Best Wave Alternatives (2026)
Wave is free accounting and invoicing for small businesses, starting at Free/mo. Here are the best alternatives — whether you need something cheaper, simpler, or with different features.
Why people switch from Wave
- →Payment processing fees
- →Less powerful than QuickBooks
- →US & Canada focused
- →Limited integrations
Accounting software for small and medium businesses
QuickBooks
Accounting software for small and medium businesses
QuickBooks by Intuit is the most widely used accounting software for small businesses. It handles invoicing, expenses, payroll, tax filing, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting — available in desktop and cloud versions.
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.
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.
Wave vs alternatives: quick comparison
| Tool | Starting price | Free plan | Pricing model | G2 score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wave (current) | Free | ✓ | freemium | 4.4/5 |
| QuickBooks | $17.5 | ✗ | paid | 4/5 |
| FreshBooks | $17 | ✗ | paid | 4.5/5 |
| Xero | $15 | ✗ | paid | 4.3/5 |
How to switch from Wave
- 1. Export your data first
Before cancelling, export everything from Wave — 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
Most alternatives above offer 14–30 day free trials. Sign up and run a real project — not a demo — before making a final decision.
- 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 Wave 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 Wave, QuickBooks is our top pick — accounting software for small and medium businesses, with a G2 score of 4/5. Use the comparison links above to do a side-by-side before committing.
Wave alternatives: frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Wave?
QuickBooks is our top-ranked alternative. It starts at $17.5/mo and scores 4/5 on G2.
Is there a free alternative to Wave?
Most alternatives to Wave are paid. See pricing details in the comparison table above.
What is the cheapest alternative to Wave?
Xero is among the most affordable at $15/mo.
Not sure which tool to pick?
See a detailed breakdown of Wave pricing before you decide.
See Wave pricing →