Wave vs Xero
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Wave and Xero are credible accounting tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Wave if you want a lower starting price (free – $16/mo) and a free plan to start on. Free accounting and invoicing for small business.
Choose Xero if you'd rather have a longer free trial (30 days). Beautiful accounting software.
Wave vs Xero: side by side
| Dimension | Wave | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free – $16/moWinner | From $29/mo |
| Free plan | YesWinner | No |
| Free trial | — | 30 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Best for | Freelancers, Micro Business | Smb, International |
| Platforms | Web, Ios, Android | Web, Ios, Android |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.3/5 |
Wave key facts
- Vendor
- Wave
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $16/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Freelancers, Micro Business
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2010
- Headquarters
- Toronto, Canada
Xero key facts
- Vendor
- Xero Limited
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $29/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (30 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Smb, International
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2006
- Headquarters
- Wellington, New Zealand
Frequently asked questions
Is Wave better than Xero?
Neither is universally better — Wave edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Wave or Xero cheaper?
Wave is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $16/mo. Wave starts at free – $16/mo; Xero starts at from $29/mo.
Can Wave replace Xero?
Yes for most teams — both are accounting tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.