Accounting software comparison: MTD tools head to head
Quick answer
Choose Xero if you want to grow, QuickBooks for mobile receipts and mileage, and FreeAgent if you bank with NatWest, RBS, Ulster Bank or Mettle, because it's free. Sage has a free plan for simple affairs. Landlords should compare Hammock and Landlord Vision.
When you've narrowed it down to two, a side-by-side comparison helps you make the final call. Each comparison below looks at price, free plans, MTD features, landlord support and app ratings. Our verdicts are based on our review of features, pricing and user ratings, with prices checked in October 2026.
Which comparison do you need?
- Xero vs QuickBooksXero for growth and accountant support; QuickBooks for receipts and mileage on the go.
- FreeAgent vs XeroFreeAgent if your bank makes it free; Xero Simple if you'd otherwise pay.
- QuickBooks vs SageSage for a free plan with simple affairs; QuickBooks for the stronger mobile app.
- Xero vs SageSage Sole Trader for low cost; Xero if you'll need VAT, payroll or CIS later.
- FreeAgent vs QuickBooksFreeAgent for tax estimates and free bank deals; QuickBooks for drivers and trades.
- Hammock vs Landlord VisionHammock for 1 to 3 properties; Landlord Vision for portfolios and compliance.
How do the main tools compare on price?
Here are the six products from our comparisons in one table. Prices exclude VAT and were checked on each provider's website. Intro offers change often.
| Software | Price (checked October 2026) | Free tier | Landlord features | VAT returns | App rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xero | From £7/month (Simple) | No (1 month free trial) | Yes | Yes (not on Simple) | 4.8 iOS / 4.5 Android | Visit site |
| QuickBooks | From £10/month (Sole Trader Plus) | No (30-day trial) | Single property only on Sole Trader Plus | Yes (not on Sole Trader Plus) | 4.7 iOS / 4.6 Android | Visit site |
| FreeAgent | From £10/month (Landlord) or £19/month (Sole trader). Free with NatWest, RBS, Ulster Bank or Mettle | Yes, with eligible bank | Yes | Yes | 4.8 iOS / 4.7 Android | Visit site |
| Sage Sole Trader | Free plan, or £7/month | Yes (with limits) | Yes (Sage Sole Trader and Landlord) | On Sage Accounting plans | 4.7 iOS / 4.7 Android | Visit site |
| Hammock | From £8/month (1 to 3 properties) | No (30-day trial) | Yes (built for landlords) | Not applicable | 2.6 iOS / n/a Android | Visit site |
| Landlord Vision | From £7.99/month (4 tenancies) | No (2-week trial) | Yes (built for landlords) | Not stated | Too few ratings yet | Visit site |
Prices exclude VAT unless stated and were checked on each provider's website in October 2026. Introductory offers change often, so always confirm the live price. App ratings are from the UK App Store and Google Play in October 2026.
How do we decide a winner?
There's rarely one winner for everyone, so each comparison ends with a "choose this if" verdict. We look at:
- Total cost for a typical sole trader or landlord, including free plans and bank deals
- MTD coverage for both self-employment and property income
- Everyday ease, such as bank feeds (your transactions flow in automatically) and app ratings
- Room to grow, such as VAT returns, payroll and CIS (the Construction Industry Scheme)
For example, Dev is a self-employed delivery driver with £31,000 of sales. He spends his day in a van, so a strong phone app for receipts and mileage matters more than VAT tools. QuickBooks would likely suit him. (Dev is an illustration, not a real customer.)
Who should not rely on a two-way comparison
- If you haven't shortlisted yet, start with our best MTD software list
- If you want to pay nothing, see our best free MTD software guide instead
- If you're not sure you need MTD, use our Do I need MTD? checker first
Frequently asked questions
Is Xero or QuickBooks better for sole traders?
Xero is cheaper to start at £7 a month and grows with you, while QuickBooks at £10 a month has stronger receipt and mileage tools on your phone. Read our full Xero vs QuickBooks comparison.
Which is cheaper, Sage or Xero?
Sage Sole Trader has a free plan and a £7 paid plan. Xero Simple is also £7 a month but has no free plan. For VAT you would need Sage Accounting or a higher Xero plan, which both cost more. Prices were checked in October 2026, ex VAT.
Is FreeAgent better than Xero?
Not always. FreeAgent is the better deal if you can get it free through your bank. If not, Xero Simple is cheaper and suits people who plan to grow. See FreeAgent vs Xero.
What is the best landlord software comparison?
Hammock and Landlord Vision are the two landlord tools we compare most often. Hammock suits small landlords who want automatic bank feeds, and Landlord Vision suits portfolios. Read Hammock vs Landlord Vision.
This page is general information, not personal tax, legal or financial advice. Tax rules can change and your situation may differ. For advice on your own affairs, speak to a qualified accountant or tax adviser, or check GOV.UK.