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12 Alternatives to QuickBooks in 2025: doola’s Guide to Smarter Accounting Choices

Let’s cut to the chase. QuickBooks might be the all-in-one tool of accounting software, but let’s be honest — it often feels like trying to assemble IKEA furniture with a butter knife 🤭
You know what I mean?
It’s confusing, it’s overwhelming, and half the time, you’re just sitting there wondering, “Why is this so hard?” All I want to do is send an invoice!”
And honestly, I’m not the only one saying this. Just hop over to review sites like G2 or Capterra, and you’ll see people venting their frustrations about how QuickBooks doesn’t always live up to the hype.
It’s not that QuickBooks is terrible; it’s just that sometimes it tries to be everything for everyone and ends up being a headache for most.
Sometimes, you need something that just works — no fuss, no frustration, and definitely no hair-pulling.
That’s where platforms like doola Bookkeeping come in, handling everything from managing your books to tax filing, all in smooth, easy-to-avail packages.
So, if any of this is hitting close to home and you’re thinking it might be time for a change, you’re in good company.
Lucky for us, 2024 has rolled in with a fresh crop of alternatives that might just be the relief you’ve been searching for.
Let’s dive into 12 options that could finally give you some accounting peace of mind.
The 12 Best Alternatives to QuickBooks in 2025
1. doola Bookkeeping
If You Want a Business Partner Who Does More Than Just Count Beans
Alright, I’m going to shoot straight with you — I’m definitely a bit biased here because, well I am representing doola here.
But that doesn’t mean, I’m only here to just toss around shiny compliments and call it a day.
So, please, hear me out.
doola Bookkeeping isn’t just another tool to balance your books.
We are your go-to for keeping all your business finances in check, ensuring your bookkeeping is always accurate, and making sure tax season doesn’t catch you off guard.
Pros:
✅ Bookkeeping: Struggling to stay on top of your finances? We’ve got you covered. From tracking expenses to balancing your books, we’ll keep everything organized and ready, so you never have to stress about missing a detail.
✅ Tax Prep: Tired of the last-minute scramble when tax season rolls around? With our bookkeeping services, we’ll ensure everything is properly documented and ready for filing, so taxes never sneak up on you.
✅ Financial Clarity: Focus on what you do best, and let us handle the numbers. With clear, up-to-date financial reports, you’ll always know where your business stands.
Cons:
Sure, doola may not be the cheapest option, but it’s not just about cutting costs. It’s about investing in a solution that saves you time, minimizes errors, and brings you peace of mind.
If you’re tired of juggling bookkeeping yourself or using clunky tools that don’t cut it, doola is worth the investment.
Verdict: doola might not be perfect (who is?), but when it comes to being your trusted bookkeeping solution, we’re pretty close! Plus, we like to add a bit of fun to the process, making it more enjoyable along the way.
Curious? Book a demo to know more.
2. Xero
If QuickBooks Feels Like a Maze, Xero is Your Straight Path
Xero is like that street smart friend who always knows the shortcut and gets you where you need to go without detours.
I mean, it’s designed to be simple, intuitive, and seems to understand your struggles (only accounting related) before you even do.
With Xero, you get a full suite of accounting tools wrapped in a user-friendly package that won’t leave you scratching your head. Plus, you can access your finances on any device, and it automates much of the grunt work, like importing transactions and generating reports.
Pros:
✅ Full suite of tools, from invoicing to budgeting.
✅ User-friendly interface that’s easy on the eyes (and the brain).
✅ Affordable, with plans starting at just $15/month.
Cons:
Not as feature-rich as QuickBooks.
May require some adjustment time for accountants used to QuickBooks.
Verdict: Users generally appreciate Xero’s clean, intuitive interface, but some find that it lacks the depth of features that QuickBooks offers, especially for larger businesses.
Accountants familiar with QuickBooks might need some time to adjust, but many small business owners prefer Xero’s straightforward approach. It’s especially popular with freelancers and small businesses looking for an easier-to-use alternative.
3. FreshBooks
If You’re a Freelancer Who Lives and Breathes Invoicing
FreshBooks is the “just right” bowl of porridge for freelancers and small businesses who need invoicing done right but don’t need all the extras QuickBooks throws at you.
It’s got everything you need to track your time, send out invoices, and even collect payments — all wrapped up in a nice, easy-to-use package.
Pros:
✅ Excellent invoicing features, with customizable templates.
✅ Time tracking and expense management built-in.
✅ Affordable, with a freelancer-friendly price tag.
Cons:
❌ Lacks advanced accounting features like payroll and inventory management.
