FreshBooks vs Square

Detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs

F

FreshBooks

Accounting software built for owners

4.5
Editorial Rating
S

Square

Commerce tools for every kind of business

4.6
Editorial Rating

Quick Comparison

Rating

4.5
vs
4.6

Starting Price

$19
vs
Free

Pricing Model

paid
vs
freemium
Feature
FreshBooks
Square
Invoicing
Time Tracking
Expense Management
Project Profitability
Double-Entry Accounting
Client Portal
POS System
Payment Processing
Online Store
Inventory Management
Team Management

FreshBooks Pros

  • Best-in-class invoicing experience
  • Excellent time tracking built in
  • Very easy to learn for non-accountants
  • Great client portal and payment experience
  • Strong mobile apps for iOS and Android
  • Friendly and responsive customer support

FreshBooks Cons

  • Client limits on lower plans
  • Not ideal for product-based businesses
  • Limited inventory management
  • Reporting is less advanced than competitors
  • No payroll feature built in
  • Double-entry accounting added late and feels bolted on

Square Pros

  • Free POS system with no monthly fees
  • Excellent hardware options for in-person payments
  • Integrated online and offline selling
  • Fast next-day deposits as standard
  • Easy to set up and start accepting payments
  • Growing ecosystem with payroll, banking, and loans

Square Cons

  • Processing fees are higher than negotiated merchant accounts
  • Limited customization on the free tier
  • Account stability issues reported by some merchants
  • International availability is limited
  • Advanced features require paid add-ons
  • Not ideal for high-volume or enterprise businesses

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