Intuit offers a desktop and online version of its QuickBooks accounting software. Desktop is only available on one device, and Online is a cloud-based service available from anywhere.
While Desktop was still considered a much better quality product when Online first came out, many customers are starting to prefer the online option.
Reasons for this shift in public opinion include
1. Accessibility
Quickbooks online is available from anywhere on any device. All you need is a wifi connection. It allows you to work with your accountant in real time, and you can manage your account on the go with the free QBOnline app.
If you need to access your QBDesktop account from multiple computers, you’ll be charged a fee for each device. Plus an additional fee if you wish to add cloud access to Desktop.
2. Pricing
Quickbooks online is pretty straightforward. It does have a multi plan tier. It’s billed monthly through a debit or credit card and doesn’t require a contract, allowing you to cancel your subscription at any time. In contrast, QBDesktop’s pricing model is more complex. There are several versions and variations.It requires a yearly license and varies depending on the plan tier, the number of users you need, and whether or not you want cloud access.
3. User Friendly
Both QBOnline and QBDesktop will supply you with a variety of resources and community support while setting up your account and learning to navigate the software.
With that said, the most common complaint with Quickbooks Desktop is how difficult it is to understand and use. If you aren’t at least familiar with the basics of accounting or accounting software, QBOnline is a much better option for you.
4. Only With Online
Quickbooks online has features that you won’t find on its desktop version. And Online Plus, QBOnline’s option more suitable for larger businesses, has features you won’t find on the standard online version.
Here’s a quick overview of the features Intuit advertises on its website (Quickbooks.intuit.com)
| Bonus features of QBOnline | Bonus features of QBOnline Plus |
|---|---|
| Maximize tax deductions | Enter time |
| Mileage tracking | Business analytics with Excel |
| Manage cash flow | Manage employee expenses |
| Track project profitability | Enhanced custom fields |
| Ability to put payroll completely on automatic | Exclusive app integrations |
| On-demand online training and support | Familiar dashboards |
| The most AI and Machine Learning | Dedicated account team |
| Automatic import of bank and credit card transactions, check copies, and Statements | Customize access by role |
| On-demand online training | |
| Automate processes & tasks | |
| Restore company data | |
| Batch invoices & expenses |
Bottom Line
Intuit is shifting its attention and priorities to upgrading QBOnline to meet the industry’s growing demand for cloud-based options. QBOnline is still developing and may soon be Intuit’s leading service while Desktop fades to the background.
Either way, both services can still be beneficial. Though, Choosing what software is the better option for you, all depends on the specifics of your business. Consider the size, needs, number of users, stability, and budget of your company before making a final decision.
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