Accounting Software

Exact Online vs FreshBooks

Both are accounting software. The short answer: choose Exact Online if you are dutch and Belgian SMEs and accountants; choose FreshBooks if you are freelancers and service businesses billing clients for time.

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Exact Online logo Exact OnlineFreshBooks logo FreshBooks
Best forDutch and Belgian SMEs and accountantsFreelancers and service businesses billing clients for time
Free planNo (trial may exist)No (trial may exist)
PricingSee providerSee provider
Built for IndiaGlobalGlobal
CategoriesAccounting Software, ERP SoftwareBilling & Invoicing Software, Accounting Software, Freelancer & Agency Tools
Strengths
  • Strong in Benelux tax rules
  • Modules for wholesale and manufacturing
  • Accountant collaboration
  • Very easy invoicing
  • Time tracking built in
  • Good client experience
Watch out for
  • Benelux focus
  • Modules add up in price
  • Pricing tiers limit billable clients
  • Less suited to inventory businesses
Visit Exact OnlineVisit FreshBooks

Which should you choose?

Exact Online: Cloud business software for accounting, invoicing, inventory and payroll, widely used in the Netherlands and Belgium.

FreshBooks: Invoicing-first accounting software with time tracking, expenses and client portals.

The best way to decide is to run the same week of real work through both — most offer a free plan or trial — and compare how long tasks take, what your team prefers, and the total cost for your number of users including renewal pricing.

Not sure either fits? See all accounting software compared.