QuickBooks vs Xero: Which Accounting Software is Best in 2025?
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Quick Verdict
🏆 Best Overall: Xero - Modern interface, multi-currency, great for growing companies
🇺🇸 Best for US: QuickBooks - Better tax integration, desktop version available
🌍 Best International: Xero - 180+ countries supported, multi-currency standard
💡 Best for Learning: Xero - Intuitive interface, easier for non-accountants
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | QuickBooks | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $15/month | $11/month |
| Countries | US focused | 180+ countries |
| Multi-currency | Limited | Standard |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Very Easy |
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4/5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5 |
Key Differences
Design & User Interface
Winner: Xero
Xero has more modern, cloud-first interface. QuickBooks interface is more traditional. For non-accountants, Xero is easier to learn.
Geographic Focus
Winner: Xero
Xero supports 180+ countries with localized features. QuickBooks is US and Canada focused. For international businesses, Xero wins significantly.
Multi-currency
Winner: Xero
Xero has excellent multi-currency support with real-time conversion. QuickBooks' multi-currency is more limited. Xero for international companies.
Tax Integration
Winner: QuickBooks
QuickBooks has better US tax integration and E-filing. Xero is catching up but QuickBooks still stronger for US tax.
Integrations
Winner: Tie
Both have 500+ integrations. QuickBooks integrates with US-specific tools. Xero has broader global integrations.
Pricing Comparison
QuickBooks Online
- Simple Start: $15/month (1 user)
- Essentials: $25/month (3 users)
- Plus: $55/month (5 users)
- Advanced: $85/month (unlimited users)
Xero
- Starter: $11/month (1 user, basic features)
- Standard: $23/month (5 users, invoicing)
- Premium: $82/month (unlimited users, advanced)
Who Should Use Each?
Choose QuickBooks if:
- ✅ You're a US-only business
- ✅ US tax filing is important
- ✅ You prefer desktop version option
- ✅ You work with US accountants/bookkeepers
Choose Xero if:
- ✅ You do business internationally
- ✅ You need multi-currency support
- ✅ You value modern interface
- ✅ You want easier setup for non-accountants
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I migrate from QuickBooks to Xero?
Yes, both support CSV import/export. Migration takes 2-3 hours for setup. Tax records need to be manually reviewed post-migration. Plan migration between tax years if possible.
Which is better for freelancers?
Both work well for freelancers. QuickBooks has better US tax integration. Xero is easier to set up. Choose QuickBooks for tax simplicity, Xero for ease of use.
Can I use both accounting tools?
Not recommended. Dual systems create reconciliation nightmares and double-work. Choose one platform and commit for 2-3 years.
Which integrates better with Shopify?
Both integrate with Shopify. QuickBooks has tighter Shopify integration for US stores. Xero works well globally. For Shopify specifically, QuickBooks is slightly better.
Final Recommendation
Best Overall: Xero
Xero wins for modern design, international support, and ease of use. Even for US-only businesses, Xero is worth considering. Better UX means less time on accounting, more time growing business.
Try Xero Free 30 Days →But Choose QuickBooks If:
You're a US business with complex tax needs and strong preference for desktop version. QuickBooks Online is solid, just not as modern as Xero.
Try QuickBooks Free Trial →