Introduction
Selecting the right accounting software for your Indian business requires careful consideration of features, pricing, and how well the solution addresses local compliance requirements. In this comprehensive comparison, we examine two leading cloud-based accounting solutions: hisabkitab and RealBooks. Both platforms are designed for the Indian market, but they offer different strengths and focus areas that might make one more suitable for your specific business needs.
Feature Comparison: hisabkitab vs RealBooks
Feature Category | hisabkitab | RealBooks |
Billing & Invoicing | • Unlimited customizable invoices • Digital signature support • Lightning-fast invoicing (approx. 20 seconds) • UPI QR code integration • Automated e-invoicing | • Unlimited invoices in all paid plans • Customizable invoice templates • Support for multiple price lists • E-invoicing capabilities • Order management features |
GST Compliance | • Seamless GST integration • Automated GST return filing • Efficient E-way bill generation • Automated e-invoicing support | • GST return filing • E-way bill generation • Support for multiple GSTINs • Automated GSTR2A/2B reconciliation |
TDS/TCS Handling | • Automatic calculation and deduction • Simplified TDS/TCS collection process • Compliance with tax regulations | • TDS return filing via Excel and API • TDS calculation capabilities • Limited information on TCS features |
Multi-Location Management | • Manage multiple companies from single interface • No specific branch accounting features highlighted | • Advanced branch accounting • Real-time data consolidation across branches • User visibility limitations by location • Efficient branch transaction reconciliation |
Inventory Management | • Barcode functionality • Item QR codes for stock tracking • Basic inventory level monitoring | • Multiple godowns and stock transfers • Batch management • Bill of material management (Enterprise plan) • Stock valuation and aging reports |
Mobile Accessibility | • Mobile-first design philosophy • Complete accounting on mobile devices • Real-time sync between mobile and web • High-rated mobile app (4.5+ on Play Store) | • Free mobile app available • Custom report generation on mobile • Some user feedback suggests limited mobile features • Focus appears to be on web platform primarily |
Document Management | • Credit/debit note management • Basic document handling | • Easy file attachment to masters and transactions • Drag-and-drop document upload • Cloud storage for documents • Highly praised by users for audit simplification |
Automation Features | • Automated WhatsApp notifications • Auto email functionalities • Automated payment reminders (WhatsApp/email) • Bulk upload capability | • Scheduled automated emails • Customizable approval workflows • Automated bank reconciliation • Multiple data import options |
Banking Integration | • Efficient bank reconciliations • Online payment collection support | • Auto-configured cheque printing • Automated MT940 bank reconciliation • Raw bank statement uploads • Some users report occasional integration challenges |
User Management | • Role-based access control • Additional user accounts available at extra cost | • Role-based control • Extensive user permissions • Customizable user access levels |
Pricing Structure Comparison
Plan Details | hisabkitab | RealBooks |
Entry-Level Option | Mobile Only Plan: ₹999/year + GST | Explorer Edition: Free (limited to 500 entries/year) |
Standard Plan | Web + Mobile Plan: ₹2,999/year + GST | Professional Edition: ₹500/user/month (₹5,000/year) |
Premium Plans | N/A | Business Edition: ₹1,000/user/month (₹10,000/year) Enterprise Edition: ₹2,000/user/month (₹20,000/year) |
Additional Users | • Web + Mobile: ₹299/year • Mobile Only: ₹149/year | Priced per user based on plan |
Additional Companies | • Web + Mobile: ₹499/year • Mobile Only: ₹249/year | Unlimited companies included |
Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Explorer Edition (free with limitations) |
Business Suitability Analysis
Business Type | hisabkitab Suitability | RealBooks Suitability |
Startups & Very Small Businesses | ★★★★★ Affordable pricing, mobile-first approach, and simplified interface make it ideal for startups with basic accounting needs | ★★★★☆ Free Explorer edition is excellent for very small operations, but feature limitations may become apparent quickly |
Small to Medium Enterprises | ★★★★☆ Comprehensive features at a reasonable fixed cost, good for businesses with straightforward operations | ★★★★★ Scalable plans with advanced features suited for growing businesses with more complex needs |
Multi-Location Businesses | ★★★☆☆ Supports multiple companies but lacks specialized branch accounting features | ★★★★★ Advanced branch accounting with real-time consolidation makes it ideal for businesses with multiple locations |
Manufacturing Businesses | ★★★☆☆ Basic inventory management, but limited manufacturing-specific features | ★★★★★ (Enterprise Edition) Bill of material, manufacturing journal, and multi-process production features |
Retail & E-commerce | ★★★★★ Fast invoicing, UPI integration, and mobile access are perfect for retail operations | ★★★★☆ Multiple price lists and inventory features benefit retail, but mobile limitations may impact in-store usage |
Service-Based Businesses | ★★★★★ Simple interface, sufficient features, and mobile accessibility ideal for service providers | ★★★★☆ Professional Edition offers all needed features, but may include unnecessary complexity |
Businesses Requiring Document Management | ★★★☆☆ Basic document handling capabilities | ★★★★★ Superior document attachment features frequently praised by users |
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