Xero vs QuickBooks: Which Fits Your Team?
When it comes to small business accounting software, the two names you’ll hear most are Xero and QuickBooks.
Both are powerful cloud-based systems-but each has unique strengths depending on your business size, location, and reporting needs.
This guide compares Xero vs QuickBooks in detail so you can choose the platform that fits your team-and learn how RemoteBooksOnline supports both with CPA-reviewed bookkeeping.
Learn more about our Xero Accounting Services for CPA-reviewed accuracy and seamless automation.
Quick Overview: Xero and QuickBooks at a Glance
| Feature | Xero | QuickBooks Online |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Global and service-based businesses | U.S.-based and multi-entity businesses |
| Cloud Access | 100% cloud-native | Cloud + Desktop versions |
| Multi-Currency Support | Yes (built-in) | Available on higher plans |
| Integrations | 1,000+ apps | 700+ apps |
| User Experience | Simplified, modern interface | Robust, data-heavy functionality |
| Price Range | $15-$78/month | $30-$200/month |
| CPA Oversight with RBO | Included in all plans | Included in all plans |
Both are excellent – the choice depends on how your team works and where your customers (and data) live.
Why Businesses Choose Xero
Xero was built with simplicity and collaboration in mind.
Advantages:
- Clean, intuitive dashboard.
- Real-time visibility for owners, bookkeepers, and CPAs.
- Multi-currency and international tax handling.
- Strong automation for recurring invoices and expenses.
- Integrates smoothly with Shopify, Stripe, Gusto, and hundreds more.
Best For:
Startups, SaaS, agencies, and global service firms who want lean, modern workflows.
Before you migrate, check out How to Set Up Xero for Small Business.
Why Businesses Stick with QuickBooks
QuickBooks remains the gold standard for small businesses, especially in the U.S.
Advantages:
- Deep reporting capabilities and customization.
- Strong accountant ecosystem and CPA familiarity.
- In-depth payroll, inventory, and class tracking.
- Built-in reconciliation tools for multi-entity setups.
Best For:
U.S.-based SMBs, accountants, and multi-location businesses that need complex reporting and tax integration.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Xero: Simple for non-accountants. Dashboard, bank feeds, and reconciliation screens are intuitive and automation-friendly.
QuickBooks: Offers more control and detail-but requires more training to master.
Verdict: Choose Xero for simplicity. Choose QuickBooks for control.
Automation and Integrations
Both systems integrate with hundreds of third-party apps, but Xero’s app marketplace is broader.
- Xero: Excellent with global payroll and SaaS billing systems (Stripe, Chargebee).
- QuickBooks: Deep integration with U.S. tax, payroll, and point-of-sale platforms.
At RemoteBooksOnline, we help you integrate both ecosystems for seamless, automated accounting.
Multi-Entity and Multi-Currency Support
- Xero: Built-in multi-currency, ideal for international companies.
- QuickBooks: Requires higher-tier plans for multi-currency; better for consolidated U.S. entities.
Verdict: If you operate globally, Xero is superior. If your structure is U.S.-focused or complex, QuickBooks wins.
Pricing Comparison
| Plan Level | Xero | QuickBooks Online |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (Starter / Simple Start) | $15/month | $30/month |
| Mid-tier (Growing / Essentials) | $42/month | $60/month |
| Advanced | $78/month | $200/month |
| Payroll | Add-on (via Gusto) | Built-in |
| Multi-Currency | Included | Requires upgrade |
QuickBooks costs more but includes more advanced features by default.
CPA & Bookkeeper Ecosystem
- QuickBooks has a larger U.S. CPA user base.
- Xero has stronger global adoption and cloud collaboration tools.
RemoteBooksOnline bridges both worlds-our team includes certified Xero Advisors and QuickBooks ProAdvisors, all working under CPA supervision.
Migrating from QuickBooks to Xero (or Vice Versa)
Switching systems is easier than you think.
Our migration process includes:
- Exporting your full data set (chart, history, contacts, inventory).
- Mapping and importing into the new platform.
- Reconciling to ensure identical opening balances.
- CPA review for post-migration accuracy.
We make sure nothing gets lost in translation.
Ready to migrate to Xero?
Our Xero migration guide shows you the steps to switch smoothly-from data prep to go-live.
Which Is Right for You?
- Choose Xero if you value simplicity, automation, and multi-currency support.
- Choose QuickBooks if you need detailed U.S. compliance and complex reporting.
- Choose RemoteBooksOnline for CPA-verified accuracy-regardless of the platform.
We help clients optimize both systems for speed, accuracy, and compliance.
Get your free Xero or QuickBooks consultation.
FAQs
Is Xero better than QuickBooks?
Neither is better overall-it depends on your business needs. Xero excels in automation and simplicity, while QuickBooks dominates in reporting and compliance.
Can RemoteBooksOnline manage both?
Yes-our team includes certified experts for both platforms, all under CPA supervision.
Is it hard to switch from QuickBooks to Xero?
No. We handle the entire migration-mapping, import, and verification-for you.
Which software costs more?
QuickBooks is generally more expensive but offers advanced features. Xero provides similar automation at lower tiers.
Ready to simplify your accounting with Xero?
Get CPA-reviewed accuracy, cloud automation, and affordable pricing with RemoteBooksOnline.
Get your free Xero accounting quote.
Still using QuickBooks? See our QuickBooks Bookkeeping Services for CPA-supervised accuracy.
CPA oversight ensures every Xero file meets compliance-learn more in our CPA Bookkeeping Services.
