Does QuickBooks Still Offer a Desktop Version? Here’s What You Need to Know
QuickBooks has long been a leading name in accounting software, trusted by millions of businesses around the world. As cloud-based solutions like QuickBooks Online continue to dominate the market, many users are asking, “Does QuickBooks still offer a desktop version?” The short answer is yes! QuickBooks Desktop is still very much available and remains a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.
In this blog, we’ll explore whether QuickBooks still offers a desktop version, what’s new with QuickBooks Desktop, and why it might still be the right fit for your business.
What is QuickBooks Desktop?
QuickBooks Desktop is a traditional, locally-installed version of the QuickBooks accounting software. Unlike QuickBooks Online, which is cloud-based and requires an internet connection, QuickBooks Desktop is installed directly on your computer or server. The desktop version of QuickBooks is known for its powerful features, such as:
- Invoicing and expense tracking
- Payroll management
- Inventory management (depending on the version)
- Customizable financial reporting
- Advanced features for job costing, budgeting, and more
QuickBooks Desktop is available in three primary versions:
- QuickBooks Desktop Pro – Best for small businesses needing basic accounting tools.
- QuickBooks Desktop Premier – A step up with industry-specific features (e.g., retail, manufacturing, nonprofits).
- QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise – Designed for large businesses with complex accounting needs and the ability to support multiple users.
Does QuickBooks Still Offer a Desktop Version?
Yes, QuickBooks still offers a desktop version, and it’s still a very popular choice for many businesses. While Intuit, the company behind QuickBooks, has shifted a lot of its marketing focus to QuickBooks Online in recent years, QuickBooks Desktop continues to be available as a one-time purchase option.
The desktop version is especially appealing for businesses that prefer the idea of owning their software outright, rather than paying recurring subscription fees. QuickBooks Desktop is ideal for businesses that require powerful features that can be used offline, without the need for an internet connection.
Why is QuickBooks Desktop Still Available?
Even though QuickBooks Online has become Intuit’s flagship product, QuickBooks Desktop continues to have a loyal following. Here are some reasons why QuickBooks Desktop is still offered and remains relevant today:
1. No Subscription Fees
QuickBooks Desktop is available as a one-time purchase, meaning you pay for the software upfront and can use it indefinitely. This is in contrast to QuickBooks Online, which operates on a monthly or annual subscription model. For businesses that prefer a one-time cost and don’t need cloud features, QuickBooks Desktop is an excellent option.
2. Offline Access
Unlike QuickBooks Online, which requires an internet connection to access, QuickBooks Desktop works offline. For businesses that need to manage accounting data without always being connected to the internet, QuickBooks Desktop provides the flexibility and security of offline access.
3. Advanced Features
QuickBooks Desktop often provides more advanced features, particularly when it comes to inventory management, job costing, and advanced reporting. These robust tools are particularly beneficial for industries like manufacturing, construction, and retail, where complex accounting needs are the norm.
4. Customization
QuickBooks Desktop allows for more customization options compared to its online counterpart. You can create customized reports, forms, and templates to suit your specific business needs.
5. Preferred by Some Industries
Certain industries, like construction or manufacturing, often prefer QuickBooks Desktop due to its powerful inventory tracking, job costing, and customization options. It’s also ideal for businesses that operate in areas with limited or unreliable internet access.
Is QuickBooks Desktop Right for Your Business?
While QuickBooks Desktop is still offered, it may not be the right fit for every business. QuickBooks Online has some significant advantages, such as:
- Automatic updates and cloud backups
- Real-time collaboration for teams
- Access from any device with internet connectivity
However, if you prefer working with software that is installed locally and gives you full control over your data without needing a subscription, QuickBooks Desktop might be the better choice.
QuickBooks Desktop is ideal for businesses that:
- Prefer a one-time purchase without recurring subscription fees.
- Need powerful offline accounting software with advanced features.
- Have industry-specific accounting needs (e.g., manufacturing, nonprofit, retail).
- Operate in environments with unreliable internet access.
- Don’t need cloud-based collaboration or remote access features.
Versions of QuickBooks Desktop Available
QuickBooks Desktop is available in three main versions, each tailored to different business needs:
1. QuickBooks Desktop Pro
- Price: $199 to $399 (depending on the version).
- Best for: Small businesses that need basic accounting features, such as invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
- Key Features:
- Supports up to 3 devices.
- One-time payment, no monthly fees.
- Easy-to-use interface for day-to-day accounting tasks.
2. QuickBooks Desktop Premier
- Price: Around $499 to $599.
- Best for: Businesses with industry-specific needs, such as retail, nonprofit, and manufacturing.
- Key Features:
- Industry-specific tools and reporting.
- Supports up to 5 users.
- Advanced budgeting and reporting capabilities.
3. QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise
- Price: Starts at $1,213/year (Enterprise is mostly sold as a subscription, but older versions may still be available as one-time purchases).
- Best for: Larger businesses with complex accounting needs and multiple users.
- Key Features:
- Advanced features like inventory management, customizable user roles, and reporting.
- Supports up to 30 users.
- Customizable features for growing businesses.
Where to Purchase QuickBooks Desktop
QuickBooks Desktop is still available for purchase from several sources:
- Intuit’s Official Website – The most reliable option for purchasing QuickBooks Desktop directly from the company behind the software.
- IntuitReseller.net – A trusted third-party reseller offering competitive pricing and customer support.
- Amazon – Popular for purchasing QuickBooks Desktop with the added benefit of reading customer reviews.
- Local Office Supply Stores (Staples, Office Depot) – Some physical retail locations still offer QuickBooks Desktop, though availability may vary.
Conclusion: Does QuickBooks Still Offer a Desktop Version?
Yes, QuickBooks still offers a desktop version, and it remains a viable option for businesses that want a one-time purchase without subscription fees. QuickBooks Desktop provides powerful, offline features and is often preferred by businesses with specific accounting needs or industries that require more robust tools.
If you’re considering QuickBooks Desktop for your business, you can still buy it directly from Intuit or from authorized resellers. Whether you’re a small business or a larger enterprise, QuickBooks Desktop has the tools and flexibility to meet your needs, all without the hassle of ongoing subscription payments.