Zoho Books vs Xero
Zoho Books and Xero are both cloud accounting tools used by small and mid-sized businesses around the world. Xero has a strong accountant network in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Zoho Books is strong where accounting needs to connect to CRM, inventory and other Zoho apps.
Disclosure: Flowpeak is a Zoho implementation partner. We have tried to be fair; features and pricing change, so check each vendor for current details.
Choose Zoho Books if
- You use or plan to use Zoho CRM, Inventory or other Zoho apps
- You operate in India or the Gulf and need GST or VAT handled natively
- You want workflow rules and custom functions inside accounting
Choose Xero if
- Your accountant works in Xero and prefers it
- You rely on Xero's app marketplace for your industry
- You are in the UK, Australia or New Zealand with an established Xero workflow
Zoho CRM setup from USD 500Fixed price in writing. Every service has a published price.
- Registered Zoho partner
- Calls in your business hours
- 30 days of free fixes
Side by side
| Area | Zoho Books | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| Tax support | GST (India), VAT (UK, EU, GCC), US sales tax and more | Strong in UK, Australia and New Zealand; varies elsewhere |
| Connected apps | Native links to Zoho CRM, Inventory, Payroll, Expense and more | Large third-party marketplace |
| Automation | Workflow rules, custom functions and approvals | Rules and automation through apps |
| Inventory | Basic items, with Zoho Inventory for full stock control | Basic tracked inventory; apps for more |
| Best fit | Businesses running several Zoho apps | Businesses whose accountant runs Xero |
Our take
If your accountant is committed to Xero and your stack is not Zoho, Xero is a solid choice. If you run Zoho CRM or Inventory, or need Indian GST, Zoho Books usually saves duplicate entry and integration work.
Frequently asked questions
Can I migrate from Xero to Zoho Books?
Yes. We move the chart of accounts, contacts, items, opening balances and open invoices, then reconcile with your accountant.
Does Zoho Books support Making Tax Digital in the UK?
Yes. Zoho Books is HMRC-recognised for MTD VAT.
Can my accountant access Zoho Books?
Yes. You can invite your accountant as a user, and Zoho has an accountant programme.
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