Feeling frustrated with Bonsai? While it’s useful for freelancers and SMBs, many users find it lacking in key areas that affect their work.
Problems like delayed payouts, limited service listings, no multiple workspaces, and no real-time client collaboration are common complaints. If these issues sound familiar, it might be time to explore other options.
Hence, we’ve shortlisted the best Bonsai alternatives that fill the gaps of Bonsai and go beyond that too. Let’s find the right fit for you!
Quick List of Top 6 Bonsai Alternative
- Agency Handy: Comprehensive service catalogs, advanced client collaboration, and scalable solutions for agencies of all sizes.
- HoneyBook: Professional proposals, contracts, and project tracking for freelancers and creatives.
- Monday.com: Customizable templates, task automation, and visual project tracking for better team workflows.
- PandaDoc: Simplified contracts and e-signatures with powerful document management and analytics.
- Dubsado: Automated workflows with tools for contracts, invoicing, and client portals.
- FreshBooks: Streamlined accounting and invoicing, with features like expense tracking and time management.
Why Should You Consider a Bonsai Alternative?
Bonsai is a great starting point for freelancers and small teams, but as businesses grow, its limitations become clear. From rising costs to a lack of advanced features, many users find themselves outgrowing the platform for different reasons.
Expensive for Growing Teams
Bonsai works well for solo users, but costs escalate quickly when you add team members. With an extra $10 per user each month, scaling up becomes a costly challenge for teams and agencies.
Limited Customization
While Bonsai lets you add a logo or tweak colors, the customization stops there. The client portal feels generic, offering little flexibility to create a tailored experience that reflects your brand.
Lack of Advanced Features
Bonsai provides the essentials but lacks advanced tools like resource planning, robust CRM, or multilingual support. For businesses needing deeper analytics or task management, it often falls short.
Small Teams Focus
Freelancers thrive with Bonsai, but larger agencies face limitations. Without features like multiple workspaces or role-based permissions, handling complex projects and bigger teams can feel restrictive.
For anyone relying on Bonsai to scale their business or handle complex workflows, these gaps can create more hurdles than solutions.
Quick Comparison Table of Top Bonsai Alternatives
This table provides a quick comparison of key features of the best Bonsai alternatives.
| Platform | Invoices & Subscriptions | Multi-Package Service Catalog | Automatic Task Creation | Order Management | Roles & Permissions |
| Agency Handy | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| HoneyBook | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Monday.com | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| PandaDoc | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Dubsado | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ❌ | ✔️ |
| FreshBooks | ✔️ | ❌ | ❌ | ✔️ | ❌ |
Top 6 Bonsai Alternatives for Freelancers and Business Management
We’ve curated the best Bonsai alternatives by prioritizing seamless setup, advanced customization options, comprehensive client management, efficient task and workflow tracking, and scalable pricing. Let’s explore each tool in detail.
1. Agency Handy
Agency Handy is an excellent alternative to Bonsai with its tailored features for agencies, including robust tools like service cataloging. You can create detailed catalogs with multiple package options, trial periods, and FAQs, making it ideal for offering customized service packages.
The platform streamlines client onboarding and order management, guiding every stage of the client journey. From customizable forms to detailed task tracking, it helps agencies deliver a smooth and branded experience while simplifying interactions.
Agency Handy also includes customizable client portals, invoicing, and order tracking. These features provide a unified platform for managing projects, billing, and communication. Its ticketing system allows clients and team members to open and assign tickets, collaborate in comments, and resolve issues quickly.
Compared to Dubsado, which focuses on workflows and contracts, Agency Handy offers more by integrating service cataloging and built-in task automation with minimal setup. This makes it an excellent choice for agencies looking to scale and improve client acquisition.
In conclusion, Agency Handy is a powerful alternative to Bonsai. It provides integrated tools for service customization, client management, and streamlined workflows, making it a comprehensive solution for agencies.
Key Features of Agency Handy
Agency Handy simplifies client management for agencies and businesses of all sizes with the following features:
Multi-Package Service Catalog
Showcasing your services is simple with Agency Handy’s multi-package service catalog. Create up to three customizable service packages for each offering. List detailed deliverables, assign price ranges, and even add trial periods to give clients a preview of what to expect.
