Accounting softwares make it easier to manage your company’s money. We looked at the best options based on how easy they are to use, how flexible they are, their cost, and more, to help you find the right accounting software for your small business.
Managing a business’s money is hard and takes a lot of time, especially for small business owners who have to do everything themselves. Also, every business has different accounting needs.
Here, we review the best accounting apps for small businesses based on what they can do, their price, and how easy they are to use. Two products stand out as top choices: FreshBooks, good for service-based businesses or those with simple product tracking, and Intuit QuickBooks Online, good for small and medium businesses with more complex accounting needs.
Read the detailed reviews of each software below, and then check the summary to help you choose the best software for your needs.
Our Top 6 accounting software for small businesses
QuickBooks
Starting from: $17.50/mo
Free Trial:30 Days
- 50% off for 3 months
- Built-in tax prep
- Unlimited invoices & quotes
- Saves $2,100+/year
Highlights: Freelancers and small businesses needing smart invoicing & tax tools
Visit Site Read ReviewOracle NetSuite
Starting from: Custom Pricing/mo
Free Trial:14 Days
- Real-time insights
- Speeds up closing process
- Smart automation
- Built for scale
Highlights: Large companies managing global financial operations
Visit Site Read ReviewSage
Starting from: $61.92/mo
Free Trial:—
- 100+ integrations
- Expert custom solutions
- Team collaboration
Highlights: Small & mid-sized businesses needing flexible, easy-to-use accounting
Visit Site Read ReviewXero
Starting from: $20/mo
75% off for 6 months*
- Global bank connectivity
- Streamlined onboarding
- Effortless invoicing
Highlights: Businesses wanting paperless accounting with global reach
Visit Site Read ReviewStriven
Starting from: $35/mo/user
Free Trial:7 Days
- Manage purchasing
- Generate reports fast
- Cloud-based business management system
Highlights: Businesses looking for an all-in-one management + accounting tool
Visit Site Read ReviewFreshBooks
Starting from: $7.60/mo
Free Trial:30 Days
- 90% off for 3 months
- Award-winning support
- Seamless integration
- Saves up to $7,000/year
Highlights: Entrepreneurs needing easy invoicing & excellent support
Visit Site Read Review1:QuickBooks
QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by over 4.5 million businesses worldwide. It helps small businesses stay organized with features like creating invoices, tracking expenses, managing payroll, and calculating taxes. It is a good choice for businesses in Saudi Arabia looking for an all-in-one solution.
But many users have problems with bank syncing in QuickBooks, which can cause delays and mistakes in their financial records.
Key Features of QuickBooks
QuickBooks comes packed with features that make managing your finances easier.
General Accounting Features
Income & Expense Tracking: Monitor cash flow in real-time.
Invoices & Payment Tracking: Create custom invoices, send reminders, and track payments automatically.
Project Tracking (Plus Plan): Evaluate project profitability and manage multiple employees on a single project.
Mileage Tracking (Self-Employed): Automatically tracks miles using your phone’s GPS.
Tax Management (TurboTax Integration): Simplifies tax filing with expert assistance.
Advanced Features
Automation: Recurring invoices, payment reminders, and transaction categorization.
Reporting & Insights: Generate balance sheets, P&L statements, and export reports easily.
Payroll & Payment Processing: Manage employee payments, taxes, and benefits.
Third-Party Integrations: Connect with PayPal, Shopify, Square, Mailchimp, Salesforce, and more.
Supported Devices
QuickBooks is accessible on:
Windows & Mac
Android & iOS
Web browser
Note: Linux is not supported.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Secure cloud-based platform
User-friendly and customizable dashboards
Extensive integrations
Mobile and desktop access
Cons:
24/7 phone support is only available for Advanced plan
Payroll is an additional cost
Initial learning curve for beginners
Customer Support & Resources
QuickBooks offers:
Online chat and phone support (6 AM – 6 PM PST weekdays, 6 AM – 3 PM Saturdays)
24/7 support for Advanced plan users
Educational resources: FAQs, tutorials, blog posts, and community forums
Performance & Ease of Use
QuickBooks integrates with bank accounts for real-time financial tracking. It automates repetitive tasks, like categorizing expenses or scheduling payments, which saves time and reduces errors.
The interface is intuitive but may require some learning for beginners. Fortunately, QuickBooks provides a library of tutorials and setup assistance for a fee. Once familiar, users find it extremely easy to navigate.
Why QuickBooks Stands Out
AI Automation: Intuit Assist helps automate invoices and categorize expenses.
