Xero vs FreshBooks (2026)

A side-by-side comparison of pricing, features and real-world ratings to help you choose between Xero and FreshBooks.

FeatureXeroFreshBooks
CategoryAccountingAccounting
Starting Price$15/mo$19/mo
Free Trial30-day trial30-day trial
G2 Rating4.3 / 54.5 / 5
Best ForSmall TeamsFreelancers
Reviews3,0004,400

🏆 Our Verdict

Xero is our overall pick, scoring 4.4/5 across 3000 reviews. That said, FreshBooks remains a great option if you prioritise freelancers. Read the breakdown below before you decide.

Head to head

Xero

Xero

4.4

Beautiful cloud accounting for small business.

PaidFrom $15/mo
Accounting
Visit Xero →

Pros

  • Clean UI
  • Unlimited users
  • Strong integrations

Cons

  • Payroll limited by region
  • Phone support sparse

FreshBooks

Pros

  • Super easy
  • Great invoicing
  • Good support

Cons

  • Client limits on plans
  • Less robust accounting

Frequently asked questions

Is Xero better than FreshBooks?

Based on aggregated ratings, Xero edges ahead with a 4.4/5 score. The right choice still depends on your budget and use case — Xero suits small-teams, while FreshBooks is strong for freelancers.

Which is cheaper, Xero or FreshBooks?

Xero starts at $15/mo and FreshBooks starts at $19/mo.

Does Xero or FreshBooks offer a free trial?

Xero: 30-day trial. FreshBooks: 30-day trial.