You can embed this catalog on your website, ensuring a seamless browsing experience for clients. It’s an efficient way to present your offerings and upsell additional services directly from your platform.
Coupon Management
Agency Handy simplifies discount and promotion management with its user-friendly coupon system. Businesses can create and customize coupons for percentage discounts, fixed amounts, or conditional offers based on minimum spending or specific services.
Coupons can include expiration dates, usage limits, and restrictions on access to align with business goals and prevent misuse.
Customizable Intake & Order Forms
Smooth client onboarding starts with capturing the right information. Agency Handy’s customizable forms allow you to design detailed intake and order forms tailored to each service. Use advanced fields like multiple-choice, file uploads, or formatted text to gather essential project data.
Order forms also let you upsell additional services and specify terms and conditions. By ensuring every field is completed, you eliminate back-and-forth communication and kickstart projects without delay.
Order and Task Management
Managing projects is easy with Agency Handy’s order and task tracking tools. Break down complex projects into smaller, manageable tasks using Kanban boards, assign deadlines, and set priorities. Automated reminders keep your team on track, and a clear visual workflow lets you monitor progress in real time.
Client and Team Collaboration
Collaboration is central to Agency Handy’s design. Create shared task lists for your team and clients, ensuring everyone stays updated. Clients can review project progress, provide approvals, and share feedback directly within the platform.
This two-way interaction strengthens trust and builds lasting relationships by making clients feel involved at every stage.
Integrated Ticketing System
Handle client issues efficiently with Agency Handy’s ticketing system. Clients can submit support tickets, which you can assign to the appropriate team member. Add priorities, set deadlines, and track resolution progress with detailed logs.
Billing and Subscriptions
Billing is streamlined with Agency Handy’s automated invoicing system. Generate branded invoices for one-time or subscription-based services with just a few clicks. The platform supports payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, Wise, and manual banking, giving clients multiple ways to pay.
Subscription management is also seamless, with customizable schedules and automated reminders to ensure timely payments. You can even offer split payments for flexibility.
Secure Access and Data Management
Agency Handy prioritizes security with role-based access control. Assign roles like Super Admin, Manager, or Assignee to your team, ensuring each member has access to only the information they need.
The platform also uses encryption to protect sensitive client and project data, so you can focus on delivering results without worrying about breaches.
Reporting and Analytics
Stay informed about your agency’s performance with reporting and analytics tools. Track key metrics like revenue, order counts, active clients, and ticket resolution rates.
Visual dashboards provide a clear overview, making it easy to identify areas for improvement and celebrate wins. With these insights, you can make data-driven decisions to optimize operations and grow your agency.
Pros of Using Agency Handy
- Customize order forms and proposals for a seamless client start.
- Use Kanban boards to monitor tasks and project progress.
- Offer split payments, subscriptions, and automated reminders.
- Clients can track progress, share feedback, and approve work easily.
- Plans tailored for solopreneurs and growing teams alike.
Agency Handy Pricing Plans
Agency Handy offers 3 tier pricing plans suitable for businesses of different sizes. Here are the details:
What Users Say About Agency Handy?
Review on G2: 5 out of 5
What do you like best about Agency Handy?
Handy is a fantastic client portal tool for agencies due to its user-friendly interface, making it easy for clients to access and navigate through the platform.- Andrew J.
What do you dislike best about Agency Handy?
There’s not much to dislike, but I’m looking forward to more integrations with other tools we use. – Vikas P.
Why Should You Choose Agency Handy Over Bonsai?
| Lackings of Bonsai | How Agency Handy Solves the Problem |
| Flexible Team Collaboration | Supports multiple workspaces, assignable roles, and permissions tailored to team needs. |
| Advanced Client Management | Offers client portals, approval workflows, and internal team conversations for seamless communication. |
| Comprehensive Service Customization | Provides customizable domains, emails, and white labeling to match your agency’s branding. |
| Transparent Pricing | Features clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs and scalable storage options. |
| Data Security and Storage | Offers up to 20 TB of storage with advanced data encryption for secure handling. |
| Enhanced Proposal and Invoicing Tools | Ensures seamless invoicing, client approval, and reliable proposal delivery tailored to agency needs. |
2. HoneyBook
HoneyBook is a more versatile solution than Bonsai, offering enhanced white-label customization and a seamless client experience.