Extensive Integrations: Works seamlessly with dozens of third-party apps.
Comprehensive Tools: Inventory and project management tools in higher-tier plans.
Accessibility: Use on web, desktop, and mobile apps.
Final Verdict
QuickBooks remains one of the best accounting solutions for small and mid-sized businesses. Its combination of automation, integrations, and ease of use makes managing finances much simpler. Whether you need invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, or tax filing, QuickBooks has a plan to fit your business needs.
Investing in QuickBooks can save time, reduce errors, and provide valuable insights to grow your business efficiently.
2:Oracle NetSuite
NetSuite’s accounting software helps you manage money better, make correct reports, and easily record payments. You can see financial details in real-time and follow accounting rules, using their app or computer.
Key Features
Accounting & Finance
NetSuite has all the core accounting tools you need:
General Ledger
Bookkeeping
Accounts Payable/Receivable
Income and Expense Tracking
Financial Reports
Tax Compliance
Automations like recurring invoices and purchase orders
Marketing Tools
NetSuite also includes marketing tools through its CRM:
Email campaigns
Cart abandonment emails
Personalized messages
Customer service management
Supply Chain Management
NetSuite helps you manage your supply chain effectively:
Plan supply vs demand
Manage purchase and work orders
Track warranties and customer support
Reporting & Analytics
NetSuite’s SuiteAnalytics allows you to:
Create reports and charts easily
Use advanced filters and pivot tables
Analyze data for better business decisions
Add-Ons
Payment processing
Payroll
Project management
Time tracking
Third-party app integrations
Ease of Use
NetSuite has many features, which can feel complicated at first.
However, it provides training, guides, and support to help you get started. Some businesses hire consultants to make the transition smoother.
Supported Devices
Web-based (works in browser)
Not supported: Windows, Android, Linux, iPhone/iPad, Mac
Pros and Cons
Pros:
24/7 customer support for critical issues
Integrated eCommerce store
Works in many countries
Many modules to suit different business needs
Cons:
Expensive
Extra features cost more
Too many modules can feel overwhelming
Final Verdict
NetSuite is a powerful all-in-one solution for businesses that want more than just basic accounting. You can manage finances, supply chains, marketing, and customer service from a single platform.
It is customizable, but also expensive and takes time to learn. If your business can afford it and you are willing to invest in learning, NetSuite can bring many benefits and save you time in the long run.
3:Sage
Managing your business finances can be tricky. That’s where Sage Accounting Software comes in. Sage is a UK-based company that provides both desktop and cloud accounting software for small and medium businesses. Whether you’re running a startup or an established business, Sage helps you keep your books organized.
Key Features
Sage provides all the tools you need for managing your business finances:
General Accounting:
Track income and expenses
Manage accounts payable and receivable
Financial reporting and general ledger
Invoice and receipt scanning
Expense Tracking:
Record and categorize expenses
Track mileage
Set recurring expenses
Tax Management:
Tax compliance tools
Easy reporting for accountants
Automation & Add-Ons:
Automatic invoice and notification system
Purchase order automation
Payment processing, time tracking, and third-party integrations
Supported Devices:
Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone/iPad, Web
Performance and Ease of Use
Sage 50 combines desktop software with cloud connectivity, giving you the best of both worlds. You can track your finances, manage inventory, and generate reports from anywhere.
The dashboard is user-friendly, and Sage provides training classes through Sage University to help you get started quickly.
Extra Tools & Integrations
Through the Sage Business Cloud Marketplace, you can add apps to expand functionality:
Maccoa: Time tracking and cost analysis
Cashpundit: Cash flow management
Business Importer: Import Excel data
Donation Manager RedCloud: Manage business donations
You can also integrate with PayPal or Sage Payment Solutions and store invoices on Google Drive.
Customer Support
Sage offers support via phone, chat, and email. Phone support is available 24/7, but chat and email may be slower.
They also have a Customer Community and Sage City forum where you can find guides and ask questions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Create separate profiles for employees and accountants
Send invoices directly from the dashboard
Automatic backup and secure data
Cons
Limited customization options
No built-in payroll processing
Final Verdict
Sage Business Cloud Accounting is a strong tool for startups, small, and medium businesses. Its easy-to-use interface, automated invoices, cash flow reports, and marketplace add-ons make bookkeeping simple.
Whether you are a new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Sage helps you manage your finances anywhere in the world.
