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
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 |
Not sure which tool to pick?
See a detailed breakdown of Wave pricing before you decide.
See Wave pricing →