While Bonsai provides basic invoicing, HoneyBook allows you to design branded invoices with custom headers, messages, fonts, and button styles, ensuring a professional and personalized touch.
Its smart files feature lets you combine proposals, contracts, and invoices in one document, streamlining the process for both you and your clients. Additionally, HoneyBook’s lead tracking reports help identify where clients are coming from, allowing you to refine your strategy and grow your business effectively.
Unlike Bonsai, HoneyBook provides tools to track client interactions and manage projects efficiently. Though it lacks detailed financial reports, it integrates with QuickBooks to give you access to advanced accounting features like profit and loss reports and inventory tracking.
Compared to Monday.com, which focuses on team workflows and task management, HoneyBook excels in client-centric tools, offering all-in-one invoicing, bookkeeping, and project management features.
In conclusion, HoneyBook is a powerful and intuitive alternative to Bonsai, combining customization, client management, and integrations to support growing businesses.
Further Read: HoneyBook VS Dubsado
Key Features of HoneyBook
HoneyBook is a client management platform that helps manage projects, send invoices, and streamline communication. Here’s a list of its best features.
- Advanced Client Portals: HoneyBook provides a centralized space where clients can view project updates, share feedback, and access files. This portal fosters transparency and collaboration, making client management seamless.
- Customizable Templates: You can easily create branded contracts, proposals, and invoices that reflect your business identity. These templates are visually polished and user-friendly.
- Mobile-Friendly App: HoneyBook’s robust mobile app ensures you can manage your business on the go, from scheduling to sending invoices.
- Automation for Workflows: The platform simplifies repetitive tasks, such as follow-ups and payment reminders, through automation.
- Smooth Tool Integrations: HoneyBook connects seamlessly with popular tools like Zoom, QuickBooks, and Gmail, centralizing your workflow to enhance efficiency and simplify management.
- Built-In Scheduler: The platform integrates a scheduler directly into the platform, allowing you to manage appointments and bookings without third-party tools.
- Expense and Financial Reporting: HoneyBook’s financial tools include expense tracking and profit & loss reporting, giving you a clear picture of your business performance.
- Easy Digital Contract Signing: It streamlines contract management with electronic signing, ensuring faster agreements and real-time notifications to keep you updated.
Further Read: 6 Best HoneyBook Alternatives & Competitors
Pros of HoneyBook
- Simplifies client management with intuitive interface.
- Provides polished and professional templates.
- Automates tasks, reducing administrative workload.
- Ideal for freelancers and small teams.
- Strong customer support for quick help.
Cons of HoneyBook
- Limited flexibility in integrations available.
- Email system occasionally slow or quirky.
HoneyBook Pricing Plans:
HoneyBook offers a 3-tier pricing plan payable monthly or annually. Here are the details:
| Pricing Tier | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Features |
| Starter | $19 | $16 | Unlimited clients and projectsInvoices and paymentsProposals and contractsCalendarAll professional templatesClient PortalBasic reports |
| Essentials | $39 | $32 | All Starter featuresSchedulerAutomationQuickBooks Online integrationUp to 2 team membersExpense managementProfit and lossRemove “Powered by HoneyBook”Standard reports |
| Premium | $79 | $66 | All Essentials featuresUnlimited team membersPriority supportMultiple companiesOnboarding SpecialistAdvanced reports |
Further Read: HoneyBook Pricing and Plans
What Users Say About HoneyBook?
Review on G2: 4.5 out of 5
What do you like best about HoneyBook?
I love that everything is in one place from contracts to invoices and they are all elegantly and professionally designed, and most importantly that I can do it all on my phone when I am traveling or on the go. It has changed the way I have been able to run my business and I am so thankful that I took the time to set it up. It is truly an exciting program and one that I plan to always have from now on. – Casey C.
What do you dislike about HoneyBook?
Some things that seem so simple…. are overly complicated. Also I would love it if there was more integration with my website. For instance, i wish that I could have a price page embed (from HB) on my website that the clients could use.
