Accounting has never been my favorite subject.
During my MBA, finance classes initially felt daunting with their jargon and complex formulas. But over time, I realized how essential accounting is to business success. Collaborating with finance professionals later brought those lessons to life, revealing challenges professionals face.
I’ve combined my MBA knowledge and finance project experience to evaluate the best accounting software solutions. While most of these tools promise to simplify financial management, many fall short in key areas.
Common pain points include outdated interfaces that frustrate users, automation features that don’t save as much time as advertised, and integration issues that make syncing with other business systems a headache. Then there’s the challenge of scalability. Some platforms work fine for small businesses but buckle under the needs of growing enterprises. With these factors in mind, I’ve tested and curated a list of the best accounting software solutions that stand out for their usability, functionality, and value.
“The accounting software industry has historically been slow to adapt to new trends, but COVID-19 forced the industry to digitally transform to support a remote work environment. In my opinion, the most notable and important advancement is cloud-based accounting software.
As companies look to decrease their accounting stack spending, especially in the current economic downturn that we are experiencing, cloud computing allows organizations to pay for a subscription-based solution, which can cost vastly less than purchasing a product and installing it.”
– Nathan Calabrese, Senior Research Analyst, G2
Whether you’re looking for robust reporting, seamless integrations, advanced automation, or an intuitive way to handle daily bookkeeping, this guide will help you find the right accounting solution.
While collaborating with finance and accounting professionals, I saw how accounting software automates tasks like recording transactions, tracking expenses, and managing payroll. It provided financial reporting, tax compliance, and budgeting tools, simplifying our workflows and ensuring accuracy.
I spent weeks collaborating with finance and accounting teams, exploring how accounting software performs in real-world scenarios: what it does well, where it struggles, and whether it’s worth the investment. I also used artificial intelligence to analyze hundreds of product reviews on G2, uncovering users' needs, motivations, and pain points. I looked at G2’s Grid Reports to evaluate how these solutions compare against each other in features, usability, and value. After thorough research and hands-on experience, I’ve compiled this detailed list of the best accounting software.
The best accounting software solutions have made it easier for us to automate repetitive tasks like generating recurring invoices, categorizing expenses using AI tools, and calculating payroll taxes in compliance with local regulations. They provide real-time insights through dynamic dashboards and detailed reports, such as profit and loss statements, cash flow forecasts, and tax summaries. With its advanced integrations into ERP systems, CRM platforms, and payment gateways, we can seamlessly sync data, eliminate manual entry, and minimize errors in our financial workflows.
I considered the following factors when evaluating the best accounting software solutions.
I considered all these factors while evaluating 30+ accounting tools. I focused on how well the software aligned with my existing workflows and whether it could scale as the business grew. Features like workflow automation, multi-entity support, and modular add-ons were at the top of my list.
Reporting and analytics were equally important. I prioritized systems with detailed, customizable financial reports, real-time dashboards, and tools for meeting compliance requirements. Integration was another key area. I also checked if the software seamlessly connects with CRMs, ERPs, and payment gateways to streamline processes and minimize manual data entry. The 11 I selected excelled in all these areas.
To be included in the accounting software catergory, a product must:
*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.
NetSuite is a cloud-based accounting software that promises to be your one-stop shop for everything: finance, reporting, and operations. After using it for a while, here’s my take.
NetSuite makes things ridiculously easy to navigate. Whether I’m running detailed financial reports or just poking around for data, the interface feels intuitive. It also lets you customize workflows.
I also appreciate its ability to handle multi-entity operations. Our business spans different divisions, and keeping everything in sync can be challenging. With NetSuite, consolidating financials across these entities is easier. And if you’re a fan of dashboards and reports, NetSuite delivers. You can visualize data in many ways.
I also love how NetSuite integrates with third-party tools. Whether it’s CRM systems or inventory management software, NetSuite plays nice with others, saving us from hours of manual data entry.
