Because each platform serves different market segments with unique value propositions, choosing between Bonsai and Invoice Cloud for invoicing requires an understanding of their disparate billing and client management strategies.
With features like time tracking, expense tracking, mileage tracking, project-based billing, estimates, and quotations in addition to invoicing, Bonsai is a complete business management solution for independent contractors and service-based enterprises.
On the other hand, Invoice Cloud is a simplified platform that focuses on basic invoicing and payment processing. It has good capabilities for automated payment reminders, recurring billing and payment automation but it lacks more sophisticated features like time and expense tracking.
For companies looking for fixed prices and extensive features, Bonsai provides standard subscription tiers. Its Elite plan supports up to three users. Invoice Cloud’s pay-per-payment model appeals to startups and businesses with infrequent invoicing. In contrast to Bonsai, which offers a limited 7-day trial, Invoice Cloud offers a free plan.
Bonsai provides specialized mobile applications for iOS and Android that have an easy-to-use interface and customizable templates. Beyond Bonsai’s chat and email, Invoice Cloud offers 24/7 multi-channel customer support despite the lack of dedicated mobile apps.
Both platforms provide API access for custom integrations and integrate with accounting programs like Xero and QuickBooks. With Stripe integration and multi-currency capabilities, Bonsai sets itself apart and offers international freelancers more payment gateway flexibility.
With features like role management and extensive user permissions, Invoice Cloud is made for greater scalability and can be used by small, mid-sized and enterprise businesses.
Despite its higher prices, Bonsai provides excellent value for all-inclusive business management with sophisticated tracking, making it ideal for service providers and creative professionals who require more than simple invoicing.
With a pay-per-transaction model and a free plan, Invoice Cloud is easy to use and reasonably priced, making it perfect for companies that have inconsistent invoicing or are testing solutions.
The choice ultimately depends on whether you need a comprehensive business suite like Bonsai or a targeted invoicing solution like Invoice Cloud.
| Bonsai | Invoice Cloud | |
|---|---|---|
| Core Features | ||
| Custom Templates | Hundreds of customizable invoice templates | Available – Branded experience with business branding |
| Send Estimates/Quotations | Yes | No |
| Recurring Billing Automation | Yes | Yes |
| Expense Tracking | Yes | No |
| Time Tracking | Yes | No |
| Mileage Tracking | No | No |
| Automated Payment Reminders | Yes (reminder button available) | Yes |
| Project-Based Billing | Yes | No |
| Tax Handling | Yes | Limited |
| User Permissions/Role Management | Yes | Yes |
| File Uploads | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing and Plans | ||
| Free Plan Availability | No (7-day free trial only) | Yes |
| Pricing Range | Basic: $15/month Essentials: $25/month Premium: $39/month Elite: $59/month |
$3 per payment with a 3% flat rate |
| Trial Period | 7 days full unlimited access | Free trial available – duration not specified |
| User Limits | Basic: 1 user Essentials: 1 user Premium: 1 user Elite: 3 users |
Not specified |
| Client Limits | Unlimited clients & projects | Unlimited |
| Storage Limits | Not specified | Not specified |
| Payment Processing Fees | Stripe fees apply | 3% flat rate |
| Ease of Use | ||
| User Interface | Simple to Moderate | Moderate |
| Onboarding Experience | Yes | Demo available |
| Mobile App Availability | Both | No dedicated app – Mobile-responsive web interface |
| Mobile App Functionality | Yes | Full functionality via mobile browser |
| Integration | ||
| Payment Gateways Supported | Stripe Payments Company | Electronic payment processing supported |
| Accounting Software Compatibility | QuickBooks, Xero others | Yes |
| CRM Integration | Limited CRM integrations | Yes |
| API Availability | Yes | Yes |
| Reporting & Analytics | ||
| Bank Connections | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Built Financial Reports | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Report Creation | Yes | Limited |
| Security & Compliance | ||
| Dashboard Metrics | Yes | Yes |
| Data Encryption | FDIC pass-through deposit insurance eligible | Yes |
| GDPR Compliance | Yes | Yes |
| Backup Options | Automatic | Not specified |
| Customer Support | ||
| Support Channels | Chat, Email | Phone, Chat, Help Desk, Knowledge Base, Tickets |
| Help Center/Knowledge Base | Yes | Yes |
| 24/7 Support | No | Yes |
| Adaptability | ||
| Multi-Currency Support | Yes | No |
| Localization | Limited languages | No |
| Industry-Specific Customization | Yes (freelancers, contractors) | Yes |
| Scalability | Freelancers and small businesses | Large Enterprises, Mid Size Business, Small Business |
| Read Bonsai Review | Read Invoice Cloud Review |