Another thing would be an easier way to accept alternative payments.
Mostly it is very good but some things could be streamlined. – Diane S.
Is HoneyBook Better than Bonsai?
Yes, HoneyBook offers features that make it a superior choice for freelancers and creative professionals compared to Bonsai. While Bonsai is ideal for solo users with basic needs, HoneyBook excels in providing customizable templates, automation, and a client portal.
Its integrations with tools like QuickBooks and Zapier simplify workflows, making it better for small teams or growing businesses.
Additionally, HoneyBook’s built-in scheduler and profit/loss tracking give you a clearer financial picture, something Bonsai lacks. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive client management tool, HoneyBook is a strong contender.
3. Monday.com
Monday.com is a versatile project management tool that outshines Bonsai in flexibility, scalability, and team collaboration.
While Bonsai focuses on freelancers and small businesses with basic invoicing and task management, Monday.com is designed to cater to teams of all sizes. It offers powerful features like custom dashboards, Gantt charts, and Kanban boards, making it easy to visualize and manage complex workflows.
With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, teams can automate processes, track task dependencies, and integrate with over 200 apps like Slack and Google Drive for seamless operations.
In addition to project management, Monday.com excels at handling multiple types of projects, from marketing campaigns to product development. Its advanced automation simplifies repetitive tasks, allowing teams to focus on strategic goals, which is something Bonsai lacks.
Compared to Agency Handy, which specializes in client-centric tools and service cataloging, Monday.com focuses more on internal project workflows and team collaboration. Agency Handy is ideal for managing client interactions, while Monday.com provides a broader framework for organizing tasks and team projects.
In conclusion, Monday.com is a robust alternative to Bonsai and Agency Handy, offering comprehensive project management tools that cater to diverse business needs.
Features of Monday.com
Let’s look into the features of Monday.com:
- Customizable Project Boards: Monday.com’s boards let you visually organize tasks and projects. You can switch between timeline, Gantt, calendar, and Kanban views to suit your preferred workflow style.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Keep everyone connected with features like tagging, commenting, and file sharing. Team members can see updates instantly, improving communication and task tracking.
- Automation Tools: Save time with customizable automation. Create triggers and actions to handle repetitive tasks like status updates, reminders, or approvals.
- Seamless Integrations: Integrate Monday.com with apps like Slack, Google Drive, and Dropbox for a centralized workflow. API access is available for custom integrations.
- Advanced Reporting Dashboards: Get clear insights into your team’s performance with dashboards. You can track project progress, deadlines, and workflow bottlenecks in real-time.
- Extensive Template Library: Access ready-made templates for various use cases like marketing, sales, and development projects. These templates help you start your workflows faster.
- Top-Notch Security: Enjoy enhanced data protection with two-factor authentication, data encryption, and compliance with standards like GDPR. Enterprise users benefit from advanced security features like single sign-on (SSO).
Pros of Monday.com
- Customizable workflows and visually engaging boards.
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop ease.
- Integrates seamlessly with popular productivity tools.
- Real-time collaboration through tagging, commenting.
- Scales effectively for teams and organizations.
Cons of Monday.com
- Pricing can be high for larger teams due to per-user costs.
- Some advanced features may take time to learn.
Monday.com Pricing Plans:
Monday.com offers the following pricing plans:
| Pricing Plan | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Features |
| Basic | $9 per seat | $12 per seat | Unlimited items5GB file storagePrioritized customer supportCreate a dashboard based on 1 boardUnlimited free viewers |
| Standard | $12 per seat | $14 per seat | Timeline and Gantt viewsCalendar viewAutomations (250 actions/month)Integrations (250 actions/month)Create a dashboard that combines 5 boardsGuest access |
| Pro | $19 per seat | $24 per seat | Private boardsTime trackingFormula columnChart viewAutomations (25K actions/month)Integrations (25K actions/month)Create a dashboard that combines 20 boards |
What Users Say About Monday.com?
Rate on G2: 4.7 out of 5
What do you like best about Monday.com?