However, the interface feels dated. It works, but I can’t help wishing it had a more modern design. And while it’s generally customizable, I’ve hit walls when trying to tweak certain features for niche business needs. For example, building custom reports sometimes takes longer than I’d like because the process isn’t as straightforward as it could be.
And let me tell you, the learning curve is real, especially when you switch from something simpler like QuickBooks. NetSuite is undeniably powerful, but it’s not exactly plug-and-play. Expect a bit of a struggle before you find your groove with complex modules like revenue recognition.
“The drawback I have seen so far is consistently connecting and interacting with our bank accounts. The account transactions, when imported, exist only on one screen. Unlike Quickbooks, you cannot use them to post to your general ledger. You must create your own NetSuite records to match the bank records. We also had some connection issues with manually importing CSV files for bank transactions.”
- NetSuite Review, Christopher W.
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Let me tell you about my experience of using Sage Intacct. It’s one of those accounting solutions that make you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot. From the get-go, I was impressed by how intuitive the interface is.
I first noticed how customizable Sage Intacct is. I’ve set it up to automate recurring tasks like invoicing and even handle financial consolidations across multiple entities, and honestly, it feels like it’s working just for me. And let me tell you, the automation is great, too. We don’t waste hours on manual entries or tedious reconciliations. During testing, Sage Intacct took care of all that for us in the background so we could focus on the bigger stuff.
The reporting capabilities blew us away. You can slice and dice your data in ways I didn’t even think were possible. I love its ability to offer multi-dimensional reports and create custom dashboards. Plus, it integrates with everything we need: Salesforce, payroll systems, you name it.
I also love how Sage Intacct handles multi-entity, multi-currency operations like they’re second nature—no more Excel nightmares trying to consolidate different subsidiaries’ data.
However, I spent more time Googling how-tos than I’d like to admit. So, expect a learning curve for advanced things like building custom reports or handling intricate audits.
While the performance is excellent, things can slow down when dealing with massive datasets or complex reports. I’ve had moments where I wished it was just a little snappier.
The error messages could use some love, too. When something goes wrong—like a file upload error—it’s not always clear what the issue is. You play detective to figure it out, which can be frustrating when you’re on a deadline.
Lastly, while their customer support team is helpful, the response times could be faster.
“In the Reporting section, we face several issues. For example, we cannot easily compare YTD to LYTD. Sometimes, contacting customer support is difficult as there’s no proper chat service where we can report problems and get solutions quickly. Additionally, if the number of transactions is high, the software often crashes while exporting them. In the reports section, different reports sometimes show different balances, which creates confusion.”
- Sage Intacct Review, Pankaj P.
I used QuickBooks Online for a while, and it's one of those tools that makes you think, ‘Why didn't I start sooner?’ at least until you run into a hiccup. More on that in a bit.
The inventory tracking feature is solid. It’s not going to blow your mind if you’re running a massive operation, but for our needs, it gets the job done. I did have to bring in a third-party app to handle some advanced stuff, but thankfully, QuickBooks Online integrates well with other tools. Everything just syncs up, from our bank accounts to credit cards.
I also love how the automation feature auto-matches transactions. I don’t have to sort every expense manually; QuickBooks does it for me. It even pulls in bank feeds and lets me reconcile accounts in minutes. Honestly, it feels like having an assistant who just gets it.
Then there are the reports. I can whip up a profit-and-loss statement, export it to Excel, and send it off without sweating. Sure, the customization could be better, but it's handy for most of my needs. And let me just say the mobile app is my best friend. I’ve sent invoices and checked our cash flow on the go.
One of our biggest wins has been the cloud-based setup. We can log in from home, the office, or even a random café. This has made managing our business less stressful, especially since we don’t have to worry about losing files or manually syncing data.
I also noticed some areas where QuickBooks Online could improve. For example, I can’t always filter or adjust report customization fields how I’d like, so I sometimes have to use workarounds.
