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FreshBooks vs Patriot Accounting (2024 Comparison)

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Author

Martin Lunendonk

Last Update

Nov 15, 2024

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Excellent Value For Price
4.6

0

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FreshBooks

FreshBooks offers a comprehensive suite of accounting features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and time management. Its user-friendly interface and excellent customer support make it a top choice for small businesses.

  • Comprehensive invoicing features
  • User-friendly interface
  • Excellent customer support
  • Higher cost for advanced features
  • Limited payroll integration

Free plan?

Yes

Starting price

$9.50 per month
Excellent Value For Price
4.3

0

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Patriot Accounting

Patriot Accounting provides affordable and reliable accounting solutions with strong payroll integration. Its user-friendly interface makes it an ideal choice for small businesses and startups.

  • Affordable pricing
  • Strong payroll integration
  • Easy to use
  • Limited customization options
  • Basic reporting features

Free plan?

Yes

Starting price

$8.50 per month

What is FreshBooks?

FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting software designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It simplifies invoicing, expense tracking, and time management, making it easier for business owners to manage their finances. With its user-friendly interface, FreshBooks allows you to create professional invoices, track billable hours, and manage expenses effortlessly. It also offers robust reporting features, helping you gain insights into your business's financial health. Whether you're a freelancer or a small business owner, FreshBooks streamlines your accounting tasks, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

What is Patriot Accounting?

Patriot Accounting is a comprehensive accounting software tailored for small businesses in the US. It offers a range of features including payroll integration, expense tracking, and financial reporting. With its intuitive interface, Patriot Accounting simplifies the process of managing your business finances, ensuring compliance with tax regulations. It helps you keep track of your income and expenses, generate detailed reports, and streamline your payroll processes. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Patriot Accounting provides the tools you need to manage your finances efficiently.

Pros and Cons of FreshBooks vs Patriot Accounting

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Pros & Cons of FreshBooks

Comprehensive invoicing features
  • FreshBooks offers a wide range of invoicing features, including customization options, automated reminders, and recurring billing. These features make it easy to manage your invoicing process efficiently.
User-friendly interface
  • The intuitive interface of FreshBooks makes it easy for users to navigate and manage their accounting tasks. This is particularly beneficial for those who are not tech-savvy.
Excellent customer support
  • FreshBooks is known for its outstanding customer support, offering various channels for assistance, including phone, email, and live chat. This ensures that users receive prompt and helpful support when needed.
Higher cost for advanced features
  • While FreshBooks offers a comprehensive suite of features, the cost can be higher for advanced functionalities. This may not be ideal for budget-conscious users.
Limited payroll integration
  • FreshBooks offers payroll integration, but it's not as comprehensive as some other tools. This may be a drawback for businesses with complex payroll needs.
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Pros & Cons of Patriot Accounting

Affordable pricing
  • Patriot Accounting offers competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for small businesses and startups looking for cost-effective accounting solutions.
Strong payroll integration
  • Patriot Accounting excels in payroll integration, offering seamless connections with its payroll services. This is a significant advantage for businesses with payroll needs.
Easy to use
  • The user-friendly interface of Patriot Accounting makes it easy for users to manage their accounting tasks, even if they have limited technical knowledge.
Limited customization options
  • While Patriot Accounting offers essential features, it lacks some of the customization options available in other tools. This may be a limitation for users seeking more flexibility.
Basic reporting features
  • Patriot Accounting provides basic reporting capabilities, but lacks the depth and customization options found in other accounting tools. This may be a drawback for users seeking detailed financial analysis.

FreshBooks vs Patriot Accounting: At A Glance

Decision FactorFreshBooksPatriot Accounting
Value to Price
Excellent4.7
Excellent4.4
Ease of Use
Excellent4.8
Excellent4.5
Functionality
Excellent4.5
Excellent4.3
Scalability
Excellent4.6
Good4.2
Integrations
Excellent4.5
Good4.1
Customer Support
Excellent4.7
Excellent4.4
Security
Excellent4.6
Excellent4.3
Overall Rating
Excellent4.6
Excellent4.3

Value to Price

FreshBooks offers a comprehensive suite of features that justify its pricing, making it a great value for small businesses. Its robust invoicing and expense tracking capabilities are particularly noteworthy. On the other hand, Patriot Accounting provides a more budget-friendly option with essential features, making it ideal for startups. If you're looking for a balance between cost and features, FreshBooks might be the better choice.

