Xero
VerifiedCloud accounting software for small businesses — the leading QuickBooks alternative used in 180+ countries.
Subscription
$15/mo
30-day trial
SMBs (50–500)
Apr 2026
What is Xero?
Xero is the second-largest small business accounting platform globally, with 4 million+ subscribers in 180+ countries. It covers invoicing, bank reconciliation, expense tracking, payroll (in select countries), fixed asset management, and multi-currency accounting. Xero's clean interface and real-time bank feeds make it significantly easier to use than QuickBooks for non-accountants. Its ecosystem includes 1,000+ app integrations and a large global network of Xero-certified accountants and bookkeepers. Xero is particularly dominant in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Key Features
Pricing
subscription
$15/month
Starter plan from $15/month. Standard at $42/month. Premium at $78/month.
Pricing may have changed. Always verify on the vendor's website.
Who is Xero best for?
Best for
Xero is designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
Popular in these industries:
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cleaner interface than QuickBooks
- Strong in UK Australia NZ Canada
- Real-time bank feeds
- 1,000+ integrations
- Good multi-currency support
Cons
- Payroll limited to select countries
- Starter plan severely limits invoices and bills
- Less suited to US-based businesses than QuickBooks
- Inventory management basic
Xero Alternatives
FreshBooks
Direct alternativeSimple accounting and invoicing for freelancers and small business owners.
QuickBooks Online
Direct alternativeThe world's most widely used small business accounting software for bookkeeping, payroll, and tax.
Lightspeed Commerce
Direct alternativeCloud POS and e-commerce platform for retail stores, restaurants, and golf businesses.
Patriot Software
Direct alternativeAffordable US payroll and accounting software designed for small businesses.
Melio
Direct alternativeFree business payment platform — pay vendors by bank transfer or card, get paid by check or bank transfer.
1-800Accountant
Direct alternativeOnline accounting and bookkeeping service pairing small businesses with dedicated CPAs and accountants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Xero offer a free trial?
- Yes, Xero offers a 30-day free trial. No credit card required in most cases.
- What is Xero used for?
- Cloud accounting software for small businesses — the leading QuickBooks alternative used in 180+ countries.
- Who is Xero best for?
- Xero is primarily designed for small and medium-sized businesses.
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QuickBooks Online
The world's most widely used small business accounting software for bookkeeping, payroll, and tax.
Gusto
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FreshBooks
Simple accounting and invoicing for freelancers and small business owners.
Patriot Software
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1-800Accountant
Online accounting and bookkeeping service pairing small businesses with dedicated CPAs and accountants.