I’ve also noticed the dashboard showing incorrect income or expense numbers more than once. I usually run detailed reports anyway, but it’s still frustrating when I’m in a hurry and just want a quick snapshot.
The pricing adds up, too. The base features are great, but you're looking at separate subscriptions once you need extras like payroll or TurboTax integration. We’ve learned to budget for it, but it’s something to remember if you’re just starting.
I’ve had a few moments with customer support where I was stuck on something simple and couldn’t get enough help. It’s not every time, but it’s enough to make you grit your teeth when it happens.
“Customer support is quite possibly the worst I have ever experienced, and unfortunately, I have had to use it many times. The agents have zero knowledge of the product or basic accounting understanding. Most of the time, I have to correct them on how the products function. One time, I had an issue that kept happening, and no one would fix it; they just continued to do a temporary fix, even though I would say this is the 2nd, this is the 3rd, 4th, 5th time, and I would explain to them that the prior person did the same thing and it's not permanent.”
- QuickBooks Online Review, Jonathan G.
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I like how QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise covers a lot of ground, from accounting to inventory management.
The software's inventory management capabilities are impressive. I can track items across multiple locations, manage serial and lot numbers, and use barcode scanning for efficient stock management. This level of control helps me maintain accurate inventory records and streamline operations.
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise offers editions tailored to various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and retail. This customization provides features and reports designed specifically for our business sector, making the accounting software more relevant and valuable.
The integrated payroll system simplifies paying employees, handling taxes, and managing benefits. Having payroll seamlessly connected to our accounting data reduces errors and saves time.
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise also provides a wide range of customizable reports, allowing us to gain insights into various aspects of our business. The ability to create and modify reports helps us make informed decisions and strategic plans.
While we appreciate that the software supports a variety of third-party integrations to enhance functionality, I’ve noticed that many of these add-ons come with extra costs. Investing in these tools can stretch the budget as our business grows.
Although I find QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise pretty user-friendly, I still wish more comprehensive training materials were available. It would make it easier to fully utilize all the features, especially when onboarding new team members.
Since our business handles a lot of data, we’ve encountered the issue of QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise's maximum file size limit of 1.5GB. Once you exceed that, performance can take a hit, which means we’ve had to manage our files carefully or consider alternative solutions.
I’ve also noticed that QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise limits the number of entries we can make in lists like customers, vendors, and items. For example, the Chart of Accounts is capped at 100,000 entries, which can be challenging if your business has extensive records like ours.
“One potential disadvantage of QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise is its higher cost than other versions of QuickBooks.”
- QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise Review, Jamila G.
What sets Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central apart is how it centralizes all your accounting tasks. I’ve found it incredibly convenient to manage the general ledger, accounts payable, receivables, and even fixed assets all in one place.
One of my favorite things is how seamlessly it works with Excel and Outlook. For example, you can pull real-time data into Excel for advanced calculations or send invoices directly through Outlook without hopping between apps. This integration feels natural if you're already a Microsoft user.
I also love the accounts payable automation feature. We used to spend hours double-checking vendor payments, but with Dynamics 365, the system ensures accuracy and timeliness.
I also appreciate the multi-currency support, which is helpful, especially if your business operates globally like ours. It handles exchange rates automatically, and the compliance features ensure you meet international accounting standards.
I was also impressed by how easily Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central generates reports for profit and loss, cash flow, or even tax summaries. The customization options for these reports are good, and they have helped us make better financial decisions.
I’ll be honest: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central isn’t the kind of software you master overnight. When I first started using it, I was overwhelmed. The interface is dense, and understanding its full capabilities takes time. I had to invest in training, which slowed things down initially.
Setting up the software was a project in itself for me. Configuring the general ledger and setting up workflows took much more effort than expected. If you don’t have a tech-savvy team to lean on, you’ll probably need to bring in some professional help to get everything running smoothly.
While the backend functionality is robust, I’ve found the user interface rigid. I wanted to personalize the dashboard and workflows, but the customization options were limited.
