Choosing the right accounting software is more critical than ever in 2026, as mandatory e-invoicing has fundamentally transformed digital workflows in the B2B sector.
In this comparison, we look at lexoffice and FastBill—two veterans of the German SaaS market that both aim to make accounting as easy as possible for non-accountants.
We analyze both tools across 12 categories, from AI-powered automation to pricing transparency, to find out which system is best suited for freelancers, startups, and growing teams.
lexoffice
lexoffice is a cloud-based accounting software by Haufe-Lexware, specifically developed for small businesses and startups. It stands out due to an extremely high degree of automation in receipt processing and seamless DATEV connectivity.
Gegr. 2012 · Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
FastBill
FastBill positions itself as an intuitive solution for freelancers and agencies focusing on simple invoice management and project controlling. In addition to classic accounting, it offers integrated time tracking and automated dunning.
Gegr. 2011 · Frankfurt am Main, Germany
TL;DR
lexoffice wins this comparison clearly due to better value for money, superior AI receipt recognition, and a more extensive ecosystem. However, FastBill remains the top choice for service providers who require integrated time tracking.
lexoffice
Small businesses and startups looking for maximum automation and deep DATEV integration for their tax advisor.
FastBill
Freelancers and project-based service providers who want to bundle time tracking and invoicing in one interface without additional third-party tools.
Feature Comparison
Choose your perspective
Category weights adjust to match your perspective.
Pricing Comparison
lexoffice is more attractive in price for teams and offers a cheaper entry. FastBill is more expensive but justifies this in the Pro plan through integrated time tracking.
lexoffice
See pricing on official siteFastBill
See pricing on official siteVerdict
lexoffice is the more rounded overall package for most German entrepreneurs. It offers deeper accounting functionality, better automation, and unbeatable value for money without user limits. FastBill is a specialized alternative for anyone who absolutely requires project and time tracking within their accounting software.
A neck-and-neck race. lexoffice is cheaper, FastBill offers better project integration.
lexoffice wins through scalability and the huge ecosystem of interfaces.
Both are too small for true enterprises, but lexoffice covers the needs of the upper mid-market better.
lexoffice offers the best help for self-help and guides beginners safely through their first tax return.
Choose lexoffice if...
You value maximum automation, work with a tax advisor via DATEV, or want to manage a team with multiple users without additional costs.
Choose FastBill if...
You work as a freelancer or agency and want to track your project times directly in the tool and bill them without detours.
For 90% of users, lexoffice is the more economical and functionally stronger choice. However, FastBill successfully occupies the niche of project-based service providers.
Community Experiences
No reviews yet. Be the first!
No reviews yet. Be the first!
Thanks! Your review is being reviewed.
FAQ
How This Comparison Is Created
Data researched from official sources and review platforms. AI assists with structuring and formatting. Scores are based on defined evaluation criteria.
Report correction
Thanks! We will review your correction.