FreshBooks vs Xero

Both FreshBooks and Xero are popular accounting & finance tools — but they fit different teams. Here's how they compare, and how to choose.

FreshBooks

Paid30-day free trial

Accounting built around invoicing and time tracking, aimed at freelancers and service businesses.

  • Invoicing-first design
  • Built-in time tracking
  • Friendly for non-accountants
Try FreshBooks →

Xero

Paid30-day free trial

Cloud accounting with unlimited users on every plan and a clean interface. Strong outside the US, growing inside it.

  • Unlimited users on all plans
  • Clean, modern interface
  • Strong app marketplace
Try Xero →
 FreshBooksXero
CategoryAccounting & FinanceAccounting & Finance
Pricing modelPaidPaid
Best forfreelancers and service businesses focused on invoicingteams that want unlimited users without per-seat fees
Current offer30-day free trial30-day free trial

How to choose

Choose FreshBooks if you want freelancers and service businesses focused on invoicing.

Choose Xero if you want teams that want unlimited users without per-seat fees.

Both offer a way to try before you commit, so the safest move is to test your top pick with your own workflow before paying.

Disclosure: the links above may be affiliate links. If you sign up through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you — it never affects how we compare tools.