Wave vs Xero
type: Article
description: Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with advanced automation and multi-currency support, while Wave is a free accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers with basic invoicing and bookkeeping features. Xero charges from $13/month while Wave remains completely free.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-08T23:49:51.328Z
date created: 2026-07-08T23:49:51.328Z
date modified: 2026-07-09T06:02:46.729Z
content reference time: 2026-07-09T06:02:46.729Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Wave
about: Xero
abstract: Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with advanced automation and multi-currency support, while Wave is a free accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers with basic invoicing and bookkeeping features. Xero charges from $13/month while Wave remains completely free.
text: Pricing Model. Multi-Currency Support. Automation Features. Inventory Management. User Base. API Access. Maximum Invoice Value
conclusion text: Choose Wave if you're a freelancer, sole proprietor, or startup with minimal accounting needs and a tight budget—its free tier covers basic invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reports. Choose Xero if you need advanced automation, multi-currency transactions, inventory management, or plan to scale your business beyond $100K annual revenue.
additional property: Monthly Cost (Starter Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Free | Xero: $13/month
  value reference: Wave
additional property: Currency Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 1 currency | Xero: 140+ currencies
  value reference: Xero
additional property: Maximum Users (Free/Starter)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited users | Xero: 3 users
additional property: Inventory Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not available | Xero: Advanced tracking with stock levels
additional property: Free Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $0/month (full features) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Entry-Level Paid Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $20/month (Wave Money) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Invoice Creation Limit (Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited | Xero: N/A
additional property: Contract Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not available | Xero: N/A
additional property: Time Tracking Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not available | Xero: N/A
additional property: Accounting Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Double-entry bookkeeping | Xero: N/A
additional property: Tax Report Generation
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Yes (P&L, balance sheet, tax forms) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Starting Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Free | Xero: $13/month (Early plan)
  value reference: Wave
additional property: Maximum User Seats Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited | Xero: N/A
additional property: Time Tracking Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Manual entry only | Xero: N/A
additional property: Invoice Payment Processing
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not included (requires separate payment processor) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 40+ | Xero: N/A
additional property: Financial Report Types
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 4 basic reports | Xero: N/A
additional property: Client Portal Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not available | Xero: N/A
additional property: Free Trial Period
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Permanent (no expiry) | Xero: 30 days
additional property: Base Monthly Cost (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $0/month | Xero: N/A
additional property: Maximum Monthly Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $15/month (payroll add-on) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Number of Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 100+ integrations | Xero: N/A
additional property: Proposal & Contract Templates Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 0 (third-party tools required) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Client Portal Capabilities
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Invoice viewing, payment acceptance | Xero: N/A
additional property: Time Tracking Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not included | Xero: N/A
additional property: Registered User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 5+ million | Xero: N/A
additional property: Starting Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Free forever | Xero: N/A
additional property: Concurrent Users Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited users | Xero: N/A
additional property: Invoice Templates Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 20+ templates | Xero: N/A
additional property: Built-in Inventory Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: No | Xero: N/A
additional property: Payment Processing Fee
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 2.2% + $0.50 per transaction | Xero: N/A
additional property: Free Trial Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited (free tier) | Xero: 30 days
additional property: Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Free | Xero: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (Recommended Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $0/year | Xero: N/A
additional property: Time Tracking Hours Capacity
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Not available | Xero: N/A
additional property: Financial Reports Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 5 standard reports | Xero: N/A
additional property: Concurrent Users (Free Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited | Xero: N/A
additional property: Mobile App iOS Rating
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 4.3/5 (8,900+ reviews) | Xero: 4.7/5 (45K reviews)
  value reference: Xero
additional property: Payroll Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: No | Xero: N/A
additional property: Bank Connection Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 1 day (real-time) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Base Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $0 | Xero: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: $0 | Xero: N/A
additional property: Invoice Templates
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 3 templates | Xero: 12+
  value reference: Xero
additional property: Automation Rules
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 0 (manual only) | Xero: N/A
additional property: Maximum User Accounts
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Unlimited | Xero: N/A
additional property: Third-party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 150+ integrations | Xero: 800+
  value reference: Xero
additional property: Mobile App Rating
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 4.2/5 (15,000 reviews) | Xero: 4.8/5
  value reference: Xero
additional property: Concurrent Users Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: 1-2 effectively | Xero: N/A
additional property: Automated Workflows
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Wave: Basic (invoicing only) | Xero: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/wave
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/wave
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/xero
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/xero
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/wave-vs-xero)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/wave-vs-xero)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/xero-vs-wave
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/wave-vs-xero
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/xero-vs-freshbooks
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/xero-vs-sage
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/wave-vs-bonsai
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/wave-vs-honeybook
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/sage-vs-wave
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/freshbooks-vs-wave
teaches: How to choose between Wave and Xero
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Wave vs Xero — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Wave
type: SoftwareApplication
language: en-US
description: Free cloud accounting software for freelancers and small businesses with invoicing and basic bookkeeping.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Wave
subject of: Wave vs Xero
image: ImageObject
  caption: Wave

