True North Budgeting vs YNAB

True North Budgeting is a desktop budgeting application for macOS, Windows, and Linux. It runs on the user's computer, keeps the budget file locally, and says no information is stored in the cloud. The app does not request bank or financial-account credentials and says it does not send financial data to analytics services. Its data relies on the operating system's built-in security and encryption features. Budgeting tools include pay-period grouping, a 12-month forecast, 50/30/20 allocation, goals, and a monthly calendar. The calendar uses color to show cash flow and lets users edit events instantly. Two one-time lifetime licenses are listed: Personal costs $29.99, paid once for one computer and one license; Navigator costs $49.99, paid once and includes three licenses for a desktop, laptop, and one to share. Future updates are included with both licenses. No free tier is stated. The maker is based in Phoenix, Arizona, United States.

YNAB is a budgeting service for web, Android, and iOS, with an API. Its method asks users to assign each dollar a purpose, supported by budgeting tools, bill tracking, net-worth reports, savings targets, and an integrated loan calculator. Users can link accounts to import transactions automatically from select banks in the US, Canada, UK, and EU; file-based import is available outside those areas. Balances, priorities, goals, and transactions sync across devices in real time. A spending plan can use a selected currency, but cannot mix currencies. YNAB offers a 34-day trial without a credit card when signing up directly, and does not charge unless users subscribe afterward. The annual plan costs $109 USD paid annually, or $9.08 per month before applicable tax; monthly billing costs $14.99 a month before applicable tax. College students with proof of enrollment can get a 365-day trial, and one subscription can be shared with up to six people. YNAB says it does not sell user data and keeps the app ad-free.