5 QuickBooks Alternatives to Consider in 2024

It's no secret that business owners, solopreneurs, and freelancers need an accounting system. But gone are the days when you had to keep a ledger and make manual entries for each financial transaction, whether incoming or outgoing. 

Today, everything is automated, even accounting processes. But you already know if you are using or have considered using QuickBooks. 

As a leading tool in the accounting and bookkeeping market, QuickBooks has been helping business owners automate their financial systems like a pro. 

Multiple other options can cater to the specific needs of various industries just as capably, at better rates and with greater flexibility. That can also be named as QuickBooks alternatives.

As every business has needs and capacities, you might have tried QuickBooks already and found it too complex. Considering this, we have prepared a list of QuickBooks alternatives that are strong market contenders of Quickbooks.

This article will explore the top 5 QuickBooks alternatives and their features, pros, cons, availability, and everything you must know before making a confirmed choice.

Quick Overview of Top 5 QuickBooks Alternatives

Below, we explore our top five QuickBooks alternatives to consider in 2024. We begin by giving you an overview of the product, then dive deeper to explore their top three features, pricing, supported platforms, and more. This detailed analysis is designed to help you choose the right QuickBooks alternative for your business.  

1 - ZarMoney

ZarMoney is a cloud-based accounting tool that helps you automate your bookkeeping system and manage several other business processes. What makes ZarMoney a valuable alternative to QuickBooks is its wide-ranging capabilities. With this software, you can perform accounting, invoicing, and inventory functions and manage your vendors and suppliers on a consolidated dashboard; these features make ZarMoney stand out as a QuickBooks alternative.

Key Features

• 1099 preparation
• Accounts receivable and payable 
• Online payment processing
• Approval process control
• Bank reconciliation
• Billing and invoicing
• Cash management
• Check processing
• Contingency billing
• Customer statements
• Customizable invoices
• Multi-login
• Multi-location support
• Automated taxation
• Custom tax order
• Profit and loss statements 
• Customer statement 
• Alerts and reminders
• Inventory management
• Vendor and supplier management

Top Three Features

The top three features of ZarMoney include;

1 - Automated Invoices

Use ZarMoney to send automated invoices to customers. You can auto-populate the fields from the database and email the invoice to clients, offering online payment through a single click. You can also brand your invoices with your company logo. 

2 - Inventory Management

ZarMoney provides smart and automatic inventory management. Your inventory count is updated in real-time, and you have 24/7 visibility into your stock level. This allows you to prevent stock outages. You have a clear view of your data, whether in one or more locations or warehouses.  

3 - Accounts Reconciliation 

Rely on ZarMoney to perform automatic accounts reconciliation. You can say goodbye to manually matching your transactions to your financial records. ZarMoney compares your invoices to your bank statement in just one click, saving hassle and time. It identifies errors and discrepancies quickly, helping you keep an accurate audit trail. 

Pros

• It tracks inventory in real time, helping maintain optimal stock levels.
• It provides visual, data-based financial reports. 
• It is scalable; you can expand its functionalities as your business needs grow.

Cons

• The software does not offer a mobile app.

Pricing

ZarMoney offers various pricing tiers: $15 per month for the Entrepreneur package with one user, $20 per month for Small Business with two users, and $350 per month for Enterprise supporting 30 or more users; they also provide a free trial period.

Supported Platforms

ZarMoney is available on the web.

Reviews & Ratings

Here are some reviews from customers of ZarMoney as a QuickBooks alternative;

Customer Support

• Knowledge Base
• FAQs/Forum
• Phone Support
• Email/Help Desk
• Chat
• 24/7 (Live rep)

Final Verdict 

ZarMoney provides end-to-end automation for your accounting and other business processes, including inventory, vendor & supplier management, tax calculation, and more. Whether you are a solopreneur, own a small business, or run a large enterprise, you can use this tool. It is intuitive and easy to use, which makes it ideal for people who wish to simplify bookkeeping and other systems to improve their workflow. Discover QuickBooks alternative effortlessly.

2 - ZipBooks

ZipBooks proves a compelling alternative to Quickbooks. You can use this tool without paying anything. You will get limited features, and you can also use them to manage projects effectively. This combined functionality makes ZipBook a good option for small business owners and freelancers. ZipBooks helps you manage your accounting. It performs functions like tracking accounts receivables and accounts reconciliation.  