Xero
type: SoftwareApplication
language: en-US
description: Cloud accounting software designed for small businesses with inventory and multi-location capabilities.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Xero
subject of: Wave vs Xero
image: ImageObject
  caption: Xero

Wave vs Xero — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Wave vs Xero. Contains 140 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Monthly Cost (Starter Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Currency Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Maximum Users (Free/Starter)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Inventory Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Free Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Entry-Level Paid Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Invoice Creation Limit (Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Contract Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Time Tracking Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Accounting Standard
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accounting
variable measured: Tax Report Generation
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accounting
variable measured: Starting Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum User Seats Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Team Features
variable measured: Time Tracking Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Invoice Payment Processing
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Invoicing
variable measured: Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Ecosystem
variable measured: Financial Report Types
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Client Portal Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Client Management
variable measured: Free Trial Period
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Base Monthly Cost (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Monthly Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Number of Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Proposal & Contract Templates Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Client Portal Capabilities
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Time Tracking Feature
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Registered User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Community
variable measured: Starting Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Concurrent Users Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Invoice Templates Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Customization
variable measured: Built-in Inventory Management
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Payment Processing Fee
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Trial Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accessibility
variable measured: Monthly Cost (Basic Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Annual Cost (Recommended Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Time Tracking Hours Capacity
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Financial Reports Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Reporting
variable measured: Concurrent Users (Free Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Collaboration
variable measured: Mobile App iOS Rating
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Payroll Integration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Payroll
variable measured: Bank Connection Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Data Sync
variable measured: Base Annual Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Cost (Entry Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Invoice Templates
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Automation Rules
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Maximum User Accounts
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scalability
variable measured: Third-party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integrations
variable measured: Mobile App Rating
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Concurrent Users Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scalability
variable measured: Automated Workflows
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Automation
variable measured: Mobile App Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Annual Cost (Budget Business)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Total Cost of Ownership
variable measured: Base Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Number of Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integrations
variable measured: Supported Currencies
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Global Reach
variable measured: Users on Free/Base Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Team Collaboration
variable measured: Custom Financial Reports
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Reporting
variable measured: Mobile App Functionality
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Bank Feed Automation
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Automation
variable measured: Invoice Limit (Free Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Maximum Supported Currencies
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Unlimited Users (Free/Entry Plan)
variable measured: App Store Rating (iOS)
variable measured: Integrated Third-Party Apps
variable measured: Customer Support Availability
variable measured: Number of Supported Currencies
variable measured: Annual Cost (Entry Level)
variable measured: Maximum Invoice Amount
variable measured: Payment Processing Fees
variable measured: Third-Party App Integrations
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/wave-vs-xero)

Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Wave vs Xero.
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Collaboration
has defined term: Accounting
has defined term: Team Features
has defined term: Invoicing
has defined term: Ecosystem
has defined term: Client Management
has defined term: Community
has defined term: Customization
has defined term: Accessibility
has defined term: Reporting
has defined term: User Experience
has defined term: Payroll
has defined term: Data Sync
has defined term: Scalability
has defined term: Integrations
has defined term: Automation
has defined term: Total Cost of Ownership
has defined term: Global Reach
has defined term: Team Collaboration
has defined term: Integration
has defined term: Support
has defined term: Costs & Pricing
has defined term: Adoption
has defined term: Technology & Features
has defined term: Reporting Features
has defined term: Domestic Features
has defined term: Professional Tools
has defined term: Industry Fit
has defined term: Mobile Experience
has defined term: Operations
has defined term: Onboarding
has defined term: Market Position
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: User Satisfaction
has defined term: Mobile Features
has defined term: Implementation
has defined term: Enterprise Features
has defined term: Mobile
has defined term: Coverage
has defined term: User Management
has defined term: Developer Tools
has defined term: Deployment
has defined term: Usability
has defined term: Developer Features
has defined term: Reliability
has defined term: Sharing & Collaboration
has defined term: Global Support
has defined term: User Base
has defined term: Extensibility
has defined term: Technical
has defined term: Features & Add-ons
has defined term: International
has defined term: User Reviews

