The mobile app is free with every subscription, and is compatible with iOS and Android. Looking at Xero vs. Sage, you can see they stack up quite well. Because both software come with a 30-day free trial, you’ll have plenty of time to give each a test run before committing. However, there are some key features missing from Sage, including bill pay and time tracking. While Sage does offer accounts payable, it seems you still have to manually pay bills from your bank account. Sage does have the upper hand against Xero when it comes to quotes and invoices, as well as multi-currency support.

See how Xero works for your business

But if you’re a bigger company that requires more functionality, Xero lets you manage your inventory and provide access to everyone in the company without extra fees. Payroll is just one of the many other products Sage offers as well. For example, if you’re also looking for an HR management solution, Sage HR integrates seamlessly so you can manage your workforce. There’s also a separate time-tracking software—Sage Timeslips—and even a customer management tool called Sage CRM. While it might be nice to have all of these in one dedicated software, it’s nice you can pick and choose exactly which components would best benefit your business. Xero and Sage’s main selling point is their intuitive invoicing systems.

Ways to pay the monthly subscription

It also integrates with over a thousand apps, meaning if you can’t find a native feature you need, you can likely add it on. The included mobile app is great for checking accounting reports or invoices on the go. And with time tracking as an option on higher plans, you can easily keep records of time spent on tasks. We like Xero for businesses with lots of employees, as they can take advantage of the unlimited number of collaborators.

1. Xero’s cloud accounting software has features and tools to help you run your small business, so you can spend more time doing what you love.
2. Sage seemingly offers unlimited quotes and invoices each month, while Xero limits you to just 20 on the base plan.
3. Xero partners with Gusto Payroll, and costs start at an additional $40 per month plus $6 per employee per month.
4. All pricing plans cover the accounting essentials, with room to grow.
5. Both made our list of the best accounting software because of their invoicing capabilities and bank transaction reconciliation.

Simplify your finances and get more done with Xero online accounting software. Get started with the demo company, or if you set up your own business, Xero protects your data with multiple layers of security. Access Xero features for 30 days, then decide which plan suits your business best. Kristy Snyder is a freelance writer and editor with 12 years of experience, currently contributing to the Forbes Advisor Small Business vertical. She uses her experience managing her own successful small business to write articles about software, small business tools, loans, credit cards and online banking.

Useful features to run your business

Keep track of your unpaid and overdue invoices, bank account balances, profit and loss, cash flow establishing credit terms for customers and bills to pay. You can even reconcile bank accounts and convert quotes to invoices. It’s free with every subscription and compatible with iOS and Android. With your accounting software and data stored in the cloud, you can access your up-to-date accounts anywhere there’s an internet connection.

To see how they stack up with other software, check out our list of the best cloud accounting programs. Xero and Sage are two excellent accounting options for small businesses looking to get their finances in order. Both made our list of the best accounting software because of their invoicing capabilities and bank transaction reconciliation. We compare Xero vs. Sage so you can decide on the perfect accounting solution for your needs.

Sage lets you create invoices directly from quotes and estimates, send them to customers and automatically track outstanding invoices to see what you’re owed. It also partners with Stripe so you can take card payments with ease. Keep in mind that the ability to use multiple currencies in the software and invoice is limited to the company’s highest tier, at $70 per month. If using multiple currencies is a priority to you, consider other platforms that offer this capability at a lower cost. Zoho, for example, is accounting software with a free invoice platform that allows you to bill in multiple currencies. Manage your finances, control cash flow and integrate with apps.

Xero can be easier to use for beginners, as it has a user-friendly layout. Explore Xero's range of features, designed to streamline your accounting needs. Give your team access to Xero’s software and invite your advisor to collaborate. If you’re looking for an accountant who specializes in Xero, you can search for an accounting advisor through their website by location and industry. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website.