Some processes aren’t as user-friendly as I’d hoped. For example, creating certain custom reports took way more effort than it should have. I had to search forums and tutorials to figure it out, which was frustrating when I just needed answers quickly.
“Its learning curve process took me a while to learn how to use it quickly because I felt that it does not have the necessary tools to learn more quickly when it has never been used.”
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Review, Caroline B.
From day one, what struck me about Xero was how easy it is to set up and use. The interface feels intuitive, even if it could use a little refresh.
I love the bank integration feature. Xero syncs directly with our accounts, pulling in transactions for quick reconciliation. It even uses bank rules to automate matching transactions, saving countless hours. Plus, their invoicing tools are top-notch. I can send professional invoices, set up recurring ones, and automate reminders, so we are not chasing payments anymore.
Cloud accessibility is another huge win. I can access everything seamlessly from my desk, phone, or tablet halfway across the world. And if you’re into automation like I am, Xero’s API opens up a world of integrations for inventory, budgeting, and more.
Payroll works well for the most part, but it’s not perfect. I don’t like how certain regions don’t have full payroll support yet, so you might need workarounds depending on where you’re based. Multi-currency handling could also use some love; expense reporting feels limited when juggling currencies.
I also appreciate Xero’s security features. I feel confident that my data is protected with two-factor authentication and encrypted connections, which is a big deal for me, especially with sensitive financial data.
Xero’s reporting tools are decent but could be more customizable for tracking multiple locations or generating advanced financial insights. I also wish their support team was faster; it’s email-based, so you'll need patience if something urgent arises. While the system automates a lot, intricate processes like multi-currency setups or splitting invoices can feel clunky.
"We also utilize XPM as our CRM. When generating tasks in XPM, having the whole chart of accounts available in the income account drop-down box would be useful. Sometimes tasks or expenditures must be coded back into an expense or COG account.”
- Xero Review, Pramod K.
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When I started using Intuit QuickBooks for my accounting needs, I didn’t know I was signing up for an accounting software that could do so much.
Intuit QuickBooks makes it ridiculously easy to track expenses. Whether categorizing payments or managing recurring bills, everything feels intuitive and efficient. I also like the customizable reports for cash flow analysis, profitability tracking, or generating tax summaries with just a few clicks.
I love how Intuit QuickBooks takes the grunt work out of accounting, from recurring invoicing to automated tax calculations. It’s perfect for meeting deadlines without breaking a sweat. I also appreciate how this accounting software effortlessly connects with other tools I use, like PayPal and Shopify.
The built-in inventory tools work well for smaller operations, but if you’re scaling up, you might need additional integrations.
I dislike occasional glitches, like issues with payroll setup or miscategorized expenses. These hiccups can be annoying when you’re in a rush. Some features, like advanced inventory management or complex analytics, aren’t as robust as I’d like. I had to rely on third-party apps for those.
Intuit QuickBooks is perfect for small to medium businesses, but larger enterprises might find it lacking in depth and scalability. I also didn’t like how resolving errors wasn’t always straightforward. For instance, one payroll error took several back-and-forths with support to fix.
“I think the part I disliked the most is the price. It costs the company more to use than our new payroll service. Customer Support wasn't the best either.”
- Intuit QuickBooks Review, Bobbi H.
As a freelancer or small business owner, you must juggle invoices and expenses to keep your accounts in order. That’s where FreshBooks comes in. It’s an all-in-one accounting software that doesn’t make me feel like I need a finance degree to use it.
Creating invoices used to feel like a chore, but FreshBooks makes it ridiculously simple. I can whip up professional-looking invoices with our logo, brand colors, and custom payment terms in minutes. Plus, features like recurring invoices, automated reminders, and late fee calculations mean I don’t have to nag clients—it does it for me!
I also love FreshBooks’ time-tracking tool for billing clients by the hour. I just start the timer while I work, and those hours are automatically added when it’s time to invoice. No more guessing or accidentally shortchanging myself.