Ease of Use

FreshBooks is renowned for its intuitive interface, allowing users to navigate effortlessly through its features. This ease of use is a significant advantage for those who are not tech-savvy. Patriot Accounting also offers a user-friendly experience, but some users might find its interface slightly less intuitive. If you prioritize a seamless user experience, FreshBooks is likely the better option.

Functionality

FreshBooks excels in functionality, offering a wide range of features such as time tracking, project management, and detailed reporting. Patriot Accounting, while functional, focuses more on core accounting tasks. If you need a tool with extensive features beyond basic accounting, FreshBooks is the superior choice.

Scalability

FreshBooks is designed to grow with your business, offering scalable solutions that cater to expanding needs. Its ability to handle increased data and users makes it a reliable choice for growing businesses. Patriot Accounting, while scalable, may not offer the same level of flexibility. If scalability is a priority, FreshBooks is the better option.

Integrations

FreshBooks offers a wide range of integrations with popular third-party apps, enhancing its functionality and allowing seamless data transfer. Patriot Accounting also provides integrations, but the options are more limited. If you rely on multiple tools and need extensive integration capabilities, FreshBooks is the better choice.

Customer Support

FreshBooks is known for its excellent customer support, offering various channels for assistance, including phone, email, and live chat. Patriot Accounting also provides reliable support, but some users report longer response times. If prompt and comprehensive support is crucial, FreshBooks is the preferred option.

Security

Both FreshBooks and Patriot Accounting prioritize security, implementing robust measures to protect user data. FreshBooks, however, offers additional security features such as two-factor authentication, providing an extra layer of protection. If enhanced security is a concern, FreshBooks is the better choice.

Overall Rating

Overall, FreshBooks scores higher due to its comprehensive features, ease of use, and excellent customer support. Patriot Accounting is a strong contender, particularly for budget-conscious users, but FreshBooks offers a more well-rounded solution. If you're looking for a top-tier accounting tool, FreshBooks is the recommended choice.

FreshBooks vs Patriot Accounting: A Detailed Breakdown of Key Features

FeaturesFreshBooksPatriot Accounting
Invoicing
Excellent4.8
Excellent4.5
Expense Tracking
Excellent4.7
Excellent4.4
Time Tracking
Excellent4.6
Good4.2
Reporting
Excellent4.7
Excellent4.3
Payroll Integration
Excellent4.5
Excellent4.6
Mobile App
Excellent4.6
Excellent4.4

Invoicing

FreshBooks offers a highly intuitive invoicing system that allows you to create professional invoices in minutes. Its customization options and automated reminders make it a standout feature. Patriot Accounting also provides invoicing capabilities, but with fewer customization options. If you need a robust invoicing tool, FreshBooks is the better choice.

Expense Tracking

FreshBooks excels in expense tracking, offering features like receipt scanning and automatic categorization. This makes managing expenses a breeze. Patriot Accounting offers basic expense tracking, but lacks some of the advanced features. If detailed expense management is important, FreshBooks is the superior option.

Time Tracking

FreshBooks includes a built-in time tracking feature, allowing you to log billable hours easily. This is particularly useful for freelancers and service-based businesses. Patriot Accounting offers time tracking, but it's not as integrated. If time management is crucial, FreshBooks is the better choice.

Reporting

FreshBooks provides comprehensive reporting tools that offer insights into your business's financial health. Its reports are detailed and customizable. Patriot Accounting offers basic reporting, but lacks the depth of FreshBooks. If you need in-depth financial analysis, FreshBooks is the preferred option.

Payroll Integration

Patriot Accounting shines in payroll integration, offering seamless connections with its payroll services. FreshBooks also offers payroll integration, but it's not as comprehensive. If payroll is a priority, Patriot Accounting is the better choice.

Mobile App

FreshBooks offers a robust mobile app that allows you to manage your finances on the go. Its user-friendly interface and functionality make it a valuable tool. Patriot Accounting also offers a mobile app, but with fewer features. If mobile access is important, FreshBooks is the superior choice.

Pricing Comparison of FreshBooks and Patriot Accounting

To assist you in making an informed choice, we’ve outlined the pricing plans and essential features of FreshBooks and Patriot Accounting. This comparison will highlight the best option for managing your business finances.

