Countingup vs When I Work
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Countingup
Countingup is a UK business current account with built-in accounting software. It combines banking and bookkeeping in one app, automatically categorizing transactions and generating tax estimates in real time.
When I Work
When I Work is an employee scheduling and time tracking platform designed for hourly and shift-based teams. It makes it easy for managers to build schedules, communicate with staff, and track attendance. When I Work is one of the most affordable scheduling tools on the market.
Pros
- ✓Business banking and accounting in one app
- ✓Automatic transaction categorization
- ✓Real-time tax estimates
- ✓Simple flat monthly pricing
- ✓Great for sole traders
Cons
- ✗UK only
- ✗Limited accounting features for complex businesses
- ✗Not a replacement for full accounting software at scale
- ✗No multi-user access
Pros
- ✓Very affordable pricing starting at just a few dollars per user
- ✓Easy-to-use scheduling with drag-and-drop interface
- ✓Good team messaging and shift swap tools
- ✓Simple time clock with GPS tracking
Cons
- ✗Limited features beyond scheduling and time tracking
- ✗No payroll processing or full HR suite
- ✗Reporting is basic compared to more comprehensive workforce tools
Countingup vs When I Work: Side by Side
| Factor | Countingup | When I Work |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Accounting Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $2.50/user/mo |
| Best For | UK sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app | Small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Countingup Features
- ✓Receipt scanning
- ✓expense categorization
- ✓VAT tracking
- ✓supplier management
- ✓bank feed integration
- ✓reporting
When I Work Features
- ✓Shift scheduling
- ✓time clock
- ✓team messaging
- ✓attendance tracking
- ✓payroll export
Pricing Comparison
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Countingup if...
- →UK sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app
Our Take
Choose Countingup if uk sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app. Choose When I Work if small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers.
Best For
UK sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app
Best For
Small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers
Also Consider
If neither Countingup nor When I Work is the right fit, Dext is worth evaluating.
Dext
Bookkeepers, accountants, and businesses with high receipt volumes wanting to eliminate manual data entry
From $15/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Countingup and When I Work?
Countingup is best for uk sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app. When I Work is best for small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers.
Which is better, Countingup or When I Work?
Choose Countingup if uk sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app. Choose When I Work if small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers.
How much does Countingup cost?
Visit Countingup website for current pricing.
How much does When I Work cost?
When I Work starts at $2.50/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Countingup?
UK sole traders and freelancers wanting a combined business bank account and simple accounting tool in one app
Who should use When I Work?
Small businesses with hourly or shift-based workers