The AI TillComparisons · Accounting
Comparison
QuickBooks vs FreeAgent
Cloud accounting with invoicing, expenses and VAT, plus Intuit Intelligence AI features (some in beta). UK accounting software for sole traders, partnerships and small companies.
| QuickBooks | FreeAgent | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | UK plans from £10 a month, with others at £16, £38 and £56 a month; introductory discounts are offered. 30-day free trial. | £33 a month or £330 a year (excl. VAT), with introductory discounts. Free if you keep a business account with NatWest, RBS or Ulster Bank, or use Mettle (conditions apply). |
| Free plan | No. No free plan; 30-day free trial. | No. Free for eligible NatWest, RBS, Ulster Bank and Mettle customers; otherwise a 30-day free trial. |
| Best for | Small businesses wanting invoicing and VAT in one place, with AI help on expenses. | Sole traders and freelancers, especially with an eligible bank account. |
| Watch out for | AI features have limited monthly capacity on some plans. | Check the conditions for the free bank offer. |
| UK notes | UK pricing in pounds. | UK company, pounds. |
| Made by | Intuit | FreeAgent |
| Checked | 2026-10-14 | 2026-10-14 |
Our verdict
For most small UK businesses starting out, QuickBooks is the easier first pick because its entry plan costs less. Pick FreeAgent instead if this sounds like you: sole traders and freelancers, especially with an eligible bank account.
UK price difference
Cheapest paid plans: QuickBooks £10 (entry plan, per month); FreeAgent £33 (standard, per month excl. VAT). QuickBooks is £23 a month cheaper at entry level, though billing terms differ. Check on the provider page whether VAT is included before you buy.
Who should pick which?
- Choose QuickBooks for: small businesses wanting invoicing and VAT in one place, with AI help on expenses.
- Choose FreeAgent for: sole traders and freelancers, especially with an eligible bank account.
Neither has a free plan; use the free trials where offered before you commit. Prices change, so check the provider's page before buying.
Other accounting to consider
Xero
Cloud accounting for invoices, bank feeds, VAT and payroll, with AI-assisted features.
Sage Accounting
UK accounting and payroll software with the Sage Copilot AI assistant included in every plan.
Zoho Books
Accounting software with a free plan for very small businesses and paid UK plans.
Full details
QuickBooks tool page · FreeAgent tool page · How we check prices
Sources
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