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FreshBooks Pricing Plans

Lite
For freelancers and startups
$9.5

per month

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Lite includes:
  • Track unlimited expenses to manage your finances effectively.
  • Send unlimited estimates to set clear client expectations.
  • Get paid with credit cards and bank transfers (ACH) seamlessly.
  • Run reports for an easy tax time and financial overview.
Plus
For growing small businesses
$16.5

per month

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Includes Lite, plus:
  • Set up recurring invoices and client retainers for consistent billing.
  • Automatically capture receipt data for accurate record-keeping.
  • Invite your accountant for seamless collaboration and support.
  • Run financial and accounting reports for detailed insights.
Premium
For established businesses
$30

per month

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Includes Plus, and:
  • Track project profitability to optimize business performance.
  • Customize email templates with dynamic fields for personalization.
  • Automatically capture bills and receipt data for efficiency.
  • Access advanced financial reports for strategic planning.
Select
For large enterprises
Contact sales
Request Pricingright_arrow
Includes Premium, and:
  • Access to lower credit card transaction fees for cost savings.
  • Remove FreshBooks branding from client emails for professionalism.
  • 2 team member accounts included for collaborative work.
  • A dedicated number for exclusive Select support for priority service.
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Patriot Accounting Pricing Plans

Basic Payroll
For Small Businesses
$8.5

per month

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Basic Payroll includes:
  • Free employee portal for easy access to pay stubs.
  • Unlimited payrolls to accommodate any pay schedule.
  • Pay contractors directly through payroll system.
  • Free 401(k) integration for employee retirement plans.
Accounting Basic
For Small Businesses
$10

per month

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Accounting Basic includes:
  • Unlimited vendors, contractors, and payments management.
  • Automatic bank imports for streamlined transactions.
  • Income and expense tracking for financial clarity.
  • Accept credit card payments to boost sales.
Accounting Premium
For Small Businesses
$15

per month

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Includes Accounting Basic, plus:
  • Create and send estimates to potential clients.
  • User-based permissions for secure access control.
  • Send invoice payment reminders to ensure timely payments.
  • Manage receipts and documents for organized records.
Full Service Payroll
For Small Businesses
$18.5

per month

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Includes Basic Payroll, plus:
  • State tax filings and deposits for compliance.
  • Local tax filings and deposits for complete coverage.
  • Year-end payroll tax filings at no additional fee.
  • Tax filing accuracy guaranteed for peace of mind.

Our Rating Methodology

We conduct thorough evaluations of accounting software, focusing on key factors such as functionality, ease of use, and customer support. By analyzing user reviews and testing each tool, we ensure our recommendations are reliable and tailored to your needs. Each factor is weighted to provide an accurate final rating, helping you make informed decisions.

Decision FactorScoring Weight
Value to Price
20%
20%
Ease of Use
20%
15%
Functionality
20%
25%
Scalability
20%
15%
Integrations
20%
10%
Customer Support
20%
10%
Security
20%
5%

FreshBooks or Patriot Accounting: Which One Matches Your Business Needs?

Choose FreshBooks If You Need ...

  • Comprehensive accounting solution

    If you need a comprehensive accounting solution with advanced features like invoicing, expense tracking, and time management, FreshBooks is the ideal choice. Its user-friendly interface and excellent customer support make it a top pick for small businesses.

  • User-friendly interface

    If you prioritize a user-friendly interface and seamless navigation, FreshBooks is the better option. Its intuitive design makes it easy for users to manage their accounting tasks, even if they have limited technical knowledge.

Choose Patriot Accounting If You Need ...

  • Affordable accounting software

    If you're looking for affordable accounting software with strong payroll integration, Patriot Accounting is the ideal choice. Its competitive pricing and reliable features make it a great option for small businesses and startups.

  • Strong payroll integration

    If payroll integration is a priority for your business, Patriot Accounting is the better choice. Its seamless connections with payroll services make it a valuable tool for businesses with payroll needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Author

Martin Lunendonk

Martin Lunendonk is a senior tech writer specializing in website builders, web hosting, and ecommerce platforms. With a background in finance, accounting, and philosophy, he has founded multiple tech startups and worked in medium to large tech companies and investment banking, bringing deep expertise and reliable insights to his software reviews.