Splitwise vs Tricount — Which Should You Use?
The two most popular expense sharing apps go head-to-head. We compare features, pricing, user experience, and ideal use cases so you can choose the right one.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Splitwise | Tricount |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (ads) / $4.99 Pro | Completely Free |
| Ads | Yes (free tier) | No Ads |
| Even Split | ✅ | ✅ |
| Percentage Split | ✅ | ❌ |
| Itemized Split | ✅ | ❌ (manual) |
| Multi-Currency | ✅ | ✅ |
| Offline Mode | ❌ | ✅ |
| Debt Simplification | ✅ | ✅ |
| Receipt Scanning | ✅ (Pro) | ❌ |
| Users (Global) | ~20M | ~10M |
The Verdict: When to Use Each
Choose Splitwise If...
- ✅ You need percentage-based splits
- ✅ You want receipt scanning
- ✅ Your group uses multiple currencies frequently
- ✅ You need advanced features like recurring expenses
- ✅ Most of your friends already use it
Choose Tricount If...
- ✅ You hate ads in apps
- ✅ You travel without reliable internet
- ✅ You want 100% free (no paid tier ever)
- ✅ You only need simple even splits
- ✅ You prefer European-style design
Want Something Simpler?
If you just need to split a single bill right now, you don't need to download any app. A free online calculator handles restaurant bills, income splits, itemized divisions, and more — directly in your browser.
Use Split Bill CalculatorWhich App Fits Your Group?
Choose Splitwise When…
- You track expenses with the same people long-term
- You want the largest user base (easier to get friends to join)
- You need receipt scanning for expense documentation
- You split rent, utilities, and recurring bills monthly
Choose Tricount When…
- You want the simplest possible interface (no account needed)
- You're splitting a one-time trip or event
- You prefer paying once (no subscription)
- Your group includes non-tech-savvy participants
Pricing Breakdown
| Feature | Splitwise | Tricount |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier | Yes (ads) | Yes |
| Pro/Premium | $3.99/month | $2.99 one-time |
| Receipt scanning | Pro only | Not available |
| Currency conversion | Pro only | Basic (manual) |
| Offline mode | Limited | Full offline support |
| Max group size | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free alternative to Splitwise?
Tricount and Settle Up are excellent free alternatives. Tricount offers simpler group tracking with no account required, while Settle Up provides a more feature-rich experience with graphs and reports.
Is there a free version of Splitwise?
Yes, Splitwise has a free tier that covers the essential features: adding expenses, splitting bills, and tracking balances. The Pro version adds receipt scanning and currency conversion.
Which bill splitting app has the best UI?
Settle Up is widely praised for its clean, intuitive interface. Splid also has a well-designed UI with color-coded categories and visual charts for expense breakdowns.
Can I split bills without downloading an app?
Yes, use a web-based calculator like SplitBillCalculator.app, which requires no installation, no registration, and works on any device with a browser.
Which app is best for roommates?
Splitwise and Tricount are both excellent for roommates. Splitwise offers recurring bills and rent splitting, while Tricount is simpler and requires no accounts.
Do these apps work offline?
Most web-based calculators (like ours) work offline once loaded. Native apps like Splitwise and Settle Up have limited offline functionality — changes sync when you reconnect.
Are bill splitting apps secure?
Reputable apps use encryption and don't store payment information. Always check the apps privacy policy. Web-based calculators that run locally (like ours) are the most private — no data is ever transmitted.
Which app handles multiple currencies best?
Splitwise Pro supports multi-currency tracking with automatic conversion. For free options, Tricount handles simple multi-currency splits with manual exchange rates.
Related Tools & Resources
Free Bill Splitter
No app needed — use online
Restaurant Splitter
Restaurant-specific split with tip built in
Group Expense Tool
Log expenses across any group and calculate per-person totals
Best Alternatives
Side-by-side comparison of the best splitting apps
Fair Split Guide
Guide to even, itemized, income-based, and percentage splits