Matrix
Matrix vs Xero
Xero is the accounting software many Australian businesses start on. Matrix keeps the books the same way — GST, BAS and bank reconciliation — and adds a CRM and project boards in the same product, with multi-currency, projects and fixed assets on every plan.
Why businesses choose Matrix
- A CRM with a sales pipeline, deals and activities is built in, on the same contacts as your books. Xero connects to separate CRM apps.
- Multi-currency and projects are on every plan. Xero includes them from its Comprehensive and Ultimate plans respectively.
- Kanban project boards for planning work sit beside the accounts.
- Built and operated in Melbourne, Australia.
| Capability | Matrix | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| Users | IncludedUnlimited users on every plan | IncludedNo per-user licence fees |
| Pricing | IncludedPer business, never per user | IncludedPer organisation |
| Bank transactions | PartlyStatement import (CSV, OFX, QIF); live feeds coming | IncludedDirect feeds from Australian banks |
| Bank reconciliation rules | Included | Included |
| Invoices, quotes and reminders | Included | IncludedIgnite plan limited to 20 invoices |
| Bills and supplier payments | Included | IncludedIgnite plan limited to 5 bills |
| GST and BAS preparation | IncludedCash or accrual, with BAS workpapers | Included |
| Lodge BAS to the ATO | ComingBusiness Pro | Included |
| Payroll with Single Touch Payroll | ComingBusiness Pro | IncludedNumber of people paid capped by plan |
| Multi-currency | Included | Higher plansComprehensive plan and above |
| Inventory | Included | IncludedTracked inventory, up to 4,000 items |
| Projects and job costing | Included | Higher plansUltimate plan |
| Fixed assets and depreciation | Included | Higher plansStated for Grow plan and above |
| CRM: pipeline, deals and activities | IncludedBuilt in, same contacts as the books | Not offeredNo built-in CRM; connects to CRM apps |
| Project boards | IncludedKanban boards for planning work | Not confirmed |
| Public API | ComingBusiness Pro | Included |
Xero's features are from Xero Limited's own website, checked on 27 September 2026. Plans and features change, so please check with Xero Limited before you decide. Not confirmed means we couldn't confirm it from their published information, so we make no claim either way. Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we'll fix it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I move from Xero to Matrix?
Yes. Matrix's opening balances screen takes your balances and open invoices and bills at a date you choose, so you can switch at the start of a month or quarter without re-entering history.
Does Matrix lodge BAS and run payroll like Xero?
Not yet. Matrix prepares your BAS with workpapers today; lodging it straight to the ATO, and payroll with Single Touch Payroll, are coming on the Business Pro plan. Xero offers both now.
Does Matrix charge per user?
No. Every Matrix plan includes unlimited users, priced per business — the same as Xero, which also has no per-user licence fees.
Sources
- https://www.xero.com/au/pricing-plans/
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/connect-your-bank/
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/reconcile-bank-transactions/
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/send-invoices/
- https://central.xero.com/0/article/Lodge-activity-statements-with-Xero
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/payroll/
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/manage-inventory/
- https://www.xero.com/au/accounting-software/manage-fixed-assets/
- https://www.xero.com/us/accounting-software/manage-inventory/crm-inventory/
- https://developer.xero.com/
Xero is a trade mark of Xero Limited. Matrix is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, Xero Limited.
Moving from Xero? Try Matrix free
30 days free, no card needed. One price per business, and every user is included.
Charities and not-for-profits get 50% off.