A free Joist alternative for the trades
Joist is a good tool, but it is not the right fit for everyone. If you want something simpler and cheaper to run your trade business, here is an honest look at how KSV Backoffice compares.
What Joist is good at
Joist is a well-known invoicing and estimating app for contractors, with a clean mobile experience and the basics done well.
Where KSV Backoffice is different
KSV Backoffice covers the same core, professional estimates and invoices you can send from your phone, and adds a few things: a built-in job calendar that syncs to Apple and Google, expense and profit tracking, a saved price book, and an AI assistant that helps you price jobs and build quotes. There is a free plan, and Pro is $29/month or $250/year.
Joist vs KSV Backoffice
| Joist | KSV Backoffice | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Quotes & invoices | Yes | Yes |
| Job scheduling / calendar | Limited | Built in, syncs to phone |
| Expense & profit tracking | Limited | Yes |
| Saved price book | Basic | Yes |
| AI pricing & quote help | No | Yes |
| Built for the trades | Yes | Yes |
Competitor features and pricing change over time, check their site for the latest. This is a general comparison to help you choose.
Which should you pick?
Both are solid mobile invoicing apps for the trades. If you want scheduling, expense tracking and AI help alongside your invoicing, in one free-to-start app, KSV Backoffice is worth a look.
The easiest way to decide is to try it. Start free in a couple of minutes, or make an invoice right now with no sign-up.