In today’s digital age, businesses are rapidly shifting to cloud-based tools for managing various operations, and accounting is no exception. With remote access, data security, and real-time collaboration, online accounting software has become essential for both small businesses and growing enterprises.
If you’re exploring the best cloud-based options among different accounting softwares, this blog is your go-to guide. Let’s break down the top choices — and a few that you might want to avoid or approach with caution.
Why Go Cloud-Based with Your Accounting?
Cloud-based accounting systems are more than just a trend. Here’s why Indian businesses are embracing them:
- 24/7 access from any device
- Real-time financial tracking
- Automatic backups and data security
- No need for manual software updates
- Cost-effective, especially for growing businesses
1. MargBooks – Smart Accounting for Indian Businesses
Among the different accounting softwares, MargBooks stands out as a reliable, GST-compliant, and feature-rich online accounting software developed specifically for Indian SMEs.
Key Highlights:
- GST billing and filing support
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Cloud-based dashboard with remote access
- Multi-user login with access control
- Integration with Marg ERP ecosystem
MargBooks is especially well-suited for wholesalers, distributors, retailers, and service-based businesses who need robust functionality in a simplified format.
2. Busy Accounting Software – Outdated Yet Still Around
Busy is a long-standing name, but its interface and usability feel dated compared to newer cloud-first tools.
Points to Note:
- Has cloud-hosted options, but they require third-party setups
- User interface isn’t beginner-friendly
- Limited automation and mobile support
- Updates are infrequent and not always timely
Busy can handle GST tasks, but it’s not ideal for businesses looking for a seamless online accounting software experience. It’s better suited for users who are already familiar with its interface.
3. Reach Accountant – Niche Tool with Limited Flexibility
Reach Accountant is a lesser-known cloud software that tries to cater to niche businesses but falls short in scalability and design.
Considerations:
- Cloud-based, but lacks intuitive UI
- Limited templates and automation features
- Not suitable for complex accounting or growing businesses
- Few integrations with third-party tools
While Reach may be useful for very specific use cases like repair shops or jewelers, its lack of versatility means it’s not recommended for broader business applications.
4. ProfitBooks – Simple but Bare-Bones
ProfitBooks is a basic cloud-based solution targeted at small Indian businesses, but it has several limitations that can impact long-term use.
Limitations:
- Limited GST functionality
- Reporting and analytics are minimal
- No mobile app support in some versions
- Customer support is reportedly slow
For businesses just starting out with minimal accounting needs, ProfitBooks might be acceptable. But as operations grow, most users eventually outgrow the platform.
5. Saral Accounts – Low Adoption and Limited Support
Saral Accounts is another local accounting solution with a desktop legacy, offering limited cloud integration via third parties.
Why It’s Not Ideal:
- Outdated design and clunky interface
- Not truly cloud-native
- Limited updates and customer support
- Not recommended for GST filing beyond basic needs
Though it’s part of a suite that includes payroll and tax tools, its cloud functionalities are too basic for serious business use in 2025.
Choosing the Right Online Accounting Software
When picking from the many different accounting softwares, it’s crucial to look beyond just the price or brand name. Consider the following:
- GST compliance and automation
- Mobile access and cloud sync
- Ease of use for your team
- Customer support quality
- Integration with billing, inventory, and CRM systems
Final Thoughts
Among the clutter of different accounting softwares in India, not all cloud-based options are made equal. Some — like MargBooks — are genuinely designed for Indian businesses, providing robust, GST-ready, and intuitive solutions. Others, while cloud-based on paper, offer limited real-world value due to outdated interfaces, slow updates, or lack of support.
If you’re looking for a trusted online accounting software, MargBooks deserves serious consideration for its affordability, local focus, and growing feature set.
Choosing the right platform today can save you countless hours and headaches tomorrow — so make sure you select software that grows with your business.
