Compare 1099 Software BoomTax vs W2 Mate: Cloud vs Desktop Comparison

At a Glance
W2 Mate is a desktop software application for W-2 and 1099 printing and e-filing. BoomTax is a cloud-native platform with no software installation required. This comparison helps businesses evaluate desktop software versus cloud-based compliance solutions.

Why Teams Switch from W2 Mate to BoomTax

  • Cloud-native platform accessible from any device, no installation required
  • Automatic updates and IRS form changes handled automatically
  • Comprehensive ACA reporting alongside W-2 and 1099 e-filing

Overview: BoomTax vs W2 Mate

W2 Mate (by Real Business Solutions) is a Windows desktop application for preparing and printing W-2 and 1099 forms. It offers local software installation with e-filing capabilities for businesses that prefer desktop applications.

BoomTax is a cloud-native platform—no software to download or install. Access from any browser, on any device, with automatic updates and no maintenance required.

Feature Comparison

Feature BoomTax W2 Mate
Platform Type Cloud-native Desktop software
Software Installation Not required Required (Windows)
IRS-Authorized E-File
W-2 E-Filing
1099-NEC E-Filing
1099-MISC E-Filing
ACA 1095-B/C E-Filing Check availability
Automatic Updates Annual updates typical
Mac/Linux Support Yes (browser) Windows only
Multi-User Access Check license terms
Remote Access Requires setup
State Filing
TIN Verification
Print & Mail Service Self-print
API Integration Not available
Annual License Fee Annual renewal
Bulk Upload Import features
Recipient Portal Not available

Cloud vs Desktop: Key Differences

BoomTax (Cloud Platform)

  • No Installation: Access from any browser
  • Any Device: Windows, Mac, tablet, phone
  • Auto Updates: Always on latest version
  • No Maintenance: We handle infrastructure
  • Remote Teams: Access from anywhere
  • API Ready: Integrate with your systems

W2 Mate (Desktop Software)

  • Local Install: Windows software required
  • Windows Only: No Mac or Linux
  • Manual Updates: Download new versions
  • IT Managed: Local installation
  • Office Use: Best for in-office work
  • Established: Long-standing solution

Pricing Comparison

BoomTax Pricing

  • Transparent per-form pricing
  • No software license fees
  • Volume discounts available
  • All features included
  • Free to start
  • No annual renewal fees

W2 Mate Pricing

  • Annual license fee
  • Per-form e-filing fees
  • Forms paper costs separate
  • Upgrade fees for new versions
  • Check current pricing
  • Volume discounts may apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, BoomTax is an excellent alternative for businesses wanting cloud-based W-2 and 1099 filing without software installation. Access from any device with automatic updates and no annual license fees.

No, BoomTax is cloud-based and works on any device with a web browser—Windows, Mac, Linux, tablets, or phones. No software installation required.

Yes, export your data from W2 Mate and import it into BoomTax via CSV or Excel. Our support team can help with the transition.

BoomTax focuses on e-filing with our print-and-mail service handling recipient copies. If in-house printing is essential, that's W2 Mate's strength.

Yes, BoomTax provides comprehensive ACA reporting including 1095-B, 1095-C, and 1094 transmittal forms—a capability desktop W-2 software may not include.

BoomTax has no annual license fees—you pay per form filed. W2 Mate requires annual license renewal plus e-filing fees. Compare based on your volume.

No software installation required

Ken Ham
Author
Ken Ham
Founder at BoomTax
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Passionate about making tax compliance simple so businesses can focus on what matters.

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