QuickBooks Online vs Wave: which is better for your business?
QuickBooks Online and Wave are both Accounting tools we’ve reviewed against their official websites and pricing pages. Here’s how they differ on what each provider says about features, pricing and fit — there’s no single winner, so use this to decide which suits how your team works.
Desk research — not hands-on tested
| Attribute | QuickBooks Online | Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | Cloud accounting software for invoicing, expenses, bookkeeping and financial reports. | Accounting and invoicing software designed for freelancers and very small businesses. |
| Best for | Small businesses that work closely with an accountant. | Freelancers and micro-businesses keeping costs low. |
| Key features |
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| Limitations |
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| Pricing model | Monthly subscription tiers | Free Starter plan plus paid Pro plan |
| Free plan | Not verified | Confirmed |
| Team sizes | Solo, Small teams, Mid-sized | Solo, Small teams |
| Capabilities | Invoicing, Reporting | Invoicing, Reporting |
| Official pricing | QuickBooks Online pricing pageChecked 11 October 2026 | Wave pricing pageChecked 11 October 2026 |
Prices change often — always confirm on the provider’s pricing page. We don’t publish ratings or scores.
Choose QuickBooks Online if…
- You are: small businesses that work closely with an accountant.
- Wave’s limitation matters to you: some features and payments carry fees.
- Wave’s limitation matters to you: availability varies by country.
Choose Wave if…
- You are: freelancers and micro-businesses keeping costs low.
- QuickBooks Online’s limitation matters to you: plans and features differ by country.
More on these tools
Other comparisons
Not sure yet? Tell us what you need and we’ll suggest a shortlist, or ask for a demo or help switching.