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: collaboration
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accounting
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accounting
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Invoicing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: invoicing
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Ecosystem
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ecosystem
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Client Management
type: DefinedTerm
term code: client-management
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Community
type: DefinedTerm
term code: community
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customization
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customization
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accessibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accessibility
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reporting
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reporting
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-experience
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Payroll
type: DefinedTerm
term code: payroll
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Data Sync
type: DefinedTerm
term code: data-sync
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scalability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scalability
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integrations
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integrations
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Automation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: automation
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Total Cost of Ownership
type: DefinedTerm
term code: total-cost-of-ownership
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Global Reach
type: DefinedTerm
term code: global-reach
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Team Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: team-collaboration
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integration
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Support
type: DefinedTerm
term code: support
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Costs & Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: costs-&-pricing
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: adoption
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technology & Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technology-&-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reporting Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reporting-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Domestic Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: domestic-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Professional Tools
type: DefinedTerm
term code: professional-tools
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Industry Fit
type: DefinedTerm
term code: industry-fit
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Mobile Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: mobile-experience
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Operations
type: DefinedTerm
term code: operations
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Onboarding
type: DefinedTerm
term code: onboarding
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Position
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-position
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Satisfaction
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-satisfaction
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Mobile Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: mobile-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Implementation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: implementation
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Enterprise Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: enterprise-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Mobile
type: DefinedTerm
term code: mobile
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Coverage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: coverage
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Management
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-management
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Developer Tools
type: DefinedTerm
term code: developer-tools
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Deployment
type: DefinedTerm
term code: deployment
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Usability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: usability
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Developer Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: developer-features
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reliability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reliability
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Sharing & Collaboration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: sharing-&-collaboration
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Global Support
type: DefinedTerm
term code: global-support
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Base
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-base
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Extensibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: extensibility
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features & Add-ons
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features-&-add-ons
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

International
type: DefinedTerm
term code: international
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Reviews
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-reviews
in defined term set: Wave vs Xero — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-09T06:02:46.729Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: wave-vs-xero)
main entity: Can I use Wave if I operate internationally?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Wave supports only a single currency (your local currency), making it unsuitable for international businesses. Xero, by contrast, handles 190+ currencies with automatic exchange rate conversion, making it the better choice for companies with multi-country operations or clients abroad.
    language: en-US
main entity: Is Wave truly free, or are there hidden costs?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Wave's core accounting features (invoicing, expense tracking, profit/loss reports) are completely free with no time limit. The only fees are optional: 2.2% + $0.50 per transaction if you use Wave Payments for credit card processing. Xero requires a minimum $13/month subscription.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which software is better for e-commerce businesses?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Xero is significantly better for e-commerce due to its built-in inventory management with real-time stock tracking, SKU organization, and automated stock adjustments. Wave lacks inventory features entirely, making it unsuitable for product-based businesses. Xero also supports unlimited invoice amounts, critical for retail operations.
    language: en-US
main entity: How does the learning curve compare?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Wave has a gentler learning curve with a simplified interface designed for non-accountants and freelancers. Xero is more complex due to advanced accounting features like multi-entity consolidation and intercompany transactions, requiring more accounting knowledge but offering greater functionality for sophisticated businesses.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which software scales better as my business grows?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Xero scales significantly better with features like multi-currency support, inventory management, advanced automation, and 1,000+ integrations supporting complex operations. Wave is optimized for micro-businesses and freelancers; once you exceed $100K annual revenue or need multi-currency support, you'll likely outgrow its capabilities.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Wave and Xero
type: HowTo
description: Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with advanced automation and multi-currency support, while Wave is a free accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers with basic invoicing and bookkeeping features. Xero charges from $13/month while Wave remains completely free.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Pricing Model
step: Consider: Multi-Currency Support
step: Consider: Automation Features
step: Consider: Inventory Management
step: Consider: User Base
step: Consider: API Access
step: Consider: Maximum Invoice Value
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose Wave if you're a freelancer, sole proprietor, or startup with minimal accounting needs and a tight budget—its free tier covers basic invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reports. Choose Xero if you need advanced automation, multi-currency transactions, inventory management, or plan to scale your business beyond $100K annual revenue.

Consider: Pricing Model
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Pricing Model: Wave has Completely free, while Xero has $13-$130/month (3 paid plans).

Consider: Multi-Currency Support
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Multi-Currency Support: Wave has Single currency only, while Xero has 190+ currencies supported.

Consider: Automation Features
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Automation Features: Wave has Basic manual entry, while Xero has Bill Pay, recurring invoices, bank feeds automation.