Key Features

• ACH Payment Processing
• API
• Accounts Reconciliation
• Accounting
• Accounts Payable
• Accounts Receivable
• Activity Dashboard
• Approval Process Control

Top Three Features

The top three features of ZipBooks include;

1 - Accounting

ZipBooks offers a cloud-based accounting solution that stands out among QuickBooks alternatives. Users can manage their finances efficiently with features like double-entry accounting, bank reconciliation, and financial reports. The intuitive interface ensures that even those new to accounting can easily navigate the platform. Whether you're looking for basic accounting functions or advanced features, ZipBooks provides a comprehensive suite of tools at an affordable price.

2 - Invoicing

Invoicing with ZipBooks is a breeze, especially for those seeking QuickBooks Online alternatives. The platform offers invoicing features that allow users to create professional invoices, customize them to their brand, and send them to billable clients in real time. With online invoicing tools, businesses can ensure timely payments and maintain a positive cash flow. 

3 - Billing

ZipBooks simplifies the billing process, making it a top choice among QuickBooks alternatives. Users can easily set up bank accounts, manage credit card transactions, and track expenses. The platform's cloud-based solution ensures all billing data is accessible anytime, anywhere. With features like bank feeds and expense tracking, businesses can clearly view their financial performance and make informed decisions.

Pros

• The interface is user-friendly. 
• The starter plan is entirely free of cost.
• Customer support is quite responsive and helpful. 

Cons

• It does not generate customer statements.
• The reporting feature could be more detailed. 
• It needs access controls in place, making it impossible to restrict permissions according to user roles in the organization. 

Pricing

ZipBooks has several pricing options; the Starter plan is free of cost, the Smarter plan is priced at $15 per month, the Sophisticated plan comes in at $35 per month, and the Accountant plan has custom pricing.

Supported Platforms

ZipBooks is available on web and iPad/iPhone.

Reviews & Ratings

Here are some reviews from customers of the ZipBooks as a alternative to Quickbooks:

Customer Support

• Email/Help Desk
• FAQs/Forum
• Chat
• Knowledge Base

Final Verdict 

ZipBooks is a multifunctional QuickBooks alternative that provides accounting capabilities and other functions such as time tracking. As the starter plan comes free, it can be a good option for new business owners or whoever has basic accounting needs and wants to avoid investing money into software. It is also easy to use and has good customer service. Try it out to learn whether it meets your needs or is too small for your requirements. 

3 - FreeAgent

FreeAgent is a good QuickBooks alternative for small businesses. This tool performs necessary accounting functions without hassles. You do not need expert finance and accounting knowledge to use this app effectively. Instead, the onboarding and implementation process is quick and easy. FreeAgent is also cost-effective, making it an attractive alternative to Quickbooks for those who wish to avoid making massive investments in accounting software. 

Key Features

• Business insights from Radar
• Mobile apps
• Nail your admin
• Estimates
• Expenses
• Projects
• Time tracking
• Relax about tax
• Sales tax
• Activity dashboard
• Banking
• Online invoicing

Top Three Features

The top three features of FreeAgent include;

1 - Invoicing 

FreeAgent allows you to create customized and professional invoices. Do everything online — populate fields in the invoice from your customer database and send invoices online to get paid through multiple channels. Your payment is processed faster.

2 - Billable Hours Tracking 

FreeAgent allows you to get paid by the hour. This app enables you to record your bill as well as unbilled hours. This helps customize payments by the hour for specific projects. Create a project within the app, make a to-do list of tasks, and track hours spent on each deliverable. 

3 - Automatic Bank Feeds 

Link your bank accounts to FreeAgent and import data effortlessly. You can get all the transaction records from your bank accounts and save them in the app database. Keep accurate and detailed financial records and histories for later use. 

Pros

• New users can onboard and begin using this tool quickly
• It is easy to use for people who are not accountants 
• The billing and invoicing feature is fast and easy to use 

Cons

• It is difficult to download copies of scanned receipts and invoices from the app
• Exporting data can be a complicated process
• It is not very flexible in terms of packages offered

Pricing

FreeAgent's pricing is set at $10 per month for the first six months, after which it increases to US $20 per month, and they also offer a free trial.

Supported Platforms

FreeAgent is available on the web, as well as on Android, iPhone, and iPad platforms.

Reviews & Ratings

Here are some reviews from customers of FreeAgent as a QuickBooks alternative:

Customer Support

• Phone Support
• FAQs/Forum
• Email/Help Desk
• Chat
• Knowledge Base

Final Verdict 

Use FreeAgent as your QuickBooks alternative to easily manage your expenses and track your budget. This tool helps you carry out daily accounting procedures easily, updating your financial records. You can also use its reporting feature to learn your performance and predict your cash flow for improved business performance. 

