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Xero v Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Comparison

3 min read

Phoebe Adshead
Phoebe Adshead key responsibilities lie in marketing; ensuring that businesses are aware of the products, services and expertise available from The HBP Group.

Accounting software allows for simple, fast data entry and retrieval, fewer human errors and the automation of many business processes. Most businesses have online accounting systems, with many opting for cloud hosting now given its easy access and added security. But now, businesses want more from their accounting software and choosing the right one for your business should be a carefully thought-out decision.

Here’s our verdict of when to choose Xero versus Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, alongside a comparison of the different features, usability, reporting, integration capabilities and costs.

About Xero & Business Central

Xero

Xero automates everyday business tasks and is better suited for smaller businesses. Like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, it provides real-time updates on the health of your finances. View and share reports and budgets, all in one place on a customisable dashboard.

  • Invoicing and quotes – create recurring invoices and receive updates when they’ve been opened.
  • Pay your employees – calculate and manage payroll/payroll taxes and capture receipts and mileage for expenses.
  • Pay bills – track and pay bills. See an overview of your accounts payable and cash flow.
  • Support from Xero – get some support and security monitoring online with Xero Central.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

A single, comprehensive solution that drives predictive insights and consistent reporting and allows you to make smarter decisions faster. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central provides powerful accounting and supply chain management functionality to small and medium-sized businesses.

  • A complete ERP solution without different sections or modules – manage financials, sales, service, and operations in one place.
  • In the cloud – you can securely access any of your data in real-time through any device with the internet; mobile, tablet and desktop.
  • Powerful reporting – easy reporting on essential business operations, such as trends, profits and sales with graphs and reports.
  • Full integration capabilities – create quotes, process orders and submit invoices without leaving Outlook AND access live data from Excel.

Key Features of Xero and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Depending on what your business needs from your accounting software, the key features you require will vary depending on those needs. Here are some of the key features for both Xero and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Access & Usability

Xero Access and Useability

invoicing

Xero Invoicing

Expenses & Bills

Xero Expenses and Bills

Reporting Capabilities

Xero Reporting Capabilities

Integration & Add-Ons

Xero Integration & Add-Ons

Price Comparison

Prices accurate as of 2022.

Xero Price Comparison

When to Choose Xero and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Both Xero and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central are excellent accounting systems when it comes to easily managing bills, expenses, data capture and the quote-to-cash process. But, which one to choose comes down to whether you are looking for some basic accounting functions or whether you are seeking a more robust ERP that can drive sales and growth with powerful reporting and a multitude of functions.

Here’s a quick summary of when to choose Xero versus Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central:

When to Choose Xero

  • You want a low price point
  • You only need some reporting functionality to understand high-level information
  • You’re only looking for basic accounting features
  • You would like a more minimalist user experience

When to Choose Business Central

  • You want a platform that can connect not only accounts but sales, service, finance and operations
  • You need powerful integration capabilities to streamline business process
  • Powerful reporting from the Dashboard, without the need to run individual reports
  • Personalisation is made easy without the need to pay for bespoke development