❌ You’re still doing most of the work yourself.
Verdict: FreshBooks is a hit among freelancers and solo entrepreneurs for its simplicity and powerful invoicing features. However, some users find it lacking when it comes to more complex accounting tasks like payroll and inventory management.
Reviews suggest that if invoicing and time tracking are your primary needs, FreshBooks delivers with flying colors, but larger businesses might find it too basic.
4. Wave
If You Like Free (Because Who Doesn’t?)
Wave is the budget-conscious entrepreneur’s dream. It’s completely free and covers most of the basics you’d expect from QuickBooks — like invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting.
But don’t expect all the bells and whistles; Wave keeps it simple to keep it free.
Pros:
✅ Completely free, no strings attached.
✅ Supports unlimited users and businesses.
✅ Covers the basics of accounting, including invoicing and expense tracking.
Cons:
❌ Limited customer support — don’t expect to chat with a live person when things go wrong.
❌ Missing some advanced features, like payroll management.
Verdict: Wave is beloved by small business owners and freelancers on a tight budget who need basic accounting functions without the cost.
However, users frequently mention the limited customer support and lack of advanced features as downsides.
If you’re looking for something free that covers the essentials, Wave is a solid option, but it may not scale well as your business grows.
5. Bench.co
If You Want to Hand Off Your Books and Never Look Back
Bench isn’t just software; it’s a service that pairs you with a real, human bookkeeper just like doola.
If you’d rather spend your time growing your business than wrestling with numbers, Bench can take the entire bookkeeping process off your hands.
Pros:
✅ Personalized service with a dedicated bookkeeper.
✅ Comprehensive bookkeeping that’s done for you.
✅ Integrates with your existing financial tools.
Cons:
❌ Not a DIY solution — if you like control, this isn’t for you.
❌ Costs more than software-only solutions.
Verdict: Users who prefer a hands-off approach to bookkeeping rave about Bench’s service, especially the personal touch of having a dedicated bookkeeper.
However, those who like to maintain control over their finances might find Bench too restrictive.
The cost is also a consideration, with some users feeling that it’s on the higher end, but many find the time saved well worth the investment.
6. You Need a Budget (YNAB)
If Budgeting is Your Focus, YNAB Has You Covered
You Need a Budget (YNAB) is like the financial coach you never knew you needed. It’s not a full-blown accounting tool but is perfect for those who want to get serious about budgeting.
It’s all about giving every dollar a job and helping you stay on track with your financial goals.
Pros:
✅ Focused entirely on budgeting, with tools to track goals and progress.
✅ Syncs with your bank accounts for up-to-date info.
✅ Excellent support and knowledge base resources to help you get the most out of it.
Cons:
❌ Limited to budgeting—no invoicing, payroll, or other accounting features.
❌ Costs $99/year, which can add up if you’re on a tight budget.
Verdict: YNAB is highly regarded by users who love its disciplined approach to budgeting. Many appreciate the detailed control it offers over their finances, but others find the learning curve a bit steep and the lack of broader accounting features limiting.
If your main concern is getting a handle on your budget, YNAB is a powerful tool, but it’s not a replacement for full accounting software.
7. Gusto
If Payroll is Your Pain Point, Gusto is the Cure
Gusto is all about payroll. It’s not an accounting tool per se, but if handling payroll makes you want to cry, Gusto’s here to dry those tears.
It takes care of everything from employee info to direct deposits, and even handles tax forms.
Pros:
✅ Super easy payroll management.
✅ Handles tax forms and direct deposits.
✅ Scales with your business as you grow.
Cons:
❌ Doesn’t handle other accounting tasks like taxes and bookkeeping.
❌ Costs can add up if you have many employees.
Verdict: Users love Gusto’s simplicity and efficiency in handling payroll.
The platform’s user-friendly design and comprehensive payroll features make it a favorite among small business owners.
However, some users note that as your team grows, the costs can add up, and its lack of broader accounting functions means you’ll need to pair it with other tools.
8. Square
If You’re a Retailer Needing Payment Processing Plus a Little Extra
Square isn’t technically accounting software, but it’s perfect for small retail businesses that need a simple way to process payments and keep track of sales.
It’s also great if you’re selling both in-store and online, as it integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms.
Pros:
✅ No monthly fees—pay only for what you use.
✅ Integrates with e-commerce and point-of-sale systems.
✅ Great for small retailers just starting out.
Cons:
❌ Not a full accounting solution — don’t expect financial statements.
❌ Higher per-transaction fees than some competitors.
