The best accounting software depends on your business type: a powerhouse for growing companies, a modern multi-user platform, a freelancer-friendly invoicing tool, or a free option for micro-businesses. Here are the four leaders for 2026.
At a glance
| Tool | Best for | Entry pricing | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| QuickBooks Online | Most features & accountant familiarity | $38/mo (Simple Start) | 4.5/5 |
| Xero | Unlimited users / modern teams | $25/mo (Early) | 4.5/5 |
| FreshBooks | Freelancers & invoicing | $23/mo (Lite) | 4.5/5 |
| Wave | Free accounting for micro-businesses | Free; Pro $19/mo | 4.0/5 |
QuickBooks Online — the most capable
QuickBooks Online is the market leader: the deepest feature set, the largest app ecosystem, and near-universal accountant familiarity. It is pricier and raised prices in 2025, but for growing US businesses it is the most capable choice. Read the full QuickBooks review.
Xero — unlimited users
Xero is the top QuickBooks alternative, with a clean interface and unlimited users on every plan — a big cost advantage for teams. US payroll runs through Gusto. Read the full Xero review.
FreshBooks — best for freelancers
FreshBooks is the friendliest tool for freelancers and service businesses, with standout invoicing, time tracking, and project billing. Read the full FreshBooks review.
Wave — best free option
Wave offers genuinely free, real double-entry accounting and unlimited invoicing — you pay only for payments and payroll.
How to choose
- Choose QuickBooks for the most features and accountant compatibility.
- Choose Xero for unlimited users and a modern interface.
- Choose FreshBooks for freelance invoicing and time tracking.
- Choose Wave for free accounting.
See the head-to-head guides: QuickBooks vs Xero and FreshBooks vs QuickBooks.
Pricing last verified June 2026. Always confirm current plans on each vendor’s site.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free accounting software?
Wave is the best free option. It offers genuinely free, real double-entry accounting and unlimited invoicing, and you only pay for payments processing and payroll.
Which accounting software is best for freelancers?
FreshBooks is the friendliest option for freelancers and service businesses, with standout invoicing, time tracking, and project billing.
How much does QuickBooks Online cost?
QuickBooks Online starts at $38/mo for the Simple Start plan.
What is the difference between QuickBooks and Xero?
Xero offers unlimited users on every plan for $25/mo (Early), which is a cost advantage for teams, while QuickBooks Online has the deepest feature set and the largest app ecosystem starting at $38/mo.