Best QuickBooks Alternatives (2026)
QuickBooks is accounting software for small and medium businesses, starting at $17.5/mo. Here are the best alternatives — whether you need something cheaper, simpler, or with different features.
Why people switch from QuickBooks
- →Can be expensive
- →Prices increase after promo period
- →Not ideal for non-US businesses
- →Payroll costs extra
Beautiful accounting software for small business
Xero
Beautiful accounting software for small business
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform popular with small businesses and accountants, particularly outside the US. Known for its clean UI, strong bank feed integrations, and large add-on marketplace.
FreshBooks
Invoicing and accounting for freelancers and small businesses
FreshBooks is cloud accounting software built specifically for self-employed professionals and small service businesses. It makes invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, and client management simple — without needing an accounting background.
Wave
Free accounting and invoicing for small businesses
Wave is a free accounting, invoicing, and payments platform for freelancers and small businesses. It offers unlimited invoicing, expense tracking, and double-entry accounting at no cost — making it a popular alternative to QuickBooks for budget-conscious business owners.
Sage
UK accounting software trusted by small businesses and accountants
Sage is one of the UK's most established accounting software providers, offering cloud-based bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll, and VAT management. Sage 50 is a desktop solution for more complex needs, while Sage Accounting (formerly Sage One) targets small businesses. Well-regarded by UK accountants for compliance with HMRC Making Tax Digital.
QuickBooks vs alternatives: quick comparison
| Tool | Starting price | Free plan | Pricing model | G2 score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QuickBooks (current) | $17.5 | ✗ | paid | 4/5 |
| Xero | $15 | ✗ | paid | 4.3/5 |
| FreshBooks | $17 | ✗ | paid | 4.5/5 |
| Wave | Free | ✓ | freemium | 4.4/5 |
| Sage | £15 | ✗ | paid | 4/5 |
How to switch from QuickBooks
- 1. Export your data first
Before cancelling, export everything from QuickBooks — contacts, projects, records, or reports. Most tools offer a CSV export under Settings → Data Export. Download and store it as a backup even if you don't need it immediately.
- 2. Trial the alternative with a real project
Wave offers free plans — sign up and run a live project in parallel before committing. Most paid alternatives also offer 14–30 day trials.
- 3. Import and run both tools briefly
Use the import wizard in your chosen alternative to bring across your exported data. Run both tools in parallel for 2–4 weeks so your team can adapt without losing continuity. Most migrations take less than a day for small teams.
- 4. Cancel before the next billing cycle
Cancel QuickBooks before renewal to avoid being charged for another month or year. Check whether you're on a monthly or annual plan — annual plans often have no mid-cycle refunds. Keep your final data export on file.
Our verdict
If you are switching from QuickBooks, Xero is our top pick — beautiful accounting software for small business, with a G2 score of 4.3/5. For a free option, Wave is worth considering. Use the comparison links above to do a side-by-side before committing.
QuickBooks alternatives: frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to QuickBooks?
Xero is our top-ranked alternative. It starts at $15/mo and scores 4.3/5 on G2.
Is there a free alternative to QuickBooks?
Yes — Wave all offer free plans.
What is the cheapest alternative to QuickBooks?
Wave offers the lowest entry point with a free plan. Paid plans start at Free/mo.
Not sure which tool to pick?
See a detailed breakdown of QuickBooks pricing before you decide.
See QuickBooks pricing →