Monday.com has been invaluable for keeping me organized with tasks and finances. It allows me to design custom workflows that perfectly suit my requirements, making daily management more efficient. The platform is user-friendly, requiring no technical skills. One of the standout features is the Advanced Reporting and the dynamic dashboard that updates automatically with any changes. Additionally, the 24/7 customer support and insightful live webinars have been essential in helping me maximize the tool’s benefits for my team’s needs! – Ichraq R.
What do you dislike about Monday.com?
Monday.com does have a few quirks. Sometimes tasks don’t show up in my workload unless I “favorite” the workspaces they were created in – which isn’t very intuitive.
Also, it can be tough to keep up with all the new feature rollouts and figure out what will actually help us. It’s a little tricky to know if we’re getting the best out of the platform with all the updates. – MJ R.
Is Monday.com Better than Bonsai?
Yes, Monday.com is better than Bonsai for team-based environments or businesses managing complex projects. While Bonsai focuses on freelancers with tools for contracts, invoicing, and client management, Monday.com excels in team collaboration, workflow automation, and project tracking.
Its ability to integrate with numerous apps and scale as teams grow makes it a more comprehensive choice for larger organizations.
However, if you are an independent professional looking for contract-focused tools, Bonsai might be a better fit. For businesses seeking flexibility and team productivity, Monday.com is the superior choice.
4. PandaDoc
PandaDoc is a versatile platform that goes beyond document management to streamline every stage of the business process. Unlike Bonsai, which primarily caters to freelancers with basic invoicing and contract features, PandaDoc offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed for growing teams and enterprises.
It features advanced CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) capabilities, allowing businesses to create dynamic pricing models and error-free quotes that boost buyer confidence.
Additionally, PandaDoc provides smart content, approval workflows, and detailed analytics to optimize productivity and decision-making. Its seamless automation reduces manual tasks, freeing up time for more strategic work.
PandaDoc’s collaborative features set it apart, with tools like deal rooms for real-time interaction with clients, conditional approvals, and customizable templates for various use cases.
These features ensure smooth internal and external workflows. Its compliance with SOC 2, HIPAA, and GDPR further guarantees secure handling of sensitive data.
Compared to FreshBooks, which focuses on accounting and invoicing, PandaDoc excels in areas like CPQ, eSignatures, and workflow automation. While FreshBooks is great for managing finances, PandaDoc provides a broader range of tools for sales, legal, and HR teams to handle contracts, proposals, and payments efficiently.
In conclusion, PandaDoc is a superior choice for businesses seeking an all-in-one platform for agreements, collaboration, and automation.
Key Features of PandaDoc
Here’s a detailed look at PandaDoc features:
- Drag-and-Drop Document Editor: Effortlessly customize professional documents with an intuitive editor that supports text, images, and rich media.
- Legally Binding eSignatures: Finalize agreements quickly with secure and compliant eSignature capabilities, eliminating the need for physical signatures.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Enable teams and clients to work on documents together, reducing approval times and improving communication.
- Extensive Template Library: Save time with a variety of pre-designed templates for contracts, proposals, and quotes tailored to different industries.
- Document Analytics: Gain actionable insights into client interactions with your documents, helping you refine follow-ups and improve conversion rates.
- Workflow Automation: Automate repetitive tasks, including sending reminders and syncing client data, to boost efficiency and reduce manual effort.
- Robust Integrations: Integrate with top CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot to streamline client data management and centralize workflows.
Pros of PandaDoc
- Unlimited document uploads, even in Starter.
- Legally binding eSignatures for secure transactions.
- Drag-and-drop editor simplifies creation.
- Real-time collaboration speeds up approvals.
- Robust CRM integration with Salesforce, HubSpot.
Cons of PandaDoc
- Subscription costs increase for larger teams.
- Advanced features locked behind higher tiers.
PandaDoc Pricing Plans:
PandaDoc offers 3-tier pricing plan and here are the details:
| Pricing Plan | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Features |
| Starter | $35 per seat | $19 per seat | Unlimited document uploads and eSignaturesRich media drag-and-drop editorReal-time tracking, notifications24/7 email and chat support. |
| Business | $65 per seat | $49 per seat | Everything in StarterPlus custom quotes and sales agreementsCRM integrationsCustom brandingContent libraryDeal roomsApproval workflowsWeb forms & bulk send. |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Custom pricing | Everything in BusinessPlus CPQ (configure, price, quote)Workflow automationSmart contentSingle sign-on (SSO)Team workspacesNotaryAPI access. |
What Users Say About PandaDoc?