I also appreciate how the expense tracking feature lets me import expenses directly from my bank account and categorize them so tax time isn’t a nightmare. Oh, and if you work with international clients, it supports multiple currencies, too.
I was also impressed with the report feature, which generates profit margins, tax summaries, and expense breakdowns in a way I can understand. I also love how all our client info is in one place: contact details, payment history, and project notes; it’s all there.
FreshBooks integrates with Stripe and PayPal and even supports ACH bank transfers and credit cards. Clients can pay directly through the invoice, which is super convenient. That said, processing payments can take a little while, which has sometimes been frustrating.
I started with just me, so this wasn’t an issue initially. But when I considered bringing someone else on board, I realized that each additional user costs extra. If you’re scaling up, it’s something to think about.
While it’s great for basic accounting, it lacks certain features, like check-writing or more complex accounting tools. You might feel these limitations more if you’re running a larger operation.
I get it—security is important. But verifying the same information over and over gets old fast. It feels like FreshBooks could streamline this a bit.
I have a lot of repeat time entries, and manually re-entering them can get tedious. I wish there was a smarter way to automate this process.
“I got bumped up to the middle tier too soon. Just because I have six clients doesn't mean my business is out of the woods yet. I am still trying to make it sustainable, and the fee jump was a bummer.”
- FreshBooks Review, Chris A.
I liked testing SAP S/4HANA Cloud for managing finances.
What I love most about it is how it handles real-time financial insights. Whether I’m reviewing transactions or generating reports, the system delivers accurate and up-to-date data. It’s perfect for making quick decisions without second-guessing.
One of my favorite features is the centralized data management. All vendor data, detailed ledgers, and transactions are in one place, making it simple to track and analyze. The interface is intuitive, and the software "gets" what I need. Its financial intelligence also resolves issues and processes transactions faster than anything I’ve used before.
But it’s not just about speed and intelligence. SAP S/4HANA Cloud shines when it comes to comprehensive financial management. It organizes our company’s financial situation into a single, user-friendly interface, helping us analyze the big picture. I also appreciate the security and compliance features, which help us maintain data integrity.
Now, for the not-so-great parts. Payroll can be a pain. Setting it up is a complex process, and even routine tasks sometimes feel overly complicated. I’ve also had moments where reports took longer to generate than I’d like, with occasional glitches. And if you’re integrating finance with other areas, like operations, expect some tricky backend processes.
Support is another area where SAP could step up. While most issues are manageable, I’ve sometimes needed more robust help to resolve bugs or complaints.
“The system is very expensive because it offers many functions and applications, which makes its price level very high. Not everyone can get it and must opt for a lower plan with fewer options so that more companies can afford it. SAP is a bit more complex as its interface is difficult to understand and requires some work as it is not very easy to implement. Its initial configuration usually has to be done by professionals, and the cost is high; not everyone can use it, which wastes time and increases business costs.”
- SAP S/4HANA Cloud Review, Lazi Z.
Acumatica feels like having the ultimate toolkit for managing my business finances. It’s flexible, powerful, and surprisingly intuitive.
One of the best things about Acumatica is how customizable it is. I can tweak workflows, create custom dashboards, and set up financial reports precisely the way I need them. Whether I’m managing invoices, reconciling accounts, or analyzing costs, the software feels like it bends to my business rather than the other way around.
Gone are the days of waiting for end-of-month reports to determine our financial standing. With Acumatica, I get real-time access to my data, no matter where I am. It’s all cloud-based, so whether I’m at my desk or checking in from my phone while traveling, I always have the latest numbers at my fingertips.
I’m not a tech genius, but Acumatica doesn’t make me feel like I need to be one. The interface is clean and intuitive, which made onboarding my team way less painful than I expected. It’s straightforward and doesn’t overwhelm me with unnecessary features.
Integration is seamless. I’ve connected it to my CRM, inventory management tools, and third-party payment platforms. Everything in my business talks to each other now, saving me so much time and frustration.
