Best Wave Alternatives [2026]

Compare 4+ alternatives to Wave. Find the perfect invoicing tool for your needs.

4.3 (350.0k reviews)
| Free tier available

About Wave

Wave is a comprehensive accounting and invoicing platform designed specifically for small businesses, freelancers, and solopreneurs. It offers free core accounting features with optional paid services like payment processing, payroll, and bookkeeping support.

Small business owners starting out with limited budgetsFreelancers needing basic invoicing and expense trackingSolopreneurs managing simple financial operationsContractors requiring professional invoice creation
Starting from Free
Visit Wave

Why Look for Alternatives?

  • Find more affordable options
  • Get features Wave lacks
  • Better UI/UX for your team
  • Improved integrations

Top Wave Alternatives

#1

Zoho Invoice

4.7 (1.3k reviews)

A comprehensive invoicing software designed for small businesses and freelancers to create professional invoices, track expenses, and get paid faster. Features customizable templates, automated payment reminders, and seamless integration with multiple payment gateways.

Invoice Creation Expense Tracking Online Payments Automated Reminders
Best for: Small businesses needing professional invoicingFreelancers starting their business journeyCompanies already using Zoho ecosystem
Starting from Free
Free tier
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#2

FreshBooks

4.5 (5.0k reviews)

Cloud-based accounting software designed for freelancers and small businesses to manage invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, and project management. Known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive invoicing features that help service-based businesses streamline their financial operations.

Invoicing Time Tracking Expense Tracking Project Management
Best for: Freelancers and consultantsService-based small businessesCreative professionals
Starting from $23 /mo
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#3

Invoice Ninja

4.3 (2.5k reviews)

Invoice Ninja is a comprehensive invoicing and billing platform designed for freelancers, consultants, and small businesses. It offers both hosted SaaS and self-hosted options with features like professional invoice templates, online payments, time tracking, and expense management.

Professional Invoice Templates Online Payment Processing Recurring Invoices Client Portal
Best for: Freelancers and consultantsSmall businesses with recurring billingTeams needing self-hosted solutions
Starting from Free /mo
Free tier
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#4

Harpoon

4.3 (150 reviews)

Forward-looking time-tracking and invoicing software designed to help freelancers, agencies, and studios plan and forecast profitable futures. Features The Harpoon Method for financial clarity and business growth.

Time Tracking Invoicing Financial Forecasting Project Scheduling
Best for: Freelancers seeking profitable growthSmall agencies and design studiosService-based businesses needing financial clarity
Starting from Free /mo
Free tier
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Feature Comparison

Feature Wave Zoho Invoice FreshBooks Invoice Ninja Harpoon
Unlimited Invoicing
Online Payment Processing
Bank Transaction Import
Receipt Scanning
Multi-Currency Support
Mobile App
Starting Price Free Free$23/moFreeFree

Want a detailed breakdown?

Wave vs Zoho Invoice Wave vs FreshBooks Wave vs Invoice Ninja Wave vs Harpoon

Wave Pros & Cons

Understanding Wave's strengths and weaknesses helps you decide if an alternative is right for you.

Pros
  • Completely free core accounting and invoicing features
  • User-friendly interface designed for non-accountants
  • Strong mobile app for on-the-go management
  • Automatic bank synchronization with major financial institutions
  • No setup or monthly fees for basic functionality
Cons
  • Payment processing fees are higher than some competitors
  • Limited integrations compared to premium accounting software
  • Advanced features require paid upgrades
  • Customer support primarily through chat, no phone support

Detailed Comparisons

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Wave vs Zoho Invoice

Full feature comparison, pricing analysis, and verdict
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Wave vs FreshBooks

Full feature comparison, pricing analysis, and verdict
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Wave vs Invoice Ninja

Full feature comparison, pricing analysis, and verdict
VS

Wave vs Harpoon

Full feature comparison, pricing analysis, and verdict

Explore More

Wave Pricing Best Invoicing Wave Review Best for Freelancers

Wave Alternatives FAQ

What are the best alternatives to Wave?

The top alternatives to Wave include Zoho Invoice, FreshBooks, Invoice Ninja, and more. Each offers similar functionality with different strengths in pricing, features, or ease of use.

Is there a free alternative to Wave?

Yes, several Wave alternatives offer free tiers, including Zoho Invoice and Invoice Ninja. These free options are great for individuals or small teams getting started.

Why switch from Wave to an alternative?

Common reasons to switch from Wave include: seeking lower pricing, needing specific features Wave lacks, preferring a different user interface, requiring better integration with your existing tools, or wanting more responsive customer support.

How do Wave alternatives compare on pricing?

Wave offers a free tier, but paid plans start at $16/mo. Alternatives range from free options to enterprise solutions, with many offering better value at similar price points.

Can I migrate my data from Wave to an alternative?

Most invoicing tools support data import/export. Wave allows data export, and many alternatives offer migration assistance or import tools. Check specific comparison pages for migration details.

Which Wave alternative is best for small businesses?

For small businesses, we recommend Zoho Invoice or FreshBooks. These offer the best balance of features and affordability for growing teams.

What features should I compare when evaluating Wave alternatives?

Key features to compare include: unlimited invoicing, online payment processing, bank transaction import, receipt scanning, pricing structure, integration options, mobile apps, and customer support quality.

Are Wave alternatives harder to learn?

Learning curves vary by tool. Some alternatives like Harpoon are known for simplicity, while others offer more power with increased complexity. Consider your team's technical comfort.

How do I choose the right Wave alternative?

Start by listing must-have features and your budget. Then compare 2-3 alternatives using our detailed comparison pages. Most offer free trials, so test your top choices before committing.

Do Wave alternatives integrate with the same apps?

Many alternatives integrate with popular apps like PayPal, Stripe, Shopify. Check each tool's integration page or our comparisons for specific compatibility with your tech stack.

AM
Alex Morgan Senior SaaS Analyst

Alex has spent over 8 years analyzing and comparing business software solutions. With a background in enterprise software sales and product management...

127 articles
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