quickbook desktop vs online | quickbooks for desktop
QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by businesses to manage their financial transactions and records. With its multiple versions, QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online, businesses have choices to select the one that suits their needs the best. In this article, we will compare quickbooks integration Desktop and QuickBooks Online based on various factors such as features, pricing, accessibility, user interface, customization, integration, mobility, security, support, and pros and cons. So, let’s dive in and explore the differences between QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online.
Introduction
QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online are two different versions of the QuickBooks accounting software developed by Intuit. QuickBooks Desktop is a locally installed software that is installed on a computer, whereas QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based software that is accessed through a web browser. Both versions are widely used by businesses for their accounting and financial management needs.
Features
One of the key factors to consider when comparing QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online is the features they offer. Both versions come with a range of features, but there are some differences between them. QuickBooks Desktop is known for its robust features that cater to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. It offers features such as advanced inventory management, job costing, and industry-specific versions for contractors, manufacturers, and wholesalers.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online offers a more streamlined and simplified set of features that are suitable for small businesses and self-employed individuals. It offers features such as online invoicing, bank reconciliation, and expense tracking. However, it may not have all the advanced features that are available in QuickBooks Desktop.
Pricing
Pricing is an important consideration for businesses when choosing accounting software. QuickBooks Desktop follows a one-time purchase model, where businesses need to purchase a license for a specific version of the software. The cost of QuickBooks Desktop varies depending on the version and edition chosen.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online follows a subscription-based pricing model, where businesses need to pay a monthly or annual subscription fee to access the software. The cost of QuickBooks Online depends on the pricing plan chosen, which includes different levels of features and functionality.
Accessibility
Accessibility is another factor to consider when comparing QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online. QuickBooks Desktop is a locally installed software, which means it is installed on a computer and can be accessed only from that specific computer. This may limit the accessibility of the software, as it cannot be accessed from anywhere other than the computer on which it is installed.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based software, which means it can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This allows for greater flexibility and accessibility, as users can access their financial data and perform accounting tasks from anywhere, at any time.
User Interface
The user interface of a software plays a crucial role in its usability and ease of navigation. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online have different user interfaces. QuickBooks Desktop has a traditional desktop-based interface with a menu bar, toolbar, and various windows for different functions. It may require some time for users to get familiar with the layout and navigation.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online has a modern and intuitive web-based interface with a dashboard that provides an overview of the business’s financial health. It offers a user-friendly navigation menu and a clean layout that is easy to understand and navigate, even for users who are new to accounting software.
Customization
Customization options are essential for businesses to tailor the software according to their unique needs and preferences. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online differ in terms of customization capabilities. QuickBooks Desktop offers more advanced customization options, allowing businesses to customize forms, reports, and templates to match their brand identity and requirements. It also provides more flexibility in managing and organizing data.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online has limited customization options compared to QuickBooks Desktop. While it does allow for some level of customization, it may not offer the same level of flexibility and advanced customization features as QuickBooks Desktop.
Integration
Integration capabilities are important for businesses to seamlessly connect their accounting software with other tools and systems they use for their business operations. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online differ in terms of integration capabilities. QuickBooks Desktop offers a wide range of integrations with third-party applications, including payment processors, CRM systems, and inventory management tools. This allows businesses to streamline their workflows and automate tasks.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online also offers integrations with various third-party applications, but the number of available integrations may be limited compared to QuickBooks Desktop. However, it does offer integrations with popular tools such as PayPal, Shopify, and Square, which can still be beneficial for many businesses.
Mobility
Mobility options are important for businesses that require flexibility and remote access to their financial data. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online have different mobility options. QuickBooks Desktop is limited in terms of mobility as it is installed locally on a computer and can only be accessed from that specific computer. However, it does offer a remote access feature that allows users to access their QuickBooks Desktop data from a different location using a remote desktop connection.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online offers greater mobility as it is cloud-based and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. This allows users to access their financial data and perform accounting tasks on the go, providing more flexibility and convenience, especially for businesses with remote teams or on-the-go operations.