Ratings on G2: 4.7 out of 5
What do you like best about PandaDoc?
PandaDoc hits all the required pointers for our business. It has a bunch of time-saving functionalities that allow us to template documents and re-purpose. It also has very good search so we can save time looking for docs.
Also, the customer service is very professional and responsive. – Mohammed A.
What do you dislike about PandaDoc?
There could still be improvements made to the document prep process. Sometimes it is difficult to get fillable fields aligned well within a document which results in final documents that don’t look as professional as they could. I also wish we could change the view when editing a doc so you could zoom in to help with formatting. – Mallory R.
Is PandaDoc Better than Bonsai?
Yes, PandaDoc is a better choice for businesses that require advanced document management. Unlike Bonsai, PandaDoc excels in collaboration tools, analytics, and document automation.
With its extensive integration options and scalable features, PandaDoc is perfect for agencies managing a high volume of contracts or proposals. Its real-time collaboration and detailed insights empower businesses to work more efficiently, making it a superior choice for document-heavy workflows.
5. Dubsado
Dubsado is a versatile platform designed to streamline client management and business workflows, making it a superior alternative to Bonsai for small businesses and freelancers.
Unlike Bonsai, which focuses on basic project management and invoicing, Dubsado provides a comprehensive suite of tools including customizable forms, interactive client portals, built-in scheduling, and robust automation.
These features enable users to manage contracts, invoices, and client communications seamlessly while saving time through automated workflows. Its integrated payment solutions powered by Stripe ensure smooth transactions, complete with recurring payments, autopay, and overdue reminders.
Compared to PandaDoc, which specializes in document management and eSignatures, Dubsado offers a broader range of features for client interaction and workflow automation. While PandaDoc excels in CPQ and document collaboration, Dubsado provides tools like personalized client portals and a built-in scheduler.
In conclusion, Dubsado stands out as a comprehensive, client-focused platform for businesses seeking to streamline operations and deliver exceptional client experiences.
Further Read: Top 6 Dubsado Alternatives for Agency Management
Key Features of Dubsado
Here are the top Dubsado features:
- Client Relationship Management (CRM): Dubsado helps you keep client information, communication logs, and project history in one place. It also lets you track and nurture leads to convert potential clients into loyal customers.
- Project Management: Organize your projects with task lists, milestones, and deadlines. Use the secure client portal to share updates, files, and progress, ensuring smooth collaboration and transparency.
- Automation and Workflows: Save time by automating tasks like follow-up emails, invoicing, and appointment scheduling. Set triggers to create workflows that streamline repetitive business processes.
- Scheduling: Clients can easily book appointments based on your availability. With calendar integrations like Google Calendar, you can avoid double bookings and manage schedules effortlessly.
- Invoicing and Payments: Create and send professional, branded invoices in minutes. Accept payments through Stripe, PayPal, and more, with options for recurring payments and installment plans.
- Contracts and Forms: Design contracts, proposals, and questionnaires that reflect your brand. Speed up agreements with secure electronic signatures, making the process simple and professional.
- Client Portal: Offer clients a centralized space to access updates, documents, and invoices. The portal enhances communication and builds trust by keeping clients informed at all times.
- Time Tracking: Track your billable hours directly within projects for accurate invoicing. Time reports make it easy to monitor productivity and ensure every hour is accounted for.
- Reporting and Analytics: Get detailed financial reports to track income, expenses, and profitability. Customizable reports help you measure performance and uncover growth opportunities.
- Integrations: Connect Dubsado to tools like QuickBooks, Zapier, and Google Calendar. These integrations enhance efficiency by centralizing your workflows in one easy-to-use platform.
Pros of Dubsado
- Comprehensive CRM, project, and invoicing tools.
- Customizable forms, contracts, and workflows.
- Automation streamlines repetitive task management.
- Scalable for freelancers and growing teams.
- Client portal enhances secure communication.
Cons of Dubsado
- Steep learning curve for new users.
- Limited mobile functionality for on-the-go.
