Choosing the right QuickBooks Desktop version can make a big difference in how efficiently your business manages its accounting. Two versions that have been widely used by small and growing businesses are QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus.
Although both editions provide essential accounting and bookkeeping tools, they differ in areas such as pricing, subscription requirements, updates, technical support, and additional features.
In this guide from QuickBooks Repair Pros, we’ll explain the key differences between QuickBooks Pro and Pro Plus so you can determine which option better fits your business needs.
QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus at a Glance
QuickBooks Pro was traditionally offered as a licensed desktop accounting solution, while QuickBooks Pro Plus introduced a subscription-based model with additional benefits.
Both versions are designed to help businesses handle everyday accounting tasks, including:
- Creating and managing invoices
- Tracking income and expenses
- Managing customer and vendor information
- Recording sales transactions
- Generating financial reports
- Monitoring accounts payable and receivable
- Managing business finances
The major distinction is that Pro Plus combines the core capabilities of Pro with subscription benefits, product updates, support, and other services.
What Is QuickBooks Pro?
QuickBooks Pro is a desktop accounting solution designed primarily for small businesses that need straightforward tools for managing their finances.
It can help business owners organize financial records, create professional invoices, track sales and expenses, and produce important accounting reports.
QuickBooks Pro is particularly suitable for businesses that don’t require frequent software upgrades or additional subscription-based services.
What Is QuickBooks Pro Plus?
QuickBooks Pro Plus is a subscription-based version of QuickBooks Desktop Pro. It includes the core accounting functionality found in Pro while adding services such as product updates, security updates, technical support, and other subscription benefits.
For businesses that want to keep their accounting software current and receive ongoing assistance, Pro Plus can be a more convenient option.
QuickBooks Pro vs. Pro Plus: Key Differences
1. Licensing and Subscription
One of the biggest differences between the two versions is how they are licensed.
Traditional QuickBooks Pro was available through a one-time license purchase. However, Intuit has transitioned QuickBooks Desktop products toward subscription-based offerings.
QuickBooks Pro Plus operates through a subscription. This means continued access depends on maintaining an active subscription.
Before choosing a version, businesses should consider whether they prefer a traditional licensed product or an ongoing subscription model.
2. Software Updates
QuickBooks Pro users were generally tied to the version they purchased, while Pro Plus provides access to product updates during an active subscription.
Regular updates can be important because accounting software needs to remain compatible with operating systems, security requirements, and evolving business needs.
If keeping your software updated is a priority, a subscription-based version may provide greater convenience.
3. Technical Support
Another important distinction is customer assistance.
Subscription versions such as Pro Plus can include access to technical support and product assistance, depending on the terms of the current subscription.
Businesses using an older standalone version may have fewer support options available.
If your company relies heavily on QuickBooks for daily bookkeeping, having access to professional assistance can be valuable when installation, update, company-file, or software errors occur.
4. Additional Services
QuickBooks Pro and Pro Plus share many fundamental accounting capabilities. However, Pro Plus may provide additional subscription benefits beyond the basic software.
Depending on the product year and subscription terms, these benefits can include:
- Automatic product updates
- Security updates
- Technical support
- Data backup services
- Access to newer features
Because Intuit periodically changes QuickBooks Desktop products and subscription offerings, it is important to verify the features included with the specific version you are considering.
5. Performance and Compatibility
Software performance depends on several factors, including the QuickBooks version, computer configuration, company-file size, operating system, and the number of transactions being processed.
Newer QuickBooks Desktop releases may also include improvements designed to work better with modern 64-bit operating systems.
Businesses handling large company files or high transaction volumes should check the system requirements for their specific QuickBooks release before upgrading or installing the software.
6. Product Upgrades
With an active Pro Plus subscription, users can receive eligible product updates and upgrades as they become available.
With older standalone QuickBooks Pro licenses, upgrading to a newer product version generally required purchasing or moving to a newer edition.
This makes Pro Plus potentially more convenient for businesses that want to stay on a current version without separately purchasing each new release.
QuickBooks Pro or Pro Plus: Which One Is Better?
The right choice depends on your business requirements.
QuickBooks Pro may be appropriate if:
- You prefer a traditional desktop accounting environment.
- Your existing version meets your accounting requirements.
- You don’t need frequent product upgrades.
- You have an older licensed version that is still supported for your needs.
QuickBooks Pro Plus may be a better fit if:
- You want a subscription-based QuickBooks Desktop solution.
- You want access to product and security updates.
- Ongoing technical assistance is important to your business.
- You prefer keeping your accounting software current.
- You want additional services included with your subscription.
What Should You Consider Before Upgrading?
Before moving from QuickBooks Pro to Pro Plus, review your current setup carefully.
Consider:
- Your QuickBooks version: Determine which year and edition you’re currently using.
- Company-file compatibility: Make sure your existing company files can be used with the intended version.
- Operating system: Check whether your computer meets the requirements for the new release.
- Third-party integrations: Verify that payroll, payment, banking, and other integrations continue to work.
- Data backup: Create a reliable backup of your QuickBooks company file before making major changes.
- Subscription costs: Compare the ongoing subscription expense with your business’s accounting needs.
- Support requirements: Determine whether your business would benefit from ongoing technical assistance.
Need Help With QuickBooks Pro or Pro Plus?
Switching QuickBooks versions isn’t always as simple as installing new software. Problems involving installation, company files, updates, data conversion, activation, or compatibility can interrupt your accounting operations.
QuickBooks Repair Pros provides assistance with QuickBooks-related technical issues, including installation problems, update errors, company-file issues, data-related problems, and other desktop accounting software concerns.
If you’re unsure whether you should continue using QuickBooks Pro or move to Pro Plus, professional assistance can help you evaluate your setup and determine the appropriate next step.
Call QuickBooks Repair Pros at +1-844-987-7067 for assistance.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Pro and QuickBooks Pro Plus offer similar core accounting capabilities, but their licensing models and included services can differ significantly.
For businesses that value ongoing updates, support, and subscription-based services, Pro Plus may offer greater convenience. Businesses using an older Pro license should evaluate their current software, compatibility requirements, and future accounting needs before deciding whether an upgrade is necessary.
If you’re experiencing problems with QuickBooks Pro, Pro Plus, installation, updates, company files, or other QuickBooks Desktop issues, QuickBooks Repair Pros is available to help.
Call +1-844-987-7067 today for QuickBooks assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is QuickBooks Pro the same as QuickBooks Pro Plus?
No. Both versions provide core accounting functionality, but Pro Plus is a subscription-based offering that can include additional benefits such as product updates, security updates, and technical support.
Can I upgrade from QuickBooks Pro to Pro Plus?
Depending on your QuickBooks edition and the current Intuit product offerings, you may be able to move to a subscription-based QuickBooks Desktop product. Before upgrading, back up your company file and verify compatibility.
Does QuickBooks Pro Plus include updates?
Pro Plus subscriptions generally provide eligible product and security updates while the subscription remains active. Specific benefits can vary by product year and subscription terms.
Which is better for a small business: QuickBooks Pro or Pro Plus?
There isn’t one answer for every business. If you need a current QuickBooks Desktop product with ongoing updates and subscription benefits, Pro Plus may be more suitable. If you’re working with an older licensed version that meets your requirements, you may have different considerations.
Can QuickBooks Repair Pros help with QuickBooks problems?
Yes. QuickBooks Repair Pros can assist with a range of QuickBooks technical and troubleshooting issues. For assistance, call +1-844-987-7067.