Best Bookkeeping Software for Small Business in 2025

Choosing the right bookkeeping software can save you time, reduce stress, and keep your business running smoothly.

But with dozens of tools out there, which one is best foryoursmall business?

We break it down by stage, business type, and budget—so you can find a solution that fits, whether you're bootstrapped or scaling fast.

Looking for abookkeeper for small businesses? ExploreSam's Listto find a directory of accountants, bookkeepers, fractional CFOs, and financial advisors. 

Best Overall:QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks is still the gold standard for a reason.

• Best for: Most small businesses, especially service-based

• Pros:

  • Industry standard (easy for accountants to work with)

  • Robust reporting

  • Syncs with banks, Stripe, Gusto, and more

• Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve

  • Can get expensive with add-ons

Most vendors onSam’s Listwork directly inside QuickBooks for their clients. It’s the most versatile tool if you're planning to grow.

🔗Visit QuickBooks

Best for Ecommerce:A2X + QuickBooks or Xero

If you sell on Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, or Walmart, A2X automates your bookkeeping.

• Best for: Ecommerce businesses

• Pros:

  • Syncs with platforms and separates sales, fees, refunds

  • Accurate COGS tracking

  • Pairs well with QBO or Xero

• Cons:

  • Not a full bookkeeping system by itself

👉Browse eCommerce-friendly bookkeepers on Sam’s List🔗Visit A2X

Best for Real Estate Investors:REI Hub

Real estate bookkeeping gets complicated fast. REI Hub is built for rental property owners.

• Best for: Landlords and investors

• Pros:

  • Property-specific tracking

  • Easy Schedule E reporting

  • Syncs with banks and mortgage statements

• Cons:

  • Limited general-purpose features

👉View accountants who specialize in real estate🔗Visit REI Hub

Best All-in-One Service:Bench

Bench isn’t just software—it’s a full bookkeeping service with its own platform.

• Best for: Solo founders who want hands-off books

• Pros:

  • Monthly reports included

  • Dedicated bookkeeper

  • Easy user interface

• Cons:

  • Can get expensive

  • Limited customization

🔗Visit Bench

Best Budget Option:Wave

Wave is 100% free and surprisingly capable.

• Best for: Early-stage businesses with simple needs

• Pros:

  • Free invoicing, reporting, and receipt tracking

  • Clean interface

• Cons:

  • Lacks robust integrations

  • No native payroll (add-on via partner)

OneSam’s Listuser ran a six-figure business on Wave for nearly two years before switching to a full-service setup.

🔗Visit Wave

Feature Comparison Table

FAQs

What is the most popular bookkeeping software for small businesses?

QuickBooks Online is the most widely used and integrates with banks, CRMs, payroll tools, and tax software.

Is free bookkeeping software worth it?

Wave works well for freelancers and very small teams. But as complexity grows, most businesses outgrow it.

Should I choose software or hire a bookkeeper?

If you’re spending 5+ hours/month doing books or making errors, it’s time to outsource.Find a vetted bookkeeper here.

What’s best for ecommerce bookkeeping?

Use A2X paired with QuickBooks or Xero. It handles platform syncs, fees, and inventory tracking.

You Might Also Like

• Bookkeeping Checklist for Small Business

• How to Do Bookkeeping for Small Business 

• Best Bookkeeping for Startups 

Author: Kimi, Co-founder of Sam’s List

Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam’s List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with accountants and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.