FreshBooks vs Wave

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

F

FreshBooks

Accounting software built for owners

4.5
Editorial Rating
W

Wave

Free accounting and invoicing for small businesses

4.4
Editorial Rating

Quick Comparison

Rating

4.5
vs
4.4

Starting Price

$19
vs
Free

Pricing Model

paid
vs
free
Feature
FreshBooks
Wave
Invoicing
Time Tracking
Expense Management
Project Profitability
Double-Entry Accounting
Client Portal
Accounting
Receipt Scanning
Financial Reporting
Payment Processing
Payroll

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

Wave Pros

  • Core accounting and invoicing are completely free
  • No client or invoice limits
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Good for freelancers and solopreneurs
  • Receipt scanning via mobile app
  • No credit card required to start

Wave Cons

  • Limited integrations compared to competitors
  • No inventory management
  • Payroll is a paid add-on
  • Payment processing fees are standard not discounted
  • No project tracking or time tracking
  • Reporting is fairly basic

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