kosten.org editorial team
Last updated: 2026-02-03
80/100
Points

Papierkram is a Berlin-based cloud accounting tool with a focus on simplicity. In our review, we examine the offering for freelancers.

Highlights of our Papierkram review

  • Papierkram scores 78/100 points in our review – good for beginners.
  • Free basic version to get started.
  • Very intuitive operation.
  • Made in Germany with GDPR compliance.

1 Features (21/30 points)

21/30
Points
Papierkram offers all the basic functions for freelancers and small business owners: invoicing, quotes, cash-basis profit calculation (Einnahmen-Überschuss-Rechnung, EÜR) and solid receipt capture. Invoices can be designed individually and sent as PDFs – although the direct email integration that is standard at competitors such as sevDesk is missing. Receipt capture works reliably but does not reach the level of the AI-powered text recognition of sevDesk or BuchhaltungsButler. E-invoices in XRechnung or ZUGFeRD format are only available from the Pro plan – an important cost factor for businesses that have to switch to e-invoices in 2025. Scoring (21/30): All basic functions are present, but there is room for improvement on e-invoices and AI-powered receipt capture. Sufficient for simple accounting; features are missing for more complex requirements.

2 Usability (23/25 points)

23/25
Points
Usability is Papierkram's great strength. The interface is tidy, modern and self-explanatory – even absolute accounting newcomers find their way around within minutes. The dashboard shows all key figures at a glance: open invoices, revenue and upcoming tasks. The mobile app for iOS and Android is well implemented and lets you capture receipts on the move with your smartphone camera. Synchronisation with the web application works reliably. Particularly positive: Papierkram dispenses with overloaded menu structures and concentrates on the essentials. Scoring (23/25): Almost full marks for the excellent user guidance. Only a small deduction because advanced users sometimes miss more customisation options.

3 Pricing (22/25 points)

22/25
Points
Papierkram offers one of the most attractive pricing models on the market. The free basic version allows up to three invoices a month – ideal for trying it out and for occasional freelancers. The Starter plan costs just €8 a month and offers unlimited invoices and all core functions. The Pro plan at €18/month unlocks e-invoices, extended reports and API access. By comparison: sevDesk starts at €17.90/month, Lexware Office at €9.90/month. With annual payment there are additional discounts. One drawback: the DATEV export is only included in the most expensive plan. Scoring (22/25): Excellent value for money; the free version in particular is a unique selling point. A slight deduction for the extra cost of the DATEV export.

4 Support (14/20 points)

14/20
Points
Papierkram's customer service is solid but not outstanding. Email support usually responds within 24 hours – faster than many competitors, but not ideal for urgent questions. Telephone support is only included in the Pro plan and is limited to business hours. The knowledge base is comprehensive and well structured. Video tutorials explain the most important functions step by step. A community forum is missing, however, and webinars are less frequent than at sevDesk or Lexware Office. Scoring (14/20): Good basic support, but for premium expectations a 24/7 channel or a dedicated contact person is missing. Appropriate for the price, though.

Pros & cons at a glance

Pros

  • Free basic version
  • Very simple operation
  • Low-cost premium plan
  • GDPR-compliant

Cons

  • Fewer features than sevDesk
  • No telephone support on the basic plan
  • Limited integrations
  • E-invoices cost extra

Conclusion: Papierkram review

80/100
Very good (2.0)

Papierkram is ideal for freelancers looking for a simple and inexpensive solution. For more complex requirements, sevDesk is better.

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