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FreshBooks vs Wave at a glance
| FreshBooks | Wave | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Service businesses and freelancers who bill for time | Very small businesses that want free accounting |
| Pricing model | Free trial | Free plan |
| Available in | Global | US, Canada |
| Key features | Time tracking that turns into invoices Expense capture from receipts Online payments on invoices | Free core accounting and invoicing Receipt scanning on paid plan Payroll add-on in selected regions |
| Website | Visit FreshBooks ↗ | Visit Wave ↗ |
Pricing
FreshBooks offers a free trial, then paid plans, while Wave has a free plan, with paid upgrades. We never publish exact prices because they change too often; check the current plans on each website.
Where they work
FreshBooks is available worldwide; Wave in US, Canada. Check that the one you like works in your country first.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose FreshBooks: the better fit for service businesses and freelancers who bill for time.
- Choose Wave: the better fit for very small businesses that want free accounting.
Still unsure? Run through these before you sign up for either:
- Bank feeds for the banks you actually use, in your country.
- Support for your local tax rules (VAT, GST or sales tax) and the reports your accountant needs.
- Receipt capture that reads amounts and dates for you.
- A way to export everything if you ever switch.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between FreshBooks and Wave?
FreshBooks is built for service businesses and freelancers who bill for time. Wave is built for very small businesses that want free accounting. FreshBooks offers a free trial, then paid plans, while Wave has a free plan, with paid upgrades.
Is FreshBooks or Wave available in my country?
FreshBooks is available worldwide; Wave in US, Canada. Check that the one you like works in your country first.
Is FreshBooks cheaper than Wave?
It depends on how you use it, and prices change often, so we only list the pricing model. FreshBooks offers a free trial, then paid plans, while Wave has a free plan, with paid upgrades. Compare the current plans on each website before you sign up.
Not sold on either?
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Information checked 26 October 2026. NxtGenFin is an independent directory, not affiliated with FreshBooks or Wave unless marked as featured, sponsored or affiliate link. Not financial advice.