EnvelopeBudget vs GoodBudget
Two envelope budgeting apps with different approaches. Let's see which one fits your style.
EnvelopeBudget
Pricing
$4/month
or $40/year
92-day free trial, no credit card required
Key Features
- Unlimited envelopes
- Multiple budgets supported
- Flexible transaction entry (manual, file import, SimpleFIN sync)
- Modern, responsive interface
- Real-time sync across all devices
- AI financial coaching included
- Dark mode support
Best For
Modern users who want a clean, feature-rich envelope budgeting experience with great mobile apps.
GoodBudget
Pricing
$8/month
30-day free trial
Free version with 10 envelopes
Key Features
- Traditional envelope method
- Up to 5 devices on paid plan
- Scheduled transactions
- 5 years of history
- Debt tracking
- No dark mode
Best For
Users who prefer a more traditional interface and don't need modern features like dark mode or AI assistance.
Detailed Comparison
Interface & User Experience
EnvelopeBudget offers a modern, clean interface that works seamlessly across all devices. With dark mode support and responsive design, it feels like a contemporary app that respects modern UI/UX principles.
GoodBudget has a more traditional interface that hasn't changed much over the years. While functional, it lacks modern conveniences like dark mode and can feel dated compared to newer apps.
Envelope Limits & Features
EnvelopeBudget provides unlimited envelopes even on the basic plan. You can create as many categories as you need without worrying about artificial limits. Multiple budgets are also supported for different scenarios.
GoodBudget limits free users to just 10 envelopes and 1 account. Even paid users are limited to a set number of envelopes, which can be restrictive for detailed budgeters.
Transaction Entry
EnvelopeBudget offers flexibility with manual entry, bank file imports (OFX, QFX, CSV), or automatic sync through SimpleFIN. This gives you options to balance convenience with control over your financial data.
GoodBudget relies solely on manual transaction entry. While this promotes awareness, it can be time-consuming and doesn't offer modern conveniences like file imports or automatic syncing.
Syncing & Collaboration
EnvelopeBudget offers real-time syncing across unlimited devices. Changes appear instantly on all connected devices, making it perfect for couples or families budgeting together.
GoodBudget limits syncing to 5 devices on the paid plan and 2 on the free plan. Sync can sometimes be delayed, leading to potential conflicts when multiple people are entering transactions.
Modern Features
EnvelopeBudget includes AI-powered financial coaching to help you make better decisions. The app also supports markdown reports, advanced filtering, and modern features users expect.
GoodBudget sticks to traditional budgeting features. While this simplicity can be good, it lacks modern conveniences like AI assistance, advanced reporting, or customization options.
Value Proposition
EnvelopeBudget at $4/month (or $40/year) offers more features for less money. The 92-day free trial gives you three full months to test everything without commitment.
GoodBudget at $8/month is double the price while offering fewer features. The 30-day trial is standard but may not be enough time to develop budgeting habits.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | EnvelopeBudget | GoodBudget |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $4 | $8 |
| Free Trial | 92 days | 30 days |
| Number of Envelopes | Unlimited | Limited |
| Device Sync | Unlimited devices | Up to 5 devices |
| Dark Mode | ||
| AI Coaching | ||
| Multiple Budgets |