Wave vs Xero
Both Wave and Xero are popular accounting & finance tools — but they fit different teams. Here's how they compare, and how to choose.
Wave
Free accounting and invoicing for very small businesses. You pay only for payments and payroll add-ons.
- Core accounting is free
- Free invoicing included
- Pay only for payments/payroll
Xero
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
| Wave | Xero | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Accounting & Finance | Accounting & Finance |
| Pricing model | Free | Paid |
| Best for | solo and very small businesses on a tight budget | teams that want unlimited users without per-seat fees |
| Current offer | Free to use | 30-day free trial |
How to choose
Choose Wave if you want solo and very small businesses on a tight budget.
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.
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