QuickBooks vs Xero

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

QuickBooks

Paid30-day free trial

The most widely used small-business accounting software. Invoicing, expenses, payroll add-ons and accountant support.

  • Most accountants know it
  • Invoicing, expenses & reports
  • Payroll & payments add-ons
Try QuickBooks →

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 →
 QuickBooksXero
CategoryAccounting & FinanceAccounting & Finance
Pricing modelPaidPaid
Best forUS small businesses that want the most-supported accounting toolteams that want unlimited users without per-seat fees
Current offer30-day free trial30-day free trial

How to choose

Choose QuickBooks if you want US small businesses that want the most-supported accounting tool.

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.