Alternatives

Best Xero Alternatives in 2026

The best alternative to Xero is Wave (scored 7.7/10 vs Xero's 7.2/10) because it scores higher on Value and Transparency. We compared 3 alternatives across value, ease-of-use, power, and pricing transparency.

The best Xero alternative in 2026 is Wave because it scores 7.7/10 vs Xero's 7.2/10, with higher marks in Value and Transparency. We evaluated 3 alternatives on value, ease-of-use, power, and pricing transparency.

Why People Switch from Xero

Starter plan limits (20 invoices/mo)US payroll requires third-party add-onLimited inventory management

Comparing against

Xero

Beautiful business and accounting software

7.2

/ 10

#1

Wave

Best Free OptionTop Alternative

Free invoicing and accounting software for small businesses

7.7

/ 10

Value
9
Ease
8
Power
5
Better than Xero: Value (9 vs 7), Transparency (8 vs 7)
Lower than Xero: Power (5 vs 8)
Free tier availableBest for: Freelancers and solopreneurs on a tight budget
#2

FreshBooks

Accounting software that makes running your small business easy

6.9

/ 10

Value
6
Ease
9
Power
6
Better than Xero: Ease (9 vs 8)
Lower than Xero: Value (6 vs 7), Power (6 vs 8), Transparency (6 vs 7)
From $23/moBest for: Freelancers and consultants who need great invoicing
#3

QuickBooks Online

Most Popular

Smart, simple online accounting for small businesses

6

/ 10

Value
5
Ease
7
Power
9
Better than Xero: Power (9 vs 8)
Lower than Xero: Value (5 vs 7), Ease (7 vs 8), Transparency (4 vs 7)
From $38/moBest for: US-based small businesses needing full-featured accounting