Consider: Inventory Management
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Inventory Management: Wave has Not available, while Xero has Advanced inventory tracking with stock levels.

Consider: User Base
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: User Base: Wave has 3+ million users, while Xero has 3.6+ million users.

Consider: API Access
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: API Access: Wave has Limited API capabilities, while Xero has Comprehensive REST API for integrations.

Consider: Maximum Invoice Value
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Maximum Invoice Value: Wave has $9,999 per invoice (free tier limit), while Xero has Unlimited invoice amounts.

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Wave vs Xero
review body: Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with advanced automation and multi-currency support, while Wave is a free accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers with basic invoicing and bookkeeping features. Xero charges from $13/month while Wave remains completely free.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: Wave vs Xero

Mobile App Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Receipt capture and invoice viewing | Xero: N/A

Annual Cost (Budget Business)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: $0-$240 (optional add-ons) | Xero: N/A

Base Monthly Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: $0 | Xero: $13
value reference: Wave

Number of Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 100+ | Xero: 1000+
value reference: Xero

Supported Currencies
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 1 (USD or CAD) | Xero: 160+
value reference: Xero

Users on Free/Base Plan
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 2 users | Xero: 1 user
value reference: Wave

Custom Financial Reports
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 8 standard reports | Xero: 50+ customizable reports
value reference: Xero

Mobile App Functionality
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Full accounting and invoicing | Xero: Full accounting and expense tracking

Bank Feed Automation
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Basic reconciliation | Xero: Advanced automation saves ~8 hours
value reference: Xero

Invoice Limit (Free Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Unlimited | Xero: Varies by Starter plan

Maximum Supported Currencies
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 5 currencies | Xero: 190+ currencies
value reference: Xero

Unlimited Users (Free/Entry Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Yes, unlimited | Xero: No, 1-3 users max

App Store Rating (iOS)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 4.2/5 | Xero: 4.6/5
value reference: Xero

Integrated Third-Party Apps
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 100+ integrations | Xero: 1,000+ integrations
value reference: Xero

Customer Support Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: Email only | Xero: 24/7 phone + email + chat

Number of Supported Currencies
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 1 (local only) | Xero: 190+
value reference: Xero

Annual Cost (Entry Level)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: $0 | Xero: $156
value reference: Wave

Maximum Invoice Amount
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: $9,999 | Xero: Unlimited

Payment Processing Fees
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 2.2% + $0.50 | Xero: 2.4% (Xero Payments)
value reference: Wave

Third-Party App Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 100+ | Xero: 1,000+
value reference: Xero

Users (Global)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: 3+ million | Xero: 3.6+ million
value reference: Xero

AI Automation Growth (YoY)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 61% growth

Maximum User Capacity (Advanced Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Unlimited/Higher

Expense Tracking Support Score
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 68.92%

US Tax & Payroll Integration Strength
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Good but secondary focus

Accountant Platform Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Separate paid tool

Market Position for eCommerce
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Strong alternative

Additional Team Member Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $3-5

Mobile Accounting Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Comprehensive accounting-focused

AI Document Processing
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: LLM-powered (2026)

Setup Complexity
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Moderate to high

Data Migration Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Standard tools included

Multi-Entity Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Native multi-entity support

Invoice Branding Control
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Available (Select tier+)

US Market Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1.2M

Native Payroll Integration (US)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Third-party required

Mobile App Rating (iOS)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.6/5.0

API Rate Limits
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Unlimited

Base Monthly Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $11

Cost Per Additional User
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $8-15 (Standard plan)

Bank Feed Integration Partners
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 7,000+

Customer Satisfaction Score
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.7/5 (G2 2024)

Maximum Concurrent Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 5 (Standard), Unlimited (Premium)

Mobile App Invoice Creation
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Full capability with offline mode

Starting Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $13

Maximum Users (Standard Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Unlimited (all tiers)

API Rate Limit
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 60 (standard tier)

Pre-built Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1,000+

Average Onboarding Time
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1-2 weeks

Maximum Entities Supported
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Unlimited organizations

Mobile App Receipt Capture
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Yes (Snap Invoice)

Countries Supported
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 200+

Standard Plan Concurrent Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 5 users

API Endpoints Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 180+

On-Premises Deployment Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: No (Cloud only)

Starting Price
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $11

Free Plan Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: No

User Interface Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.7/5

Customer Support Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 24-48 hours

Pre-Built Reports
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 40+

Global User Base
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 3.7M+ users

Mobile App Rating (iOS/Android)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.7/5

Countries/Regions Supported
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 120+

