Difference Between QuickBooks Enterprise and QuickBooks Online | A Detailed Comparison

Published: 14 May 2025

Difference Between Quickbooks Enterprise and Quickbooks Online

Although QuickBooks is used by many business owners, not everyone is aware of the distinctions between QuickBooks Enterprise and QuickBooks Online. Are you confused about which one fits your business better? Maybe you’re tired of paying for tools that don’t match your needs or feel stuck with features you never use. Funny thing we once saw a bakery owner using Enterprise just to send invoices! Let’s break it down clearly so you pick the right one.

Table of Content

Difference Between Quickbooks Enterprise and Quickbooks Online
What is QuickBooks Online
What is QuickBooks Enterprise
Difference Between QB Enterprise and QB Online
Who Should Use Each One?
1. QuickBooks Online Is Best For:
2. QuickBooks Enterprise Is Best For:
Conclusion About Quickbooks Enterprise vs Quickbooks Online
FAQS

What is QuickBooks Online

A cloud-based accounting program called QuickBooks Online aids small businesses in handling their money. From any internet-connected device, you can monitor your revenue, expenses, bills, and more. It’s easy to use and can grow with your business.

What is QuickBooks Enterprise

For larger companies, QuickBooks Enterprise is a robust accounting program. It offers advanced features like detailed inventory tracking, customizable reports, and support for many users. It’s ideal for businesses with complex financial needs.

Difference Between QB Enterprise and QB Online

Although they both assist with managing your company’s finances, QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Enterprise operate differently and have various features.

QB Online	QB Enterprise
Accounting software that runs on the cloud.	Desktop-based accounting software with more power.
Small businesses and independent contractors use it.	Used by large retailers and manufacturers.
From any device with the internet.	Installed on computers, or hosted on a server.
Easy and quick.	Needs installation and setup.
Up to 25 (Advanced plan).	Up to 40 users.
Monthly subscription.	Annual subscription.
Basic.	Advanced (with barcode scanning, locations).
Basic to moderate.	Deep and customizable reports.
Limited control.	Advanced user roles and security.
Add-on available.	Built-in or as an add-on.
General use.	Custom tools for industries (retail, nonprofit).
Included.	Extra cost (for hosting).
Simple and mobile-friendly.	Batch invoicing and more options.
Automatic backup in cloud.	Manual or needs hosting for cloud backup.
Yes, full access.	Limited unless cloud-hosted.
Limited.	Highly customizable.
Online and chat.	Priority Circle support (faster help).
Easy for beginners.	Better for experienced users.
Many app integrations.	Fewer, but deeper integration.
Yes.	Yes.
Basic or none.	Advanced and detailed.
Available in higher plans.	Advanced tools included.
Limited based on plan.	Handles large data sets.
Auto-updates in the browser.	Manual or controlled updates.
Small to mid-sized businesses.	Mid to large businesses with complex needs.

Who Should Use Each One?

QuickBooks Online Is Best For:

Small business owners.
Freelancers and solo entrepreneurs.
Businesses that work remotely.
Teams that need access from anywhere.
People who want easy setup and use.
Users who prefer monthly payments.
Businesses with simple accounting needs.

QuickBooks Enterprise Is Best For:

Medium to large businesses.
Companies with many employees or departments.
Businesses that manage large inventory.
Companies needing advanced reports and tools.
Teams that want more control over user roles.
Businesses in specific industries like manufacturing, retail, or nonprofits.
Users who prefer powerful desktop software with optional cloud hosting.

Conclusion About Quickbooks Enterprise vs Quickbooks Online

When selecting the best option for your company’s requirements, it is essential to understand the differences between QuickBooks Enterprise and QuickBooks Online. Based on my experience, I recommend QuickBooks Enterprise if your business requires robust features and scalability, whereas QuickBooks Online is ideal for smaller businesses or those who prioritize ease of use and accessibility. To ensure you make the best choice for your company, take the time to evaluate your specific needs and reach out to a QuickBooks expert today for personalized advice.

FAQS

Can QuickBooks Enterprise be used online?

For the most part, QuickBooks Enterprise is a desktop program. But if you host it on a cloud server with a third-party provider, you can utilise it online.

Can I convert my QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Online?

Converting QuickBooks Enterprise to QuickBooks Online is possible. To transfer your data, you’ll need to use a data migration program or get assistance from QuickBooks support.

How do I upgrade QuickBooks Enterprise to online?

To upgrade, you can migrate your QuickBooks Enterprise data to QuickBooks Online using QuickBooks’ built-in conversion tool or seek assistance from their support team.

Why is QuickBooks desktop better than QuickBooks Online?

QuickBooks Desktop is more appropriate for larger companies with intricate accounting requirements because it provides more sophisticated functionality and customisation choices.

What are the disadvantages of QuickBooks Online?

QuickBooks Online may have limited features compared to the desktop version and requires a stable internet connection for access. Some users find it less customizable.

Why is Intuit pushing QuickBooks Online?

Intuit is promoting QuickBooks Online due to its cloud-based nature, which offers more flexibility, automatic updates, and easier access from anywhere.