QuickBooks vs Sage Accounting
Both are full cloud accounting tools for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax.
QuickBooks is the cheaper starting point at from £144/yr (VAT included) versus from £216/yr for Sage Accounting — but the cheapest plan only wins if it covers the income types you actually have.
| QuickBooks | Sage Accounting | |
|---|---|---|
| True annual cost from | from £144/yr | from £216/yr |
| Self-employment | Yes | Yes |
| Property / rent | Yes | Yes |
| Keeps your spreadsheet | No | No |
| Accountant access | Yes | Yes |
| Type | full cloud accounting | full cloud accounting |
| HMRC status | Recognised | Recognised |
| Price verified | 2026-06-24 | 2026-06-24 |
QuickBooks
Widely used cloud accounting. The £10 Sole Trader plan covers self-employment and a single rental property if you're not VAT-registered; Simple Start adds VAT.
- Sole traders and single-property landlords on a budget
- People who want a big app ecosystem
Sage Accounting
Established accounting software with strong accountant support and phone help. Mid-priced, no surprises.
- People who want UK phone support
- Those whose accountant uses Sage
Not sure either is right? Use the finder to get a recommendation ranked by what it will actually cost you.
Prices are the cheapest plan that covers a typical sole trader or landlord, VAT included, last verified 24 June 2026 (catalogue reconciled 24 June 2026). Links are affiliate links and never affect ranking. Not affiliated with HMRC; not tax advice.