GnuCash offers some features not found in simpler accounting programs.
A master account can have a hierarchy of more detailed accounts arranged underneath it. This allows related account types (e.g. - Cash, Bank, Stock) to be grouped under one master account ( e.g. - Assets).
Every transaction involves two accounts, and each transaction is required to balance. This provides assurance that the overall set of books will add up correctly, and prevents out-of-balance errors altogether.
Intuit's Quicken product has what they call "categories" that are used to track incomes and expenses. These may be used to create Profit/Loss reports.
General Ledger
Multiple accounts may be displayed in one register window at the same time. This can make it easier to track down data errors. It also provides a convenient way of viewing a portfolio of many stocks, by showing all transactions in that portfolio.
Handling of multiple currencies