Sage has long been a revered name in the competition of accounting software. However, every business has unique needs, and what works for one might not work for another. The options might seem overwhelming for small businesses looking for an alternative to Sage, but worry not, for we've got you covered.
Here is the list of our 6 best Sage alternatives for small businesses, laying out their features, pros, cons, and everything in between.
- ZarMoney
- QuickBooks Online
- Xero
- FreshBooks
- Zoho Books
- FreeAgent
1- ZarMoney
ZarMoney, a Sage alternative for small businesses, offers an all-inclusive suite of features within its cloud-based financial management platform. Designed with user-friendliness, it caters to a wide range of accounting needs, including invoicing, expense tracking, and generating complex financial reports, making it accessible for users regardless of their accounting proficiency.
ZarMoney's ability to integrate smoothly with many third-party applications underscores its adaptability and relevance in a diverse business ecosystem.
Features of ZarMoney
- Create and send professional invoices to customers
- Schedule recurring payments
- Track invoice status and payments
- Reconcile bank statements
- Track expenses by category, vendor, and date
- Generate expense reports
- Track inventory levels in real-time
- Manage multiple warehouses
- Accept ACH payments
- Pay employees and contractors
- Create and manage charts of accounts
- Generate financial statements
- Create custom reports to meet your specific needs
Key Features of ZarMoney
1. Invoicing
ZarMoney allows businesses to create and send professional invoices effortlessly to their clientele. Its system goes beyond mere invoice creation; it provides tools for tracking the status of each invoice and its subsequent payments.
2. Payments
Because of its rich feature set, businesses can ensure that all payments are paid on time. It goes the extra mile by offering functionalities to schedule recurring payments, keeping businesses on top of their financial commitments.
3. Expenses
ZarMoney simplifies expense tracking with tools to categorize by vendor, date, or category and attach receipts. Its SmartScan feature automatically categorizes expenses, saving time.
Pros of ZarMoney
- An all-inclusive suite of features.
- Intuitive interface.
- Efficient payment management.
- Smooth integration with third-party applications.
Cons of ZarMoney
-
It might be overwhelming for novice users.
Pricing of ZarMoney
- Free trial of 15 days
- Entrepreneur: $15 per month
- Small business: $20 per month
- Enterprise: Starts from $350 per month
Integrations of ZarMoney
- Gusto
- PayPal
- Stripe
- Zapier
- Authorize.net
Ratings
According to Software Directories, ZarMoney has been given 4.7 stars out of 5 by its patrons.
Testimonials
Customer Support of ZarMoney
- FAQs/Forum
- Knowledge Base
Bottom Line
ZarMoney emerges as an exemplary Sage alternative for small business. Its core features and functionalities and an easy-to-navigate interface make it an ideal choice for businesses looking for efficient accounting software. Whether it's about managing invoices, payments, or expenses, ZarMoney offers an all-inclusive toolkit that caters to all.
2- QuickBooks Online
QuickBooks Online is a prominent Sage alternative renowned for its user-friendly interface. It simplifies financial management, allowing users to automate bookkeeping, track income and expenses, manage invoices and payments, and much more.
The platform supports multiple currencies and integrates smoothly with various third-party applications, improving its versatility. It also provides tools for project profitability analysis, bill management, and record receipt, all accessible via its mobile app.
Features of QuickBooks Online
- Invoice Management
- Expense Tracking
- Bank Syncing
- Payroll Processing
- Financial Reporting
- Inventory Management
- Project Tracking
- Tax Prep
Key Features of QuickBooks Online
1. Accounting Reports
QuickBooks excels in financial reporting, offering detailed insights into business health through balance sheets, income statements, and more, combined with a user-friendly interface for an unmatched accounting experience.
2. Inventory Management
This feature enables accurate inventory tracking, reorder point setting, and detailed reporting while integrating smoothly with third-party apps to keep stock levels current and improve accuracy.
3. Bank Feeds
Simplifies bank reconciliations and transaction tracking by allowing businesses to connect bank accounts for automatic transaction imports, removing manual entry, and ensuring up-to-date financial data.
Pros of QuickBooks Online
- All-inclusive financial management tools.
- User-friendly interface with mobile capabilities.
- Smooth integration with third-party systems.
- Advanced features accommodating small and midsize businesses.
Cons of QuickBooks Online
- QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based accounting software, so it offers fewer customization options than accounting software.
- Premium plans can be slightly expensive.
Pricing of QuickBooks Online
- Simple Start: $18
- Essentials: $27
- Plus: $38
Integrations
- PayPal
- WordPress
- Mailchimp
- QuickBooks Time
- Wix
- Rippling
- Shopify
- Eventbrite
- Gusto
- Vagaro
- Time tracker
Rating
QuickBooks Online has been given a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software Directories.
