Square vs Xero
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right tool for your needs
Quick Comparison
Rating
4.6
vs4.3
Starting Price
Free
vs$29
Pricing Model
freemium
vspaid
Feature
Square
Xero
POS System
Payment Processing
Online Store
Invoicing
Inventory Management
Team Management
Bank Reconciliation
Expense Claims
Multi-Currency
Payroll
Project Tracking
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
Xero Pros
- Unlimited users on all plans
- Clean and intuitive interface
- Over 1000 third-party integrations
- Strong multi-currency support
- Excellent bank feed connections globally
- Real-time collaboration with accountants
Xero Cons
- Invoice limits on the Starter plan
- Payroll is an add-on in most regions
- Reporting can feel limited vs QuickBooks
- No built-in time tracking
- Inventory management is basic
- US market features lag behind other regions