Xero vs QuickBooks Online (2026)
A side-by-side comparison of pricing, features and real-world ratings to help you choose between Xero and QuickBooks Online.
| Feature | Xero | QuickBooks Online |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Accounting | Accounting |
| Starting Price | $15/mo | $35/mo |
| Free Trial | 30-day trial | 30-day trial |
| G2 Rating | 4.3 / 5 | 4 / 5 |
| Best For | Small Teams | Freelancers |
| Reviews | 3,000 | 7,300 |
🏆 Our Verdict
Xero is our overall pick, scoring 4.4/5 across 3000 reviews. That said, QuickBooks Online remains a great option if you prioritise freelancers. Read the breakdown below before you decide.
Head to head
Xero
Xero
Beautiful cloud accounting for small business.
Visit Xero →Pros
- ✓Clean UI
- ✓Unlimited users
- ✓Strong integrations
Cons
- ✗Payroll limited by region
- ✗Phone support sparse
QuickBooks Online
The go-to accounting suite for SMBs.
Visit QuickBooks Online →Pros
- ✓Feature-rich
- ✓Accountant-friendly
- ✓Lots of integrations
Cons
- ✗Pricey
- ✗Occasional bugs
Frequently asked questions
Is Xero better than QuickBooks Online?
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 QuickBooks Online is strong for freelancers.
Which is cheaper, Xero or QuickBooks Online?
Xero starts at $15/mo and QuickBooks Online starts at $35/mo.
Does Xero or QuickBooks Online offer a free trial?
Xero: 30-day trial. QuickBooks Online: 30-day trial.