Unlike the last few options, Sage 50cloud is one of the older players in the accounting system industry and has been around since the 1980s. Its main accounting platform is called Sage 50cloud and was formerly known as PeachTree. The name changes were due to the many mergers and acquisitions.

This software is definitely one of the more advanced options with detailed inventory reporting and a cash flow manager. It would be a good choice for accountants and those that have complex inventory needs. Yet, this also creates a steep learning curve and it’s UI could use some improvement.

Check out our roundup of the Best Small Business Accounting Software

Sage 50cloud features

Sage 50cloud’s dashboard is more detailed than other competitors. It has over 45 graphs that can be accessed from the home page. Some of these include payroll options, vendor management, and banking insights. The main page also shows a pie graph of aged receivables, which shows small businesses how long their AR has been outstanding.

It’s invoicing is very robust, with users being able to customize each template’s color scheme, logo and more. Small business owners can also include attachments with each invoice and send to customers. Like other platforms, business owners can set up recurring billing and track invoices.

One of its trademark features is the cash flow manager, which allows companies to predict cash flow. It has many intricate tools that have “what if” scenarios to simulate different events.

Sage 50cloud pricing

Sage 50cloud is definitely the most expensive option on this list and has three programs which are Pro, Premier, and Quantum. These each cost $447.78, $692.58, and 1,763.58 per year.

It’s important to notice that this platform charges users on an annual basis, which reflects its mandatory year-long contract. This can be a deterrent for customers craving flexibility, but Sage runs discounts on their site.

Each option has inventory, expense tracking, and contact management systems. The pricier options have more than 150 reports and allow up to 40 users.

Sage 50cloud customer support

For an established option, Sage 50cloud doesn’t have the best customer service. In fact, customers have complained about waiting for over an hour before talking to a representative.

Unfortunately, it’s search function isn’t as user-friendly as other platforms like Quickbooks. It can be very easy to get lost in a sea of irrelevant information. Luckily, it offers software chat support along with email support. These methods can make it quicker to answer any questions a business owner might have.

It also has a unique learning center that includes an end of the year section. This is unique as not every platform has an end of the year section. The end of the year and tax filing season can be very stressful for contractors and business owners, which is why this is so valuable. In addition, it has in-person courses called Sage university and these can be found on its official training site.

Pros

• Cashflow tool: This tool is a selling point for Sage and allows businesses to run many intricate cash flow scenario models
• In person training: Sage 50Cloud is more complex than the average platform with its in-person training being very valuable. These pieces of training are available in multiple languages and countries.

Cons

• Steep learning curve: It has many reports, options, but its poor UI makes it tough to learn. The average person would be better off sticking to a more simple version. Conversely, accountants and larger businesses would benefit from the vast reporting options.
• High prices and annual contracts: Sage 50Cloud stands out from the others by having high prices and an annual contract. This can break budgets and limit choices.

Rating breakdown

• Overall: 3
• Features: 4
• Price: 2
• Ease of Use: 3
• Customer Service: 3