Xero vs Sage: Which Fits Your Business Better?
Joe Sweeney
Jun 3, 2025
Choosing the right accounting software is crucial for any business. The decision you make should not only streamline your accounting processes but also support your overall business goals.
When it comes to Xero and Sage Intacct, both solutions cater to different types of businesses, and your choice largely depends on the size and complexity of your operations.
In this article, we’ll compare the two accounting solutions to help you decide which software fits your business needs better.
To bring in a real-world perspective, we spoke with Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself, a digital mental health provider and Upflow customer. Christine has used Xero for over six years across multiple businesses and has also worked with Sage and NetSuite. Her insights offer a practical look at where Xero shines—and where it may fall short as companies grow.
Keep reading to find out:
Ready to get more out of your accounting software? Connect your Xero or Sage account to Upflow in just a few clicks and get instant access to your key AR metrics—all with our free Discover plan.
Key Differences Between Xero and Sage Intacct
User Friendliness
Xero shines when it comes to ease of use. Its interface is intuitive, which makes it easy for non-accounting professionals to use without much training. This is a big draw for small businesses or startups with limited accounting knowledge.
"It's probably one of the easiest startup accounting softwares that there are. Very self-explanatory. And yeah, it is easier to use than, for example, Sage."
"Almost everyone can use it—like CEOs without any kind of background. They can easily create a couple of dashboards to look at cash or revenue to date, for example." - Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself.
“The user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate, even for those who may not have extensive accounting knowledge” - Xero user on G2.
Sage Intacct, on the other hand, is more complex and requires a bit more expertise to navigate effectively. Its functionality is deeper, which is a plus for businesses with more intricate accounting needs, but it may be overwhelming for those who don't have a dedicated accounting team.
“If I had to nitpick something someone could dislike about Sage Intacct, it might be the initial learning curve and implementation. Because it's such a robust and feature-rich platform, getting everything set up exactly how you want it and training your team can take a bit more time and effort upfront compared to simpler, less comprehensive solutions.” - Sage Intacct user on G2.
Scalability
As your business grows, scalability becomes crucial. Xero is a great solution for small businesses and can scale to an extent, but it may not provide all the features you need as your business becomes more complex.
"Xero's quite good if you are a small to medium company—especially startup because it's easy to use… but, at some stage, most companies outgrow it" — Christine Hollington, Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself.
“It has its limitations, such as transaction limit and others which means that once you scale and become big enough - you have to migrate to something like NetSuite, Dynamics or Sage Intacct.” - Xero user on G2.
Sage Intacct offers a wider range of products and features that can accommodate larger businesses with more intricate accounting and reporting requirements. For example, multi-entity support in Sage Intacct means it will be able to continue supporting your business even if your organizational structure becomes more complex.
“It continues to grow and makes it more valuable as our company scales up.” - Sage Intacct user on G2.
Integrations
Xero boasts a vast ecosystem of third-party app integrations, which makes it highly customizable and flexible. This is ideal if your business relies on various tools that need to communicate with your accounting software.
"I think the list of integrations available is really, really long… in different organizations I've used a mix of different integrations. Integrations with FP&A tools, for example, mean I can get analysis and reporting to auto-run, so we’re always getting fresh live data." — Christine Hollington, Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself.
“Xero supports third party integrations and we were able to seamlessly integrate it with our project management products for budgeting and controlling project expenses.” - Xero user on G2.
Sage Intacct, while offering integrations, tends to be more limited in this area. Businesses that need to connect with a wide range of apps may find Xero’s integrations more appealing.
“While the basic functionalities are user-friendly, mastering more advanced features such as custom reporting, integrations, or configuring workflows often requires a deeper understanding of the platform.” - Sage Intacct user on G2.
Cost
For small to medium-sized businesses, Xero is usually the more affordable option. Its pricing plans are relatively low, making it a good choice for businesses just starting out or those with straightforward accounting needs.
"Compared to Sage, Xero is easier, cheaper, quicker, and it's more efficient." — Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself.
“I really appreciate the price plan for small business and start ups.” - Xero user on G2.
Sage Intacct tends to be more expensive, particularly for businesses with more advanced requirements. However, this higher cost may be justified for larger businesses that need Sage Intacct’s more sophisticated features.
“While Sage Intacct offers great value, its cost may not suit startups that don't initially need its advanced features” - Sage Intacct user on G2.
