Comparing Quicken vs QuickBooks for Small Business Owners

If you're a small business owner trying to choose the best bookkeeping program for small business finances, chances are you’ve come across Quicken vs QuickBooks. Both are popular tools, but they offer different experiences depending on your needs. So, what is the difference between Quicken and QuickBooks? Let’s break it down and help you decide which is right for your business.

Quicken Features

Quicken is often thought of as a personal finance tool, but it does offer a version called Quicken Home Business tailored to small business use.

Highlights of Quicken:

• Track personal and business finances in one place.
• Manage rental properties and tenants.
• Send invoices and track payments.
• View tax reports and basic financial reports.
• Use on mobile devices, including Android phones and tablets.

Quicken is great for side businesses or solo entrepreneurs who want simple tracking without a full online accounting suite.

QuickBooks Features

QuickBooks, on the other hand, is a full-fledged accounting solution designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.

Key QuickBooks features:

• Advanced inventory management.
• Robust financial data tracking and reporting.
• Automatically send invoices and accept payments.
• Sync with your bank and import transactions.
• Create and customize financial reports.
• Access via desktop or mobile, with excellent support for app integrations.

QuickBooks also supports multiple users, making it ideal for growing businesses or those with a team.

What is the Difference Between Quicken and QuickBooks?

When comparing Quicken versus QuickBooks for small business, the main differences lie in the level of features, scalability, and automation.

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Quicken is simpler and less expensive, but QuickBooks provides more advanced features for those who need a robust tool.

Pricing Comparison

Both tools offer various plans, and costs can vary depending on the features you need.

• Quicken Home Business: Typically priced under $100/year, with the first month billed upon sign-up.
• QuickBooks: Subscription-based with different tiers depending on features. Starts around $25/month for basic needs and scales up for additional features and users.

Remember, while Quicken is more affordable, QuickBooks offers more capabilities that may save you time and money in the long run.

Mobile Access and App Integrations

Both programs offer mobile access, but QuickBooks has the edge with more powerful features and app integrations.

• Quicken supports simple data entry and tracking on mobile devices, great for basic finance needs.
• QuickBooks allows you to send invoices, categorize expenses, and even check financial data directly from your phone.

QuickBooks works smoothly on both iOS and Android phones and tablets, providing full control on the go.

Service and Support Options

QuickBooks provides more extensive customer support, including phone, chat, and community forums. Support is also available through third-party accountants and certified advisors.

Quicken’s support options are more limited, mainly offering email and community help, with live chat for premium users.

Which is Right for You?

So, Quicken or QuickBooks?

• Choose Quicken Home Business if you:
  • Run a small side business.
  • Want to combine personal and business tracking.
  • Have simple invoicing and tax tracking needs.
• Choose QuickBooks if you:
  • Need comprehensive inventory management.
  • Want automated invoicing and advanced features.
  • Prefer strong service and support options.
  • Are growing and need a scalable accounting solution.

The Bottom Line

The Quicken vs QuickBooks debate depends on your business needs. For basic, budget-friendly tracking, Quicken may be enough. But for a professional, scalable online accounting platform, QuickBooks is hard to beat.

Still not sure which option is right for you? That’s where Swipesum can help. Our expert consultants are here to guide you through your accounting and payment solutions so you can find the best fit for your business without the guesswork.

Book a consultation with Swipesum today to get personalized advice, simplify your bookkeeping, and take your small business finances to the next level.