Security
Security is a critical aspect to consider when choosing accounting software, as it involves sensitive financial data. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online have different security measures in place. QuickBooks Desktop stores data locally on the computer where it is installed, which means businesses need to ensure the security of their computer and network to protect their data from unauthorized access or data breaches.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online stores data in the cloud, and Intuit takes care of the security measures, including data encryption, regular data backups, and multi-factor authentication. QuickBooks Online also provides user-level access controls, allowing businesses to control and restrict access to specific users based on their roles and responsibilities.
Support
Support options are important for businesses to have assistance and guidance when using accounting software. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online have different support options. QuickBooks Desktop offers phone and chat support, as well as access to a community forum and a knowledge base for self-help. It also provides a one-time purchase option, which includes 60 days of free technical support from the date of purchase.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online offers 24/7 customer support via phone and chat, along with email support. It also provides access to a community forum, a knowledge base, and video tutorials for self-help. QuickBooks Online also offers a subscription-based model, which includes ongoing customer support and software updates as part of the subscription fee.
Data Migration
Data migration is a crucial process when transitioning from one accounting software to another. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online differ in terms of data migration options. QuickBooks Desktop allows for data migration from other accounting software, including previous versions of QuickBooks Desktop, as well as data import from Excel and other file formats. However, the data migration process may require technical expertise and may not be as seamless as in QuickBooks Online.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online offers an easy and seamless data migration process from QuickBooks Desktop and other accounting software, as well as data import from Excel and other file formats. It also provides a step-by-step guide and customer support to assist businesses during the data migration process.
Pros and Cons
Conclusion
In conclusion, both QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online are popular accounting software options, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. QuickBooks Desktop is ideal for businesses that prefer a traditional desktop-based interface, advanced customization options, and greater control over their data. On the other hand, QuickBooks Online is suitable for businesses that require mobility, flexibility, and accessibility, with a user-friendly web-based interface and automatic software updates.
When choosing between QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online, businesses should consider their specific needs, budget, level of technical expertise, and future growth plans. It is important to thoroughly evaluate the features, functionality, pricing, support, and data migration options of both software before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I switch from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online?
Yes, you can migrate your data from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online using the data migration tools and support provided by QuickBooks.
Can I access QuickBooks Online from multiple devices?
Yes, QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based software that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, allowing for greater mobility and accessibility.
Does QuickBooks Online require an internet connection to work?
Yes, QuickBooks Online requires an internet connection to access and update your financial data, as it is a cloud-based software.
Can I customize reports and forms in QuickBooks Online?
While QuickBooks Online does offer some level of customization for reports and forms, it may have limitations compared to QuickBooks Desktop in terms of advanced customization options.
Does QuickBooks Online provide regular software updates?
Yes, QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based software that provides automatic updates, including feature enhancements and bug fixes, without the need for manual updates.
Can I switch from QuickBooks Online to QuickBooks Desktop?
Yes, it is possible to switch from QuickBooks Online to QuickBooks Desktop. However, the process may require data migration and may not be as seamless as transitioning from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online.
Is QuickBooks Desktop suitable for small businesses?
Yes, QuickBooks Desktop offers different editions and pricing tiers, including options for small businesses, such as QuickBooks Pro and QuickBooks Premier.
Can I use QuickBooks Desktop or QuickBooks Online for international transactions?
Yes, both QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online offer features for handling international transactions, such as multi-currency support and tax calculations. However, it is important to review the specific features and limitations for international transactions in each software.
Can I integrate third-party apps with QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online?
Yes, both QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online offer integration with a wide range of third-party apps for additional functionality, such as payment processing, inventory management, and time tracking.
Which version of QuickBooks is better for my business, Desktop or Online?
The decision between QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online depends on various factors, such as your business needs, budget, and technical expertise. It is recommended to thoroughly evaluate the features, functionality, pricing, support, and data migration options of both software to determine which version is best suited for your specific requirements.