Unique Features of Xero
Xero is known for its simplicity and ease of use. Here are some features that set it apart:
Multi-Currency Support: Xero supports multiple currencies, making it a great option for businesses that operate internationally.
Bank Reconciliation: Xero’s automated bank reconciliation makes it easy to match transactions without manual input.
Cloud-Based: Xero is entirely cloud-based, so your financial data is accessible from anywhere, and you can collaborate with your team in real time.
Wide Range of Integrations: With over 800 third-party integrations, Xero makes it easy to sync with other business tools, including CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, and project management tools (as well as Upflow!).
"Xero is continually putting out new features like multicurrency, bulk actions, an expenses module, a payroll module... it's a startup software where they're constantly adding features." — Christine Hollington, Financial Controller at Helloself.
Unique Features of Sage Intacct
Sage Intacct’s advanced features make it a strong contender for larger businesses. Some standout features include:
Advanced Reporting: Sage Intacct offers more comprehensive reporting tools compared to Xero, which is useful for businesses with more complex financial needs.
Industry-Specific Solutions: Sage Intacct provides industry-specific tools and customization, making it a good choice for businesses in manufacturing, construction, and other industries with unique accounting needs.
Multi-Entity Support: Sage Intacct’s software supports multi-entity businesses, allowing for complex organizational structures and consolidated reporting.
Project Management: For larger businesses, Sage Intacct offers robust project management features that allow for detailed tracking of costs, budgets, and revenue.
Pricing
Xero Pricing
Early Plan ($20/month) - Accounting basics for businesses starting out.
Growing Plan ($47/month) - Accounting tools for the self-employed and growing businesses.
Established Plan ($80/month) - Good for established businesses.
Note: Prices might vary due to seasonal offers, discounts, or updates. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, visit Xero's official pricing page
Sage Intacct Pricing
Sage Intacct’s pricing is customized based on the modules and features your organization requires. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, they work with you to build a plan that includes the essential tools you need—without paying for extras you don’t.
Modular Approach for Cost Efficiency – Select only the features that are relevant to your business, keeping costs manageable while ensuring you have the right capabilities.
Industry-Specific Solutions – Sage Intacct offers tailored configurations for different industries, ensuring you get the best fit at a price that reflects your unique operational needs.
Note: For more information, visit Sage's official pricing page
Xero vs. Sage Intacct: When to Choose Each
When to Choose Xero
Xero is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses that need an easy-to-use accounting software solution. If you’re a business owner without a background in accounting, Xero’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive app integrations make it a solid choice. Additionally, Xero is ideal if you have plans to expand internationally and require multi-currency support.
When to Choose Sage Intacct
Sage Intacct is the better choice if you run a larger business with complex accounting needs. If you require advanced features such as in-depth reporting, industry-specific tools, or multi-entity support, Sage Intacct offers the functionality to meet these needs. Sage Intacct’s scalability and customization options make it a great option for businesses that anticipate substantial growth and need a solution that can accommodate complex requirements.
Upflow's Native API Integrations with Xero and Sage Intacct
Upflow’s native API integrations with Xero and Sage Intacct offer seamless connections between your accounting system and collection workflows. These integrations ensure your financial data is always accurate, up-to-date, and optimized for cash flow management.
Here at Upflow, we serve many shared customers with these platforms, helping them enhance their accounts receivable (AR) processes. By integrating Upflow, businesses not only gain access to advanced features that accelerate cash collection but also improve customer relationships by streamlining payment interactions. The result? Faster payments, fewer disputes, and a more professional collection process.
Why Connect Upflow to Xero or Sage Intacct?
By integrating Upflow with these leading accounting platforms, your invoices, customer data, and payments stay in perfect sync, ensuring a frictionless AR process. These integrations eliminate manual data entry, reduce errors, and provide real-time insights into cash flow.
Data Integrity at Every Sync – Start with a full AR history sync, then benefit from incremental, real-time updates that capture only new or modified records. This ensures financial accuracy while eliminating discrepancies.
Two-Way Integration – Unlike basic data pull solutions, Upflow syncs back key financial data to your accounting platform, including payments, payouts, journal entries, payment methods, and classifications. This enriches your records with additional data for better financial decision-making.
Optimized Performance – Our sync process is designed to be efficient, balancing real-time updates with incremental syncs to prevent system overload.
Highly Configurable – Businesses can customize data mappings, GL accounts, payment methods, and classifications. Exclusion rules allow you to filter out irrelevant data, ensuring only the most relevant financial information is imported.