Testimonials
Customer Support of QuickBooks Online
- Chat
- Knowledge Base
- 24/7 (Live rep)
- FAQs/Forum
- Email/Help Desk
- Phone Support
Bottom Line
With its rich features and wide range of tools, QuickBooks is considered as an ideal Sage alternative, specially designed for small to midsize businesses. Whether managing invoices, tracking bank transactions, or monitoring inventory, QuickBooks Online's extensive suite ensures all your accounting needs are met. Its user-centric design and state-of-the-art features make it a go-to choice for businesses aiming for precision in their financial processes.
3- Xero
As a Sage alternative for small businesses, Xero offers an innovative cloud-based accounting solution recognized for its ease of use and extensive feature set.
It provides real-time financial reporting, automated bank feeds, and multi-currency support, making it highly suitable for businesses with international transactions.
Xero's strengths lie in its ability to automate essential accounting functions, reduce manual data entry, and provide up-to-date financial insights.
Features of Xero
- Accounting Suite
- Gusto Integration
- Inventory Management
- Project Tracking
- Multi-currency Support
Key Features of Xero
1. Project Tracking
Xero enhances project management by offering tools for tracking profitability, time, and costs, giving businesses a comprehensive view of informed decisions. Features include billable and project time tracking, making Xero a valuable asset for project-based businesses.
2. Online Invoicing
Xero simplifies invoicing with an intuitive system that allows sending invoices, setting up automatic reminders, and more. This contributes to smoother financial management and better cash flow tracking, an essential aspect for businesses focusing on inventory and financial management.
3. Inventory Management
Inventory management has been simplified and improved with Xero. The platform effectively tracks stock levels, costs, and sales. It ensures that businesses are always aware of their inventory status, preventing stockouts or overstock situations.
Pros of Xero
- Advanced features designed for small businesses.
- User-friendly interface with extensive financial management tools
- Smooth integration with third-party applications
- Attractive subscription rates
Cons of Xero
- Xero offers fewer reporting features than some other accounting software.
- Customer support response times can be slow, impacting problem resolution.
- Advanced features may require a steeper learning curve for total utilization.
- Inventory management capabilities might be basic for businesses with complex needs.
Pricing of Xero
- Starter: $29
- Standard: $46
- Premium: $62
Integrations of Xero
- Google Drive
- PayPal
- Dropbox Business
- Google Workspace
- Microsoft 365
- Google Forms
- Mailchimp
- QuickBooks Time
- Shopify
- FreshBooks
- Zoho CRM
- Zapier
Rating
According to Software Directories, Xero has been given an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 by its patrons.
Customer Support of Xero
- Email/Help Desk
- Chat
- Knowledge Base
- FAQs/Forum
- 24/7 (Live rep)
Testimonials
Bottom Line
Xero's rich features and intuitive interface set it apart as a premium choice for businesses searching for a Sage alternative. Whether it's detailed financial reports, precise project tracking, or accurate inventory management, Xero's extensive suite ensures that all business accounting needs are met smoothly. Xero is an invaluable tool for small businesses looking to simplify their accounting procedures because of its user-friendly design and affordable pricing options.
4- FreshBooks
FreshBooks is another alternative to Sage for small businesses. It offers a cloud-based accounting solution for freelancers and small business owners. It excels in simplifying financial management with features like easy invoicing, expense tracking, and time tracking integrated directly into invoices. FreshBooks' strong suit is its user-friendly interface, making accounting tasks less intimidating for non-accountants.
The software facilitates efficient billable hours and expense management, ensuring accurate invoicing and financial tracking. Its focus on efficient accounting procedures makes it an invaluable resource for anyone looking for a straightforward but efficient financial management system.
Features of FreshBooks
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Invoice Generation
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Time and Expense Tracking
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Online Payment
- Financial Reporting
Key Features of FreshBooks
1. Financial Reporting
Financial health remains paramount for any business. FreshBooks provides full financial statements such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and detailed cash flow tracking, ensuring businesses have an insightful view of their monetary standing.
2. Invoicing and Payments
FreshBooks excels in online invoicing. Its invoice creation tool enables businesses to design and dispatch professional-looking invoices easily. The platform simplifies the payment process by integrating online payment options, including credit card payments.
3. Time Tracking
FreshBooks' time tracking feature is particularly prominent for businesses where billable hours are a core component. This tool facilitates detailed project time tracking, allowing businesses to monitor time spent on specific tasks.
