AppBreakup

Xero alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data

Facts checked Oct 25, 2026AppBreakup editorialHow we rank

Common reasons people leave Xero: entry plan limits the number of invoices and bills, and US payroll relies on a Gusto add-on. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Xero, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. QuickBooks Online currently ranks first.

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Show all 6 alternatives

The best Xero alternative for…

The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.

QuickBooks Online logo

Best Xero alternative for most people

QuickBooks Online

The US default, with more native add-ons such as payroll built by Intuit.

Zoho Books logo

Best Xero alternative for a free plan you can upgrade

Zoho Books

Similar feature set at lower prices, plus a free plan for micro businesses.

Zoho Books logo

Best Xero alternative for Mac

Zoho Books

Similar feature set at lower prices, plus a free plan for micro businesses.

MYOB logo

Best Xero alternative for Windows

MYOB

Local alternative for Australian businesses that want payroll in the same product.

FreeAgent logo

Best Xero alternative for iPhone and Android

FreeAgent

UK-focused alternative built for freelancers and small limited companies.

FreshBooks logo

Best Xero alternative for working in the browser

FreshBooks

Easier for service businesses that mostly need invoicing and time tracking.

Xero alternatives: common questions

What is the best alternative to Xero?

QuickBooks Online ranks first right now. The US default, with more native add-ons such as payroll built by Intuit. Zoho Books and FreeAgent follow it in our ranking.

Is there a free alternative to Xero?

Yes. QuickBooks Online (free plan + paid) and Zoho Books (free plan + paid) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.

Is there an open-source alternative to Xero?

None of the 6 alternatives in this list is open source.

Why do people switch from Xero?

The complaints we hear most: entry plan limits the number of invoices and bills; US payroll relies on a Gusto add-on; costs climb once you need projects or multi-currency.

How is this list ranked?

Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Xero, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.