Enterprise-Grade Security – With SOC 2 Type 2 certification, Upflow adheres to the latest compliance and security standards. Your financial data remains encrypted, protected, and compliant with industry regulations.
The Risks of Unvetted Integrations
Choosing an unverified integration solution can expose your business to data breaches, reporting errors, and costly disruptions. Upflow’s certified partnerships ensure your AR data is managed with precision, security, and full compliance.
Whether you're using Xero or Sage Intacct, Upflow helps you take control of your accounts receivable, eliminate inefficiencies, and get paid faster—all while maintaining the integrity of your financial data.
Learn how to integrate Upflow with Xero here.
Learn how to integrate Upflow with Sage Intacct here.
Summing Up
Both Xero and Sage Intacct offer strong accounting solutions, but they cater to different types of businesses. Xero is perfect for small to medium-sized businesses that prioritize ease of use and flexibility, while Sage Intacct is better suited for larger businesses with complex financial needs and industry-specific requirements.
As Christine Hollington of Helloself sums up: "The switch back to Xero for me is always like jumping into your favorite pair of shoes… when it’s the weekend and you put on your trainers. It just feels nice."
Choosing the right software ultimately depends on your business’s size, growth plans, and the complexity of your accounting needs. If you’re just starting out or looking for a simple solution, Xero is a great choice. However, if you’re managing a larger operation with complex requirements, Sage Intacct may be the better option.
By connecting Upflow to your Xero or Sage Intacct system, you take your cash collection to the next level—ensuring you get paid on time, improve your financial health, and keep your business growing.
Want to know more about your options for accounting solutions? Check out our report compiled by studying more than 500 companies: Overview of Invoicing Solutions for B2B SMBs in the US.
Want to see how Upflow can help? Connect your Xero or QuickBooks in a few easy clicks and get instant access to your key AR metrics with our free Discover plan.
FAQs
Q: Which is easier for non-accountants to use?
A: Xero is the clear winner here. It’s designed to be straightforward and intuitive, even for those without a finance background. If you’re a small business owner or part of a lean team, Xero makes it easy to stay on top of your numbers without needing an in-house accountant. Sage Intacct is more powerful but requires more financial know-how to get the most out of the system.
Q: Which handles multi-currency transactions and project tracking better?
A: If you’re working with multiple currencies, Xero has strong support built into its higher-tier plans—great for businesses with global customers. For more complex project tracking, cost allocation, or multi-entity setups, Sage Intacct is better equipped, especially if you’re managing multiple teams, departments, or international branches.
Q: Which solution scales more effectively as the business grows?
A: Sage Intacct is built for scale. It’s a solid choice if your business is expanding quickly or becoming more complex, thanks to features like consolidated reporting, custom workflows, and multi-entity support. Xero is ideal for early-stage growth, but larger companies often outgrow it over time.
Q: Does either platform support US GAAP compliance?
A: Sage Intacct was built with US GAAP standards in mind. It offers detailed audit trails, advanced financial controls, and compliance-ready reporting features. Xero supports basic financial reporting needs but isn’t purpose-built for strict US GAAP compliance, making Sage Intacct the stronger option if compliance is critical.
Q: Can I integrate either platform with Upflow?
A: Yes—both Xero and Sage Intacct integrate natively with Upflow. These integrations streamline your accounts receivable processes, keep your financial data in sync, and help you get paid faster. Xero’s integration is quick to set up, while Sage Intacct offers more advanced configuration for complex needs.
Q: Which platform has better integration options with other tools?
A: Xero stands out here, with a massive library of over 800 third-party integrations. It connects easily with CRMs, e-commerce platforms, project management tools, and more. Sage Intacct also supports integrations, but they tend to be more specialized and may require extra setup or customization.
Q: How do the pricing models compare?
A: Xero uses transparent, tiered pricing—starting as low as $20/month—making it a great fit for smaller businesses with simpler needs. Sage Intacct, on the other hand, uses a customized pricing model based on the modules and features your business requires. It’s a larger investment but gives you a tailored setup aligned with your operations.
Q: Which is faster and easier to implement?
A: Xero is quick to get started—you can be up and running within a day. It’s built for ease of use from day one. Sage Intacct takes more time to implement due to its depth and customization options, but that upfront investment pays off for businesses with complex or high-volume operations.