4:Xero
Xero is a top online accounting software that makes money management easy for small businesses and accountants. It has features like creating invoices, using different currencies, and connecting with over 21,000 banks around the world. Xero started in New Zealand and has grown worldwide, becoming a popular choice for simple, modern, cloud-based financial management.
Key Features
Here’s why Xero stands out:
1. Multi-Currency Invoicing
Send and receive payments in different currencies. Track exchange rates and manage global transactions easily.
2. Custom Reports & Dashboards
Create reports that fit your business. The dashboard shows all your financial data clearly, making it easy to make smart decisions.
3. Audit Trails
See who made changes and when. This ensures accuracy and transparency.
4. Payment Integration
Accept payments online using Stripe, PayPal, and more. Get paid faster and simplify your accounts.
5. Tax & Accountant Collaboration
Easily generate tax documents and work with your accountant in real-time using Xero’s “Collaborate” feature.
Add-Ons & Integrations
Xero integrates with tools you already use:
Payroll & Time Tracking: Built-in payroll (in some regions), TSheets, Harvest
Project Management: WorkflowMax
CRMs: Salesforce, Insightly
Automation Tools: Zapier connects Xero to thousands of apps
With these add-ons, you can create a system that fits your business perfectly.
Devices and Accessibility
Xero works on almost any device:
Windows, Mac, Linux
Android, iPhone/iPad
Web-based, so no installation needed
You can manage your business from anywhere with an internet connection.
Easy to Use
Xero is designed to be simple:
Clean, user-friendly interface
Dashboard shows bank balances, invoices, and cash flow
Quick setup with no installation
Lots of tutorials, videos, webinars, and Xero U courses for learning
Even if you are new to accounting software, you can start using Xero quickly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Easy to use and beginner-friendly
Smart use of AI for insights
Strong client and data management
Multi-currency and global-ready
Cons:
Interface could be more modern
No inventory assembly features
Time logs don’t link automatically to projects
Final Verdict
Xero Accounting Software is a powerful, flexible, and user-friendly tool for small and large businesses alike. Its cloud-based design, smart features, and wide range of integrations make managing finances easy and stress-free.
Whether you need simple invoicing or full-scale accounting with multi-currency support, Xero has you covered.
5:Xero
Striven is cloud-based software for accounting. It works for many types of businesses and companies of all sizes. It can do accounting, manufacturing, customer management, human resources, and more.
Key Features of Striven
General Features
Cloud-based software accessible via web browser (best on Chrome)
User-friendly and customizable dashboard
Project management tools to set milestones and track progress
Multiple payment options: ACH, check, and major debit/credit cards
Reporting
Handles finance reports well
Tax preparation and compliance tools included
No payroll feature
Advanced Features
Company hub, calendar integrations, internal newsfeed
Custom reporting and dashboard customization
Field service management, surveys, and business analytics
Automation & Add-ons
Automated invoices and notifications
Payment processing support
Project management tools
Third-party integrations (Google Calendar, Microsoft Calendar, Gmail, ShipStation, Twilio, Authorize.net)
Supported Devices
Windows, Linux, Mac, Web-based
Not supported on Android or iPhone/iPad
Customer Support
Striven provides excellent customer support via multiple channels:
Phone: 862-208-2220
Live Chat: response within 2–3 minutes
Email/Tickets: quick replies
YouTube Tutorials and FAQ section
Blog: “The Takeoff” for small business tips
Overall, Striven’s support is fast, helpful, and reliable.
Ease of Use
Account setup is quick and simple
7-day free trial available to test features
Dashboard is clean, intuitive, and easy to customize
Most features are simple to find and use
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Easy to use and navigate
Strong security features
Integrates with other software
Cons:
No payroll processing
Final Verdict
Striven is a great all-in-one accounting software for businesses of all sizes. It is easy to use, has a customizable dashboard, and offers excellent customer support.
While it doesn’t include payroll, it makes up for it with strong features, integrations, and project management tools. Considering its price, Striven is good value for money and a solid choice for ERP and accounting needs in 2025.
6:FreshBooks
Managing your business finances doesn’t have to be hard. FreshBooks is an accounting software that saves time, keeps things simple, and helps businesses of all sizes grow. Over 30 million people have trusted FreshBooks to manage their invoices, expenses, and financial reports.
FreshBooks Features
FreshBooks is packed with features that make bookkeeping easier:
Invoicing & Payments
Recurring invoices: Automatically bill regular clients.
Late payment reminders: Never chase payments manually.
Custom invoices: Match your brand, change currency or language.
Deposits & estimates: Accept upfront payments and create quotes quickly.