Verdict: Square is praised by users for its ease of use, especially for small retailers and businesses that need a simple, integrated solution for payment processing.
However, its higher transaction fees and lack of full accounting features are commonly mentioned downsides.
If you’re primarily looking for a payment processing tool with some added benefits, Square is a reliable choice.
9. GNUCash
If You’re a Fan of Open Source and Don’t Mind a Challenge
GNUCash is like the Linux of accounting software—powerful, flexible, and free, but not exactly user-friendly.
If you’re comfortable with a steeper learning curve and need full customization, GNUCash could be the perfect fit.
Pros:
✅ Free and open source, with no hidden costs.
✅ Highly customizable, with a full suite of accounting tools.
✅ Supported by a passionate community.
Cons:
❌ Steep learning curve, especially for those new to accounting.
❌ Lacks the polish and support of commercial software.
Verdict: Users who are tech-savvy and appreciate open-source software often speak highly of GNUCash. However, its steep learning curve and somewhat dated interface make it less appealing to those who prefer something more intuitive and polished.
It’s a powerful tool, but only if you’re willing to invest the time to learn it.
10. OneUp
If You’re a Small Retailer Needing Just the Essentials
One Up is a no-frills accounting solution built with small retailers in mind. It focuses on what you really need — inventory management, invoicing, and basic bookkeeping — without overwhelming you with features you’ll never use.
Pros:
✅ Designed specifically for small retailers.
✅ Affordable, with plans starting at $9/month.
✅ Simple, mobile-friendly interface.
Cons:
❌ Limited features—no payroll or advanced reporting.
❌ Can get expensive if you need multiple users.
Verdict: Users who are small retailers appreciate One Up’s focus on essential features without the bloat. The platform is particularly praised for its affordability and ease of use.
However, as businesses grow, the lack of more advanced features and the cost of adding users can become drawbacks.
11. Tiller
If You’re a Spreadsheet Whiz and Love Google Sheets
Tiller isn’t your typical accounting software—it’s a tool that feeds your financial data directly into Google Sheets or Excel.
If you love working with spreadsheets and want total control over your financial data, Tiller is the tool for you.
Pros:
✅ Automatically imports data into your favorite spreadsheet program.
✅ Fully customizable — design your own reports and budgets.
✅ Great for those who prefer manual data manipulation.
Cons:
❌ Not ideal for those who don’t love spreadsheets.
❌ Still requires you to do most of the work yourself.
Verdict: Tiller receives high marks from users who love spreadsheets and want to maintain full control over their data. However, those who aren’t comfortable with spreadsheets might find it cumbersome.
It’s perfect for users who want customization and control but isn’t for everyone.
12. Free Excel Template
If You Want to Keep Things Old School and Simple
Okay, we are not here to judge spreadsheets and Excels. But, sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. If you’re just getting started and want to dip your toes into the world of bookkeeping, a free Excel template might be all you need.
It won’t replace a full accounting system, but it’s perfect for tracking your income and expenses as you get your business off the ground.
Pros:
✅ Free and simple to use.
✅ Easy to customize to fit your needs.
✅ Great for basic financial tracking.
Cons:
❌ Limited functionality — no automation or advanced features.
❌ Requires manual data entry, which can be time-consuming.
Verdict: Users who are just starting out often find a free Excel template sufficient for their needs. It’s praised for its simplicity and cost (free!), but it’s not a long-term solution for those needing more robust accounting features.
As your business grows, you’ll likely need to upgrade to a more comprehensive tool.
Ready to Make a Move? Find the Tool That Works for You With doola
QuickBooks has been the go-to for years, but if you’ve read this far, you’re probably ready for a change. The truth is, not every tool is a one-size-fits-all, and that’s okay.
Whether you’re looking for something simpler, more affordable, or just better suited to the way you do business, there’s an alternative out there that’s right for you.
Here’s the thing: Your business deserves software that works with you, not against you. And if QuickBooks feels more like a roadblock than a tool, then it’s time to explore other options.
From all-in-one solutions like doola’s All-In-One-Accounting to specialized tools that do one thing really well, 2024 has no shortage of choices.
At the end of the day, the best tool is the one that makes your life easier, frees up your time, and gives you peace of mind.
So take a deep breath, consider what you really need, and make the move that’s right for you.
Because running a business is hard enough — you deserve an accounting software or platform that makes your life just a little bit easier.
And who knows? You might even find yourself enjoying the process again.
Ready to take that leap and see how things could be easier? Book a demo today. No strings attached — just a chat with our experts to see if we’re the right fit for your business.