Pros of FreshBooks
- All-inclusive tools designed for a broad range of business needs
- Intuitive interface ensuring smooth user experience
- Attractive subscription rates in line with industry standards
- Efficient online payment processing and customizable invoicing capabilities
Cons of FreshBooks
- Limited customization options.
- FreshBooks may not be the greatest option for companies that regularly monitor inventory levels because it lacks an effective inventory management system.
Pricing
- Lite: $5.70 USD/mo
- Plus: $9.90 USD/mo
-
Premium: $18.00 USD/mo
Integrations of FreshBooks
- Google Drive
- PayPal
- Slack
- Google Workspace
- Trello
- WordPress
- MailChimp
- Shopify
- Zip Recruiter
- Zapier
- Hubspot CRM
- Calendly
Rating
The average rating for FreshBooks is 4.5 out of 5 on the top 3 software directories.
Testimonials
Customer Support of FreshBooks
- Email/Help Desk
- Phone Support
- Chat
- FAQs/Forum
- Knowledge Base
Bottom Line
FreshBooks emerges as an affordable accounting software option for businesses searching for a Sage alternative. From its powerful features in invoicing and payments to its advanced financial reporting tools, FreshBooks offers a complete accounting solution ideal for small and medium-sized businesses. Its cloud-hosted software ensures data accessibility, while its attractive pricing plans cater to businesses of varied budgets.
5- Zoho Books
Zoho Books is recognized as a Sage alternative for small businesses, providing an all-encompassing, cloud-based accounting solution. It's designed to scale with businesses, offering smooth management of sales orders, invoicing, and financial reports. The platform is user-friendly, especially for those with limited accounting expertise, and includes over 50 integrable apps for extended functionality.
Zoho Books improves team collaboration through role-based access, ensuring efficient and secure financial data management. This makes it an excellent option for small businesses seeking a flexible accounting solution.
Features of Zoho Books
- Customer Portal
- Vendor Portal
- Project Management
- Quote Generation
- Expense Tracking
- Customized Invoices
- Bill Management
- Bank Integration
- Inventory Tracking
- Sales Management
Key Features of Zoho Books
1. Customer Portal
It offers businesses a unique platform where clients can access key account information, from invoices to payment statements, ensuring transparency in financial interactions. This reinforces customer trust and reduces the need for manual entry, making financial tracking easier and more efficient.
2. Vendor Portal
This feature allows vendors to submit their invoices and effortlessly track their payments. Businesses can simplify their expense tracking and payment processes by offering a dedicated space for vendors and building a positive business relationship with their suppliers.
3. Bills Management
Managing vendor bills can often be a complex task, but it becomes a breeze with Zoho Books. This accounting platform gives businesses powerful tools to manage their vendor bills efficiently. Moreover, setting up payment reminders ensures that all bills are cleared on time, aiding in maintaining a favorable credit standing.
Pros of Zoho Books
- All-inclusive tools designed for extensive business financial needs.
- User-friendly interface promoting ease of use.
- Attractive subscription rates, providing affordable accounting software alternatives.
- Efficient bank reconciliations and customizable invoicing capabilities.
Cons of Zoho Books
- It may be overwhelming for novice users due to its rich features.
- Zoho Books offers a limited number of customization options, which can make it difficult to customize the software to your specific needs.
Pricing
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Free Plan $0 per organization/month
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Standard Plan $10 per organization/month
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Professional Plan $20 per organization/month
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Premium Plan $30 per organization/month
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Elite Plan $100 per organization/month
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Ultimate Plan $200 per organization/month
Integrations
- Stripe
- PayPal and PayPal Business
- Razorpay
- Paytm Payment Gateway
- 2checkout
- Braintree
- Authorize.net
- CSG Forte
- Mercado pago
- Paygate
- PayEx
- Paystack
Rating
Zoho Books has been given an average rating of 4.4 out of 5.
Testimonials
Customer Support of Zoho
- Knowledge Base
- FAQs/Forum
- Phone Support
- 24/5 Call
Bottom Line
Zoho Books is recognized as an ideal option for businesses in search of a complete Sage alternative. Its extensive feature set, from customer and vendor portals to detailed bill management, provides businesses with all the essential accounting tools they need. Whether it's for small businesses or enterprise businesses, Zoho Books, with its cloud-hosted software and attractive pricing plans, ensures that businesses have a reliable accounting platform to rely on.
6- FreeAgent
FreeAgent is a well-known substitute for Sage for small businesses, offering user-friendly and feature-rich accounting software for freelancers and small business owners. It centralizes various financial tasks, including invoice and expense management, project management, and sales tax handling.