Expense & Tax Management
Track all expenses in real-time.
Upload and manage receipts easily via mobile.
Generate tax-friendly reports.
Supports double-entry accounting for accuracy.
Automation & Productivity
Automatic invoice reminders and expense tracking.
Auto-billing for retainer clients.
Integration with over 100 apps, including Stripe, Zoom, Trello, Shopify, and more.
Devices & Accessibility
Cloud-based, works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and web.
Mobile apps make it easy to manage your business on the go.
Customer Support
FreshBooks is known for its excellent customer support:
Phone support: Mon-Fri, 8 AM – 8 PM EST
Email support: Available 24/7
Extra resources: Blog, FAQ, and YouTube tutorials
Ease of Use
FreshBooks is beginner-friendly. Its simple dashboard and clear charts give a full picture of your finances in one glance. Getting started is quick — all you need is an email and password to set up your account.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Easy recurring invoices
Beautiful, customizable invoices
Competitive pricing plans
Award-winning customer support
Cons:
Can be expensive per user
Balance sheets must be generated manually
Final Verdict
FreshBooks offers great value for money. It combines powerful features, simple usability, and excellent customer support. For small business owners and freelancers, it’s one of the top choices in accounting software in 2025.
If you want an accounting tool that saves time, reduces stress, and helps you grow your business, FreshBooks is worth trying.
How to Choose the Best Accounting Software
Accounting is an important part of every business. It helps you record your past income and expenses, understand your current financial position, and plan for future growth.
Accounting takes time and effort, and it doesn’t directly make money. That’s why most small and large businesses use accounting software to make their work faster and easier.
These programs help record all financial data, make reports, create invoices, and track inventory. With the right software, your business can grow faster and your numbers will always stay accurate.
Best Accounting Software Providers
QuickBooks
Xero
Patriot
What Is Accounting Software for Small Businesses?
Accounting software (also called bookkeeping software) is a complete tool for recording and storing all your financial data. Some advanced software even helps with budget planning and forecasting.
With most accounting software, you can:
Add and track expenses
Create and send invoices
Generate reports
Manage clients
Connect with other apps like project tools or payment systems
Today, most accounting software works online (cloud-based) — meaning you don’t need to install anything. You can log in from anywhere using your laptop or even a mobile app.
Types of Accounting Software for Small Business
1. Billing and Invoicing Software
This type helps you create and send invoices, write checks, and send payment reminders. Many also support recurring invoices for monthly or regular payments.
Example: Square (created by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey) is one of the most popular billing software.
2. Payroll Software
Payroll software helps pay employees correctly and on time. It also calculates taxes, tracks payments, and creates payroll reports.
For example, QuickBooks offers payroll as an add-on feature, while FreshBooks connects with other payroll tools.
3. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Software
ERP systems are for larger businesses. They combine accounting, HR, finance, marketing, and inventory tools all in one place. Many also include CRM features to manage customer relationships.
Benefits of Accounting Software for Small Business
Saves Time
It automates daily tasks like creating recurring invoices or logging expenses — saving you hours each week.
Saves Money
You can manage more work with fewer people and tools because everything is built into one program.
Reduces Errors
Automation helps reduce human mistakes in tax calculations, data entry, and invoice management.
Faster Decisions
You can instantly see reports and understand your financial health, which helps you make smart business decisions quickly.
Looks More Professional
You can send branded invoices with your logo, terms, and support details — creating a professional image for your business.
Key Features to Look for in Accounting Software
Online Payments: Allow customers to pay directly through invoices using cards or e-checks.
Dashboard: See all your important financial details in one screen.
Reports: View your income, expenses, cash flow, and performance anytime.
Cloud Access: Use your software from anywhere — laptop or mobile — as long as you have internet.
Latest Accounting Software Trends
Cloud-Based Systems
Cloud software (SaaS) is now very popular because you can access it online. Remote work after 2020 made this even more useful.
Automation
Automation saves both time and money. For example, automating invoice processing can save around $16 per invoice.
Conclusion
Every small and medium business can benefit from accounting software. It saves time, reduces cost, avoids mistakes, and helps make better financial decisions.
If you’re a freelancer or small shop owner, you can start with free software. But as your business grows, premium tools with more features will be a smart investment.
Remember, not all software fits every business. Choose based on your needs — do you want mobile apps, Amazon integration, or multi-user access?
Make a list of what matters most to you, try free trials, and then decide.
Choosing the right accounting software today can make your business smarter, faster, and more successful tomorrow.