Quick verdict
Our take in a nutshell.
Xero is a strong choice when you want invoicing and full accounting in one platform. Invoices, quotes, and payments tie into the same books and reports. The interface is clean and the app marketplace is large.
We like Xero for the breadth: invoicing, bank feeds, reporting, and multi-currency on higher tiers. It can be more than invoice-only users need—if you just send invoices and track payments, FreshBooks or Wave might be simpler.
Choose Xero if you need accounting plus invoicing and want an alternative to QuickBooks. For invoice-only workflows, consider FreshBooks or Zoho Invoice.
Rating breakdown
How we scored this product.
Features
4.6Full invoicing plus accounting: reporting, bank feeds, multi-currency. Broad feature set.
Pricing
4.5Lower entry price than QuickBooks; tiered plans. Add-ons can increase cost.
Ease of Use
4.5Clean, modern interface. Some learning curve for full accounting features.
Support
4.4Help center and support options. Accountant community and partners.
Integrations
4.7Large app marketplace—700+ integrations for payroll, time tracking, ecommerce.
Pros and cons
What we liked and what to watch for.
Pros
- Invoicing and accounting in one place
- Clean UI and strong reporting
- Large integration ecosystem
- Accountant-friendly
Cons
- May be more than invoice-only users need
- Learning curve for full feature set
- Add-ons and users can increase cost
Who this software is best for
Ideal users and use cases.
Xero is best for businesses that need invoicing plus full accounting: reporting, bank feeds, and integrations. It fits companies that want one platform for books and billing without the QuickBooks brand.
Who should avoid it
Solo freelancers who only need simple invoicing may find Xero more than they need. Consider Wave or FreshBooks for a lighter tool.
Pricing overview
What to expect to pay.
Xero offers tiered plans starting around $15/month. Invoicing and quotes are included; higher tiers add more invoices, multi-currency, and advanced reporting.
Entry tier covers basics; mid and upper tiers add capacity and features. Check limits on invoices and bills for your volume.
Xero often has a lower starting price than QuickBooks. Competitive with FreshBooks and Zoho Invoice. Value is highest when you use both invoicing and accounting.
Starting price: $15/mo
Key features
What stands out.
- Invoicing and quotes
Create and send invoices and quotes; track payments and reminders. Professional templates.
- Reporting
P&L, balance sheet, and other reports; export for accountants and tax prep.
- Integrations
Connect to payroll, time tracking, ecommerce, and hundreds of apps via the Xero app store.
- Bank feeds
Connect bank and credit card accounts; reconcile and keep books in sync.
Integrations
Plays well with your stack.
Xero's app marketplace includes hundreds of integrations so you can connect invoicing and accounting to the tools you use.
- Payroll
- Time tracking
- Ecommerce
- Expense apps
- Bank feeds
- CRM and project tools
Alternatives
Other options we review.
Best Xero alternatives — full comparison, pricing, and who each option suits.
QuickBooksMarket leader; similar breadth. Higher starting price.
FreshBooksInvoicing-focused; simpler for freelancers.
Zoho InvoiceGood value and automation.
WaveFree invoicing and accounting.
Compare with other invoicing software
See how Xero stacks up head-to-head.
Best invoicing software for different use cases
Find invoicing software by scenario.
Xero FAQs
Quick answers.
