FreshBooks vs Wave (2026)
A side-by-side comparison of pricing, features and real-world ratings to help you choose between FreshBooks and Wave.
| Feature | FreshBooks | Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Accounting | Accounting |
| Starting Price | $19/mo | Free |
| Free Trial | 30-day trial | No |
| G2 Rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 |
| Best For | Freelancers | Freelancers |
| Reviews | 4,400 | 1,700 |
🏆 Our Verdict
FreshBooks is our overall pick, scoring 4.4/5 across 4400 reviews. That said, Wave remains a great option if you prioritise freelancers. Read the breakdown below before you decide.
Head to head
FreshBooks
FreshBooks
Invoicing and accounting built for freelancers.
Visit FreshBooks →Pros
- ✓Super easy
- ✓Great invoicing
- ✓Good support
Cons
- ✗Client limits on plans
- ✗Less robust accounting
Wave
Wave
Free accounting and invoicing for the self-employed.
Visit Wave →Pros
- ✓Free core features
- ✓Simple
- ✓Good for freelancers
Cons
- ✗Paid payments/payroll
- ✗Limited scaling
Frequently asked questions
Is FreshBooks better than Wave?
Based on aggregated ratings, FreshBooks edges ahead with a 4.4/5 score. The right choice still depends on your budget and use case — FreshBooks suits freelancers, while Wave is strong for freelancers.
Which is cheaper, FreshBooks or Wave?
FreshBooks starts at $19/mo and Wave starts at a free plan.
Does FreshBooks or Wave offer a free trial?
FreshBooks: 30-day trial. Wave: no free trial.