Can You Still Buy a Desktop Version of QuickBooks?

# Can You Still Buy a Desktop Version of QuickBooks? For decades, QuickBooks has been a trusted name in accounting software, widely used by small businesses, accountants, and entrepreneurs. Traditionally, many users relied on QuickBooks Desktop for its robust features, offline accessibility, and one-time purchase model. However, with Intuit’s increasing push toward QuickBooks Online, many business owners are asking: Can you still buy a desktop version of QuickBooks? The answer is yes—but with some important changes. QuickBooks Desktop is still available, but Intuit has shifted how it is sold, supported, and updated. If you’re trying to decide between QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online, it’s worth understanding the current landscape, the available options, and what the future may hold. ## The Evolution of QuickBooks Desktop QuickBooks Desktop was first introduced in the early 1990s and quickly became the go-to solution for businesses that wanted a reliable way to manage finances from their computers. Over the years, Intuit released several versions including Pro, Premier, and Enterprise, each with different features and price points. For many years, QuickBooks Desktop was sold as a one-time purchase with optional yearly upgrades. This appealed to business owners who preferred avoiding monthly subscription fees. However, as the software industry shifted toward cloud solutions, Intuit began focusing heavily on QuickBooks Online, which is subscription-based and offers anytime, anywhere access. ## Can You Still Buy QuickBooks Desktop Today? Yes, QuickBooks Desktop is still available, but Intuit has transitioned it into a subscription-only model. Starting in 2022, the company stopped offering one-time purchase licenses for most QuickBooks Desktop editions in the U.S. Instead, you can now subscribe to QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus, Premier Plus, or Enterprise. ## Here’s what that means: Pro Plus and Premier Plus require an annual subscription. Instead of paying once, you’ll renew each year to continue using the software. Enterprise is still available and is also subscription-based, but it comes with advanced features for larger businesses. Older versions of QuickBooks Desktop that were purchased outright will still work, but they lose access to updates, payroll, and connected services after Intuit discontinues support (usually after three years). So, while you can still buy QuickBooks Desktop, it is no longer a permanent license. It has become part of Intuit’s recurring revenue model, much like QuickBooks Online. ### Why Businesses Still Choose QuickBooks Desktop Despite the industry shift toward cloud solutions, QuickBooks Desktop continues to have a loyal following. Here are some reasons why many businesses still prefer it: **Robust Features** – QuickBooks Desktop often includes more advanced features than QuickBooks Online, especially in areas like inventory management, job costing, and reporting. **Speed and Performance** – Because it runs locally on your computer, QuickBooks Desktop can be faster for handling large company files. **Data Control** – Many businesses appreciate having their financial data stored locally rather than entirely in the cloud. **Familiarity** – Companies that have been using Desktop for years may prefer sticking with a system they know rather than retraining staff for QuickBooks Online. ## QuickBooks Desktop vs. QuickBooks Online If you’re deciding whether to stick with Desktop or move to Online, it helps to compare the two: QuickBooks Desktop Installed locally on a computer Strong features for complex businesses Best for businesses needing advanced reporting or inventory management Requires yearly subscription (Pro Plus, Premier Plus, Enterprise) Limited remote access unless paired with hosting services QuickBooks Online Cloud-based, accessible from any device Automatically updated with new features Easier collaboration with accountants and remote teams Monthly subscription pricing May lack certain advanced features available in Desktop Your choice will depend on whether your business values advanced desktop features or the flexibility of cloud access. ### ### The Future of QuickBooks Desktop Intuit has not announced an end date for QuickBooks Desktop, but its strategy makes it clear that QuickBooks Online is the long-term focus. The company invests heavily in Online features, integrations, and marketing. Still, QuickBooks Desktop remains available because many businesses rely on it, especially those with complex accounting needs that QuickBooks Online doesn’t fully meet. It’s reasonable to expect that Desktop will continue to be supported for years to come, though likely only in subscription form. Businesses that want to stay on Desktop should be prepared for annual fees instead of a one-time cost. ### Alternatives to QuickBooks Desktop For business owners unhappy with the subscription shift, there are alternatives to consider. Competing accounting programs such as Sage, Xero, and Zoho Books offer both desktop and cloud solutions, some with flexible pricing. However, switching software requires careful consideration, as migrating years of financial data can be time-consuming and complex. ## Final Thoughts So, can you still buy a desktop version of QuickBooks? Yes, but only as a subscription. QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus, Premier Plus, and Enterprise are available for purchase, but gone are the days of one-time licenses. Businesses that prefer Desktop for its advanced features and local data control can continue using it, but they’ll need to budget for recurring costs. The accounting world is steadily moving toward cloud solutions, and QuickBooks Online is at the center of Intuit’s strategy. Still, for businesses that need the power and stability of Desktop, the option remains alive—just in a different form. Whether you choose Desktop or Online will depend on your priorities: flexibility and accessibility versus robust features and local control. Either way, QuickBooks continues to offer reliable tools to help businesses manage their finances effectively.