QBD or QBO: What’s The Difference?

By: Rachel Raupp

QuickBooks will become your business’s most valuable player. And, as something you will be using on a regular basis, it’s important it’s perfect for you. Although both Desktop and Online assist you with your books, they don’t share the same characteristics or help you in the same way. In simple terms, QuickBooks Online is the internet version of QuickBooks Desktop. But, let’s take things a step further and break down the differences. 

QuickBooks Desktop is great if you leave your work in the office rather than taking it home. It can also only be accessed by the computer it is installed in, regardless of if you have internet connection. On the Desktop software, you need to manually enter every activity in your bank account. If your business tracks inventory, QBD is for you. To work with anyone on your books, you both must be present and working on the same computer (the computer it was installed on). Desktop users tend to be those who love routine and familiarity; they’ve have been using the software for a while and don’t want to change. If you do not trust internet-based programs that save your information personal information, Desktop is perfect for you since it can only be accessed from one single computer.

Since QuickBooks Online is cloud-based, it’s great for on-the-go lifestyles. You c

ould enter each transaction as you it happens in real time if you so chose. The software allows you to link your bank information for easy access and increased convenience by automatically downloading your account’s activity. There is far less data entry in QBO since it is directly connected to your account and can track the information for you. Sharing your books with your accountant is as easy as a few clicks! They, too, can access your books remotely so long as they have WiFi. Another bonus: QBO is compatible with both PC and Mac. 

If you need help choosing the right software for you, we would be happy to help you choose your business’s new MVP!