Actual Budget vs ClearCheckbook

Actual Budget is a privacy-focused finance app built around envelope budgeting. It lets users assign only cash they have on hand, manage split transactions and transfers, and track bills and net worth. The app stores data on the local device and a selected Actual server, and it works without a network connection. Reports include net worth and cash flow, alongside a custom report engine, and users can export reports. Actual imports QIF, OFX, QFX, CAMT.053 and CSV files. Bank syncing requires actual-server and credentials from a chosen provider, and automatic syncing is off by default. Optional end-to-end encryption prevents the server from accessing encrypted budget data, but it does not cover bank sync tokens; losing the encryption password without a local copy means the encrypted data cannot be recovered. Desktop clients are available for Windows, macOS and Linux, with web access and several self-hosting options. The free, MIT-licensed plan costs nothing.

ClearCheckbook is a personal finance service for budgeting, tracking bills, managing accounts, and reviewing reports. It runs on the web, iOS, and Android, and report export is available. The Free plan costs nothing and includes unlimited transactions, accounts, and categories, plus a budget tool, bill tracker, and reports. The Sync plan costs $2.49 a month and adds connected bank accounts and automatic transaction downloads. Mobile Premium is a one-time in-app purchase of 4.99 USD, with premium features available in both the iOS and Android apps. ClearCheckbook Premium costs $5 a month and includes every feature available on ClearCheckbook, including running balances, net-worth tools, advanced reporting, and automatic backups. Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual durations are also available for that plan. Account sync is listed as available in both directions. ClearCheckbook was founded in 2006. Its plans separate basic budgeting and reporting from bank connections, mobile premium features, and the broader Premium feature set.