The QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus comparison is not new; users are always confused about which is better for their businesses and use cases. When it comes to accounting software for small and medium-sized businesses, QuickBooks stands as a market leader. However, with several versions available, choosing the right one can be a cumbersome task. Did you know?
There are millions of QuickBooks users across the globe, especially concentrated in the United States and Canada. Among the most commonly compared are QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus. Both offer robust tools to manage invoices, expenses, payroll, and reports, but they differ in pricing, features, and subscription models. You can also opt for QuickBooks Pro hosting and QuickBooks Premier hosting as per your business needs.
Through this blog, we will dive deep into the comparison between QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus, their strengths and weaknesses, and how QuickBooks Pro Plus hosting on the cloud can further enhance your accounting operations.
What is QuickBooks Pro?
QuickBooks Pro is a classic desktop accounting software developed by Intuit, designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses that need reliable financial management tools. It’s a one-time purchase license, which means you pay once and own the software outright, no recurring annual charges unless you choose to upgrade.
Some of the core features of the QuickBooks Pro version are creating and sending invoices, tracking expenses and sales, managing accounts payable and receivable, generating over 100 financial reports, up to 3 user access, and offering basic inventory management. QuickBooks Pro is ideal for business owners who prefer a static setup with minimal changes. It provides solid foundational features for those comfortable managing their finances without needing extensive automation or frequent updates.
What is QuickBooks Pro Plus?
QuickBooks Pro Plus is a subscription-based version of QuickBooks Pro that offers additional support, services, and ongoing updates. Instead of purchasing the software once, you pay an annual fee that ensures you’re always using the latest version of the software.
Key features of the QuickBooks Pro Plus version include annual automatic updates, unlimited customer support, enhanced security patches, and secure data backup and recovery. Additionally, it offers payroll integration and access to QuickBooks Pro Plus Hosting in the Cloud. QuickBooks Pro Plus is geared toward businesses that value ongoing support and want access to the latest features without having to worry about manually upgrading every year.
Table of Differences Between QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus
Let us explore the key differences between QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus in a clear comparison:
| QuickBooks Pro | QuickBooks Pro Plus | |
| Pricing Model | One-time licensing purchase | Annual subscription model |
| Software Updates | Not included (must buy upgrades) | Software updates are included in yearly plans |
| Customer Support | Limited 30-day free customer support | Unlimited customer support during the entire subscription period |
| Data Backup & Recovery | Manual | Automatic |
| Cloud Hosting | Not included in this plan | Available via third-party hosting providers |
| Payroll Integration | Add-on with an addon price tag | Easier to integrate with enhanced support |
| Ideal For | Cost-conscious static users, small and medium businesses | Users need continuous support and updates. Best for small, medium, and large companies. |
Pros and Cons of QuickBooks Pro
| Pros | Cons |
| Pay once and use unlimitedBest for managing financials, expenses, sales, purchases, and for reporting purposes.No annual subscription required. For long-term use, it is a reliable software solution for businesses. | Need to pay for the newer version and updates.Offers only 30-day customer support; after that, it is chargeable. No automatic data backup is offered. |
Pros and Cons of QuickBooks Pro Plus
| Pros | Cons |
| Annual upgrade option ensures your software is updated to a newer version.Direct help from customer care.Automatic data backup and recovery.QuickBooks Pro Plus hosting on the cloud, offering remote access and support for multiple devices. | A bit expensive plan.Businesses that have a fixed budget cannot sustain. Once the subscription ends, software access also ends. |
QuickBooks Pro Plus Hosting on Cloud: Enhanced Flexibility and Security
If you’re using or planning to upgrade to QuickBooks Pro Plus, consider combining it with cloud hosting to unlock better benefits. Third-party cloud hosting providers allow you to host your QuickBooks Desktop software on a virtual server, enabling access from anywhere, at any time.
QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus, both can be hosted on the cloud and access the software from anywhere, anytime. Combining the always-updated functionality of Pro Plus with cloud access can significantly enhance your team’s efficiency, especially for businesses operating in multiple locations or with hybrid workforces.
Benefits of Cloud Hosting for QuickBooks Pro Plus:
- Remote Access– Work from home, office, or while traveling.
- Data Security– Regular backups, encrypted storage, and multi-factor authentication.
- Collaboration– Multiple users can access the same data in real-time.
- Scalability– Easily scale your resources as your business grows.
- Reduced IT Burden– No need to maintain local servers or worry about data loss.
QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus: Which Should You Choose?
The choice between QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus boils down to your business goals and needs:
- Choose QuickBooks Pro if you prefer a budget-friendly, static, and one-time payment model. It’s great for businesses that don’t require constant updates or support and are comfortable managing backups manually.
- Choose QuickBooks Pro Plus if you value continuous improvement, need ongoing support, and want built-in features like automatic backups and cloud hosting compatibility. It’s ideal for fast-growing businesses or those wishing to avoid the hassle of manual upgrades.
Also Read : How To Fix QuickBooks Launch Issues After Windows 11 Update?
Concluding Words
Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or managing a growing team, both QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus versions offer robust features. Still, your choice should align with your operational needs, budget flexibility, and long-term business growth plans. For businesses ready to embrace digital transformation and remote work, the combination of QuickBooks Pro Plus plus Cloud Hosting offers unmatched convenience and security in today’s accounting landscape.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Has QuickBooks Pro been discontinued?
Yes, QuickBooks Pro has been discontinued by Intuit on 30th September 2024. However, existing subscription holders can still renew their plan.
What does QuickBooks Pro include?
Some of the features that come with QuickBooks Pro are accounts payable and receivables, invoicing, expense tracking, purchase and sales, inventory tracking, financial reporting, sales tax tracking, and other 3rd party apps integrations.
What are the different levels of QuickBooks?
The different levels or subscriptions of QuickBooks are Simple Start, Essential, Plus, and Advanced.
What does QuickBooks Plus include?
QuickBooks Plus includes features like invoicing, sales tracking, income & expenses tracking, and basic financial reporting.
What is the difference between QuickBooks Pro and Premier?
| QuickBooks Pro | QuickBooks Premier |
| Designed for small & medium businesses | Designed for small, medium and large businesses |
| Basic accounting features | Advanced accounting features |
| Best for stable businesses | Best for growing and complex businesses like manufacturing, contracting, retailing and more. |