4 - Xero

Xero is a solid QuickBooks alternative, an accounting and bookkeeping solution that helps businesses of various sizes, whether large, mid-sized, or minor, upgrade their financial processes to an automatic system effortlessly. What makes Xero a great QuickBooks alternative is its pricing range. Not only is Xero more affordable, but it also offers the same features as QuickBooks at a lower rate. 

Key Features

• Automated Quoting
• Bank Reconciliation
• Billing & Invoicing
• Sales Tax Management
• Pay bills
• Claim expenses
• Bank connections
• Accept payments
• Track projects
• Pay runs
• Bank reconciliation
• Reporting
• Inventory
• Multi-currency
• Purchase orders

Top Three Features

The top three features of Xero include;

1 - Bank Reconciliation

Using Xero, you can easily categorize and reconcile your bank account transactions. The tool offers suggested matches to check and accept accounts reconciliation automatically. You can negotiate multiple transactions simultaneously and stay updated with your bank reconciliations. 

2 - Invoicing 

Use Xero to send quick invoices. Add the 'Pay Now' button to your online invoices and email them to customers or send them within the app. They can click on the button, and your payment is processed. This allows you to get paid faster and also streamlines your cash flow. You can also send automatic reminders to clients in case of pending payments. 

3 - Financial Reporting 

Xero offers detailed accounting reports to help you gain timely insights and analytics into your expenses and overall performance. Your transaction records are updated, and you can consult with your advisors in real-time to make sound financial decisions. 

Pros

• It is easy to use 
• It comes with a billing portal, allowing the customer to log in and check their transaction history and more
• It has a mobile app that makes it convenient for 24/7 and remote usage

Cons

• It does not offer integrated payroll like QuickBooks, and you have to use Gusto for payroll needs
• The app can sometimes demand manual data entry to prepare bank statements
• Switching from Xero to another tool can be quite difficult 

Pricing

Xero's pricing options include the Starter plan at $25 per month, the Standard plan at $40 per month, and the Premium plan at $54 per month, with a free trial available for those interested.

Supported Platforms

Xero is available on the web, Android, iPhone, and iPad.

Reviews & Ratings

Here are some reviews from customers of Xero as a QuickBooks alternative:

Customer Support

• Email/Help Desk
• Chat
• Knowledge Base
• FAQs/Forum
• 24/7 (Live rep)

Final Verdict 

Xero is a solid alternative to Quickbooks in the accounting software market. The selling point of this tool, compared with Quickbooks, is that it allows unlimited users to use it. It also has wide-ranging functionalities and is available on various devices, including phones, making it entirely accessible on the go. 

5 - Sage Business Cloud Accounting

Sage Business Cloud Accounting helps businesses track expenses, conduct invoicing and billing, and gain financial insights. It is a sound QuickBooks alternative for those seeking a concise but powerful list of features. You can use the required features effortlessly without wasting time and energy experimenting with capabilities you do not need.

Key Features 

• ACH Payment Processing
• Account Reconciliation
• Accounting
• Accounts Payable
• Accounts Receivable
• Aging Tracking
• Approval Process Control
• Automatic Billing
• Multi-Currency

Top Three Features

The top three features of Sage Business Cloud Accounting include;

1 - Accounts Payable & Receivable 

Use Sage to automate the management of your account receivables and payables. You no longer need to keep physical records of financial transactions as this app tracks your pending payments, whether incoming or outgoing and keeps your audit trail updated and accurate at all times. You can learn what payments are owed and due and ensure cash flow management accordingly. 

2 - Multi-Currency Management 

Sage allows you to cater to an international client base without hassles. You must select your desired currency in the app to enable transactions in the required currency. This feature allows you to accept payments from anywhere, add multiple banks, and import transactions from your accounts to quickly track your finances, no matter which currency.

3 - Expense Tracking 

Sage can help you track your expenses easily. You can connect your bank accounts to the software and get real-time transaction insights. You can also set up notifications and alerts for overdue bills to take timely action. 

Pros

• Customer support is quite responsive and resolves problems quickly
• Multiple users can use this app easily 
• Reports can be customized per needs

Cons

• The app needs to be installed on the desktop, which is a complicated and time-consuming process
• It offers limited customization and branding options 
• It can be not easy to use for beginners, so it is not recommended for solo users

Pricing

Sage Business pricing begins at $10 per month, and they also offer a free trial.

Supported Platforms

Sage Business is available on the web, Android, iPhone, and iPad.

Reviews & Ratings

Here are some reviews from customers of Xero as a QuickBooks alternative:

Customer Support

• Knowledge Base
• Chat
• Email/Help Desk
• Phone Support
• FAQs/Forum

Final Verdict 

With Sage, you can perform complex accounting functions efficiently. Features such as managing accounts receivables, budgeting, and financial forecasting are available, allowing you to automate your accounting system. You can also get the benefits of direct online payments through the integrated payment gateways in the app. The consolidation feature that allows combining reports for all – domestic, global, and multiple stakeholders – makes it a good QuickBooks alternative, depending on your needs. 

