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Finance and Accounting
Sage Versus Quickbooks: How Prices Compare
2024-07-16
Small businesses form the backbone of the South African economy, contributing significantly to its growth and employment. To thrive in today's competitive landscape, small business owners need robust accounting software such as Sage or Quickbooks to manage their finances efficiently.
When it comes to managing the financial aspects of your small or fast-growing business, having a reliable accounting software solution is crucial. There are many options available on the market, but two of the most popular options in the market are Sage and QuickBooks.
Both software packages offer a wide range of features and tools designed to streamline accounting processes and enhance financial management. However, there are notable differences between the two platforms that make each one better suited for certain business needs.
In this article, we will delve into the details of Sage and QuickBooks, providing an in-depth comparison to help you make an informed decision about which software is the right fit for your business in 2024.
What is QuickBooks?
QuickBooks is a widely recognised and highly versatile accounting software designed to streamline financial management for businesses of all sizes. Developed by Intuit, QuickBooks offers a comprehensive suite of tools and features that simplify various accounting tasks, including invoicing, expense tracking, payroll management, and tax preparation.
This makes it easier for the users to keep track of their cash flow, generate reports, and track their income and expenses. Through its user-friendly interface and extensive feature set, QuickBooks has become the preferred financial management tool for entrepreneurs, accountants, and SMEs with effective and efficient results.
What is a Sage System?
Sage Accounting is software for managing your business’s accounting. It allows you to quickly and easily create and track invoices, track cash flow, accept payments, record transactions, automate admin, capture expenses, and much more. Sage Accounting is designed for small business owners and sole traders operating in any industry, from professional services to construction to retail.
You can use Sage Accounting either by yourself or with collaborators. It’s easy to give access to multiple users, including an accountant. You don’t need any previous experience with accounting software to get started. Functionality can be extended to include payroll.
Sage vs QuickBooks User Interface and Navigation
Sage and QuickBooks are popular accounting software. Both have their own features, benefits, and user interfaces.
Here, take a look at some of the differences of Sage vs. Quickbooks
Sage
Sage may seem a bit complex at first glance, but it’s jam-packed with features, which is a trade-off many businesses are happy to make. Sage’s dashboard isn’t as flashy as QuickBooks’, but it presents you with detailed information. In Sage, you might not be able to find the coffee maker right away, but you sure will find that hidden espresso machine.
Customisation is Sage’s secret weapon. You can adjust and personalise your dashboard to show what matters most to you. The navigation can feel a little maze-like, especially if you’re used to more streamlined interfaces. But like a well-tailored suit, once you get used to it, it fits like a glove.
QuickBooks
QuickBooks, on the other hand, boasts a user-friendly and intuitive interface. Its navigation is designed to simplify everyday accounting tasks, making it easier for users to find and utilise various features. QuickBooks emphasises user-friendliness without compromising functionality.
When you log in, You’re welcomed by a dashboard showcasing all the vital signs of your business: income, expenses, profit and loss, sales, and outstanding invoices. Navigation through Quickbooks is easy, everything is organised in a clear, user-friendly menu. You can create an invoice, reconcile accounts, and more.
Comparing Prices
Sage
- Sage Pro Accounting: $595 per year (billed annually) or $58.92 per month (billed monthly).
- Sage Premium Accounting: $970 per year (billed annually) or $96.58 per month (billed monthly).
- Sage Quantum Accounting: $1,610 per year (billed annually) or $160 per month (billed monthly).
While the Sage Pro plan limits you to one user only, the Premium plan includes access for up to five users. The Quantum plan includes access for up to 40 users. However, each additional user increases the base cost of the plan. For instance, Premium Accounting costs $1,226 per year (billed annually) or $121.33 per month (billed monthly) for two users.
QuickBooks
- QuickBooks Simple Start: $30 per month. Includes access for one user.
- QuickBooks Essentials: $60 per month. Includes access for three users.
- QuickBooks Plus: $90 per month. Includes access for five users.
- QuickBooks Advanced: $200 per month. Includes access for 25 users.
New customers can opt for either a 30-day free trial or 50% off the base price for three months, which lowers QuickBooks Online’s starting price to just $15. Note that QuickBooks Online will auto-bill you for your fourth month of service at full price unless you cancel your plan before your three-month discount expires.
Sage and Quickbooks provide tailored accounting solutions for SMEs with district pricing interface features. Sage starts at $595/year for Sage Pro, offering extensive customisation but a potentially complex interface. Quickbooks range from $30 per month for a simple start to $200 a month for advanced, known for its intuitive interface and user-friendly navigation. Choosing between them depends on your business’s needs for customisation. Ease of use, and budget considerations, both enhancing financial management efficiency for SMEs.