I have specialized in small service business support for 30 years. 99% of them use QuickBooks Desktop. If you have a Mac, I do not recommend the QuickBooks Mac version, but to use the PC version with virtualization. The Mac version has always, and may always be behind on features and development.

I am not a fan of QBO (their online version) only because its workflow is nowhere as good as the desktop version. It is nice for sharing and easier to access than desktop using remote connections, and you have less of a concern of data loss.

If a client has never used the desktop version, they would not know the difference, and I have a few clients that it does fit their needs better. Intuit obviously wants every one on a subscription and is pushing online any chance they get. They offer us Certified Advisors and Consultants incredibly low pricing to switch clients to online.

In addition, many service businesses as well as other industries have 3rd party management system that handle daily operational elements of their business. Many of these do not interface in online, so that will also be a consideration we need to discuss as well.

Right now, the best deal for purchasing QuickBooks Desktop is through Costco ... under $200.00 for Desktop Pro, and if you want payroll the best deal is $289.00 including the first year of payroll ... this would normally be over $500.00 from Intuit.

Always here to help.