Accounting Software

Best Accounting Software for Small Businesses and Freelancers

Top bookkeeping and accounting platforms ranked by ease of use, automation depth, tax preparation support, and pricing for businesses of every size.

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01
QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online

The world's most widely used small business accounting software — QuickBooks Online's bank reconciliation, invoicing, payroll integration, and 750+ app integrations serve 7 million businesses globally.

Steady·Score +16
02
Quicken (Personal + Small Business)

Quicken (Personal + Small Business)

The long-running personal finance tool now serving small businesses — Quicken's combined personal and business tracking is unique for sole proprietors who manage household and business finances from the same accounts.

Steady·Score +13
03
Kashoo

Kashoo

A straightforward double-entry accounting tool with AI-powered transaction categorisation — Kashoo's simplicity makes it the best accounting software for first-time business owners who find QuickBooks overwhelming.

Steady·Score +11
04
N

NetSuite (Oracle)

The enterprise-grade ERP and financial management platform for scaling businesses — NetSuite's consolidated financial reporting, multi-subsidiary management, and revenue recognition capabilities serve companies from $5M to $500M revenue.

Steady·Score +10
05
Odoo Accounting

Odoo Accounting

The open-source ERP module that includes full accounting — Odoo's self-hosted option, modular pricing, and deep integration with its CRM, inventory, and HR modules appeal to technical founders avoiding SaaS lock-in.

Steady·Score +10
06
Xero

Xero

QuickBooks' strongest global competitor — Xero's clean UI, unlimited users on all plans, strong bank feed automation, and exceptional Shopify/Stripe integrations make it the accountant's favourite for growing businesses.

Steady·Score +9
07
Bonsai (Freelancer All-in-One)

Bonsai (Freelancer All-in-One)

Contract, invoice, time-tracking, accounting, and tax tools built specifically for freelancers — Bonsai combines an entire freelance business management suite into one platform at a price most accountants charge monthly.

Steady·Score +7
08
FreshBooks

FreshBooks

The freelancer and service business favourite — FreshBooks' beautiful invoicing, time tracking, project profitability, and client portal make it the most intuitive accounting tool for solo professionals.

Steady·Score +7
09
Bench (Bookkeeping + Software)

Bench (Bookkeeping + Software)

Bench pairs proprietary bookkeeping software with a dedicated human bookkeeper — all monthly categorisation and reconciliation is done for you, making it the most hands-off accounting solution for time-poor entrepreneurs.

Steady·Score +6
10
Sage Accounting

Sage Accounting

Sage's cloud accounting suite is the UK and European mid-market leader — Sage 50 and Sage Business Cloud serve from sole traders to established companies with robust VAT management and MTD compliance.

Steady·Score +4
11
Zoho Books

Zoho Books

The best value full-featured accounting platform — Zoho Books' free tier for businesses under $50K revenue, GST/VAT compliance, multi-currency, and Zoho ecosystem integration make it exceptional for growing SMBs.

Steady·Score +4
12
Wave Accounting (Free)

Wave Accounting (Free)

The most capable truly free accounting software — Wave's invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting cost nothing, making it the best choice for freelancers, sole proprietors, and micro-businesses.

Steady·Score +3
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QuickBooks Online

Currently ranked #1. Where will it be in 7 days?