When you’re busy designing, the last thing you want to worry about is complicated accounting.

Between invoicing clients, tracking billable hours, and handling various software expenses as a graphic designer, managing finances can be a hassle. 

You need a tool that makes things easier, not more complicated. QuickBooks and FreshBooks are two of the most popular accounting platforms, but they each offer different features that might suit your needs depending on how your design business is set up. 

Let’s break down what each of these platforms can do for you.

FreshBooks and QuickBooks at a Glance

See how QuickBooks and FreshBooks compare in terms of features:

FreshBooks

FreshBooks is an easy-to-use cloud-based accounting software designed for freelancers and small businesses. With a focus on invoicing and client communication, it’s ideal for graphic designers who need a tool to handle time tracking, estimates, and invoicing without getting bogged down by complex accounting.

• Easy Invoicing: FreshBooks allows you to create professional, branded invoices quickly. You can customize them to match your design style, making your billing process feel as professional as your designs. You can also explore invoice templates designed specifically for graphic designers to make the process even simpler.
• Time Tracking: Do you bill clients hourly or by project? FreshBooks tracks your time, making it easy to add billable hours to your invoices.
• Project Management: FreshBooks offers tools to track project profitability and manage multiple projects in a streamlined dashboard.
• Mobile App: FreshBooks has a highly rated mobile app, allowing you to invoice and track hours on the go, perfect for graphic designers who work remotely or travel frequently.

QuickBooks

QuickBooks is a comprehensive accounting software solution that provides all the financial tools small businesses need. While it’s often seen as more complex, QuickBooks is ideal for designers scaling their businesses who need detailed financial insights and reporting.

• Advanced Reporting: QuickBooks offers detailed financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports. If you’re managing multiple clients or scaling your business, these reports can help you stay on top of your finances.
• Expense Tracking: QuickBooks makes it easy to track both business and personal expenses and ensures you’re ready for tax season.
• Integrations: QuickBooks integrates with 800 apps, including design tools such as Shopify, PayPal, and more.
• Inventory Tracking: If you sell physical products along with your design services, QuickBooks can help manage your inventory and track stock levels.

FreshBooks vs QuickBooks: Pricing Breakdown

Another factor to consider when choosing accounting software is pricing. Both FreshBooks and QuickBooks offer different plans tailored to various needs.

FreshBooks Pricing Plans

If you’re just starting out or managing a growing design business, FreshBooks provides affordable and flexible plans to help you stay organized and efficient.

• Lite: $21/month for five clients, unlimited invoices, and time tracking (60% Off for 3 Months)
• Plus: $38/month for up to 50 clients, project tracking, and additional accounting reports. (60% Off for 3 Months)
• Premium: $65/month for unlimited clients, advanced reporting, and receipt scanning. (60% Off for 3 Months)

QuickBooks Pricing Plans

For graphic designers with more complex needs, QuickBooks offers various plans with more advanced features at a higher price point than FreshBooks. 

• Simple Start: $38/month, for solo designers with income and expense tracking, invoicing, and receipt capture. (50% Off for 3 Months)
• Essentials: $75/month, for multi-user support, bill pay, and time tracking. (50% Off for 3 Months)
• Plus: $115/month, for advanced project management, inventory tracking, and budgeting tools. (50% Off for 3 Months)

Which accounting software is best for graphic designers?

FreshBooks and QuickBooks are the best accounting software for graphic designers. Your decision between FreshBooks and QuickBooks will depend on the size and needs of your business.

• Go with FreshBooks if you’re a freelancer or a small design business just starting out. Its simple invoicing, time tracking, and project management features are perfect for a design-focused business.
• Go with QuickBooks if your design business is growing and you need more advanced financial tools like detailed reports, expense tracking, and third-party integrations. QuickBooks is ideal for designers who want to manage everything under one roof as they scale their business.

Take your Design Business to the Next Level

Ready to invest in accounting software? 

If you’re just starting out as a graphic designer or growing your client base, both FreshBooks and QuickBooks have a plan that fits your needs. 

Take some time to evaluate your business’s current needs and choose the software that will make your financial tasks easier, so you can focus more on creating amazing designs. 

With the right tool, you’ll unlock more time to do what you love, while confidently managing your business’s growth and success.

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