Big Red Cloud vs HelloBooks in Ireland

Checked on 21 October 2026. Each row links back to the sources listed at the end of the page.

Big Red Cloud is built in Ireland for Irish rules, carries the Guaranteed Irish mark, and offers phone support from people who know ROS and the VAT3. Its integrated payroll means an employer can run PAYE and the accounts in one place, and its bank feeds name the main Irish banks. It also states a large customer base, though that figure is the company’s own claim.

Big Red Cloud’s RED assistant lets you ask questions of your accounts using large language models. That helps with reporting, but you still enter and code the transactions. HelloBooks applies AI earlier: it reads each bank line, receipt and bill and proposes the ledger account and Irish VAT rate, so the bookkeeping is done before you ask anything.

Big Red Cloud sells one plan, with a lower price in the first year for new customers. HelloBooks has a free plan for very small businesses and paid tiers above it, so a sole trader can start without a subscription and move up as the business grows. Compare the price you would pay after any introductory period ends.

This is an honest gap. Big Red Cloud lists feeds from Irish banks now. HelloBooks takes statement uploads today and is rolling out direct Irish connections, so check the Ireland page for the current status before you rely on automatic feeds.

Employers who want payroll and accounts from one Irish supplier, and owners who value phone support above all, will be well served by Big Red Cloud. Owners who would rather review AI-coded books than key them, and micro businesses that want to start free, should try HelloBooks first.