Unique features include setting up recurring invoices and automated reminders for late payments, expense tracking through mobile uploads, and a consolidated view of project activities. FreeAgent also provides automatic bank feeds, allowing real-time updates and visibility of cash flow. This makes it an efficient and effective accounting solution for small businesses.
Features of FreeAgent
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Invoice Management
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Record Receipt
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Time Tracking
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Payroll processing
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Bank Integration
- VAT Filing
Key Features of FreeAgent
1. Estimates and Invoicing
This feature ensures timely payments by offering an automated reminder system for clients who might be late in clearing their dues. The invoice creation process is customizable, allowing businesses to mirror their brand aesthetics.
2. Banking
Its smooth integration with bank accounts enables real-time bank transactions and statements to reflect within the platform. This facilitates accurate bank reconciliations, ensuring that businesses maintain a clear view of their financial position. With so many features, FreeAgent provides businesses with the ability to manage their bank accounts effectively.
3. Time Tracking
The built-in stopwatch and timesheets allow users to track billable hours accurately, ensuring that every minute spent on a project is accounted for. This not only aids in precise project time tracking but also ensures businesses invoice their clients appropriately.
Pros of FreeAgent
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The extensive feature set is designed for a wide range of business accounting tasks.
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Attractive subscription rates with flexible pricing plans for businesses.
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User-friendly interface promoting ease of use for both novice and seasoned users.
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Efficient bank reconciliations and time-tracking capabilities.
Cons of FreeAgent
-
Its extensive accounting features could be challenging for inexperienced users.
Customer Support of FreeAgent
- Phone Support
- FAQs/Forum
- Email/Help Desk
- Chat
- Knowledge Base
Pricing of FreeAgent
With the Universal Save offer, FreeAgent extends a generous discount, offering 50% off for the first six months. This brings the monthly fee down to just $11. After the promotional period, the pricing plan transitions to $22/month, with a 30-day free trial to help businesses evaluate the platform's fit for their needs.
Integrations
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PayPal
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Google Drive
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Google Workspace
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Basecamp
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Stripe
-
Zappier
-
ActiveCampaign
-
Float
Rating
FreeAgent has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5.
Testimonials
Customer Support of FreeAgent
- Phone Support
- FAQs/Forum
- Email/Help Desk
- Chat
-
Knowledge Base
Bottom Line
FreeAgent is a dependable substitute for Sage for small firms seeking all-inclusive financial management because of its wide range of features and cloud-hosted software capabilities. Whether for sole traders or midsize businesses, FreeAgent ensures businesses have a dependable online accounting platform to manage their finances.
Conclusion
In the quest for the ideal Sage alternative for small businesses, there are many options to choose from. You must look for features, including advanced bank reconciliations, efficient expense tracking, and intuitive invoice creation.
For businesses seeking an efficient, feature-rich, and user-friendly Sage alternative, ZarMoney is not just a choice; it's the solution. Try ZarMoney and experience the transformation in managing your business finances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1- Why is ZarMoney a top pick as a Sage alternative for small businesses?
ZarMoney provides an extensive feature set designed specifically for small businesses. Advanced bank reconciliations, efficient expense tracking, and customizable invoicing provide all the essential accounting tools to manage business finances effectively.
2- Why should a small business consider a Sage alternative?
While Sage is a well-established accounting platform, many businesses seek alternatives to find a more user-friendly interface, affordable pricing tiers, or specific features designed to their unique accounting requirements.
3 - What features should a small business prioritize when choosing accounting software?
Key features to prioritize include bank reconciliations, expense tracking, invoice creation, online payments, and thorough financial reports. Inventory management and payroll solutions might also be essential depending on the business model.
4 - How can I test ZarMoney's capabilities before making a decision?
ZarMoney offers a 15-day free trial (no credit card required), allowing businesses to explore all of its features and grasp its potential fully.
5 - How does ZarMoney's customizable invoicing set it apart from other options?
ZarMoney's customizable invoicing capabilities allow businesses to tailor their invoices to their branding and specific needs. This flexibility improves the professionalism of customer interactions and provides a personal touch.
6 - How important is having a user-friendly interface in accounting software for small businesses?
An intuitive interface is important for small businesses, especially for novice users or businesses without a dedicated accounting team. A user-friendly interface can simplify business processes and reduce the learning curve.
7 - Are cloud-based accounting software packages better than desktop accounting software?
Cloud-based accounting software offers flexibility as you can access your financial data from anywhere, have automatic updates, and often integrate more easily with third-party systems. However, some businesses prefer desktop versions for data control or specific feature sets.
8 - How do I know if accounting software is secure for my business's financial data?
Ensure the software has powerful security measures, including encryption, regular backups, and two-factor authentication. Checking reviews and the software's security protocols can also provide insight.
