Coke® vs Pepsi®…….which one do you like? We all have personal preferences, and the same holds true to accounting software. Some of us like QuickBooks®. Some of us like Sage 50®. Whenever I get a new client that either doesn’t have software or is running something very old (think AS400), I am constantly asked what system is better-QuickBooks or Sage 50? I always answer with my Coke vs Pepsi analogy. Different companies choose different software, just like you and I choose different cars, colors and soda. Let’s look at some of the highlights of both of them.
Things QuickBooks does well:
- Customizable reports
- Loads of integrated apps
- Easy to use/setup
- Desktop and cloud options for deployment
- Importing/Exporting
Things Sage 50 does well:
- Consolidation of companies
- Business Intelligence reporting
- Inventory Management
- Advanced Security levels
- Pricing by user count
- Fully GAAP compliant program
- Year-end close
- Customization of forms
Things QuickBooks doesn’t do well:
- Have to use Items to invoice
- Tech support
- Inventory-unless you have Enterprise
- Year-end close-just a closing date
Things Sage 50 doesn’t do well:
- Can be a little tricky to install
- No MAC or online version
- Conversion from other accounting systems
As is usually the case with business software, it’s rare for one product to be better than the next. It comes down to which product best meets the specific needs of the individual business, whether it’s their processes, IT infrastructure, existing software portfolio, or even personal preference. Sage 50 and QuickBooks are no different. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. So it’s up to the end user to evaluate their requirements and select the option that fits best.
Wendy Moyer-Drabick, MBA is President of Moyer-Drabick & Associates, Ltd. She is a
Wendy Moyer-Drabick, MBA
member of the Intuit Trainer Writer Network, an Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, a Master Certified Sage 50 Consultant and an ACT! Certified Consultant.