Dubsado Pricing Plans:
Dubsado offers two straightforward plans tailored to your business needs. Here are the details.
| Plan Name | Annual Pricing | Monthly Pricing | Features |
| Starter Plan | $200/year | $20/month | Unlimited projects & clientsInvoicing & payment plansForm & email templatesClient portalsCalendar connection1 active lead capture form |
| Premier Plan | $400/year | $40/month | Everything in Starter PlanPlus schedulingAutomated workflowsPublic proposalsMultiple active lead capture formsZapier integration. |
Further Read: Dubsado Pricing
What Users Say About Dubsado?
Review on G2: 4.2 out of 5
What do you like best about Dubsado?
Dubsado has a very responsive, helpful, and informative customer service team. They respond quickly within business hours and always within a reasonable time frame without outside business hours. They work with you to solve your problem with communication, screenshots, or whatever is necessary. – Michelle R.
What do you dislike about Dubsado?
I’m not happy with the scheduler and I wish that multiple calendars could be connected so a team’s availabilities could be managed. I also can’t believe there is no auto save option on forms. – Maryanne R.
Is Dubsado Better Than Bonsai?
Yes, Dubsado outperforms Bonsai for service-based professionals or businesses managing complex workflows. While Bonsai is great for freelancers needing contract and invoice tools, Dubsado goes further with automation, client portals, and project management.
It’s the better choice for scaling businesses or those looking to deliver a seamless client experience. However, if you’re a solo professional focused primarily on contracts and billing, Bonsai remains a simpler, cost-effective option.
6. FreshBooks
FreshBooks is a user-friendly invoicing and accounting solution simplifying financial management for small businesses and freelancers.
Unlike Bonsai, which primarily focuses on task and project management, FreshBooks provides powerful financial tools. It offers customizable, professional invoice templates with options to edit or hide company details, giving users complete control over their branding.
Additionally, FreshBooks includes essential accounting features like double-entry bookkeeping and automated billing, helping users streamline cash flow and reduce manual work.
The platform also generates accurate financial reports, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets, ensuring a clear view of business performance.
Compared to HoneyBook, which emphasizes client interactions and project workflows, FreshBooks focuses on financial management. While HoneyBook offers tools for contracts and communication, FreshBooks provides stronger accounting features, ideal for managing invoices, reports, and bookkeeping efficiently.
Overall, FreshBooks is an excellent alternative to Bonsai as it offers robust financial management features with simplicity, making it ideal for small businesses and freelancers.
Key Features of FreshBooks
FreshBooks is a versatile white-label expense management solution tailored for small businesses and freelancers. Here are its standout features:
- Invoicing: Create customized invoices with your branding, automate recurring invoices, and set up payment reminders to streamline billing and improve cash flow.
- Expense Tracking: Log, categorize, and monitor expenses with ease. Attach receipts to entries and track spending patterns using detailed expense reports.
- Time Tracking: Record billable hours with a built-in timer. Assign time logs to projects or clients and generate invoices directly from tracked hours.
- Project Management: Collaborate with clients and team members by sharing files, setting milestones, and tracking project budgets in real-time.
- Payments: Accept online payments via multiple gateways like Stripe and PayPal. Offer clients flexibility with options for ACH transfers and recurring payments.
- Reporting: Generate and customize financial reports like Profit & Loss and Tax Summaries. Export data to share insights with stakeholders or accountants.
- Mobile App: Access essential features on the go. Create invoices, track expenses, and communicate with clients from your mobile device.
- Integrations: Expand functionality with over 200 app integrations, including QuickBooks, G Suite, Shopify, and Trello, to streamline your workflows.
Pros of FreshBooks
- Intuitive interface for financial management.
- Automates invoicing and payment reminders.
- Scalable for growing businesses, and teams.
- Strong customer support across channels.
- Detailed reporting for business insights.
Cons of FreshBooks
- Lower plans restrict the number of billable clients.
- Lacks some advanced accounting tools.
