While both Bonsai and Joist offer effective invoicing to small enterprises and independent contractors, their features, costs and intended user value are very different.
Their primary invoicing features are comparable because both platforms provide spending monitoring, periodic billing automation and customized invoice templates. However, Joist lacks a number of extra features that Bonsai offers, like time and mileage monitoring, user permissions, file uploads, API access and GDPR compliance. Joist’s bank connectivity and custom reporting features are restricted whereas Bonsai offers complete bank connections and the ability to create custom reports. Bonsai is a big benefit for independent contractors who require thorough financial management.
Joist is initially more cheap than Bonsai which starts at $15/month and goes up to $59. Joist’s pricing starts at $8/month with higher plans at $15 and $32. While Joist offers a 14-day trial which is longer but less unlimited than Bonsai’s, Bonsai offers a thorough 7-day free trial. Joist has an advantage over Bonsai in terms of payment flexibility because it accepts several gateways such as PayPal and Apple Pay while Bonsai only uses Stripe.
Both platforms are mobile-friendly for iOS and Android, however Bonsai has a somewhat more complicated UI than Joist which makes it easier for users to set up.
In addition to providing limited CRM connectors and API access for bespoke connections, Bonsai interacts with QuickBooks, Xero and other accounting programs. Joist’s CRM and API availability is unknown and it only connects to QuickBooks Online on Pro and Elite plans. Bonsai is the more integration-ready choice for organizations using a networked software stack.
In contrast to Joist which is only available in English, does not handle many currencies and has not confirmed GDPR compliance. Bonsai’s multicurrency billing and GDPR compliance make it more appealing to clients worldwide.
Bonsai‘s increased price is justified because it is perfect for independent contractors who want sophisticated capabilities like billable time monitoring and document management. Joist offers a user-friendly interface at a cheaper cost to contractors seeking quick and economical billing. The decision between them comes down to whether you like simplicity or extensive features.
| Bonsai | Joist | |
|---|---|---|
| Core Features | ||
| Custom Templates | Hundreds of customizable invoice templates | Multiple invoice & estimate templates available |
| Send Estimates / Quotations | Yes | Yes |
| Recurring Billing Automation | Yes | Yes |
| Expense Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Time Tracking | Yes | No |
| Mileage Tracking | Yes | No |
| Automated Payment Reminders | Yes (reminder button available) | Yes |
| Project-Based Billing | Yes | Yes |
| Tax Handling | Yes | Yes |
| User Permissions / Role Management | Yes | No |
| File Uploads | Yes | No |
| Pricing and Plans | ||
| Free Plan Availability | No (7-day free trial only) | No |
| Pricing Range | Basic: $15/month Essentials: $25/month Premium: $39/month Elite: $59/month |
Basics: $8/month Pro: $15/month Elite: $32/month |
| Trial Period | 7 days | 14 days |
| User Limits | 1–3 users depending on plan | Not specified |
| Client Limits | Unlimited clients & projects | Unlimited clients |
| Storage Limits | Not specified | Not specified |
| Payment Processing Fees | Stripe fees apply | Cards: 3.49% + $0.49 ACH: 1% (max $15) Tap to Pay: 2.79% + $0.49 PayPal Pay Later: 4.99% + $0.49 |
| Ease of Use | ||
| User Interface | Simple to moderate | Simple |
| Onboarding Experience | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App Availability | Both iOS and Android | Both iOS and Android |
| Mobile App Functionality | Yes | Yes |
| Integration | ||
| Payment Gateways Supported | Stripe | PayPal, Stripe, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH |
| Accounting Software Compatibility | QuickBooks, Xero, others | QuickBooks Online (Pro & Elite) |
| CRM Integration | Limited | Not specified |
| API Availability | Yes | Not specified |
| Reporting & Analytics | ||
| Bank Connections | Yes | Limited |
| Pre-Built Financial Reports | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Report Creation | Yes | Not specified |
| Security & Compliance | ||
| Dashboard Metrics | Yes | Yes |
| Data Encryption | FDIC pass-through insurance eligible | PCI-compliant, SSL encryption |
| GDPR Compliance | Yes | Not stated |
| Backup Options | Automatic | Automatic |
| Customer Support | ||
| Support Channels | Chat & email | Email & live chat |
| Help Center / Knowledge Base | Yes | Yes |
| 24/7 Support | No | No |
| Adaptability | ||
| Multi-Currency Support | Yes | No |
| Localization | Limited languages | English only |
| Industry-Specific Customization | Yes | Yes |
| Scalability | Freelancers & small businesses | Freelancers & contractors |
| Read Bonsai Review | Read Joist Review |
