Ready to Make the Switch?
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📱 Take it on the go with our iOS app
See why contractors and small businesses are switching to PayStream Pro for simpler invoicing, transparent pricing, and a modern experience.
Everything you need — without the bloat or the price tag.
| Feature | PayStream Pro | QuickBooks Simple Start | QuickBooks Essentials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $24.99/mo | $35/mo | $65/mo |
| Free Trial | ✓ 14 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Unlimited Invoices | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Expense Tracking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bank Connections (Plaid) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Online Payments (Stripe) | ✓ Built-in | Extra fee via QB Payments | Extra fee via QB Payments |
| Financial Reports | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| iOS Companion App | ✓ Included | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI Cash Flow Forecasting | ✓ Premium plan | ✗ | ✗ |
| Smart Payment Reminders | ✓ Premium plan | ✓ Basic reminders | ✓ Basic reminders |
| Setup Time | ~2 minutes | 15–30 minutes | 15–30 minutes |
| Contract Complexity | No contracts | No contracts | No contracts |
| Hidden Fees / Upsells | ✓ None | Payroll, payments add-ons | Payroll, payments add-ons |
| Built for Contractors | ✓ Purpose-built | General purpose | General purpose |
| 256-bit Encryption | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Compared to QuickBooks Essentials — with features built for how you actually work.
Built lean, priced fair, designed for real work.
No onboarding wizard, no 30-step setup. Create an account, connect your bank, and start invoicing immediately.
One price. No payroll upsells, no payment processing fees on top, no surprise charges. What you see is what you pay.
QuickBooks tries to be everything for everyone. PayStream Pro is laser-focused on contractors, freelancers, and small businesses.
A clean, modern interface with a native iOS companion app. No clunky dashboards or confusing menus.
Premium plan includes AI cash flow forecasting and smart payment reminders — features QuickBooks charges extra for or doesn't offer.
256-bit encryption. Payments handled by Stripe. We never store your card numbers or bank credentials.
Start your 14-day free trial. No credit card required to explore. Cancel anytime.
📱 Take it on the go with our iOS app