COUNT vs QuickBooks Online: Which Accounting Software Is Right for You?

In the realm of accounting software, COUNT and QuickBooks stand out as leading contenders, each with distinct strengths tailored to different business needs. This detailed comparison will help you determine which platform best suits your requirements.

Key Features and Strengths

COUNT

•           – Simplicity at its Core: Designed for non-accountants, COUNT removes the need for domain expertise, offering an intuitive platform with AI-driven categorisation and insights.
•           – Free Access for Startups: COUNT offers a completely free plan tailored for startups, with unlimited invoices and core features, unlike QuickBooks, which starts at $30/month.
•           – AI Automation: Features include rule-based workflows, duplicate detection, and predictive insights on expenses and cash flow.
•           – Collaboration Tools: Free team collaboration for up to five members, while QuickBooks charges per user starting at the Essentials tier.
•           – Live Chat & Phone Support: Available on all plans, whereas QuickBooks restricts support to higher-priced plans.
•           – Advanced Wizard Capabilities: Converts users from online and desktop accounting systems seamlessly.
•           – Revenue Sharing: Lifetime 20% revenue share for bookkeepers who onboard clients.
•  

QuickBooks

•           – Comprehensive Tools: Includes features like inventory tracking, mileage tracking, and payroll (at an additional cost).
•           – Customizable Templates: Offers multiple invoice templates and branding options.
•           – Industry-Specific Features: Tailored for sectors like retail, nonprofits, and restaurants.
•           – Integration Options: Extensive app integrations via SureTriggers and Zapier.
•           – Multi-User Access: Enables teams to collaborate while safeguarding data.
•           – Automation: Includes invoice generation, cash flow tracking, and GPS mileage tracking.
•           – Industry-Specific Features: Designed for sectors like retail, restaurants, and nonprofits.

Pricing

• COUNT:
•  

• •           – Free for up to 5 users and businesses with a revenue or expense limit of $15k.
  •           – Paid plans start at $29/month 
  •  

• QuickBooks:

• •           – Plans start at $30/month, with additional costs for advanced features like payroll and live bookkeeping services.
  •  

Target Market

COUNT is ideal for small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs who value intuitive design and AI-driven insights. It’s especially well-suited for businesses seeking to automate their financial processes without requiring professional expertise. COUNT’s revenue-sharing model also makes it attractive for bookkeepers aiming to grow their practices.

QuickBooks caters to a broad audience, including self-employed professionals, small to mid-sized businesses, and specific industries like retail, restaurants, and nonprofits. Its scalability and robust features make it a great choice for established businesses needing advanced financial tools and multi-user collaboration.

Strengths and Drawbacks

COUNT: COUNT’s strengths lie in its simplicity, AI-driven automation, and cost-effectiveness for small teams. Its advanced wizard for desktop conversions and revenue-sharing for bookkeepers adds unique value. However, COUNT may not yet match the extensive integrations or industry-specific tools offered by QuickBooks.

QuickBooks: QuickBooks excels in scalability, integrations, and its array of features tailored to specific industries. Its comprehensive reporting tools and payroll management make it a powerhouse for growing businesses. On the downside, its complexity and jargon can be overwhelming for non-accountants, and the pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons.

Feature Comparison Table