

Final Verdict on KashFlow 

KashFlow, a prominent alternative to Xero accounting, is best suited for U.K. businesses looking for an integrated accounting and payroll solution. Its user-friendly interface, real-time financial insights, and seamless integration capabilities provide companies with the tools they need for efficient financial management.

8. Sage Business Cloud Accounting

Sage Business Cloud Accounting, an alternative to Xero accounting, is a cloud-based solution offered by Sage, a well-known accounting and business management software provider. It is designed to help miniature and medium-sized businesses handle their financial operations efficiently.

Features 

• Invoicing
• Cash flow forecasts
• VAT returns (relevant for U.K. and E.U. businesses)
• Mobile invoicing and expenses
• Multi-currency
• Financial reporting
• Purchase orders
• Bank connection and reconciliation
• Quotation and estimates

Top 3 Features of Sage Business Cloud Accounting

1. Full-featured accounting

Sage provides a comprehensive suite of tools, from invoicing to cash flow management.

2. Scalability

Suitable for start-ups to large enterprises with different product tiers.

3. Integration with Sage ecosystem

If you're using other Sage products, integration is seamless.

Pros of Sage Business Cloud Accounting 

• Wide set of features
• Strong customer support and training resources
• Good range of third-party app integrations

Cons of Sage Business Cloud Accounting

• It can be on the pricier side for higher tiers
• It might be overkill for tiny businesses
• Some users report a steeper learning curve

Supported Platforms

Sage offers mobile apps for both Android and iOS.

Pricing

Sage Business Cloud Accounting begins at $10/month.

Final Verdict on Sage Business Cloud Accounting 

Sage Business Cloud Accounting is an alternative to Xero accounting, ideal for businesses looking for a full-fledged, scalable accounting solution with solid support. It offers powerful features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes.

Table Comparison

Best of the Best

1. ZarMoney

ZarMoney, a compelling alternative to Xero accounting, is a versatile tool that caters to many businesses, from small start-ups to large enterprises. What sets ZarMoney apart is its comprehensive inventory management system, which empowers businesses to keep a tight grip on their stock levels, streamline order processing, and ensure efficient supply chain management. 

Additionally, ZarMoney shines with its high degree of customization, permitting users to adjust the software to their specific needs. From custom invoice templates to tailored reporting options, it's a solution that molds itself to your business, not the other way around. This adaptability and robust feature set make ZarMoney an excellent choice for companies seeking a flexible and strong accounting solution to meet their unique demands.

2. QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online, a solid alternative to Xero accounting, is known for its comprehensive reporting tools, user-friendly interface, and wide array of characteristics, making it a popular choice among businesses of all sizes. Its availability on Android and iOS platforms further enhances its accessibility, allowing you to manage your finances on the go. 

Whether you're a freelancer, a small business owner, or part of a giant corporation, QuickBooks Online offers tailored solutions to suit your accounting needs. Its powerful reporting capabilities enable you to gain valuable insights into your financial performance. At the same time, its intuitive interface ensures ease of use for accounting professionals and those new to financial management software. 

This versatility and convenience have solidified QuickBooks Online's position as a go-to accounting solution for businesses looking to streamline their financial operations.

3. FreshBooks

FreshBooks, a popular alternative to Xero accounting, stands out for its comprehensive project management and time-tracking features, setting it apart as an efficient and versatile solution for businesses of all sizes. With FreshBooks, you can create, manage, and track projects, efficiently allocating resources, setting milestones, and monitoring progress. 

The intuitive time-tracking functionality enables you and your team to accurately log billable hours, ensuring precise invoicing and payroll processing. This holistic approach simplifies invoicing and expense tracking and gives you deeper insights into project profitability and overall financial health. FreshBooks is the go-to choice for those seeking a well-rounded accounting alternative that goes beyond the basics.

Conclusion

Choosing the right accounting software can enhance your business's financial health. While all the mentioned tools offer commendable features, ZarMoney, an alternative to Xero accounting, undoubtedly shines bright amongst its peers. Give it a shot, and watch it revamp your financial management!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is ZarMoney, and why is it considered the best alternative to Xero Accounting?

ZarMoney is a robust cloud-based accounting software known for its adaptability and cutting-edge features. It's considered the best alternative to Xero due to its affordability, scalability, and comprehensive accounting capabilities.

2. How does ZarMoney compare to Xero in terms of pricing?

ZarMoney offers competitive pricing plans, often more affordable than Xero. Its cost-effective options make it a preferred choice for businesses looking for budget-friendly accounting solutions.

3. Is ZarMoney suitable for businesses of all dimensions?

Yes, ZarMoney caters to businesses of all sizes, from small start-ups to more giant enterprises. Its scalability allows companies to grow without worrying about changing accounting systems.

4. What features does ZarMoney offer that set it apart from Xero?

ZarMoney offers many features, including inventory management, multi-currency support, customizable reporting, and a user-friendly interface. These features make it a leading choice for businesses seeking advanced functionalities.

5. What are the key factors when searching for an alternative to Xero accounting?

When looking for alternatives to Xero accounting, you should consider pricing, scalability, feature set, user-friendliness, integrations, and customer support.

6. What is the best alternative to Xero for small businesses?

Several alternatives, such as QuickBooks Online, Wave, and FreshBooks, cater to small businesses. The selection depends on your specific needs and budget.

7. Which alternative to Xero offers the most suitable value for money?

The best value for money depends on your business's requirements. Some cost-effective alternatives include Zoho Books, Wave, and Wave Accounting.

8. Can I import my data from Xero into an alternative accounting software?

Most alternative accounting software provides tools or services to help you migrate your data from Xero. Check with the specific software provider for detailed instructions.