FreshBooks Pricing Plans:
FreshBooks has a 3-tiered pricing system. Here are the details of the plans:
| Pricing Tier | Annual Pricing | Monthly Pricing | Features |
| Lite Plan | $165 | $6 | 5 billable clientsUnlimited invoicesExpense entriesEstimates and time tracking |
| Plus Plan | $287 | $10 | Everything from the Lite packageplus 50 billable clientsdouble-entry accountingscheduled late fees, and client retainers |
| Premium Plan | $522 | $18 | Unlimited billable clients and all Plus featuresPlus project profitability tracking and customized email templates |
What Users Say About FreshBooks?
Review on G2: 4.5 out of 5
What do you like best about FreshBooks?
I love that this product is easy to set up and use. I have a need to track time to the minute, and this makes it simple. I need to see my reports by time and be able to separate projects within clients by time. This also allows for easy invoicing and ease of keeping track of those invoices. I don’t need every function under. the sun. What it does, it does well for me at a reasonable price. I’ve had one minor issue to connect with customer support, and they were super responsive. This has been a reliable tool for my business. I use it every day. – Kim I.
What do you dislike about FreshBooks?
Freshbooks is certainly not as customizable as the big name products. And some of its default choices (reporting on accrual basis when my business is cash basis only) is annoying. Reporting customization could also be better. – Steve M.
Is FreshBooks Better than Bonsai?
Yes, FreshBooks is a better option for businesses seeking advanced financial management tools.
While Bonsai excels at client management and project tracking for freelancers, FreshBooks shines in its ability to automate invoicing, streamline expense tracking, and generate detailed financial reports.
Its scalability and comprehensive features make it an ideal choice for small businesses and growing teams. If your priority is managing finances efficiently alongside projects, FreshBooks offers a more complete solution.
What Features Should You Look for in Bonsai Alternatives?
When considering alternatives to Bonsai, it’s essential to prioritize tools that address its limitations and provide features that support long-term success. Here’s what to look for.
- Advanced Client Management: Look for client portal software with approval workflows, and tracking capabilities to streamline client interactions.
- Comprehensive Workflow Tools: A robust project management system is crucial for breaking down tasks, tracking progress, and improving collaboration.
- Flexible Billing Options: Choose software that supports recurring invoices, installment payments, and integration with multiple payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe.
- Customizable Templates and Forms: Alternatives should let you design forms, proposals, and contracts tailored to your specific needs and branding.
- Team Collaboration Features: Tools that offer roles, permissions, and shared task lists ensure secure and effective collaboration for growing teams.
So, Which One is The Best Bonsai Alternative?
Among the alternatives, Agency Handy stands out as the best choice for agencies and teams. Unlike Bonsai, which is designed primarily for freelancers, Agency Handy caters to the needs of agencies and teams. It offers a robust set of tools to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
With features like multi-package service catalogs, customizable client portals, and Kanban-based task tracking, Agency Handy is ideal for managing complex workflows and supporting business growth.
With seamless payment integration, automated invoicing, and tailored branding tools, Agency Handy offers unmatched value. For those seeking a flexible, powerful platform that prioritizes team collaboration and streamlined client management, it’s the ultimate solution.
FAQs
Who is Bonsai best for?
Bonsai offers features like contract creation, invoicing, time tracking, and client management, making it ideal for independent professionals managing their workflows.
Which is the most budget-friendly alternative to Bonsai?
If you’re looking for comprehensive features at a competitive price, Agency Handy provides excellent value with plans starting at $49 per month.
Is there a free alternative to Bonsai?
Yes, platforms like Monday.com and PandaDoc offer free plans with limited features. These are great for small teams or individuals looking to try out tools before committing to a paid plan.
Can Bonsai alternatives handle team-based workflows?
Yes, tools like Agency Handy, Monday.com, and Dubsado excel in team-based workflows. They provide role-based permissions, team collaboration tools, and advanced project tracking features that are ideal for businesses with multiple team members.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right tool to replace Bonsai can be challenging, but Agency Handy clearly stands out. With its targeted features like customizable client portals, detailed task management, and seamless order workflows, it caters specifically to the needs of agencies looking to scale and streamline operations.
If you’re ready to elevate your business efficiency, Agency Handy offers a tailored, user-friendly platform that ensures you stay ahead in managing clients, teams, and projects effortlessly. It’s not just an alternative—it’s an upgrade.
