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March 8, 2025
Question

Online vs Desktop Product For Mac

  • March 8, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

Hi, getting back into quickbooks after an almost 10 year break - I used to have the Mac desktop version and now I see there is an Online version and I am not sure which is the best route to go.  I have two needs:  1) an existing company who has there books done by an accountant in quickbooks but I need to be able to open the quickbooks files (they will send me the company database) and generate reports and 2) need to start a new set of books for a homeowner's association that I am the treasurer of.

 

Also, where do you buy the Mac Desktop product?  I see some offerings on Amazon but they don't look like Intuit is the seller and I don't see anywhere on the Intuit site to purchase the Mac Desktop Product - just the online subscriptions.

 

Thanks for any help!

Mark

1 reply

March 8, 2025

Hi there,

 

With QuickBooks Online, you're able to share your company account with other users that have access to your company account anywhere. I'm here to provide you more information about this tailored to your needs.

 

You've hit on a key point. QuickBooks Desktop for Mac is no longer sold directly on the Intuit website. You're correct to be cautious about purchasing software from 3rd party sellers as they can contain virus that can steal your device's information. 

 

Both QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop for Mac can handle this. The best choice depends on your preference and the specific needs of the HOA. QuickBooks Online offers accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection, automatic backups, and collaboration features. However, if your accountant uses QBDT to share the files, you'll need to practice generating reports using QBO from a QBDT database. You'll need to have QBDT installed on your computer at the same time having a QBO subscription so you can see the company database sent from your accountant.

 

I suggest taking advantage of the QBO free trial to see if it meets your needs: Try QuickBooks Online for free.

 

Additionally, if you prefer to use QBO, you'll need to prepare your QBDT Mac files to move to your QBO account. This way, you can proceed with migrating your QBDT files to QBO seamlessly.

 

Let me know if you need further assistance with migrating from QBDT Mac to QBO. I'm always here to ensure your business needs are met.