Budgero Core vs Budgero Cloud

Budgero ships in two flavours. Budgero Core is the free, offline-only app that keeps everything on your device with no cloud connection. Budgero Cloud is the encrypted sync experience that stays zero-knowledge while giving you cross-device access, responsive web and mobile apps, and real-time collaboration. Use this guide to decide where to begin and how to upgrade when your needs change.

At a glance comparison

• Offline model: Core is 100% local—data never leaves your device unless you export it. Cloud also works offline, then securely syncs once you’re back online.
• Sync & devices: Core lives on a single device with manual exports for backups. Cloud keeps budgets in sync across web, desktop, and mobile with a responsive UI.
• Collaboration: Core is single-user. Cloud offers shared workspaces, real-time edits, and role-based permissions while keeping encryption end-to-end.
• Automations & rules: Both editions share the same automation engine. Cloud syncs schedules and rules automatically so collaborators stay aligned.
• Currencies: Core is single-currency—every account matches the budget currency. Cloud supports native multi-currency accounts with automatic monthly conversion rates.
• Support: Core relies on self-serve documentation. Cloud customers also receive direct email support from the Budgero team.

When Budgero Core is enough

• You want a private, local budget with zero dependence on cloud services.
• You manage everything on one device and are comfortable exporting manual backups.
• You operate in a single currency and don’t need automated conversions.
• You’re experimenting with zero-based budgeting and don’t need collaboration yet.

When Budgero Cloud is the better fit

• You manage budgets with a partner, team, or clients and require shared workspaces.
• You hop between phone, tablet, and desktop and want everything synced automatically.
• You run accounts in multiple currencies and want consolidated dashboards without manual math.
• You need encrypted backups so a lost device doesn’t take your financial history with it.

Switching from Core to Cloud

1. Create a Budgero Cloud workspace. Visit https://my.budgero.app, start the trial, and choose a subscription cadence once you’re ready.
2. Export from Budgero Core. Use "Download SQLite Database" option from Settings/Data Managment page to generate a backup of your data.
3. Import into Budgero Cloud. In the Cloud app, choose “Import from Budgero Core” during onboarding, or use "Restore from Database File" from Settings/Data Managment page to transfer your data.
4. Reinvite collaborators. Add partners or teammates and assign roles so they can start editing right away.
5. Enable automations. Configure rules, scheduled assignments, and alerts to take advantage of the hosted features.

You can continue using Budgero Core for test budgets or offline work even after upgrading—your license for Core never expires.

FAQ

• Can I downgrade from Budgero Cloud back to Core? Yes. Export your data from Cloud before cancelling, then import the file into Core. You retain full ownership of your budgets either way.
• Does Budgero Core ever sync? No. Core purposely keeps data on-device. If you need automatic sync or shared workspaces, move to Budgero Cloud.
• Can I use both products side by side? Absolutely. Keep Core for local testing or offline trips while your main household runs on Budgero Cloud.
• Can I install Budgero Core or Cloud like an app? Yes. Both editions ship as Progressive Web Apps. Add them to your home screen or desktop for an app-like window that supports offline access, keyboard shortcuts, and background sync where available.
• How do exports work? Both Budgero Core and Budgero Cloud let you export your full database at any time. Download a SQLite backup or CSV bundle from the Data Management page, and keep your data portable even if you switch tools.