API Free Tier Monthly Calls
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 60,000

Customer Support Hours
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 168 (24/7)

Built-in Payroll Integration
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Third-party add-on (Guidepoint, Namely)

System Uptime SLA
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 99.5%

On-Premise Deployment
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Not available

Real-time Collaboration Features
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Full (multi-user simultaneous editing)

Countries with Localized Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 190+

Global Active Users
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1.9 million

Starting Monthly Price (AUD)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $13

Cloud Infrastructure Uptime
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 99.5%

Mobile App Invoice Management
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Full invoicing, payments, expense tracking

Countries with Bank Feed Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 90+

Max Users on Starter Plan
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1-3 limited (unlimited on higher tiers)

Starting Monthly Price (USD)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $13/month

Pro Tier Monthly Price (USD)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $66/month

Bank Feed Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 1,200+ (US/UK/AU/NZ)

iOS Mobile App Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.6 stars (18,000+ reviews)

Native Third-Party Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 500+ native integrations

Invoice OCR/Automation
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Manual entry + basic matching

Maximum Users per Plan
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Unlimited (all tiers)

Currencies Supported
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 30+

Bank Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 800+

API Rate Limit (Standard)
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 60

Time Tracking Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: $5-10 extra

Number of Invoice Templates
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 50+

Multi-Currency Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 195 currencies

Inventory Management Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: Advanced (multi-location, real-time tracking)

User Satisfaction Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Wave: N/A | Xero: 4.4 stars

SpeakableSpecification
css selector: #short-answer
css selector: #verdict
css selector: #key-differences
css selector: #faq
xpath: //*[@id='short-answer']
xpath: //*[@id='verdict']

Wave — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Xero — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Wave vs Xero
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/wave-vs-xero)
object: Wave
object: Xero

Unlimited Users (Free/Entry Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

App Store Rating (iOS)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Integrated Third-Party Apps
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integration

Customer Support Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Number of Supported Currencies
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Annual Cost (Entry Level)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Maximum Invoice Amount
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Payment Processing Fees
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Costs & Pricing

Third-Party App Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integrations

Users (Global)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Adoption

AI Automation Growth (YoY)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technology & Features

Maximum User Capacity (Advanced Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Expense Tracking Support Score
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reporting Features

US Tax & Payroll Integration Strength
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Domestic Features

Accountant Platform Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Professional Tools

Market Position for eCommerce
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Industry Fit

Additional Team Member Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Mobile Accounting Features
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Mobile Experience

AI Document Processing
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Automation

Setup Complexity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Operations

Data Migration Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Onboarding

Multi-Entity Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Invoice Branding Control
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Customization

US Market Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Position

Native Payroll Integration (US)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Mobile App Rating (iOS)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

API Rate Limits
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Base Monthly Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Cost Per Additional User
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Bank Feed Integration Partners
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integration

Customer Satisfaction Score
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Satisfaction

Maximum Concurrent Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Mobile App Invoice Creation
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Mobile Features

Starting Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Maximum Users (Standard Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

API Rate Limit
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integration

Pre-built Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Average Onboarding Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Implementation

Maximum Entities Supported
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Enterprise Features

Mobile App Receipt Capture
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Mobile

Countries Supported
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Standard Plan Concurrent Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Management

API Endpoints Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Developer Tools

On-Premises Deployment Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Deployment

Starting Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Free Plan Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

User Interface Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Usability

Customer Support Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Pre-Built Reports
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reporting

Global User Base
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Adoption

Mobile App Rating (iOS/Android)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Countries/Regions Supported
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Global Reach

API Free Tier Monthly Calls
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Developer Features

Customer Support Hours
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Built-in Payroll Integration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

System Uptime SLA
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reliability

On-Premise Deployment
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Deployment

Real-time Collaboration Features
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Sharing & Collaboration

Countries with Localized Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Global Support

Global Active Users
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Base

Starting Monthly Price (AUD)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Cloud Infrastructure Uptime
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reliability

Mobile App Invoice Management
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Mobile

Countries with Bank Feed Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Automation

Max Users on Starter Plan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Collaboration

Starting Monthly Price (USD)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Pro Tier Monthly Price (USD)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Bank Feed Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

iOS Mobile App Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Mobile Experience

Native Third-Party Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Extensibility

Invoice OCR/Automation
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Maximum Users per Plan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Currencies Supported
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Global Support

Bank Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integrations

API Rate Limit (Standard)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technical

Time Tracking Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features & Add-ons

Number of Invoice Templates
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Invoicing

Multi-Currency Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: International

Inventory Management Capability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

User Satisfaction Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Reviews