I'm a longtime user of YNAB 4 and don't have any immediate plans to switch over to new YNAB as YNAB 4 meets all of my needs currently. In the last week or two I've begun receiving a notification from YNAB every time I open the software on PC telling me that version 4.3.857 is now available for download and that I am on version 4.3.820. 9 3 Cons 6 Top Pro. All accounts in one place. Mint can handle banking accounts, saving.
I have a long history with YNAB (You Need a Budget), both good and bad.
To make a long story short, I was using and loving Mvelopes, while YNAB had a lot of problems with its new release. YNAB then fixed those problems, Mvelopes went south and I switched back.
Today, I use a combination of Quicken 2011 and YNAB to manage my money, and was excited the see YNAB 4, the newest version of the software, make a premiere last month.
Do you really want my envelope budgeting speech again?
I didn’t think so. I know that you know that I love it.
The trick is to find the best way to implement envelope budgeting, and for me that’s YNAB. It’s not perfect, but it’s the best combination of visual clarity, backbone, and simplicity you’ll find today.
Notable new features
Head back to my previous YNAB reviews (links up top) for general software information. Today, I’ll look only at some of the notable improvements in YNAB 4 over the previous versions.
For example, I love the new “version” feature, which saves me the heartache of screwing up my budget and not having a simple way to get it back:
The graphics took a big improvement, with larger fonts, a cleaner interface, and bold colors. Reports, in general, are very good-looking, simple to understand, and get to the point. Here’s a sample spending report:
One big selling point for YNAB is the new Cloud Sync. I decided not to use it, since I don’t own a smartphone and already made this syncing work to the level I need by sharing the YNAB file over Google Drive.
Ynab 4 Upgrade App
Among some of the other changes, the increase in speed is definitely noticable–the program feels zippy and more responsive. Changing screens and entering data feels direct and immediate.
![Upgrade Upgrade](/uploads/1/1/8/1/118136971/586054267.jpg)
Here’s a sample account I was playing around with in budget mode:
And here’s an example of the simple interface for creating a new account:
The verdict
YNAB 3 was a big step up for the software a few years ago.
Version 4 is not as revolutionary, but I still think it’s worth the $40 upgrade fee I paid to get it. And if you’re not using any kind of envelope budget software at all, it’s an excellent way to get into the market.
Bonus offer for my readers
The regular cost of the program is $40 for upgrades and $60 for new users, which is well within reach.
For a limited time, save an additional $6 with my coupon code at this link:
Ynab 4 Update Error
I got my review (and personal use) copy before this deal came out, but if you use the link above, not only will you get $6, but I will as well! That means you’ll be on my awesome list and support this blog.
If you have any questions on the new YNAB version, let me know in the comments or get in touch with me!
Ynab 4 Upgrade Guide
(Post image from YNAB)