Xero & MYOB Alternative for Plumbers
Xero and MYOB are full accounting platforms. If you just need to invoice, here's a simpler option.
Drainly vs Xero vs MYOB vs QuickBooks
| Feature | Drainly | Xero | MYOB | QuickBooks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | $32/mo | $27/mo | $15/mo |
| Built for tradies | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Works offline | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Simple to use | ✓✓✓ | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Full accounting | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| GST/tax auto-calc | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Best for | Invoicing only | Full accounting | Full accounting | Full accounting |
Prices as of 2026. Subject to change.
Do Plumbers Need Xero or MYOB?
Xero and MYOB are full accounting platforms. They're great for businesses that need to manage payroll, bank reconciliation, BAS lodgement and financial reporting. But for a sole trader plumber who just needs to invoice customers, they're overkill — and expensive.
Most sole trader plumbers use a simple invoicing app for day-to-day invoicing, and then give their accountant or BAS agent access to Xero or MYOB at tax time. You don't need to use Xero yourself to have your accountant use it.
Xero vs Drainly
Xero starts at $32/month and requires a desktop or laptop for most tasks. Drainly is free to start and works entirely from your phone — including offline on site.
MYOB vs Drainly
MYOB starts at $27/month. Like Xero, it's a full accounting platform that's more complex than most plumbers need for day-to-day invoicing.
The Bottom Line
Use Drainly for fast, professional invoicing from your phone. Use Xero or MYOB (or let your accountant use them) for full accounting and BAS lodgement.
Try Drainly Free
No credit card. No commitment. Download and start invoicing in 60 seconds.
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