Best of the Best - Top 3 QuickBooks Alternatives

1 - ZarMoney

Topping our list, ZarMoney is not just another QuickBooks alternative but a holistic accounting solution. Its pricing plans are tailored to business needs, with exceptional features like unlimited users, advanced bank account management, and real-time financial reports. Its intuitive interface, complemented by efficient expense tracking and credit card management tools, offers businesses a comprehensive view of their financial health. 

2 - ZipBooks

ZipBooks is a QuickBooks alternative with efficient time tracking and invoicing features. With a cloud-based solution that integrates seamlessly with various bank accounts and financial management tools, businesses get an advanced look at their financial processes. Our research, pooled from multiple sources, highlights ZipBooks as a formidable alternative to Quickbooks, especially for businesses seeking more user-friendly invoicing tools and financial reporting capabilities at an affordable price.

3 - FreeAgent

FreeAgent offers a robust set of accounting functions as a QuickBooks alternative, from bank reconciliation to double-entry accounting. Its cloud-based accounting software provides users with a clean interface that's easy to navigate. The software excels in inventory management, professional invoices, and bank feeds, making financial management more streamlined. Several sources have underscored its intuitive dashboard, essential features, and user-friendly approach as the reason for its selection.

Conclusion

In this blog, we explored the five best QuickBooks alternatives of 2024. We presented a list of QuickBooks alternative software and analyzed each in detail, exploring their top three features, pricing plans, supported platforms, customer reviews, and more helpful information.

The purpose was to give you an insightful peek into the world of accounting tools in the market. With this knowledge, you can compare products and choose the most suitable option. 

We urge you to use your newfound knowledge and freedom of choice to try QuickBooks alternatives. Ultimately, we'll nudge you to begin your exploration with ZarMoney. With its comprehensive functionality, scalability, and free trial, it is undoubtedly a straightforward software to try out and reap benefits from today and in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best QuickBooks alternative overall? 

ZarMoney is the best recommended QuickBooks alternative because ZarMoney is versatile and affordable. You can choose from various pricing plans per your needs and use them for expense tracking and budget management while conducting your financial transactions online through secure platforms. 

2. What is the most suitable QuickBooks alternative for freelancers? 

FreeAgent is a good option for freelancers. This tool offers a precise range of features at a single pricing plan. You can manage your accounting processes easily by using this software. 

3. What is the most suitable software for large enterprises?

Considering their wide-ranging accounting needs, Xero is recommended for large enterprises. This software offers a complete package with advanced features available at pricier plans. 

4. Why would I consider a QuickBooks alternative?

While QuickBooks Online is a widely used accounting solution, some businesses might seek an alternative to match their specific needs better, whether in pricing, features, or user experience.

5. Is ZarMoney a suitable alternative to QuickBooks?

Yes, ZarMoney is a popular QuickBooks alternative. It offers various pricing plans, advanced features, and an intuitive interface tailored for different business sizes and requirements.

6. How does ZarMoney compare with other alternatives like Zoho Books or Sage Accounting?

ZarMoney, Zoho Books, and Sage Accounting all offer robust accounting features. The best choice depends on your business's needs, like bank reconciliation, invoicing features, or time-tracking capabilities.

7. What features can I expect regarding expense tracking and bank account management in ZarMoney?

ZarMoney offers comprehensive expense tracking and bank account management, ensuring businesses can monitor their financial performance and streamline their accounting processes.

8. Do I need a desktop version, or is a cloud-based solution available?

ZarMoney, like many modern accounting solutions, is primarily a cloud-based solution, allowing users to access their financial data from anywhere with an internet connection.

9. Is there a free trial available for ZarMoney?

Like many QuickBooks alternatives, ZarMoney offers potential users an opportunity to test their platform through a free trial.

10. How does ZarMoney's pricing compare with other accounting software solutions?

ZarMoney offers competitive pricing plans compared to other accounting solutions in the market. It provides various tiers to cater to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and larger enterprises.

11. Does ZarMoney offer inventory management and project management tools?

ZarMoney comes with advanced features like inventory management. For project management tools, ensure compatibility with third-party solutions or check specific features tailored to your needs.

12. How user-friendly is ZarMoney compared to other accounting software like Wave Accounting?

User experience varies between platforms. ZarMoney is known for its user-friendly interface, but the best way to determine suitability is through hands-on experience or feedback from current users.