The flexibility I love comes with a learning curve. Setting everything up exactly how I wanted it took time—and, honestly, some outside help. It’s ultimately worth it, but it’s not an out-of-the-box solution.
Now and then, I’ve run into glitches, like trouble with vendor/customer balance handling or email features. They’re not deal-breakers but can be annoying when you’re in the middle of something important.
Acumatica isn’t cheap. Between the licensing and implementation, it’s an investment. For me, the scalability and long-term value made it worth it, but if you’re on a tight budget, it’s something to consider.
“Fixed Assets module can be improved in terms of functionality and reporting. I wish more can be done for the fuel distribution industry.”
- Acumatica Review, Darren F.
If you’re in accounting, you’ve probably heard about FloQast. I’ve been using it for a while now, and I love how this cloud-based accounting software is built specifically for accountants by accountants, and it shows in every little detail.
FloQast makes our month-end close process so much easier. It streamlines everything with automated workflows, centralized task lists, and a close status dashboard that gives us a real-time view of where things stand. The checklist management feature keeps us organized by breaking down complex processes into manageable steps. No more scrambling through spreadsheets or remembering what’s next on our to-do list.
One of my favorite features is the seamless integration with popular ERP systems like NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics GP, QuickBooks, and tools like Excel. The integration is so smooth that you can sync reconciliations, track variances, and review documentation without manually moving data. Plus, read-only access ensures the integrity of your financial data while allowing teams to collaborate efficiently.
The reconciliation management feature deserves a shoutout, too. It rolls forward reconciliations from one period to the next, saving our team hours of repetitive work. In addition, the Flux Analysis tool helps us pinpoint and analyze variances. I also love the audit-ready PBC lists, which help auditors access files directly, cutting down the back-and-forth emails during audit season.
I’ve found FloQast’s document storage system to be a bit clunky at times. Navigating through older files or tracking specific ones can feel like solving a puzzle. While integrating major ERP systems like NetSuite and QuickBooks is fantastic, I can see how users working with smaller or more niche ERPs might wish for better support.
The customization options are also limited. Setting up unique workflows or adjusting views to fit specific team roles is not always easy. Furthermore, if you’re dealing with high transaction volumes or managing multiple entities, you might notice a slight dip in performance.
I’d love to see improved filtering and search functionality, especially in the Task Management and Reconciliation Modules. Sometimes, I feel like digging through a haystack to find what I need.
“I don't like the document storage system. Documents can either be in the folders or the file storage location. Documents created directly in the file storage location are not reflected in the documents section of the folder. I also can't claim ownership of the file storage system, and no one has been able to help me with this.”
- FloQast Review, Maxine A.
Our hands-on testing shows that NetSuite, Sage Intacct, and QuickBooks Online are the best accounting software solutions.
QuickBooks Online, Xero, FreshBooks, and Intuit QuickBooks are the best accounting software for small businesses.
The right accounting software is crucial for your business's financial health and operational efficiency. Here's how to make an informed choice:
While some small businesses may manage with manual bookkeeping initially, the complexity of financial transactions increases as your business expands. Adopting accounting software can streamline these processes, provide real-time financial insights, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Investing in accounting software is prudent to support your business's growth and financial health.
You can use accounting software to automate and manage financial tasks like recording transactions, tracking expenses, generating invoices, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial reports. You start by setting up your business details, linking bank accounts, and customizing features like tax settings. Then, you can input data, monitor cash flow, and analyze performance through dashboards and reports.
After trying and testing a ton of accounting software, I’ve broken everything down to help you pick the one that works best for your business. Every tool has strengths and quirks; what fits perfectly for one company might not work well for another. That’s why I’ve laid it all out: features, pros, cons, and everything in between, so you can make a smart, confident choice.
Whether you need something simple to track invoices or a robust system to manage payroll and reports, there’s a solution for you. The right accounting software won’t just save you time; it’ll make your life much easier and let you focus on what matters: growing your business.
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